================== Open English Bible ================== Version:OEB-All-Current-US.txt ==== Ruth ==== ----------- The book of ----------- ---- Ruth ---- [Ruth] Naomi and Ruth ============== [1:1] In the time when the judges ruled, there was once a famine in the land; and a man from Bethlehem in Judah took his wife and two sons to live in the territory of Moab. [1:2] His name was Elimelech and his wife’s was Naomi, and his two sons were Mahlon and Chilion. After they had been living in Moab for some time, [1:3] Elimelech died, and Naomi was left with her two sons. [1:4] They married Moabite women named Orpah and Ruth. After they had lived there about ten years, [1:5] Mahlon and Chilion both died, and Naomi was left a childless widow. [1:6] So she set out with her daughters-in-law to return from the land of Moab, for she had heard that the Lord had remembered his people and given them food. [1:7] As they were setting out together on the journey to Judah, [1:8] Naomi said to her daughters-in-law, “Go, return each of you to the home of your mother. May the Lord be kind to you as you have been kind to the dead and to me. [1:9] The Lord grant that each of you may find peace and happiness in the house of a new husband.” Then she kissed them; but they began to weep aloud [1:10] and said to her, “No, we will return with you to your people.” [1:11] But Naomi said, “Go back, my daughters; why should you go with me? Can I still bear sons who might become your husbands? [1:12] Go back, my daughters, go your own way, for I am too old to have a husband. Even if I should say, “I have hope,” even if I should have a husband tonight and should bear sons, [1:13] would you wait for them until they were grown up? Would you remain single for them? No, my daughters! My heart grieves for you, for the Lord has sent me adversity.” [1:14] Then they again wept aloud, and Orpah kissed her mother-in-law goodbye, but Ruth stayed with her. [1:15] Naomi said, “See, your sister-in-law is going back to her own people and to her own gods; go along with her!” [1:16] But Ruth answered, “Do not urge me to leave you or to go back, for I will go where you go, and I will stay wherever you stay; your people will be my people, and your God my God; [1:17] I will die where you die, and be buried there. May the Lord bring a curse upon me, if anything but death separate you and me.” [1:18] When Naomi saw that Ruth was determined to go with her, she ceased urging her to return. [1:19] So they journeyed on until they came to Bethlehem. Their arrival stirred the whole town, and the women said, “Is this Naomi?” [1:20] But she said to them, “Do not call me Naomi; call me Mara[ footnote: In Hebrew “Naomi” means “pleasant,” and “Mara” means “bitter.”], for the Almighty has given me a bitter lot. [1:21] I had plenty when I left, but the Lord has brought me back empty handed. Why should you call me Naomi, now that the Lord has afflicted me, and the Almighty has brought misfortune on me?” [1:22] So Naomi and Ruth returned from Moab; and they reached Bethlehem at the beginning of the barley harvest.[Ruth] In the Fields of Boaz ===================== [2:1] Now Naomi was related through her husband to a very wealthy man of the family of Elimelech named Boaz. [2:2] Ruth the Moabitess said to Naomi, “Let me now go into the fields and gather leftover grain behind anyone who will allow me.” Naomi said to her, “Go, my daughter.” [2:3] So she went to glean in the field after the reapers; and it was her good fortune to glean in that part of the field which belonged to Boaz, who was of the family of Elimelech. [2:4] When Boaz came from Bethlehem and said to the reapers, “The Lord be with you,” they answered him, “May the Lord bless you.” [2:5] Then Boaz said to his servant who had charge of the reapers, “Whose girl is this?” [2:6] The servant who had charge of the reapers replied, “It is the Moabite girl who came back with Naomi from the territory of Moab. [2:7] She asked, ‘Let me glean and gather sheaves after the reapers.’ So she came and has continued to work until now and she has not rested a moment in the field.” [2:8] Then Boaz said to Ruth, “Listen, my daughter. Do not go to glean in another field nor leave this place, but stay here with my girls. [2:9] Watch where the men are reaping and follow the gleaners. I have told the young men not to trouble you. When you are thirsty, go to the jars and drink of that which the young men have drawn.” [2:10] Then she bowed low and said to him, “Why are you so kind to me, to take interest in me who am a foreigner?” [2:11] Boaz replied, “I have heard what you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband, and how you left your father and mother and your native land to come to a people that you did not know before. [2:12] May the Lord repay you for what you have done, and may you be fully rewarded by the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge.” [2:13] Then she said, “I trust I may please you, my lord, for you have comforted me and spoken kindly to your servant, although I am not really equal to one of your own servants.” [2:14] At mealtime Boaz said to Ruth, “Come here and eat some of the food and dip your piece of bread in the wine.” So she sat beside the reapers; and he passed her the roasted grain, and she ate until she was satisfied and had some left. [2:15] When she rose to glean, Boaz gave this order to his young men: “Let her glean even among the sheaves and do not disturb her. [2:16] Also pull out some for her from the bundles and leave for her to glean, and do not find fault with her.” [2:17] So she gleaned in the field until evening, then beat out that which she had gleaned. It was about a bushel of barley. [2:18] Then she took it up and went into the city and showed her mother-in-law what she had gleaned. She also brought out and gave her that which she had left from her meal after she had had enough. [2:19] Her mother-in-law said to her, “Where did you glean today, and where did you work? A blessing on him who took interest in you!” Then she told her mother-in-law where she had worked, and said, “The name of the man with whom I worked today is Boaz.” [2:20] Naomi said to her daughter-in-law, “May the blessing of the Lord rest upon him who has not ceased to show his loving-kindness to the living and to the dead.” Naomi also said to her, “The man is a near relation of ours.” [2:21] Ruth the Moabitess added, “He said to me, ‘You must keep near my young men until they have completed all my harvest.’” [2:22] Naomi said to Ruth, “It is best, my daughter, that you should go out with his girls and that no one should find you in another field.” [2:23] So she gleaned with the girls of Boaz until the end of the barley and wheat harvest; but she lived with her mother-in-law.[Ruth] Night and morning ================= [3:1] Then Naomi said to her, “My daughter, should I not seek to secure a home for you where you will be happy and prosperous? [3:2] Is not Boaz, with whose girls you have been, a relative of ours? This very night he is going to winnow barley on the threshing-floor. [3:3] So bathe and anoint yourself and put on your best clothes and go down to the threshing-floor; but do not make yourself known to the man until he has finished eating and drinking. [3:4] Then when he lies down, mark the place where he lies. Go in, uncover his feet, lie down, and then he will tell you what to do.” [3:5] Ruth said to her, “I will do as you say.” [3:6] So she went down to the threshing-floor and did just as her mother-in-law told her. [3:7] When Boaz had finished eating and drinking and was in a happy mood, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of grain. Then Ruth came softly and uncovered his feet and lay down. [3:8] At midnight the man was startled and turned over, and there was a woman lying at his feet. [3:9] He said, “Who are you?” She answered, “I am Ruth your servant; spread your cloak over your servant, for you are a near relative.” [3:10] He said, “May you be blest by the Lord , my daughter; for you have shown me greater favor now than at first, for you have not followed young men, whether poor or rich. [3:11] My daughter, have no fear; I will do for you all that you ask; for all my townsmen know that you are a virtuous woman. [3:12] Now it is true that I am a near relative; yet there is one nearer than I. [3:13] Stay here tonight, and then in the morning, if he will perform for you the duty of a kinsman, well; let him do it. But if he will not perform for you the duty of a kinsman, then as surely as the Lord lives, I will do it for you. Lie down until morning.” [3:14] So she lay at his feet until morning, but rose before any one could recognize her, for Boaz said, “Let it not be known that a woman came to the threshing-floor.” [3:15] He also said, “Bring the cloak which you have on and hold it.” So she held it while he poured into it six measures of barley and laid it on her shoulders. Then he went into the city. [3:16] When Ruth came to her mother-in-law, Naomi said, “Is it you, my daughter?” Then Ruth told Naomi all that the man had done for her. [3:17] She said, “He gave me these six measures of barley; for he said, ‘Do not go to your mother-in-law empty-handed.’” [3:18] Naomi said, “Wait quietly, my daughter. Until you know how the affair will turn out, for the man will not rest unless he settles it all today.” [Ruth] [4:1] Then Boaz went up to the gate and sat down. Just then the near kinsman of whom Boaz had spoken came along; to him he said, “Hello, So-and-so (calling him by name), come here and sit down.” So he stopped and sat down. [4:2] Boaz also took ten of the town elders and said, “Sit down here.” So they sat down. [4:3] Then he said to the near relative, “Naomi, who has come back from the country of Moab, is offering for sale the piece of land which belonged to our relative Elimelech, [4:4] and I thought that I would lay the matter before you, suggesting that you buy it in the presence of these men who sit here and of the elders of my people. If you will buy it and so keep it in the possession of the family, do so; but if not; then tell me, so that I may know; for no one but you has the right to buy it, and I am next to you.” He said, “I will buy it.” [4:5] Then Boaz said, “On the day you buy the field from Naomi, you must also marry Ruth the Moabitess, the widow of the dead, in order to preserve the name of the dead in connection with his inheritance. [4:6] The near relative said, “I cannot buy it for myself without spoiling my own inheritance. You take my right of buying it as a relative, for I cannot do so.” [4:7] Now this was formerly the custom in Israel: to make valid anything relating to a matter of redemption or exchange, a man drew off his shoe and gave it to the other man; and this was the way contracts were attested in Israel. [4:8] So when the near relative said to Boaz, “Buy it for yourself,” Boaz drew off the man’s shoe. [4:9] Then Boaz said to the elders and to all the people, “You are witnesses at this time that I have bought all that was Elimelech’s and all that was Chilion’s and Mahlon’s from Naomi. [4:10] Moreover I have secured Ruth the Moabitess, the wife of Mahlon, to be my wife, in order to perpetuate the name of the dead in connection with his inheritance, so that his name will not disappear from among his relatives and from the household where he lived. You are witnesses this day.” [4:11] Then all the people who were at the gate and the elders said, “We are witnesses. May the Lord make the woman who is coming into your house like Rachel and Leah, who together built the house of Israel so worthily in Ephrata, and make you also famous in Bethlehem. [4:12] From the children whom the Lord will give you by this young woman may your household become like the household of Perez, whom Tamar bore to Judah.” [4:13] So Boaz married Ruth, and she became his wife; and the Lord gave to her a son. [4:14] Then the women said to Naomi, “Blessed be the Lord who has not left you at this time without a near relative, and may his name be famous in Israel. [4:15] This child will restore your vigor and nourish you in your old age; for your daughter-in-law who loves you, who is worth more to you than seven sons, has borne a son to Boaz!” [4:16] So Naomi took the child in her arms and cared for him as if he was her own. [4:17] The women of the neighborhood gave him a name, saying, “A son is born to Naomi!” They named him Obed; he became the father of Jesse, who was the father of David. Genealogy ========= [4:18] This is the genealogy of Perez: Perez was the father of Hezron, [4:19] Hezron of Ram, Ram of Amminadab, [4:20] Amminidab of Nashon, Nashon of Salmon, [4:21] Salmon of Boaz, Boaz of Obed, [4:22] Obed of Jesse, Jesse of David. ====== Esther ====== ----------- The Book of ----------- ------ Esther ------ [Esther] [1:1] These events happened in the time of Ahasuerus, who ruled over a hundred and twenty-seven provinces from India to Ethiopia [1:2] from his royal throne in the fortified palace of Susa. [1:3] In the third year of his reign, the king gave a feast for all his officers and courtiers. The commanders of the military forces of Persia and Media, the nobles and satraps were before him; [1:4] while for one hundred and eighty days he showed them the glorious riches of his kingdom and the costliness of his magnificent regalia. [1:5] When these days were ended, the king held a banquet for all classes of people who were present in the royal palace at Susa; a seven days' feast in the enclosed garden of the royal palace. [1:6] There were white and violet cotton curtains fastened to silver rings and pillars of marble with cords of fine purple and linen. The couches were of gold and silver placed upon a mosaic pavement of alabaster, white marble, mother-of-pearl, and dark stone. [1:7] The drink was brought in vessels of gold which were all different, and the king's wine was provided with royal liberality. [1:8] The drinking was unrestricted, for the king had directed all the officers of his household to let each man do as he pleased. [1:9] Vashti the queen also gave a feast for the women in the royal palace which belonged to King Ahasuerus. [1:10] On the seventh day, when the king was under the influence of wine, he commanded Mehuman, Biztha, Harbona, Bigtha, Abagtha, Zathar and Carkas, his seven eunuch attendants to bring Vashti the queen before him with the royal turban on her head, to show the peoples and the officials her beauty, for she was very fair. [1:12] But Queen Vashti refused to come as the king commanded through the eunuchs. Therefore the king was very angry. [1:13] In his rage the king said to the wise men who knew the precedents (for it was his custom to confer with those wise in law, [1:14] those next to him being Carshena, Shethar, Admatha, Tarshish, Meres, Marsena and Memucan, seven officials of Persia and Media who had access to the king and were highest in the kingdom), [1:15] “According to law what should we do to Queen Vashti?” [1:16] Memucanreplied before the king and the officials, “Vashti the queen has done wrong not only to the king but also to all the officials and to all the peoples in all of the king's provinces. [1:17] For the refusal of the queen will be reported to all the women with the result that it will make them despise their husbands, for they will say, ‘King Ahasuerus commanded Vashti the queen to be brought in before him, but she did not come!’ [1:18] And this very day the ladies of Persia and Media who have heard of the refusal of the queen will tell it to all the king's officials, and there will be contempt and strife! [1:19] If it seems best to the king, let him send out a royal edict, and let it be written among the laws of Persia and Media, in order that it may not be repealed, that Vashti may never again come before King Ahasuerus; and let the king give her place as queen to another who is better than she. [1:20] And when the king's decree which he makes shall be heard throughout his kingdom — great as it is — the wives of all classes will give honor to their husbands.” [1:21] The proposal pleased the king and the officials, and the king did as Memucan advised. [1:22] So the king sent letters to all the provinces, to every province in its system of writing and to every people in their language, that every man should be master in his own house![Esther] ---- [2:1] After these events, when the wrath of King Ahasuerus had subsided, he remembered what Vashti had done and what had been decreed against her. [2:2] Then the king's pages who waited upon him said, “Let beautiful young girls be sought for the king, [2:3] and let the king appoint commissioners to all the provinces of his kingdom to gather them all to Susa the royal residence; let them be brought into the women's quarters under the custody of Hegai, the king’s eunuch, who has charge of the women. Then give them what is needed to make them beautiful, [2:4] and let the girl who pleases the king be queen instead of Vashti.” The proposal pleased the king and he did so. [2:5] There was in Susa the royal residence a certain Jew named Mordecai, son of Jair, son of Shimei, son of Kish, a Benjamite. (Kish had been carried away from Jerusalem with the exiles who were deported with Jeconiah king of Judah, whom Nebuchadrezzar the king of Babylon took captive.) [2:7] Mordecai had adopted Hadassah, that is, Esther, his uncle's daughter, for she had neither father nor mother. The girl was shapely and beautiful; and after her father and mother died, Mordecai adopted her. [2:8] So when the king's command and decree were known, and when many girls were gathered together to Susa the royal residence under the custody of Hegai, Esther also was taken into the king's palace and placed under the custody of Hegai, who had charge of the women. [2:9] The girl pleased him and gained his favor, so that he quickly gave her what she needed to enhance her beauty and her allowance of food and the seven maids selected from the king's household. He also transferred her and her maids to the best place in the women's quarters. [2:10] Esther had not told her people nor her descent, for Mordecai had ordered her not to; [2:11] but every day Mordecai used to walk in front of the court of the women's quarters to inquire after Esther's health and what had been done with her. [2:12] [2:13] each girl went in to the king. She was allowed to take with her whatever she wished from the women’s quarters, [2:14] and would enter the palace in the evening and return the next morning to another part of the women’s quarters under the care of the king’s eunuch Shaashgaz who was in charge of concubines. She would not go to the king again unless he desired her and summoned her by name. [2:15] When it was the turn of Esther (the girl adopted by Mordecai, daughter of his uncle Abihail) to go in to the king, she only took with her those things that Hegai, the king’s eunuch in charge of the women, had advised her to take. Esther was liked by all who saw her. [2:16] So when Esther was taken to King Ahasuerus in the royal palace in the tenth month, the month of Tebeth, in the seventh year of his reign, [2:17] he loved her more than all the other women, and she became his favorite and won his affection, so that he placed the royal turban on her head and made her queen instead of Vashti. [2:18] Then the king gave a great feast to all his officials and courtiers in honor of Esther, and he remitted the taxes of the provinces and distributed gifts with royal liberality. ---- [2:19] And Mordecai was sitting at the king’s gate, [2:20] and Esther had not revealed her people or descent because she obeyed him still as she had when he was bringing her up. ---- [2:21] In those days while Mordecai was sitting in the king's gate, two of the royal court attendants, Bigthan and Teresh, who guarded the entrance of the palace, became enraged and attempted to kill King Ahasuerus. [2:22] But Mordecai learned of the conspiracy and disclosed it to Queen Esther, and she told the king in Mordecai's name. [2:23] When the affair was investigated and the facts discovered, the conspirators were both hanged on the gallows; and the incident was recorded in the daily record of events that was kept before the king. [Esther] [3:1] After these events King Ahasuerus promoted Haman the son of Hammedatha the Agagite, and advanced him to a place above all the officials who were with him. [3:2] All the king's courtiers who were in the king's gate used to bow down before Haman, for so the king had commanded, but Mordecai did not bow down nor prostrate himself. [3:3] Then the king's courtiers, who were in the king's gate, said to Mordecai, “Why do you disobey the king's command?” [3:4] When they had spoken to him day after day without his listening to them, they informed Haman; in order to see whether Mordecai's acts would be tolerated, for he had told them that he was a Jew. [3:5] When Haman saw that Mordecai did not bow down nor prostrate himself before him, he was furious; [3:6] but it seemed to him beneath his dignity to lay hands on Mordecai alone, for they had told him Mordecai’s people. Therefore Haman sought to destroy the people of Mordecai, including all the Jews. [3:7] In the first month (the month of Nisan) in the twelfth year of the reign of King Ahasuerus, Haman had ‘pur’ (which means ‘lot’) cast before him to determine the best day and best month for his actions. The lot fell on the thirteenth day of the twelfth month – the month of Adar. So Haman said to King Ahasuerus, “There is a certain people scattered among the peoples in all the provinces of your kingdom, whose laws differ from those of every other and who do not keep the king’s laws. Therefore it is not right for the king to tolerate them. [3:9] If it seems best to the king, let an order be given to destroy them, and I will pay ten thousand silver talents into the royal treasury.” [3:10] So the king took off his ring from his hand and gave it to Haman son of Hammedatha the Agagite, the enemy of the Jews. [3:11] The king said to Haman, “The money is yours and the people also to do with them as you wish.” [3:12] And on the thirteenth day of the first month, the king’s secretaries were summoned and as Haman instructed an edict was issued to the king’s satraps and provincial governors and the rulers of each of the peoples in their own script and their own language. The edict was written in the name of King Ahasuerus and sealed with his ring. [3:13] Accordingly despatches were sent by couriers to all the king's provinces, to destroy, to kill, and to put an end to all the Jews, young and old, little children and women, in one day, on the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, and to plunder their possessions. [3:14] A copy of the edict was to be published as a decree in every province – publically displayed so that everyone might be ready for that day. [3:15] By command of the king the couriers raced off, and the edict was published in Susa itself. Then the king and Haman sat down to drink, but the people of Susa were perplexed.[Esther] ---- [4:1] When Mordecai learned all that had been done, he tore his clothes and put on sackcloth and strewed ashes on his head, and went out into the city and raised a loud and bitter cry of lamentation. [4:2] And he went as far as the king's gate, for no one could enter the gate clothed with sackcloth. [4:3] In every province, wherever the king’s command and decree went, there was great mourning, fasting, weeping, and wailing among the Jews; and many of them sat in sackcloth and ashes. [4:4] When Esther's maids and attendants told her about it, she was greatly troubled. She sent garments for Mordecai to put on, that he might take off his sack-cloth; but he would not accept them. [4:5] So Esther called Hathach, one of the king’s eunuchs whom he had appointed to attend her, and ordered him to go to Mordecai to learn what this meant and how it had happened. [4:6] So Hathach went out to Mordecai, to the city square in front of the king's gate; [4:7] and Mordecai told him all that had happened to him and the exact amount of money that Haman had promised to pay into the king's treasury for the destruction of the Jews. [4:8] Also he gave him a copy of the decree to destroy them, that had been published in Susa, to show to Esther for her information. He also told her to go to the king and implore his mercy and to plead with him in behalf of her people. [4:9] When Hathach came and told Esther what Mordecai had said, [4:10] she instructed Hathach to go and say to Mordecai, [4:11] “All the king’s courtiers and the people of the king's provinces know that for every man or woman who goes to the king into the inner court without being called there is one penalty, death, except for the one to whom the king may hold out the golden sceptre signifying that he may live. But now for thirty days I have not been called to go in to the king.” [4:12] When Mordecai was told what Esther had said, he sent back this reply to Esther, “Do not imagine that you alone of all the Jews will escape because you belong to the king's household. [4:14] If you persist in remaining silent at this time, relief and deliverance will come to the Jews from another quarter, but you and your family will perish; and who knows but that you have been raised to the throne for a time like this?” [4:15] Then Esther sent this message to Mordecai: [4:16] “Go, gather all the Jews in Susa and fast for me; do not eat nor drink anything for three days and nights. I and my maids will fast also, and in this condition I will go in to the king, although it is contrary to the law, and if I perish, I perish.” [4:17] So Mordecai proceeded to do as Esther had directed. [Esther] [5:1] Afterward, on the third day, Esther put on her regalia and stood in the inner court of the royal palace opposite the king's house. The king was sitting on his throne in the palace, opposite the entrance; [5:2] and when he saw Esther the queen standing in the court, she won his favor, and he held out to her the golden sceptre that was in his hand. So Esther approached and touched the top of the sceptre. [5:3] Then the king said to her, “Whatever you wish. Queen Esther, and whatever your request is, it shall be granted, even if it is the half of the kingdom.' [5:4] Esther said, 'If it seems best to the king, let the king and Haman come today to the banquet that I have prepared for him.” [5:5] Then the king said; “Bring Haman quickly, that Esther's wish may be gratified.” So the king and Haman went to the banquet that Esther had prepared. [5:6] While they were drinking wine, the king said to Esther, “Whatever your petition is, it shall be granted, and your request, it shall be done, even if it takes the half of my kingdom.” [5:7] Esther answered, [5:8] “If I have won the king's favor and if it seems best to the king to grant my petition and to accede to my request, my petition and my request are that the king and Haman come to the banquet which I shall prepare for them; and tomorrow I will do as the king wishes.” [5:9] So Haman went out that day joyful and elated, but when he saw Mordecai in the king's gate and noticed that he neither stood up nor moved for him, he was furiously angry with Mordecai. [5:10] Nevertheless Haman restrained himself and went home. Then he called together his friends and Zeresh his wife [5:11] and recounted to them the greatness of his wealth, how many children he had, and all the ways in which the king had honored him, and how he had promoted him above the officials and the royal courtiers. [5:12] Haman said, “Queen Esther brought no one in with the king to the banquet which she had prepared except me, and tomorrow also I am invited by her along with the king. [5:13] Yet all this does not satisfy me as long as I see Mordecai the Jew sitting at the king's gate.” [5:14] Then Zeresh his wife and all his friends said to him, “Let a gallows seventy-five feet high be erected, and in the morning speak to the king and let Mordecai be hanged on it. Then go merrily with the king to the banquet.” The advice pleased Haman, and so he had the gallows erected.[Esther] ---- [6:1] On that night the king was unable to sleep; so he gave orders to bring the books that recorded memorable deeds, and they were read before the king. [6:2] And it was found recorded how Mordecai had furnished information regarding Bigthan and Teresh, two of the king's attendants who guarded the entrance of the palace, who had attempted to kill King Ahasuerus. [6:3] Then the king said, “What honor and dignity have been conferred on Mordecai for this?” When the king's pages who waited on him replied “Nothing has been done for him,” [6:4] the king said, “Who is in the court?” Now Haman had just entered the outer court of the king's house to speak to the king about hanging Mordecai on the gallows that he had prepared for him. [6:5] So the king's pages said to him, “Haman is standing there; in the court.” The king said, “Let him enter.” [6:6] So Haman entered, and the king said to him, “What shall be done for the man whom the king wishes to honor?” Haman said to himself, “Whom besides me could the king wish to honor?” [6:7] So Haman said to the king, “For the man whom the king wishes to honor [6:8] let a royal garment be brought, which the king has worn, and the horse on which the king has ridden and on whose head a royal crown has been placed. [6:9] Then let the garment and the horse be placed in charge of one of the king's noble officials and let him clothe the man whom the king longs to honor and make him ride on the horse through the city square and proclaim before him, ‘This is what is done for the man whom the king wishes to honor.’” [6:10] Then the king said to Haman, “Make haste and take the garment and the horse, as you have said, and do, thus to Mordecai the Jew, who sits in the king's gate. Omit nothing of all you have said.” [6:11] So Haman took the garment and the horse and clothed Mordecai, and made him ride through the city square and proclaimed before him, “This is what is done for the man whom the king wishes to honor.” [6:12] Mordecai returned to the king's gate, but Haman hurried to his house, mourning, with his head covered. [6:13] And Haman recounted to Zeresh his wife and to all his friends everything that had happened to him. Then his wise men and Zeresh his wife said to him, “If Mordecai before whom you have already been humiliated is of the Jewish people, you can do nothing against him but will surely fall before him.” [6:14] While they were still talking with him, the king's attendants came and quickly took Haman to the banquet that Esther had prepared. [Esther] [7:1] So the king and Haman went to drink with Queen Esther. [7:2] And the king said to Esther as they were drinking wine, “Whatever your petition is, Queen Esther, it shall be granted you; and whatever you request it shall be done, even if it takes half of the kingdom.” [7:3] Then Queen Esther answered, “If I have won your favor, O king, and if it seems best to the king, let my life be given me as my petition, and my people as my request, [7:4] for I and my people have been sold to be destroyed, killed, and completely annihilated! If we had been merely sold into slavery I would not have disturbed your peace.” [7:5] Then King Ahasuerus said to Queen Esther, “Who is he and where is he whose heart has impelled him to do so?” [7:6] Esther answered: “A foe, an enemy; this wicked Haman.” Then Haman shrank in terror before the king and the queen. [7:7] Thereupon the king rose in his wrath from the place where he was drinking wine and went into the palace garden. Haman stayed to beg Queen Esther for his life, for he saw that the king was fully determined to bring calamity upon him. [7:8] As the king returned from the palace garden to the banquet hall, Haman was lying prostrate on Esther's couch. Then the king said, “Is he going to rape my queen while I am present in my own house?” As the king spoke these words, the attendants covered Haman’s face [7:9] and Harbonah, one of those who waited on the king, said, “There are the gallows, seventy-five feet high, which Hainan erected for Mordecai, who spoke a good word in behalf of the king, standing in the house of Haman!” The king said “Hang him on them.” [7:10] So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai. Then the wrath of the king was pacified.[Esther] ---- [8:1] At that time King Ahasuerus gave the property of Haman the Jews' enemy to Queen Esther. And Mordecai was made one of the king's personal advisers, for Esther had disclosed his relationship to her. [8:2] The king also drew off his signet ring, which he had taken from Haman; and gave it to Mordecai; and Esther placed Mordecai in charge of Haman's property. [8:3] Then Esther sought another audience with the king and fell at his feet and with tears begged him to avert the evil planned by Haman the Agagite and to frustrate his designs against the Jews. [8:4] The king held out to her the golden sceptre, [8:4] and she arose and stood before him. And she said, “If it seems best to the king, and if I have won his favor and he thinks it right, and if I please him, let written orders be given to revoke the despatches devised by Haman son of Hammedatha the Agagite, which he wrote ordering the destruction of the Jews who are in all the king's provinces. [8:6] For how can I bear to look upon the evil that will come to my people? How can I bear to see their destruction?” [8:7] Then King Ahasuerus said to Queen Esther and to Mordecai the Jew, “See, I have given Esther the property of Haman, and they have hanged him on the gallows, because he laid hands upon the Jews. [8:8] Now you write in behalf of the Jews, as seems best to you, in the king's name and seal it with the king's signet ring; for a document that is written in the king's name and sealed with the king’s signet ring cannot be revoked.” [8:9] [8:10] Mordecai wrote in the name of King Ahasuerus and sealed it with the king's signet ring and sent by mounted couriers who rode the swift, noble steeds, bred of the royal studs, [8:11] despatches in which the king permitted the Jews who were in every city to gather together and make a stand for their life, to destroy, to kill, and annihilate all the armed forces of any people or province that might be hostile to them, including their children and women, and to take their goods as plunder throughout all the provinces of King Ahasuerus on that thirteenth day of the twelfth month (which is called Adar). [8:13] A copy of the edict was to be published as a decree in every province – publically displayed so that the Jews might be ready for that day and avenge themselves. [8:14] So the couriers who rode the swift, noble steeds went out, hastened and impelled by the king's commands! ---- [8:15] Meantime the decree had been given out in the royal palace at Susa; and Mordecai had gone out from the presence of the king in royal garments of violet and white and with a great crown of gold and with a robe of fine linen and purple. The people of Susa shouted and were glad. [8:16] To the Jews there came light and gladness and joy and honor. [8:17] Also in every province and city, wherever the king's command and decree came, there was gladness and joy among the Jews and a holiday. And many of the peoples of the earth became Jews, for fear of the Jews took possession of them. [Esther] [9:1] Now in the twelfth month, which is the month Adar, on the thirteenth day of the same, when the king's command and his decree was about to put into execution, on the day that the enemies of the Jews hoped to gain the mastery over them, then the tables were turned so that the Jews had the mastery over those who hated them. [9:2] The Jews gathered together in the cities throughout all the provinces of King Ahasuerus, to attack anyone who tried to harm them; and no one could withstand them, for the fear of them had fallen upon all the peoples. [9:3] And all the princes of the provinces and the satraps and the governors and they who attended to the king's business, helped the Jews, because the fear of Mordecai had fallen upon them. [9:4] For Mordecai was great in the king's palace, and as his power increased, his fame spread throughout all the provinces. [9:5] And the Jews put all their enemies to the sword and with slaughter and destruction, they did what they wanted to those who hated them. [9:6] And in the royal palace at Susa the Jews killed five hundred men. [9:7] They killed Parshandatha, Dalphon, Aspatha, [9:8] Poratha, Adalia, Aridatha, [9:9] Parmashta, Arisia, Aridai, and Vaizatha, [9:10] the ten sons of Haman the son of Hammedatha, the Jews' enemy; but they did not take any plunder. [9:11] On that day the number of those who were slain in Susa was brought before the king, [9:12] and the king said to Queen Esther, “The Jews have slain and destroyed five hundred men in the royal palace at Susa, and the ten sons of Haman; what then have they done in the rest of the king's provinces! Now what is your petition? It will be granted to you. What is your request? It will be done.” [9:13] Then Esther said, “If it please the king, let it be granted to the Jews who are in Susa to do tomorrow also according to this day's decree, and let the bodies of Haman's ten sons be hanged on the gallows.” [9:14] And the king commanded it to be done. A decree was given out in Susa; and they hung the bodies of Haman's ten sons on the gallows. [9:15] And the Jews who were in Susa gathered themselves together again on the fourteenth day of the month Adar, and killed three hundred men in Susa; but they did not take any plunder. [9:16] And the other Jews who were in the king's provinces gathered themselves together and fought for their lives and overcame their enemies. They killed seventy-five thousand who hated them; but they did not take any plunder. [9:17] This was on the thirteenth day of Adar. ---- On the fourteenth day of the month Adar the Jews rested and made it a day of feasting and rejoicing. [9:18] (But the Jews in Susa gatherered on both the thirteeth and fourteenth day – and rested on the fifteenth day of the same month and made it a day of feasting and rejoicing. ) [9:19] Therefore the Jews who live in the country villages keep the fourteenth day of the month Adar as a day of rejoicing and feasting and a holiday, and a day in which they send gifts of food to each other. [9:20] Mordecai had these things recorded, and sent letters to all the Jews who were in all the provinces of the King Ahasuerus, both near and far, [9:21] telling them to keep the fourteenth day of the month Adar and also the fifteenth day every year, [9:22] as the days on which the Jews had rest from their enemies, and the month which was turned from sorrow to gladness and from mourning into a feast day, telling them that they should make them days of feasting and gladness and of sending gifts of food to each other and of gifts to the poor. [9:23] So what the Jews had begun to do they adopted as a custom, just as Mordecai had written to them. [9:24] For Haman the son of Hammedatha, the Agagite, the enemy of all the Jews, had plotted to destroy them, and had cast ‘Pur’, that is the lot, intending to consume them and to destroy them. [9:25] But when the matter came before the king, he gave written orders that his wicked plot, which he had planned against the Jews, should come upon his own head, and that he and his sons should be hanged on the gallows. [9:26] This is why these days are called Purim, after the word Pur. Therefore because of all the words of this letter, as well as all they had seen, and all they had experienced, [9:27] The Jews established and made it a custom for them, for their descendants, and for all who should join them, so that it might not be repealed, that they should continue to observe these two days as feasts each year, [9:28] and that these days should be remembered and kept throughout every generation, every family, every province, and every city. And these days of Purim should not pass away from among the Jews nor the remembrance of them disappear among their descendants. [9:29] Queen Esther, the daughter of Abihail, gave Mordecai the Jew, all authority in writing to confirm this second letter of Purim. [9:30] And he sent letters to all the Jews, to the hundred and twenty-seven provinces of the kingdom of Ahasuerus, wishing them peace and security, [9:31] to confirm these days of Purim in their proper times, to be observed as Mordecai the Jew and Queen Esther had directed and as the Jews had proscribed for themselves and their descendants, in the matter of the fastings and their cry of lamentation. [9:32] And the commands of Esther confirmed these matters of Purim; and it was written in the records. [Esther] [10:1] And the King Ahasuerus imposed a tribute on the land and the coasts. [10:2] And all the acts of his power and of his might, and the full account of the greatness of Mordecai to which the king advanced him, are they not recorded in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Media and Persia? [10:3] For Mordecai the Jew was next in rank to King Ahasuerus, and great among the Jews, and loved by them all; and he sought the good of his people and promoted the welfare of their descendents. ====== Psalms ====== --- The --- ------ Psalms ------ [Psalms] Book One ======== ---- [1:1] Happy are those who do not follow the counsel of the wicked, not halting in ways frequented by sinners, nor taking a seat in a gathering of scoffers. [1:2] But the law of the Lord is their joy, they study it day and night. [1:3] They are like trees planted by runlets of water, yielding fruit in due season, leaves never fading. In all that they do, they prosper. [1:4] Not so fare the wicked, not so; like chaff are they, blown by the wind. [1:5] So the wicked will not stand firm in the judgment, nor sinners appear, when the righteous are gathered. [1:6] For the way of the righteous is dear to the Lord , but the way of the wicked will end in ruin.[Psalms] ---- [2:1] Why this turmoil of nations, this futile plotting of peoples, [2:2] with kings of the earth conspiring, and rulers consulting together, against the Lord and against his anointed, [2:3] to snap their bonds and fling their cords away? [2:4] He whose throne is in heaven laughs, the Lord mocks them. [2:5] Then he speaks to them in his wrath, and in his hot anger confounds them. [2:6] “This my king is installed by me, on Zion my holy mountain.” [2:7] I will tell of the Lord ’s decree. He said to me: “You are my son, this day I became your father. [2:8] Only ask, and I make you the heir of the nations, and lord of the world to its utmost bounds. [2:9] You will break them with sceptre of iron, shatter them like pottery.” [2:10] So now, you kings, be wise: be warned, you rulers of earth. [2:11] Serve the Lord in awe, kiss his feet with trembling, [2:12] lest, angry, he hurl you to ruin; for soon will his fury blaze. Happy all who take refuge in him.[Psalms] ---- A psalm of David, when he fled from his son Absalom. [3:1] How many, Lord , are my foes! Those who rise up against me are many. [3:2] Many are those who say of me, “There is no help for him in his God.” (Selah) [3:3] But you, Lord , are shield about me, my glory, who lifts up my head. [3:4] When loudly I call to the Lord , from his holy hill he gives answer. (Selah) [3:5] I laid down and slept: now I wake, for the Lord sustains me. [3:6] I fear not the myriads of people who beset me on every side. [3:7] Arise, Lord : save me, my God, who strikes all my foes on the cheek, and shatters the teeth of the wicked. [3:8] Victory belongs to the Lord : let your blessing descend on your people. (Selah)[Psalms] ---- For the leader, with stringed instruments. A psalm of David. [4:1] Answer my cry, God, my defender. Often from straits you have brought me to spacious places. So now show me your favor and hear my prayer. [4:2] How long, you proud people, will my honor be stained by the slanders you love, and the lies that you follow? (Selah) [4:3] See! The Lord has shown me his wonderful kindness: the Lord hears, when I call to him. [4:4] Sin not in your anger: but speak in your heart on your bed, and be still. (Selah) [4:5] Offer true sacrifice, trust in the Lord . [4:6] Many are longing for fortune to smile. Lift upon us the light of your face. [4:7] You have put in my heart, Lord , a deeper joy than was theirs who had corn and wine in abundance. [4:8] So in peace I will lie down and sleep; for you, Lord , keep me safe.[Psalms] ---- For the leader: A psalm of David, to be accompanied by the flute. [5:1] Hear my words, Lord : give heed to my whisper. [5:2] Attend to my loud cry for help, my king and my God. [5:3] When I pray to you, Lord , in the morning, hear my voice. I make ready for you in the morning, and look for a sign. [5:4] For you are no God who takes pleasure in wickedness: no one of evil can be your guest. [5:5] No braggarts can stand in your presence, you hate all workers of wrong. [5:6] You destroy all speakers of lies, people of blood and deceit you abhor. [5:7] But I, through your kindness abundant, may enter your house, and towards the shrine of your temple may reverently bow. [5:8] Lead me, Lord , in your righteousness because of my enemies. Make your way level before me. [5:9] For their mouth is a stranger to truth, their heart is a pit of destruction. Their throat is a wide open grave, their tongue the smooth tongue of the hypocrite. [5:10] Condemn them, God; let their schemes bring them down to the ground. For their numberless crimes thrust them down for playing the rebel against you. [5:11] But let all who take refuge in you ring out their gladness forever. Protect those who love your name, so they may exult in you. [5:12] For you give your blessing, Lord , to the godly, and the shield of your favor protects them.[Psalms] ---- For the leader; with instrumental music on the sheminith. A psalm of David. [6:1] Rebuke me not, Lord , in your anger, punish me not in your wrath. [6:2] Lord , be gracious to me in my weakness. Heal me Lord , for racked is my body; [6:3] all of me utterly racked. Why do you wait so long, Lord ? [6:4] Turn, Lord , rescue me; save me, because of your love. [6:5] For in death none can call you to mind; in Sheol who can praise you? [6:6] I am so weary of sighing. All the night I make my bed swim, and wet my couch with my tears. [6:7] My eyes swollen with grief; from weeping caused by my foes. [6:8] Begone, workers of wrong, for the Lord has heard my loud weeping, [6:9] the Lord has heard my entreaty, the Lord accepts my prayer. [6:10] My foes will be stricken with terror, brought to shame and dismay in a moment.[Psalms] ---- A Shiggaion of David, which he sang to the Lord about Cush, the Benjamite. [7:1] Lord my God, I take refuge in you. Deliver me, save me from all who pursue me; [7:2] or like lions they will tear me to pieces, and rend me, past hope of rescue. [7:3] Lord , my God, if my life has been such if my hands have been stained with guilt, [7:4] if friends I paid back with evil, if I plundered my foes without cause, [7:5] may the enemy chase and find me, trample my life to the ground, my honor leave in the dirt! (Selah) [7:6] Arise, Lord , in anger, against my foes rise in fury. Awake for my help: let justice be done. [7:7] Gather the nations about you, and sit on your lofty throne, [7:8] as the Lord , the judge of the peoples. Judge me, Lord , in my innocence and according to my integrity. [7:9] Put an end to the wrong of the wicked, protect the righteous. Searcher of hearts and minds, righteous God. [7:10] God is my shield: he saves the upright in heart. [7:11] God is a just judge, constant in righteous anger. [7:12] He will sharpen his sword without fail, his bow is bent and ready, [7:13] his deadly weapons are ready, his arrows he makes of flame. [7:14] The enemy who conceives evil; pregnant with mischief, giving birth to lies, [7:15] a pit they have made and dug; but into the hole that they made they will fall. [7:16] On their own heads their mischief comes back; on their own skulls their violence comes down. [7:17] I will give thanks to the Lord for his justice, and sing to the name of the Lord Most High.[Psalms] ---- For the leader: A psalm of David, to be accompanied by a stringed instrument. [8:1] Lord our God! How glorious in all the earth is your name! Your praise reaches as high as the heavens, [8:2] from the mouths of children and infants. You have built a fortress against your enemies, to silence the foe and the rebel. [8:3] When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set there, [8:4] what are mortals, that you think of them, humans, that you visit them? [8:5] Yet you made them little less than divine, crowned them with glory and majesty, [8:6] made them lord of the works of your hands, put all things under their feet --- [8:7] sheep and oxen, all of them; and the wild beasts also: [8:8] birds of the air, and fish of the sea, and all that crosses the paths of the ocean. [8:9] Lord our God! How glorious in all the earth is your name![Psalms] ---- For the leader; ‘almuth labben. A psalm of David. [9:1] With all my heart I will praise the Lord , all your wonders I will rehearse. [9:2] I will rejoice and exult in you, singing praise to your name, Most High; [9:3] because backward my foes were turned, they stumbled and perished before you. [9:4] My right and my claim you have upheld, you did sit on the throne as a fair judge, [9:5] rebuking the nations, destroying the wicked, and blotting their name out forever and ever. [9:6] The foe is vanished, ruined forever, their cities destroyed, their memory perished. [9:7] See! The Lord is seated forever on the throne he established for judgment, [9:8] ruling the world with justice, and judging the nations with equity. [9:9] So the Lord proves a haven to the oppressed, a haven in times of trouble. [9:10] Well may they trust you who know your name, for those who seek you, you never abandon. [9:11] Sing praise to the Lord , whose home is in Zion, declare his deeds among the nations. [9:12] As avenger of blood, he keeps them in mind, he does not forget the cry of the wretched. [9:13] Show me favor, Lord , see how my foes afflict me, lift me up from the gates of death; [9:14] so I may, in your help exulting, tell forth your praise at the gates of Zion. [9:15] The nations are sunk in the pit which they made, in the net that they hid, their own foot is entangled. [9:16] The Lord is revealed in the judgment he wrought, the wicked are snared in their own handiwork. (Selah) [9:17] Let the wicked depart to Sheol, all the nations that live forgetful of God. [9:18] For the needy will not be always forgotten, nor the hope of the helpless be lost forever. [9:19] Arise, Lord ; don’t let them triumph: before your face let the nations be judged. [9:20] Strike them with fear, Lord : show the nations how frail they are. (Selah)[Psalms] ---- [10:1] Why do you stand, Lord , so far away, hiding yourself in times of trouble? [10:2] The wicked, in their pride, are pursuing the helpless: let them be caught in the schemes they have plotted. [10:3] For the wicked boasts of their wanton greed; the robber despises the Lord , and curses him, [10:4] in wicked pride, thinks: God doesn’t care, God doesn’t call to account. [10:5] Never a season that they do not prosper; your judgments are far above out of their sight: they scoff at their foes. [10:6] Each says in their heart, “I will never be shaken; I will live for all time untouched by misfortune.” [10:7] Their mouths are full of deceit and oppression: under their tongues lurks mischief and wrong. [10:8] Lying in secret in some village ambush, and stealthily watching, they murder the innocent. [10:9] Like a lion that lurks in a secret lair they lurk intending to catch the defenceless; to seize them, to drag them away in their net. [10:10] Their victims are crushed, sink down to the ground. Under their claws the hapless fall. [10:11] The wicked say in their hearts that God has forgotten, has hidden his face, will see nothing. [10:12] Arise, Lord , lift up your hand, do not forget the cry of the wretched. [10:13] Why do the wicked treat God with contempt, and say in their hearts, “God doesn’t care”? [10:14] You have seen the trouble and sorrow; you mark it all, and will take it in hand. The hapless can count on you, helper of orphans. [10:15] Break the arm of the wicked and evil: search out their sin, till no more be found. [10:16] The Lord is king forever and ever: the nations will vanish from his land. [10:17] Lord , you have heard the desire of the humble, inclining your ear, strengthening their hearts, [10:18] rights you have won for the crushed and the orphan, so no one on earth may strike terror again.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. Of David. [11:1] In the Lord I take refuge. How can you tell me to flee like a bird to the mountains? [11:2] “See! The wicked are bending the bow, their arrow is set on the string, to shoot from the shadows at the upright in heart. [11:3] In this tearing down of foundations what good can a good person do?” [11:4] The Lord in his holy temple, the Lord in heaven, enthroned. His eyes watch the world, they see everyone. [11:5] The Lord examines the righteous and wicked, and the lover of violence he hates. [11:6] On the wicked he rains coals of fire and brimstone, and their drink will be scorching wind. [11:7] For the Lord is just, and justice he loves; so the upright will see his face.[Psalms] ---- For the leader; on the sheminith. A psalm of David. [12:1] Help, Lord , for the good are all gone, faithful people have vanished. [12:2] One lies to another, speaking empty lies, with flattering lips and false hearts they speak. [12:3] May the Lord cut off all the flattering lips, and the tongue that utters arrogance, [12:4] they declare, “Our tongue is our strength, our allies our lips: who is lord over us?” [12:5] “The poor are despoiled, and the needy are sighing; so now I will act,” the Lord declares “And place them in the safety they long for.” [12:6] The words of the Lord are words that are pure, silver smelted, seven times refined. [12:7] You will keep us, Lord , and guard us from this generation forever, [12:8] in a world where the wicked prowl, and worthless people exalted.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. A psalm of David. [13:1] How long, Lord , will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? [13:2] How long must I nurse grief inside me, and in my heart a daily sorrow? How long are my foes to exult over me? [13:3] Look at me, answer me, Lord my God. Fill my eyes with your light, lest I sleep in death, [13:4] lest my enemies claim to have triumphed, lest my foes rejoice at my downfall. [13:5] But I trust in your kindness: my heart will rejoice in your help. [13:6] I will sing to the Lord who was good to me.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. Of David [14:1] Fools say in their heart, “There is no God.” Vile, hateful their life is; not one does good. [14:2] From heaven the Lord looks out on humans, to see if any are wise, and care for God. [14:3] But all have turned bad, the taint is on all; not one does good, no, not one. [14:4] Have they learned their lesson, those workers of evil? Who ate up my people, eating, devouring, never calling to the Lord . [14:5] Sore afraid will they be; for God is among those who are righteous, [14:6] you may mock the plans of the poor, but the Lord is their refuge. [14:7] If only help from Zion would come for Israel! When the Lord brings his people a change of fortune, how glad will be Jacob, and Israel how joyful![Psalms] ---- A psalm of David [15:1] Lord , who can be guest in your tent? Who may live on your holy mountain? [15:2] The person whose walk is blameless, whose conduct is right, whose words are true and sincere; [15:3] on whose tongue there sits no slander, who will not harm a friend, [15:4] nor cruelly insult a neighbor, who regards with contempt those rejected by God; but honors those who obey the Lord , who keeps an oath, whatever the cost, [15:5] whose money is lent without interest, and never takes a bribe to hurt the innocent. The person who does these things will always stand firm.[Psalms] ---- A michtam of David. [16:1] Keep me, O God, for in you I take refuge. [16:2] I said to the Lord , “You are my Lord , my happiness rests in you alone. [16:3] Those who are holy in the land, they, they alone, are the noble ones; all my delight is in them.” [16:4] Those who choose other gods find endless sorrow. In their offerings of blood I will have no part nor take their name on my lips. [16:5] The Lord is my share and my portion, my fate is in your strong hands. [16:6] The boundary lines of my life mark out delightful country, my heritage pleases me well. [16:7] I praise the Lord for his counsel, which so stirs my heart in the night. [16:8] I keep the Lord always in mind: with him at my hand, I can never be moved. [16:9] So my heart is glad, there is joy inside me; and in safety of body I live. [16:10] For you will not give me up to Sheol nor let any who love you see the pit. [16:11] You will show me the path that leads to life, to that fulness of joy which is in your presence, and the pleasures dispensed by your hand evermore.[Psalms] ---- A prayer of David. [17:1] Listen, O Lord , to my innocence; attend to my piercing cry. Give heed to my prayer out of lips unfeigned. [17:2] Let my vindication come from you, your eyes see the truth. [17:3] When you test my heart when you visit at night, and assay me like silver --- you can find no evil. I am determined that my mouth should not lie. [17:4] I gave earnest heed to the words of your lips. [17:5] My steps have held fast to the paths of your precepts and in your tracks have my feet never stumbled. [17:6] So I call you, O God, with assurance of answer; bend down your ear to me, hear what I say. [17:7] Show your marvelous love, you who save from enemies those who take refuge at your right hand. [17:8] Keep me as the apple of the eye, hide me in the shelter of your wings. [17:9] From wicked people who do me violence, from deadly foes who crowd around me. [17:10] They have closed their hearts to pity, the words of their mouths are haughty. [17:11] Now they dog us at every step, keenly watching, to hurl us to the ground, [17:12] like a lion, longing to tear, like a young lion, lurking in secret. [17:13] Arise, Lord , face them and fell them. By your sword set me free from the wicked, [17:14] by your hand, O Lord , from those --- whose portion of life is but of this world. But let your treasured ones have food in plenty may their children be full and their children satisfied. [17:15] In my innocence I will see your face, awake I am filled with a vision of you.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. Of David, the servant of the Lord , who recited the words of this song to the Lord after the Lord had saved him from the power of all his enemies and from the hand of Saul. He said: [18:1] I love you, O Lord , my strength. [18:2] The Lord is my rock, my fortress, deliverer, my God, my rock, where I take refuge, my shield, my defender, my tower. [18:3] Worthy of praise is the Lord whom I call on, he rescues me from all my foes. [18:4] The waves of death broke about me, fearful floods of chaos. [18:5] Sheol threw cords around me, snares of death came to meet me. [18:6] In distress I cried to the Lord , and shouted for help to my God; in his temple he heard my voice, into his ears came my cry. [18:7] Then the earth shook and quaked, mountains trembled to their foundations, and quaked because of his wrath. [18:8] Smoke went up from his nostrils, devouring fire from his mouth, coals were kindled by it. [18:9] Then he bent the sky and came down, thick darkness was under his feet. [18:10] He rode on a cherub and flew, darting on wings of wind, [18:11] with his screen of darkness about him, in thick dark clouds of water. [18:12] At the radiance before him there passed hailstones and coals of fire. [18:13] The Lord thundered from heaven, the Most High uttered his voice. [18:14] He shot his arrows and scattered them, flashed lightnings, and routed them. [18:15] The channels of the sea were revealed, the world was laid bare to its base, at your rebuke, O Lord , at the blast of the breath of your nostrils. [18:16] He stretched from on high, he seized me, drew me up from the mighty waters, [18:17] and saved me from those who hated me --- fierce foes, too mighty for me. [18:18] In my day of distress they assailed me, but the Lord proved my support. [18:19] To a spacious place he brought me, and, for love of me, he saved me. [18:20] The Lord repays my innocence, he rewards my cleanness of hands. [18:21] For I kept the ways of the Lord , nor have wickedly strayed from my God. [18:22] His commandments were all before me, his statutes I put not away. [18:23] And I was blameless before him, guarding myself from sin. [18:24] So the Lord repaid my innocence, my cleanness of hands in his sight. [18:25] With the loyal you are loyal, and with the blameless blameless. [18:26] With the pure you show yourself pure, but shrewd with the devious. [18:27] For the lowly people you save, but haughty eyes you abase. [18:28] You are my lamp, Lord , my God who enlightens my darkness. [18:29] With you I can storm a rampart, with my God I can leap a wall. [18:30] As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is pure. He is shield to all who take refuge in him. [18:31] For who is God but the Lord ? And who is a rock but our God? [18:32] The God who arms me with strength, who cleared and smoothed my way. [18:33] He made my feet like hinds’ feet, and set me up on the heights. [18:34] He taught my hands how to fight, and my arms how to bend a bronze bow. [18:35] The shield of your help you gave me, your right hand supports me, you stoop down to make me great. [18:36] In your strength I took giant strides, and my feet never slipped. [18:37] So I chased the foe till I caught them, and turned not, till I made an end of them. [18:38] I smashed them, they could not rise, they fell beneath my feet. [18:39] You did arm me with strength for war, you did bow my assailants beneath me. [18:40] You made my foes turn their back to me, and those who did hate me I finished. [18:41] They cried for help, but none saved them; to the Lord , but he answered them not. [18:42] I beat them like dust of the market-place, stamped them like mud of the streets. [18:43] From the strife of the peoples you saved me, you made me head of the nations, peoples I knew not did serve me. [18:44] On the instant they hear, they obey me, foreigners come to me cringing. [18:45] Foreigners lose courage, and come out of their strongholds trembling. [18:46] The Lord is alive! Blest be my rock! Exalted be God, my protector! [18:47] The God who gave me revenge, and brought down nations beneath me, [18:48] who saved me from angry foes, and set me above my assailants, safe from the violent. [18:49] For this I will praise you among the nations, making music, O Lord , to your name: [18:50] for great triumphs he grants to his king, and faithful love he shows his anointed, to David and his seed evermore.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. A psalm of David. [19:1] The heavens declare God’s glory, the sky tells what his hands have done. [19:2] Day tells it to day, night reveals it to night, [19:3] without speaking, without words; without the sound of voices. [19:4] But through all the world their voice carries their words to the ends of the earth. He has set in them a tent for the sun; [19:5] like a bridegroom coming forth from his chamber it joyfully runs its course like a hero. [19:6] From one end of the heavens it rises, and round it runs to the other, and nothing hides from its heat. ---- [19:7] The law of the Lord is perfect, renewing life. The decrees of the Lord are trusty, making simple ones wise. [19:8] The behests of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart. The command of the Lord is pure, giving light to the eyes. [19:9] The fear of the Lord is clean, it endures forever. The Lord ’s judgments are true and right altogether. [19:10] More precious are they than gold --- than fine gold in plenty, and sweeter they are than honey, that drops from the comb. [19:11] By them is your servant warned; who keeps them has rich reward. [19:12] Who can know their flaws? Absolve me from those who I know not. [19:13] Keep your servant from wilful sins --- from falling under their sway: then blameless and clear will I be from great offense. [19:14] May the words of my mouth and the thoughts of my heart be pleasing to you, Lord , my rock and redeemer.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. A psalm of David. [20:1] The Lord answer you in the day of distress, the name of the God of Jacob protect you, [20:2] sending you help from the temple, and out of Zion supporting you. [20:3] All your meal-offerings may he remember, your burnt-offerings look on with favor. (Selah) [20:4] May he grant you your heart’s desire, and bring all your designs to fruition. [20:5] We will shout then for joy at your victory, and rejoice in the name of our God. May the Lord fulfil all your petitions. [20:6] Now I am sure that the Lord will give victory to his anointed. From his temple in heaven he will answer by his mighty triumphant right hand. [20:7] Some in chariots are strong, some in horses; but our strength is the Lord our God. [20:8] As for them, they will totter and fall, while we rise and stand firm. [20:9] Give victory, Lord , to the king, and answer us when we call.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. A psalm of David. [21:1] In your might, Lord , the king rejoices, and because of your help how exultant is he! [21:2] You have granted to him the desire of his heart, the request of his lips you have not withheld. (Selah) [21:3] You did go forth to meet him with blessing and weal, you did set on his head a crown of fine gold. [21:4] He asked you for life, you gave it --- life lasting many days, forever and ever. [21:5] Great is his glory because of your help, honor and majesty you lay upon him. [21:6] For you make him most blessed forever, with the joy of your presence you make him glad. [21:7] For the king puts ever his trust in the Lord ; the Most High, in his love, will preserve him unshaken. [21:8] Your hand will reach to all your foes, and those who hate you your right hand will shatter. [21:9] You will make them like a furnace of fire, when you appear, Lord . The Lord will swallow them up in his wrath. The fire shall devour them. [21:10] You will sweep their offspring from the earth, their children from humanity. [21:11] When they scheme against you and hatch evil plots --- they will fail. [21:12] For you make them turn in flight, you aim with your bow at their faces. [21:13] Be exalted, O Lord , in your strength, to your might we will sing and make music.[Psalms] ---- For the leader; set to ‘Deer of the Dawn’. A psalm of David. [22:1] My God, my God, why have you left me, gone afar from my cry, from the words of my roaring? [22:2] I cry in the day-time, but you do not answer; even in the night I am never still. [22:3] Yet you, O Lord , are the Holy One, throned on the praises of Israel. [22:4] In you our ancestors trusted, they trusted and you did deliver them. [22:5] They cried to you, and found safety, in you did they trust and were not put to shame. [22:6] But I am a worm, not a person; insulted by others, despised by the people. [22:7] All who see me mock me, with mouths wide open and wagging heads: [22:8] “He committed himself to the Lord ; let him save him. Let him rescue him, since he takes pleasure in him.” [22:9] But you drew me from the womb, made me trustfully lie on my mother’s breast. [22:10] On your care was I cast from my very birth, you are my God from my mother’s womb. [22:11] Be not far from me, for trouble is nigh, and there is none to help. [22:12] I am circled by many bulls, beset by the mighty of Bashan, [22:13] who face me with gaping jaws, like ravening roaring lions. [22:14] Poured out am I like water, and all my bones are loosened. My heart is become like wax, melted within me. [22:15] My palate is dry as a sherd, my tongue sticks to my jaws; in the dust of death you lay me. [22:16] For dogs are round about me, a band of knaves encircles me, gnawing my hands and my feet. [22:17] I can count my bones, every one. As for them, they feast their eyes on me. [22:18] They divide my garments among them, and over my raiment cast lots. [22:19] But you, O Lord , be not far, O my strength, hasten to help me. [22:20] Deliver my life from the sword my life from the power of the dogs. [22:21] Save me from the jaws of the lion, from the horns of the wild oxen help me. [22:22] I will tell of your fame to my kindred, and in the assembly will praise you. [22:23] Praise the Lord , you who fear him. All Jacob’s seed, give him glory. All Israel’s seed, stand in awe of him. [22:24] For he has not despised nor abhorred the sorrow of the sorrowful. He hid not his face from me, but he listened to my cry for help. [22:25] Of you is my praise in the great congregation; my vows I will pay before those who fear him. [22:26] The afflicted will eat to their heart’s desire, and those who seek after the Lord will praise him. Lift up your hearts forever. [22:27] All will call it to mind, to the ends of the earth, and turn to the Lord ; and all tribes of the nations will bow down before you. [22:28] For the kingdom belongs to the Lord : he is the Lord of the nations. [22:29] To him will bow down all who sleep in the earth, and before him bend all who go down to the dust, and those who could not preserve their lives. [22:30] My descendents will tell of the Lord to the next generation; [22:31] they will declare his righteousness to people yet to be born: He has done it.[Psalms] ---- A psalm of David. [23:1] The Lord is my shepherd: I am never in need. [23:2] He lays me down in green pastures. He gently leads me to waters of rest, [23:3] he refreshes my life. He guides me along paths that are straight, true to his name. [23:4] And when my way lies through a valley of gloom, I fear no evil, for you are with me. Your rod and your staff comfort me. [23:5] You spread a table for me in face of my foes; with oil you anoint my head, and my cup runs over. [23:6] Surely goodness and love will pursue me --- all the days of my life. In the house of the Lord I will live through the length of the days.[Psalms] ---- Of David. A psalm. [24:1] The earth is the Lord ’s and all that it holds, the world and those who live in it. [24:2] For he founded it on the seas, and on the floods he sustains it. [24:3] Who may ascend the hill of the Lord ? Who may stand in his holy place? [24:4] The clean of hands, the pure of heart, who sets not their heart upon sinful things, nor swears with intent to deceive: [24:5] they win from the Lord a blessing: God is their champion and savior. [24:6] Such must be those who resort to him, and seek the face of the God of Jacob. (Selah) ---- [24:7] Lift high your heads, you gates --- Higher, you ancient doors; welcome the glorious king. [24:8] “Who is the glorious king?” “The Lord strong and heroic, the Lord heroic in battle.” [24:9] Lift high your heads, you gates --- Higher, you ancient doors; welcome the glorious king. [24:10] “Who is the glorious king?” “The Lord , the God of hosts, he is the glorious king.” (Selah)[Psalms] ---- A psalm of David. [25:1] To you, O Lord , I lift up my heart: all the day I wait for you. [25:2] In you I trust, put me not to shame; let not my foes exult over me. [25:3] None will be shamed who wait for you, but shame will fall upon wanton traitors. [25:4] Make me, O Lord , to know your ways: teach me your paths. [25:5] In your faithfulness guide me and teach me, for you are my God and my savior. [25:6] Remember your pity, O Lord , and your kindness, for they have been ever of old. [25:7] Do not remember the sins of my youth; remember me in kindness, because of your goodness, Lord . [25:8] Good is the Lord and upright, so he teaches sinners the way. [25:9] The humble he guides in the right, he teaches the humble his way. [25:10] All his ways are loving and loyal to those who observe his charges and covenant. [25:11] Be true to your name Lord , forgive my many sins. [25:12] Who then is the person who fears the Lord ? He will teach them the way to choose. [25:13] They will live in prosperity, their children will inherit the land. [25:14] The Lord gives guidance to those who fear him, and with his covenant he makes them acquainted. [25:15] My eyes are ever toward the Lord , for out of the net he brings my foot. [25:16] Turn to me with your favor, for I am lonely and crushed [25:17] In my heart are strain and storm; bring me out of my distresses. [25:18] Look on my misery and trouble, and pardon all my sins, [25:19] look on my foes oh, so many! And their cruel hatred towards me. [25:20] Deliver me, keep me, and shame not one who takes refuge in you. [25:21] May integrity and innocence preserve me, for I wait for you, O Lord . [25:22] Redeem Israel, O God, from all its distresses.[Psalms] ---- A psalm of David. [26:1] Defend me, O Lord , for my walk has been blameless; in the Lord have I trusted unswervingly: [26:2] Examine me, Lord , and test me; test my heart and my mind. [26:3] For your love is before my eyes, and your faithfulness governs my way. [26:4] I never sat down with the worthless, nor companied with dissemblers. [26:5] I hate the assembly of knaves, I would never sit down with the wicked; [26:6] but, with hands washed in innocence, I would march round your altar, O Lord , [26:7] singing loud songs of thanks, and telling of all your wonders. [26:8] O Lord , I love your house, the place where your glory lives. [26:9] Do not gather me up with sinners; slay me not with people of blood, [26:10] whose hands are stained with villainy, and whose right hand is filled with bribes. [26:11] But my walk is blameless! O redeem me, be gracious to me. [26:12] My foot stands on even ground, in the choirs I will bless the Lord .[Psalms] ---- A psalm of David. [27:1] The Lord is my light and my savior; whom then should I fear? The Lord protects my life; whom then should I dread? [27:2] When the wicked drew near to assail me and eat up my flesh, it was those who distressed and opposed me who stumbled and fell. [27:3] Though against me a host should encamp, yet my heart would be fearless: though battle should rise up against me, still would I be trustful. [27:4] One thing have I asked of the Lord , and that do I long for --- To live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the grace of the Lord and inquire in his temple. [27:5] For he will hide me in his shelter in the day of misfortune. In his sheltering tent he hides me: he lifts me up on a rock. [27:6] And now that my head he has lifted above my encircling foes, I will march round the altar and sacrifice, shouting with joy, in his tent, making music and song to the Lord . ---- [27:7] Hear, O Lord , my loud cry, and graciously answer me. [27:8] My heart has said to you, “Your face, O Lord , I seek.” [27:9] Hide not your face from me, reject not your servant in anger: for you have been my help. Abandon me not, nor forsake me, O God of my help: [27:10] for father and mother have left me; but the Lord will take me up. [27:11] Teach me your way, O Lord : lead me in an even path, because of my enemies. [27:12] Give me not up, O Lord , unto the rage of my foes; for against me have risen false witnesses, breathing out cruelty. [27:13] Firm is the faith I cherish, that I, in the land of the living, will yet see the goodness of God. [27:14] Let your heart be courageous and strong, and wait on the Lord .[Psalms] ---- Of David. [28:1] Unto you, O Lord , do I cry; my rock, be not deaf to me: lest, through holding your peace, I become like those who go down to the pit. [28:2] Hear my loud entreaty, as I cry for help to you, lifting my hands, O Lord , towards your holy chancel. [28:3] Take me not off with the wicked, nor with the workers of wrong, whose speech to their neighbors is friendly, while evil is in their heart. [28:4] Give them as they have done, as their wicked deeds deserve. As their hands have wrought, so give to them: requite to them their deserts. [28:5] They are blind to all that the Lord does, to all that his hands have wrought; and so he will tear them down, to build them up no more. [28:6] Blest be the Lord , who has heard my voice as I plead for mercy. [28:7] The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him. I was helped: so my heart is exultant, and in my song I will praise him. [28:8] The Lord is the strength of his people, the fortress who saves his anointed. [28:9] O save your people, and bless your inheritance. Be their shepherd and carry them forever.[Psalms] ---- A psalm of David. [29:1] Ascribe to the Lord , you heavenly beings, ascribe to the Lord glory and power [29:2] Ascribe to the Lord the glory he manifests: bow to the Lord in holy array. [29:3] The Lord ’s voice peals on the waters. The God of glory has thundered. He peals o’er the mighty waters. [29:4] The Lord ’s voice sounds with strength, the Lord ’s voice sounds with majesty. [29:5] The Lord ’s voice breaks the cedars, he breaks the cedars of Lebanon, [29:6] making Lebanon dance like a calf, Sirion like a young wild ox. [29:7] The Lord ’s voice hews out flames of fire. [29:8] The Lord ’s voice rends the desert, he rends the desert of Kadesh. [29:9] The Lord ’s voice whirls the oaks, and strips the forests bare; and all in his temple say “Glory.” [29:10] The Lord was king at the flood, the Lord sits throned forever. [29:11] The Lord gives strength to his people, he blesses his people with peace.[Psalms] ---- A psalm of David. A song for the dedication of the Temple. [30:1] I will extol you, O Lord , because you have lifted me up, and not suffered my foes to rejoice over me. [30:2] I cried to you for help, O Lord my God, and you healed me. [30:3] You have brought me up, Lord , from Sheol, from my way to the pit back to life you have called me. [30:4] Sing praise to the Lord , faithful people; give thanks to his holy name. [30:5] For his anger lasts only a moment, his favor endures for a lifetime. Weeping may lodge for the night, but the morning brings shouts of joy. [30:6] When all went well, I imagined that never should I be shaken. [30:7] For by your favor, O Lord , you had set me on mountains strong: but you hide your face, and I was confounded. [30:8] Then to you, Lord , I cried, to the Lord I begged for mercy, [30:9] “What profit is there in my blood, if I go down to the pit? Can you be praised by dust? Can it tell of your faithfulness? [30:10] Hear, Lord , and show me your favor, Lord be a helper to me.” [30:11] You have turned my mourning to dancing; my sackcloth you have unloosed, and clothed me with joy: that unceasingly I should sing your praise, and give thanks to you, Lord my God, forever.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. A psalm of David. [31:1] In you, O Lord , I take refuge; let me never be put to shame. Rescue me in your faithfulness; [31:2] incline to me your ear. Deliver me speedily. Be to me a rock of defence, a fortified house, to save me. [31:3] For my rock and my fortress are you; lead me and guide me so your name will be honored. [31:4] Draw me out of the net they have hid for me, for you yourself are my refuge. [31:5] Into your hand I commend my spirit: you ransom me, Lord , faithful God. [31:6] I hate those devoted to worthless idols; I trust in the Lord . [31:7] I will rejoice and be glad in your love, because you have looked on my misery, and cared for me in my distress. [31:8] You have not given me into the enemy’s hand, you have set my feet in a spacious place. [31:9] Be gracious to me, Lord , for I am distressed; my eye is wasted away with sorrow. [31:10] For my life is consumed with grief, and my years with sighing. My strength is broken with misery, my bones waste away. [31:11] The scorn of all my foes, the butt of my neighbors am I, a terror to my acquaintance. At the sight of me in the street people turn quickly away. [31:12] I am clean forgotten like the dead, am become like a ruined vessel. [31:13] I hear the whispers of many --- terror on every side --- scheming together against me, plotting to take my life. [31:14] But my trust is in you, Lord . “You are my God,” I say; [31:15] my times are in your hand, save me from the hand of the foes who pursue me. [31:16] Make your face to shine on your servant, save me in your love. [31:17] Put me not, O Lord , to shame, for I have called upon you. Let the wicked be put to shame silent in Sheol. [31:18] Strike the false lips dumb, that speak proudly against the righteous with haughtiness and contempt. [31:19] How great is the goodness you have treasured for those who fear you, and wrought for those who take refuge in you, in plain sight of all! [31:20] In your sheltering wings you hide them from plottings of people, you keep them safe in a bower from the chiding of tongues. [31:21] Blest be the Lord for the wonderful love he has shown me in time of distress. [31:22] For I had said in panic, “I am driven clean out of your sight.” But you heard my plea, when I cried to you for help. [31:23] Love the Lord , all you faithful; the Lord protects the loyal, but repays the haughty in full. [31:24] Let your hearts be courageous and strong, all you who wait on the Lord .[Psalms] ---- Of David. A maskil. [32:1] Happy those whose transgression is pardoned, whose sin is covered. [32:2] Happy are those, free from falseness of spirit, to whom the Lord reckons no debt of guilt. [32:3] When I held my peace, my bones wore away with my endless groaning; [32:4] for day and night did your hand lie heavy upon me. The sap of my life was dried up as with fierce summer-heat. (Selah) [32:5] I began to acknowledge my sin, not concealing my guilt; and the moment I vowed to confess to the Lord my transgression, then you yourself did pardon the guilt of my sin. (Selah) [32:6] For this cause let all who are faithful pray to you in the time of distress; then, when the great waters rush, they will not reach to him. [32:7] For you are my shelter, you protect me from trouble, and surround me with deliverance. (Selah) [32:8] “With my eye steadfastly upon you, I will instruct and teach you The way you should go. [32:9] Do not be like the horse or the mule, that have no understanding, but need bridle and halter to curb them, else they will not come near to you.” [32:10] The godless have many sorrows, but those who trust in the Lord will be compassed about by his kindness. [32:11] Be glad in the Lord , and rejoice, you righteous; and ring out your joy, all you upright in heart.[Psalms] ---- [33:1] Shout for joy in the Lord , you righteous: praise for the upright is seemly. [33:2] Give thanks to the Lord on the lyre, play to him on a ten-stringed harp. [33:3] Sing to him a new song, play skilfully and shout merrily. [33:4] For the Lord is straight in his promise; and all that he does is in faithfulness. [33:5] Justice and right he loves; the earth is full of his kindness. [33:6] By his word the heavens were made, all their host by the breath of his mouth. [33:7] He gathers the sea in a bottle, the ocean he puts into store-houses. [33:8] Let the whole world honor the Lord , let all who live on earth be in awe. [33:9] For at his word it came into being, at his command it stood forth. [33:10] The Lord frustrates the designs of the nations, what the peoples have purposed, he brings to nought, [33:11] but the Lord ’s own design will stand forever, and what his heart has purposed, through all generations. [33:12] Happy the nation whose God is the Lord , the people he chose for himself as his own. [33:13] The Lord looks down from heaven, he sees all of humanity; [33:14] from where he rules he gazes on all who inhabit the earth. [33:15] He fashions the hearts of them all, and gives heed to all that they do. [33:16] It is not by great armies that kings are victorious, it is not by great strength that a warrior saves himself; [33:17] false hope is the war-horse to usher in victory, for all its great might it can provide no escape. [33:18] See! The eye of the Lord is on those who fear him, on those who hope in his kindness; [33:19] to deliver their life from death, and to keep them alive in famine. [33:20] We wait for the Lord : he is our help and our shield. [33:21] For in him our heart is glad, we trust in his holy name. [33:22] Let your kindness, O Lord , be upon us, as is our hope in you.[Psalms] ---- Of David, when he feigned madness in the presence of Abimelech, who drove him away, and he left. [34:1] I will bless the Lord at all times, in my mouth will his praise be forever. [34:2] In the Lord will my heart make her boast, the humble will hear and be glad. [34:3] O magnify the Lord with me and let us extol his name together. [34:4] I sought the Lord , and, in answer, he saved me from all my terrors. [34:5] Look to him and you will be radiant, with faces unashamed. [34:6] Here is one who was crushed, but cried and was heard by the Lord , and brought safe out of every trouble. [34:7] The Lord ’s angel encamps about those who fear him, and rescues them. [34:8] O taste and see that the Lord is good, happy those who take refuge in him. [34:9] Fear the Lord , all his people, for they who fear him lack nothing. [34:10] Even young lions may be poor and hungry, but those who seek the Lord will not lack any good thing. [34:11] Come, children, listen to me. I will teach you the fear of the Lord . [34:12] Which of you is desirous of life, loves many and happy days? [34:13] Then guard your tongue from evil, and your lips from speaking deceit. [34:14] Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it. [34:16] The Lord sets his face against those who do evil, to root their memory out of the earth. [34:15] The eyes of the Lord are towards the righteous, his ears are towards their cry for help. [34:17] When they cry, they are heard by the Lord , and he saves them from all their distresses. [34:18] The Lord is near to the broken-hearted, he helps those whose spirit is crushed. [34:19] Many misfortunes befall the righteous, but the Lord delivers them out of them all. [34:20] He guards all their bones, none are broken. [34:21] Misfortune will slay the ungodly; those who hate the righteous are doomed. [34:22] The Lord ransoms the life of his servants, and none will be doomed who takes refuge in him.[Psalms] ---- Of David. [35:1] Contend, Lord , with those who contend with me, do battle with those who do battle with me. [35:3] Grasp shield and buckler, and rise up as my help. [35:3] Draw spear and battle-axe, confront those who pursue me. Assure me that you will help me. [35:4] Dishonor and shame be on those who are seeking my life! Defeat and confusion on those who are planning my hurt! [35:5] As chaff before wind may they be, with the Lord ’s angel pursuing them. [35:6] Slippery and dark be their way, with his angel thrusting them on. [35:7] For they wantonly hid their net for me, and dug a pit to destroy me. [35:8] Upon them may ruin come unawares; may the net which they hid catch themselves, and into the pit may they fall. [35:9] Then I will exult in the Lord , and be joyful because of his help; [35:10] and all my being will say, “Who, O Lord , is like you, who save the helpless from those too strong for them, the poor and the helpless from those who despoil them?” [35:11] Violent witnesses rise, and ask of me things that I know not. [35:12] Evil for good they requite me, leaving me inwardly comfortless. [35:13] But when theywere sick, Iput on sackcloth, and chastened myself with fasting. I prayed with head bowed low, [35:14] as if for my friend or my brother. I went about bowed and in mourning, as one who laments his mother. [35:15] When I stumbled, they gleefully gathered, strangers gathered around me, and tore at me without ceasing, [35:16] impiously mocking and mocking, bearing their teeth at me. [35:17] How long, Lord , will you look on? Rescue me from their roaring, my precious life from the lions. [35:18] I will then give you thanks in the great congregation, and praise you before many people. [35:19] Suffer not those to rejoice over me who are falsely my foes, suffer not those who without cause abhor me to wink with the eye. [35:20] For it is not peace that they speak of those who are quiet in the land; but treacherous charges they plot. [35:21] With wide open mouths they shout, “Hurrah! Hurrah! With our own eyes we saw it.” [35:22] But you have seen, too, O Lord , keep not silence, O Lord , be not far from me. [35:23] Bestir you, awake, for my right my God, my Lord , for my cause. [35:24] You are just, Lord : win for me justice, let them not rejoice over me, [35:25] inwardly saying, “Hurrah! The desire of our hearts at last! Now we have swallowed him up.” [35:26] Shame and confusion together on those who rejoice at my hurt! Clothed with shame and dishonor be those who are haughty to me! [35:27] Let such as delight in my cause ring out their gladness, and say evermore, “Great is the Lord whose delight is the well-being of his servant.” [35:28] Then my tongue will tell of your justice, and all the day long of your praise.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. Of the servant of the Lord , of David. [36:1] Sin whispers within the heart of the wicked, who have no dread of God before their eyes. [36:2] It flatters them in their eyes that their sin will not be found out. [36:3] First, their speech becomes wicked and false, they give up acting wisely and well. [36:4] Then they plot deliberate wrong, take their stand on the wicked way, without the least shrinking from evil. [36:5] Your love, O Lord , touches the heavens, your faithfulness reaches the clouds. [36:6] Your justice is like the great mountains, your judgments are like the broad sea. Lord , you save people and animals. [36:7] How precious your love, O God! All may seek shelter in the shadow of your wings. [36:8] They feast on the fat of your house, they drink of your brook of delights. [36:9] For with you is the fountain of life, in the light that is yours we see light. [36:10] O continue your grace to the faithful, your love to the upright in heart. [36:11] Let no arrogant foot tread upon me, no wicked hand drive me to exile. [36:12] There the workers of wrong lie prostrate, thrust down to rise up no more.[Psalms] ---- Of David. [37:1] Be not kindled to wrath at the wicked, nor envious of those who work wrong; [37:2] for, like grass, they will speedily wither, and fade like the green of young grass. [37:3] Trust in the Lord , and do good; remain in the land, and deal faithfully: [37:4] then the Lord will be your delight, he will grant you your heart’s petitions. [37:5] Commit your way to the Lord ; trust in him, and he will act, [37:6] making clear as the light your right, and your just cause clear as the noon-day. [37:7] In silence and patience wait on the Lord . Be not kindled to anger at those who prosper. At those who execute evil devices. [37:8] Desist from anger, abandon wrath: be not kindled to anger it leads but to evil: [37:9] for evildoers will be cut off, but the land will be theirs, who wait on the Lord . [37:10] Yet but a little, and the wicked vanish: look at their place: they are there no more. [37:11] But the humble will have the land, and the rapture of peace in abundance. [37:12] The wicked plots against the righteous, snarls like a wild animal; [37:13] the Lord laughs, for he sees that his day is coming. [37:14] The wicked have drawn the sword, and bent the bow, to fell the poor, to slay those who walk uprightly; [37:15] but their sword will pierce their own heart, and their bows will be broken in pieces. [37:16] Better is the righteous person’s little than the wealth of many wicked. [37:17] For the arms of the wicked will be broken, but the Lord upholds the righteous. [37:18] The Lord watches over the days of the blameless, their heritage will continue forever. [37:19] They will not be shamed in the evil time, in the days of famine they will be satisfied. [37:20] Because the wicked will perish: but the foes of the Lord , like a brand in the oven, will vanish, like smoke they will vanish. [37:21] The wicked must borrow and cannot pay back, but the righteous is lavish and gives. [37:22] For those blest by the Lord inherit the land, while those whom he curses will be cut off. [37:23] The Lord supports the steps of those with whom he is pleased. [37:24] Though they fall, they will not be cast headlong, for the Lord holds their hands. [37:25] Never, from youth to age, have I seen the righteous forsaken, or their children begging bread. [37:26] They are ever lavishly lending, and their children are fountains of blessing. [37:27] Turn away from evil and do good and you will live in the land forever. [37:28] For the Lord loves justice, he does not forsake his friends. The unrighteous will be destroyed forever, and the seed of the wicked will be cut off. [37:29] But the land will belong to the righteous, they will live upon it forever, [37:30] The mouth of the righteous murmurs wisdom, and words of justice are on their tongues. [37:31] The law of their God is in their heart, their steps are never unsteady. [37:32] The wicked watches the righteous, and seeks to put them to death. [37:33] But the Lord leaves them not in their hand: at their trial they will not be held guilty. [37:34] Wait on the Lord , and observe his way: he will lift you to honor the land will be yours, you will feast your eyes on the doom of the wicked. [37:35] I have seen the wicked exultant, lifting themselves like a cedar of Lebanon. [37:36] But the moment I passed, they vanished! I sought for them, but they could not be found. [37:37] Preserve your honor and practise uprightness, for such a person fares well in the end. [37:38] But transgressors will perish together. Cut off are the wicked forever. [37:39] The righteous are saved by the Lord , who in time of distress is their refuge: [37:40] the Lord helps and rescue them, from the wicked he rescues and saves them, because they take refuge in him.[Psalms] ---- A Psalm of David. A lament. [38:1] Reprove me not, Lord , in your anger, and chasten me not in your wrath; [38:2] for your arrows have sunk into me, and your hand lies heavy upon me. [38:3] In my flesh is no soundness because of your anger, no health in my bones, because of my sin. [38:4] For that my guilt is gone over my head: it weighs like a burden too heavy for me. [38:5] My wounds stink and fester, for my foolishness I am tormented. [38:6] Bent and bowed am I utterly, all the day going in mourning. [38:7] My loins are filled with burning, and in my flesh is no soundness. [38:8] I am utterly crushed and numb; I cry louder than lion roars. [38:9] Lord , you know all that I long for, my groans are not hidden from you. [38:10] My heart is throbbing, my strength has failed me. The light of my eyes--- even it is gone from me. [38:11] My dear ones and friends keep aloof, and my neighbors stand afar off. [38:12] They who aim at my life lay their snares, they who seek my hurt speak of ruin, nursing treachery all the day long. [38:13] But I turn a deaf ear and hear not; like the dumb I open not my mouth. [38:14] I am like one without hearing, with no arguments in my mouth. [38:15] For my hope, O Lord , is in you. You will answer, O Lord my God, [38:16] when I utter the hope that those who made scorn of my tottering feet may not rejoice over me. [38:17] For I am ready to fall, my pain forsakes me never. [38:18] I acknowledge my guilt, I am anxious because of my sin: [38:19] My wanton assailants are strong, those who wrongfully hate me are many, [38:20] who render me evil for good, and oppose me, because I make good my goal. [38:21] Do not forsake me, O Lord ; my God, be not far from me. [38:22] Hasten to help me, O Lord my savior.[Psalms] ---- For the leader; for Jeduthun. A psalm of David. [39:1] I vowed to watch my words, and sin not with my tongue, but to put on my mouth a muzzle, while the wicked were in my presence. [39:2] I was silent and dumb, speechless: but my pain was stirred up. [39:3] My heart grew hot within me; as I mused, the fire was kindled, till at last the words came to my tongue. [39:4] “Teach me, O Lord , my end, and the sum of my days what it is. Let me know how transient I am. [39:5] See! My days you have made but a span, and my life is as nothing before you. It is but as a breath that everyone stands: (Selah) [39:6] it is but in mere semblance we walk to and fro, and all our noise is for nothing. We heap up, and know not who will gather.” [39:7] And now, what wait I for, Lord ? My hope is in you. [39:8] From all my transgressions deliver me; make me not the scorn of the fool. [39:9] I am dumb, never opening my mouth, for this is your own doing. [39:10] Remove your stroke from off me: by the might of your hand I am spent. [39:11] When you rebuke someone to punish their sins, you consume, like a moth, what they treasures. Everyone is only a breath. (Selah) [39:12] Hear my prayer, O Lord ; attend to my cry for help. Hold not your peace at my tears. For I am but a guest of yours, a stranger visiting, like all my ancestors. [39:13] Look away from me, let me smile again, before I die and am gone.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. A psalm of David. [40:1] For the Lord I waited and waited, till, inclining to me, he heard my cry. [40:2] From the horrible pit he drew me, up out of the miry clay; he set my feet on a rock, and my steps he made firm. [40:3] He put a new song in my mouth, of praise to our God. Many see it, and, filled with awe, put their trust in the Lord . [40:4] Happy the person who has put in the Lord their trust, not looking to false gods or turning to idols. [40:5] With us you have wrought in rich measure, O Lord our God, your marvels and purposes for us --- none may compare with you --- were I to declare or to tell them, past counting are they. [40:6] In offerings bloody or bloodless you have no delight, but with open ears you have made me. Burnt-offering and offering for sin are not what you ask. [40:7] Then said I, “Here I am, as the roll of the book has enjoined. [40:8] My delight, O God, is to do your will, and your law is within my heart.” [40:9] Well, O Lord , you know that, with lips unrestrained, your righteousness I told in the great congregation, [40:10] not hiding it in my heart. I have told of your steadfast help, from the great congregation I hid not your love and your faithfulness. [40:11] So do not restrain, Lord , your pity from us. Your love and your faithfulness --- ever may they be our shield. [40:12] For evils that cannot be numbered have compassed me round. My transgressions have followed me up --- I can bear it no more. They are more than the hairs of my head, and my heart has forsaken me. [40:13] O Lord , be pleased to deliver me, haste to my help, O Lord . [40:14] May those who are seeking my life be ashamed and confounded together; may those who delight in my hurt be defeated and brought to disdishonor. [40:15] May those who hurrah over me be dumbfounded because of their shame. [40:16] But may all who seek after you rejoice and be glad in you. May all those eager for your aid, say, “Great is the Lord ” evermore. [40:17] I am weak and needy, yet the Lord cares for me. You are my help and deliverer; don’t delay, my God.[Psalms] ---- For the leader; for Jeduthun. A psalm of David. [41:1] Happy are those who consider the weak; in the day of misfortune the Lord will deliver them. [41:2] He will keep them safe, happy, and long in the land, and not give them up to the rage of their foes. [41:3] The Lord will sustain them on bed of languishing; tending their sickness, as long as they lie. [41:4] For this cause I say, “Lord , show me your favor; heal me, because I have sinned against you.” [41:5] My enemies speak of me nothing but evil, “When will he die, and his name pass away?” [41:6] When one comes to see me, their words ring hollow; their heart keeps gathering mischief the while; and when they go out, they give it speech. [41:7] In secret they whisper together against me, all those who hate me plot evil against me. [41:8] “Some fatal disease has fastened upon him; and now that he lies, he will rise up no more.” [41:9] My most trusted friend, on whom I relied, who ate of my bread, has turned against me. [41:10] But do you, Lord , graciously raise me up, that I may pay them their due reward. [41:11] By this will I know you delight in me: if my foes may not shout over me in triumph. [41:12] For my innocence you uphold me, and set me forever before your face. [41:13] Blessed be the Lord , the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting, Amen and Amen.[Psalms] Book Two ======== ---- For the leader. A maskil of the Korahites. [42:1] Like the hart which longs for brooks of water, I long for you, God. [42:2] I thirst for God, for my living God. When shall I enter in, and see the face of God? [42:3] My tears have been my food by day and by night; for they say to me all the day long, “Where is your God?” [42:4] My heart floods with sorrow, as I call to mind: how I used to pass on with the throng, at their head, to the house of God, with glad shouts and giving of thanks, in the throng who kept festival. [42:5] Why am I downcast? Why this moaning within me? Hope in God; for yet will I praise him, my help, my God. [42:6] I am sunk in my misery; I will therefore call you to mind from the land of Jordan and Hermon, the mountain Mizar. [42:7] Flood is calling to flood at the noise of your cataracts; all your waves and your breakers have passed over me. [42:8] In the day I cry to the Lord to summon his kindness; and the song that I sing in the night is a prayer to the living God. [42:9] I say to God my rock, “Why have you forgotten me? Why must I walk so sadly, so hard pressed by the foe?” [42:10] It pierces me to the heart to hear the enemy’s taunts, as all the day long they say to me, “Where is your God?” [42:11] Why am I downcast? Why this moaning within me? Hope in God; for yet will I praise him, my help, my God.[Psalms] ---- [43:1] Right me, defend my cause against a pitiless people. From the crafty and crooked, O God, deliver me. [43:2] For you are God my protector: why have you cast me off? Why must I walk so sadly, so hard pressed by the foe? [43:3] Send forth your light and your truth, let them be my guides: to your holy hill let them bring me, to the place where you live. [43:4] Then will I go to God’s altar, to God my rejoicing; and with joy on the lyre I will praise you, O God, my God. [43:5] Why am I downcast? Why this moaning within me? Hope in God; for yet will I praise him, my help, my God.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. Of the Korahites. A maskil. [44:1] O God, we have heard with our ears, all our ancestors have told us of the work that you wrought in their day, your wonders in days of old, [44:2] uprooting and crushing the nations, then planting and settling them. For it wasn’t their own sword that won them the land, [44:3] it was not their own arm that brought them the victory. Yours was the hand and the arm, yours was the face that shone on them with favor. [44:4] It was you, my king and my God, that ordained the victories of Jacob. [44:5] Through you we can thrust back our foes, and by your name tread down our assailants: [44:6] for not in my bow do I trust, nor can my sword win me the victory. [44:7] Our victory comes from you, and confusion to those who hate us. [44:8] In God we boast all the day long, and your name will we praise forever. (Selah) [44:9] Yet you have spurned and disgraced us, in not going forth with our armies, [44:10] and in making us flee from the foe, so that those who hated us plundered us. [44:11] You have let us be eaten like sheep, you have scattered us over the world, [44:12] sold your people for a pittance, and getting no gain from their price. [44:13] You have made us the butt of our neighbors, the derision and scorn of all round us. [44:14] O’er the world you have made us a byword, the nations at us shake their heads. [44:15] My disgrace is forever before me, my face is covered with shame, [44:16] at the words of blasphemer and scoffer, at the sight of the foe and the vengeful. [44:17] All this has come upon us, yet we have not forgotten you nor falsely dealt with your covenant. [44:18] Our heart has not turned back, nor our steps declined from your way, [44:19] that you thus should have crushed us down, and covered us over with gloom, in the place where the jackals roam. [44:20] Had we forgotten the name of our God, or stretched out our hands to a god that was strange, [44:21] would God not have searched this out? For he knows the heart and its secrets. [44:22] But in your cause it is we are killed all the day, and counted as sheep for the slaughter. [44:23] Rouse yourself, why do you sleep Lord? Awake, cast us not off forever. [44:24] Why do you hide your face, forgetting our stress and our misery? [44:25] For we have sunk down to the dust, our bodies cling to the ground. [44:26] Arise, come to our help: for your love’s sake, ransom us.[Psalms] ---- For the leader; on shoshannim. Of the Korahites. A maskil. A love song. [45:1] My heart is astir with beautiful words: I will sing a song, concerning the king, with tongue like the pen of a ready writer. [45:2] Your beauty is more than mortal, grace is shed over your lips: therefore God has blessed you forever. [45:3] Warrior, strap your sword on your thigh. What glory and splendor! [45:4] Good fortune attend you, as forth you ride in the cause of good faith, and as champion of justice. May your arm instruct you in deeds of dread. [45:5] Sharp are your arrows; nations fall under you: pierced to the heart are the foes of the king. [45:6] Your throne shall endure for ever and ever your royal sceptre a sceptre of equity. [45:7] Right you love and wrong you hate: therefore the Lord your God anoints you With oil of gladness above your fellows. [45:8] With myrrh, aloes, and cassia your robes are all fragrant, you are gladdened by music of ivory harps. [45:9] King’s daughters stand ready with jewels for you, at your right hand the queen in gold of Ophir. [45:10] Listen, daughter, and see; and incline your ear: forget your folk and your father’s house. [45:11] And when the king desires your beauty, bow to him, for he is your lord. [45:12] So shall the Tyrians come with gifts, and the richest of people will do you homage. [45:13] The king’s daughter is glorious altogether, with dress of pearls inwrought with gold. [45:14] In many-coloured robes she is led to the king, with the virgin companions she brought in her train. [45:15] The king’s palace they enter with joy and rejoicing. [45:16] May sons of yours take the place of your fathers, whom you will make princes in all the land. [45:17] Your name will I celebrate world without end, so that nations shall praise you for ever and ever.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. Of the Korahites, on alamoth. A song. [46:1] God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. [46:2] So we have no fear, though earth should change, and the hills totter into the heart of the ocean. [46:3] Let its waters roar and foam, let the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. On our side is the Lord of hosts, our sure defence is the God of Jacob. (Selah) [46:4] A river there is, whose streams make glad God’s city, the home the Most High has hallowed. [46:5] God is within her: she cannot be shaken. God helps her at the turn of the morning. [46:6] Nations roared, kingdoms tottered: he uttered his voice, earth melted away. [46:7] On our side is the Lord of hosts, our sure defence is the God of Jacob. [46:8] Come and see what the Lord has done, working appallingly in the earth. [46:9] He stills wars to the ends of the earth- breaking the bow, snapping the spear, burning the chariots in the fire. [46:10] “Refrain; and know surely that I am God, high over the nations, high over the world.” [46:11] On our side is the Lord of Hosts, our sure defence is the God of Jacob. (Selah)[Psalms] ---- For the leader. Of the Korahites. A psalm. [47:1] Clap your hands, all you peoples: shout to God in ringing cries. [47:2] For the Lord is most high and dread, a great king over all the earth. [47:3] He subdues the peoples under us, the nations under our feet; [47:4] he chooses our heritage for us, the glory of Jacob whom he loves. (Selah) [47:5] God is gone up with a shout, the Lord with the sound of a trumpet. [47:6] Sing praise to our God, sing praises: sing praise to our king, sing praises. [47:7] For king of all earth is he: praise God in a skilful song. [47:8] God is king over all the nations, God sits on his holy throne. [47:9] Princes of nations gather with the people of Abraham’s God: for the shields of the earth are God’s; greatly exalted is he.[Psalms] ---- A song. A psalm of the Korahites. [48:1] Great is the Lord and worthy all praise in the city of our God. His holy mountain, [48:2] that rises so fair, is the joy of all the world. Like the mount of the gods is Mount Zion, the city of the great king. [48:3] Once God made himself known as the defence of her palaces. [48:4] For see! A concert of kings passed over the frontier together. [48:5] But one glance, and they were astounded; they hastened away in dismay. [48:6] Trembling took hold of them there, like the pains of a woman in labor. [48:7] They were shattered, as east wind shatters the giant ships in pieces. [48:8] What we heard, we now have seen in the city of the Lord of hosts, the city of our God. God will uphold her forever. (Selah) [48:9] We think, O God, of your love, in the midst of your temple. [48:10] Your fame, O God, like your name, shall extend to the ends of the earth. Victory fills your hand. [48:11] Let mount Zion be glad; let the daughters of Judah rejoice because of your judgments. [48:12] Walk about Zion, go round her; count her towers. [48:13] Set your mind on her ramparts, consider her palaces; that you tell to the next generation [48:14] That such is God, our God he it is who shall guide us for ever and ever.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. Of the Korahites. A psalm. [49:1] Hear this, you peoples all; give ear, all you who live in the world [49:2] people of low degree and high, the rich and the poor together. [49:3] My mouth shall utter wisdom, the thoughts of a seeing heart. [49:4] I incline my ear to a proverb, on the lyre I will open my riddle. [49:5] Why should I be afraid in the days of misfortune, when circled by wicked and cunning foes, [49:6] who put their trust in their wealth, and boast of their boundless riches? [49:7] For assuredly no one can ransom themselves, or give to God the price of their life, [49:8] for the ransom of a life is costly, no payment is ever enough, [49:9] to keep them alive for ever and ever, so as never to see the pit at all. [49:10] But see it they will. Even wise people die, the fool and the brutish perish alike, and abandon their wealth to others. [49:11] The grave is their everlasting home, the place they shall live in for ever and ever, though after their own names they called whole lands. [49:12] Despite their wealth, they perish like dumb animals. [49:13] This is the fate of the confident fool, and the end of those who are pleased with their portion. (Selah) [49:14] Like sheep they descend to Sheol with Death for their shepherd; down they go straight to the grave, and their form wastes away in their home below. [49:15] But God will assuredly ransom my life from the hand of Sheol; for he will receive me. (Selah) [49:16] So be not afraid when someone grows rich, when the wealth of their house increases. [49:17] Not a shred of it all can they take when they die, wealth cannot follow them down. [49:18] Though they count themselves happy, when they are alive, and win praise from many for faring so well, [49:19] they must join their ancestors, who see the light nevermore. [49:20] The wealthy are without understanding, they perish like dumb animals.[Psalms] ---- A psalm of Asaph. [50:1] The Lord God has spoken: He summons the earth from sunrise to sunset. [50:2] From Zion, perfection of beauty, God’s glory shines forth. [50:3] Our God comes, he cannot keep silence, devouring fire is before him, and furious tempest around him. [50:4] He summons the heavens above and the earth to judge his people. [50:5] Gather to him his saints by covenant-sacrifice bound to him; [50:6] that the heavens may declare his justice, for a God of justice is he. (Selah) [50:7] “Hear, O my people, and I will speak, and protest to you, O Israel: I am the Lord , your God. [50:8] Not for your sacrifices will I reprove you your burnt-offerings are ever before me [50:9] Not a bullock will I take from your house, nor he-goats out of your folds; [50:10] for all beasts of the forest are mine, and the kine on a thousand hills. [50:11] I know all the birds of the air, all that moves on the fields is mine. [50:12] Were I hungry, I would not tell you, for the world and its fulness are mine. [50:13] Am I such as to eat bulls’ flesh, or drink the blood of goats? [50:14] Offer to God a thank-offering, pay the Most High your vows. [50:15] Summon me in the day of distress, I will rescue you, so will you honor me.” [50:16] But to the wicked God says: “What right have you to talk of my statutes, or take my covenant into your mouth [50:17] While you yourself hate correction, and cast my words behind you? [50:18] When you see a thief, you run with them; with adulterers you keep company. [50:19] You let your mouth loose for evil, your tongue contrives deceit. [50:20] You shamefully speak of your kin, and slander your own mother's son. [50:21] And because I kept silence at this, you did take me for one like yourself. But I will convict you and show you plainly. [50:22] Now you who forget God, mark this, lest I rend you, past hope of deliverance. [50:23] Those who bring a thank-offering honor me; but to those: who follows my way, I will show the salvation of God.”[Psalms] ---- For the leader. A psalm of David, when Nathan the prophet come to him after he had been with Bathsheba. [51:1] In your kindness, O God, be gracious to me, in your own great pity blot out my transgressions. [51:2] Wash me clean of my guilt, make me pure of my sin. [51:3] For well I know my transgressions, my sin is ever before me. [51:4] Against you, only you, have I sinned, and done that which is wrong in your sight: you therefore are just when you speak, and clear when you utter judgment. [51:5] See! In guilt was I brought to the birth, and in sin did my mother conceive me. [51:6] It’s the innermost truth you desire, give me therefore true wisdom of heart. [51:7] Purge me clean with hyssop, wash me whiter than snow. [51:8] Fill me with joy and gladness, let the bones you have broken rejoice. [51:9] Hide your face from my sins, and blot out my guilt altogether. [51:10] Create me a clean heart, O God, put a new steadfast spirit within me. [51:11] Cast me not forth from your presence, withdraw not your holy spirit. [51:12] Give me back the joy of your help, with a willing spirit sustain me. [51:13] I will teach your ways to transgressors, and sinners shall turn to you. [51:14] Save me from blood, O God, and my tongue shall ring out your faithfulness. [51:15] Open my lips, O Lord , and my mouth shall declare your praise. [51:16] For in sacrifice you have no pleasure, in gifts of burnt-offering no delight. [51:17] The sacrifice pleasing to God is a spirit that is broken; a heart that is crushed, O God, you will not despise. [51:18] Do good in your pleasure to Zion, build the walls of Jerusalem. [51:19] Then will you welcome the due forms of sacrifice, then on your altars shall bullocks be offered.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. A maskil of David, when Doeg the Edomite came and told Saul that David had gone to Abimelech’s house. [52:1] Why glory in mischief, you hero? God’s kindness is all the day. [52:2] Engulfing ruin you plot, your tongue like a razor sharpened, you practiser of deceit. [52:3] Evil, not good, you love, and falsehood, not words of truth. (Selah) [52:4] But you love all words that devour, and a tongue that is given to deceit. [52:5] But God, on his part, shall destroy you forever, grasp you and pluck you out of your tent, and root you out of the land of the living. (Selah) [52:6] Smitten with awe at the sight, the righteous shall laugh at you. [52:7] “Look” (they will say) “at the hero who did not make God his stronghold, but trusted in his great wealth and in the strength of his riches.” [52:8] But I am like a fresh olive-tree in the house of God. I trust in the kindness of God for ever and evermore. [52:9] I will render you thanks for ever for what you have done. I will tell how good you are in the presence of those who love you.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. On mahalath. A maskil of David. [53:1] Fools say in their heart, “There is no God.” Vile, hateful their life is; not one does good. [53:2] From heaven God looks out on humans, to see if any are wise, and care for God. [53:3] But all have turned bad, the taint is on all; not one does good, no, not one. [53:4] Have they learned their lesson, those workers of evil? Who ate up my people, eating, devouring, never calling to the Lord . [53:5] Sore afraid will they be, where no fear was; when God scatters the bones of the godless people. They will be put to shame, when God rejects them. [53:6] If only help from Zion would come for Israel! When God brings his people a change of fortune, how glad will be Jacob, and Israel how joyful![Psalms] ---- For the leader. With stringed instruments. A maskil of David, when the Ziphites came and said to Saul, ‘David is in hiding among us’. [54:1] Save me, O God, by your name, by your power secure for me justice. [54:2] Listen, O God, to my prayer, give ear to the words of my mouth. [54:3] For proud men have risen against me, and terrible men seek my life, men who do not set God before them. (Selah) [54:4] But see! God is my helper, the Lord is sustaining my life. [54:5] Let their evil fall back on my foes: cut them off in your faithfulness, Lord . [54:6] Then will I bring you glad sacrifice, praising your gracious name; [54:7] for from all distress you have saved me, and feasted my eyes on my foes.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. With stringed instruments. A maskil of David. [55:1] Listen, God, to my prayer. Don’t hide yourself from my pleading. [55:2] Hear me, and answer; for bitter is my lament. [55:3] I am wild with the noise of the foe, with the clamor of the ungodly; for they hurl disaster upon me, and attack me with fury. [55:4] My heart shudders within me, terrors of deaths press on me, [55:5] fear and trembling attack me, and horror wraps me round. [55:6] O for the wings of a dove: I would fly away and rest. [55:7] I would wander far away, find refuge in the wilderness. (Selah) [55:8] I would find myself a shelter from raging wind and tempest. [55:9] Confuse them, Lord , upset their plans; for I see violence and strife in the city. [55:10] By day and by night they make their rounds on the city walls, while within is crime and trouble, [55:11] within is ruin. Her market-place is never free of deceit and tyranny. ---- [55:12] The taunts were not those of a foe that I could have borne; the disdain was not that of an enemy I could have shunned them: [55:13] but it was you, my equal, my dear and familiar friend. [55:14] We used to be so close, together we walked in God’s house with the crowd. [55:15] May death suddenly take them, may they go down to Sheol alive, for evil lives in their homes and their hearts. [55:16] But I will call on God, the Lord will save me. [55:17] Evening and morning and noon I lament and moan. He will hear my voice; [55:18] though I am attacked by many he will rescue me, unharmed from the war. [55:19] God, who sits on his ancient throne will hear and will humble them, for they never change, they never fear God. (Selah) [55:20] My friend turned against me, betrayed his word. [55:21] His mouth was smoother than butter, but war filled his heart. His words were softer than oil, but sharper than swords. [55:22] Cast your burden on the Lord , and he will sustain you. He will never let the righteous be shaken. [55:23] But you, God, will hurl them down to the deepest pit. Bloody and treacherous people will not live out half their days; but I will trust you.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. On jonath elem rehokim. Of David. A michtam, when the Philistines seized him in Gath. [56:1] O God, be gracious to me, for people trample upon me, all the day righting and pressing me. [56:2] All the day enemies trample me; many there be who contend with me bitterly. [56:3] In the day of my terror I trust in you. [56:4] In God I maintain my cause, in God I fearlessly trust. What can flesh do to me? [56:5] They torture me all the day, they ceaselessly plan to hurt me, [56:6] banded together in secret, watching my every step, as those who hope for my death. [56:7] Pay them out for their sin, O God, hurl down the strong in your anger. [56:8] You yourself count my wanderings. Put in your bottle my tears are they not in your book? [56:9] Then shall my foes be turned back in the day that I call. Of this I am sure, because God is for me. [56:10] In God I maintain my cause, in the Lord I maintain my cause. [56:11] In God I fearlessly trust, what can people do to me? [56:12] Your vows are upon me, O God, I will render thank-offerings to you; [56:13] because you have saved me from death, my feet from stumbling, to the end that I walk before God in the light of the living.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. Al tashheth. A michtam of David, when he fled from Saul into a cave. [57:1] Be gracious, O God, be gracious to me, for in you I take shelter. In your sheltering wings I take refuge, till ruin be over past. [57:2] I cry to the Most High God, to the God who accomplishes for me. [57:3] He will send me his succour from heaven, he will thrust away those who would trample me. (Selah) [57:4] In the midst of lions I lie, who devour human prey. Their teeth are spears and arrows, and their tongue is a sharpened sword. [57:5] Be exalted, God, o’er the heavens, and your glory o’er all the earth. [57:6] They set a net for my feet, but in it was their own foot caught. Before me they dug a pit, but they fell into it themselves. (Selah) [57:7] My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast. I would sing, I would make music; [57:8] awake, my soul. Awake, harp and lyre; I would wake the dawn. [57:9] I would praise you among the peoples, O Lord , and make music among the nations to you; [57:10] for great to heaven is your love, and your faithfulness to the clouds. [57:11] Be exalted, God, o’er the heavens, and your glory o’er all the earth.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. Al tashheth. Of David. A michtam. [58:1] Do you speak what is right, you gods? With equity judge you your people? [58:2] In the land you practise iniquity --- all of you; violence do you dispense with your hands. [58:3] The wicked go astray from the womb liars take the wrong path from their birth. [58:4] Venom have they like the venom of snakes, they are like the deaf adder that stops her ears, [58:5] and refuses to listen to the voice of the charmer, or binder of spells, no matter how cunning. [58:6] O God, break to pieces the teeth in their mouth, tear out the great teeth of the young lions, Lord . [58:7] May they melt away like running water! Like tender grass, cut down may they be! [58:8] Like the snail that dissolves on its crawling path, like the birth untimely which sees not the sunlight. [58:9] Faster than a thorn-fire heats your pots, he will come with his tempest and sweep them away. [58:10] The sight of such vengeance will gladden the righteous; their feet they will wash in the blood of the wicked. [58:11] People will say, “Yes, the just are rewarded: yes, on the earth is a God who is Judge.”[Psalms] ---- For the leader. Al tashheth. Of David. A michtam, when Saul sent men to watch his house in order to kill him. [59:1] Save me, O God, from my enemies; secure me from my assailants. [59:2] Save me from those who do wrong, save me from the bloodthirsty. [59:3] For see! They lay ambush for me, strong men are banded against me not for sin or transgression of mine, for no guilt of mine, O Lord , [59:4] they run and make ready. Awake! Come forth to meet me, and see! [59:5] You, O Lord of hosts, God of Israel, awake! And punish the proud, every one; spare none of the traitors vile. (Selah) [59:6] At evening they come, and, howling like dogs, make their round in the city. [59:7] Look at their venomous mouths, tongues like swords, they think no one hears them. [59:8] But you, Lord , laugh at them, you mock all the insolent. [59:9] My strength, I will sing to you, for God is my sure retreat. [59:10] My God with his love will meet me, and feast my eyes on my foes. [59:11] Slay them not, lest my people forget, let your hosts keep them roaming and wandering. [59:12] In their sinful speech snare them, O Lord ; and may they be trapped in their pride, for the curses and lies that they utter. [59:13] In your wrath make a clean end of them, that people, to the ends of the earth, may know that God rules in Jacob. (Selah) [59:14] At evening they come, and, howling like dogs, make their round in the city. [59:15] They roam about for a feast, and snarl, if they get not their fill. [59:16] But I will sing of your might; I will ring out your love in the morning. For to me you have been a sure refuge, a retreat in the day of my trouble. [59:17] My strength, I will sing praise to you, for God is my sure retreat, my faithful God.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. On shushan eduth. A michtam of David (for teaching), when he fought with Aram-naharaim and Aram-zobah, and Joab returned and defeated twelve thousand Edomites in the Valley of Salt. [60:1] O God, you have spurned and broken us, routing us in your wrath --- restore us! [60:2] You have shaken the land and cleft it; heal its tottering breaches. [60:3] You have made your people drink hardship, and given us wine of reeling. [60:4] You have given those who fear you a banner, a rallying-place from the bow, (Selah) [60:5] for the rescue of your beloved. Save by your right hand and answer us. [60:6] God did solemnly swear: “As victor will I divide Shechem, and mete out the valley of Succoth. [60:7] Mine is Gilead, mine is Manasseh, Ephraim is the defence of my head, Judah my sceptre of rule, [60:8] Moab the pot that I wash in, Edom — I cast my shoe over it, I shout o’er Philistia in triumph.” [60:9] O to be brought to the fortified city! O to be led into Edom! [60:10] Have you not spurned us, O God? You do not march forth with our armies. [60:11] Grant us help from the foe, for human help is worthless. [60:12] With God we shall yet do bravely: he himself will tread down our foes.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. On stringed instruments. Of David. [61:1] Hear my cry, O God, be attentive to my prayer. [61:2] From the ends of the earth I call unto you, when my heart is faint: lead me to the rock that is high above me. [61:3] For you are a refuge to me, a strong tower in face of the foe. [61:4] O to be guest in your tent forever, hiding beneath your sheltering wings! (Selah) [61:5] For you, O God, do hear my vows, and grant the desires of those who fear you. [61:6] Add many days to the life of the king; may his years endure throughout all generations. [61:7] In the presence of God be he throned forever; may kindness and faithfulness watch over him. [61:8] And I will sing praise to your name forever, paying my vows day after day.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. On jeduthun. A psalm of David. [62:1] I wait alone in silence for God; From him comes my help. [62:2] Yes, he is my rock, my help, my retreat, I shall not be shaken too sorely. [62:3] How long will you, all of you, batter a man, as one might a leaning wall? [62:4] From his height they are planning to topple him. They take pleasure in falsehood; they bless with their mouth, but inwardly they curse. (Selah) [62:5] I wait alone in silence for God; for from him comes my hope. [62:6] Yes, he is my rock, my help, my retreat, I shall not be shaken too sorely. [62:7] On God rests my honor and safety, in God is my strong rock, my refuge. [62:8] Trust in him, all you people assembled, pour out your heart in his presence; God is a refuge for us. (Selah) [62:9] The lowly are nought but a breath, the lofty are but an illusion: in the balances up they go, they are lighter than breath altogether. [62:10] Trust not in gain of extortion, set no vain hopes in robbery. As for wealth, if it bears fruit, set not your heart upon it. [62:11] One thing God has uttered, two things there are which I heard that power belongs to God, [62:12] and to you, too, O Lord , belongs kindness; for you requite each person according to what they have done.[Psalms] ---- A psalm of David, when he was in the wilderness of Judah. [63:1] O God, my God, you, you do I seek: my heart thirsts for you, my body faints for you in a parched and waterless land. [63:2] As I in the temple have seen you, beholding your power and your glory, [63:3] for better than life is your kindness: my lips shall utter your praise. [63:4] So, while I live, I will bless you, and lift up my hands in your name. [63:5] As with marrow and fat am I feasted; with joyful lips I will praise you. [63:6] I call you to mind on my bed, and muse on you in the night watches; [63:7] for you have been my help, I joyfully sing in the shadow of your wings. [63:8] I cling close after you, your right hand holds me up. [63:9] But those who seek after my life shall go down to the depths of the earth, [63:10] given o’er to the power of the sword, or as prey for jackals to devour. [63:11] But the king shall rejoice in God: all who own his allegiance will glory. For the mouth of the false shall be stopped.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. A psalm of David. [64:1] Hear, O my God, the voice of my lament: guard my life from the foe who affrights me. [64:2] Hide me from villains who secretly plot, from the blustering throng of the workers of evil, [64:3] who have sharpened their tongue like a sword, and aimed bitter words like arrows, [64:4] which from ambush they launch at the blameless, shooting swiftly and unafraid. [64:5] They strengthen their wicked purpose, they tell of the snares they have hidden, they say to themselves, “Who can see?” [64:6] They think out their crimes full cunningly hidden deep in their crafty hearts. [64:7] But God with his arrow will shoot them, swiftly shall they be smitten. [64:8] For their tongue he will bring them to ruin, all will shudder with horror at the sight of them. [64:9] Then every person, touched to awe, as they ponder what God has wrought, will tell the tale of his deeds. [64:10] In the Lord shall the righteous rejoice, in him shall they take refuge; and all the true-hearted shall glory.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. A psalm of David. A song. [65:1] It is seemly to praise you, O God, in Zion, and to you shall the vow be performed in Jerusalem. [65:2] O you who hear prayer, unto you shall all flesh come. [65:3] Our sins are too mighty for us, our transgressions you only can cover them. [65:4] Happy the person who you choose to live beside you in your courts. O may we be filled with the joys of your house, of your holy temple. [65:5] In dread deeds you loyally answer us, O God of our salvation, whom all ends of the earth put their trust in, and islands far away. [65:6] By your strength you establish the hills, you are armed with might; [65:7] you still the roaring of seas, and the turmoil of nations, [65:8] so that those who live at earth’s bounds are awed at your signs: the lands of the sunrise and sunset you make to ring with joy. [65:9] You visit and water the earth; you greatly enrich her with the river of God, which is full of water. You prepare the corn thereof, [65:10] watering her furrows, settling her ridges; you make her soft with showers, and bless what grows thereon. [65:11] You crown the year with your goodness, your chariot-tracks drip with fatness. [65:12] The desert pastures are lush, the hills greened with joy. [65:13] The meadows are clothed with flocks, the valleys are covered with corn; they shout to each other and sing.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. A song. A psalm. [66:1] Shout to God, all the earth, [66:2] sing praise to his glorious name, sing his glorious praise. [66:3] Say to God, “How dread are your works, so great is your might that your enemies cringe to you. [66:4] All the earth does homage to you, singing praises to you, singing praise to your name.” (Selah) [66:5] Come and see what God has done, awe-inspiring is he in his works among people. [66:6] He turns the sea into dry land, and people cross the river on foot. Let us therefore rejoice in him, [66:7] the mighty Ruler eternal, whose eyes keep watch on the nations, that no rebel lift up his head. (Selah) [66:8] O bless our God, you peoples; sound aloud his praise, [66:9] who keeps us in life, and keeps our feet from slipping. [66:10] For you, God, have tested us, have tried us, as silver is tried. [66:11] You did bring us into prison, and put chains upon us, [66:12] you did let people ride over our head. We went through fire and through water, but you led us out to a spacious place. [66:13] I will enter your house with burnt-offerings, I will pay to you my vows, [66:14] which my open lips have uttered, arid my mouth has declared in my straits. [66:15] I will offer you offerings of fatlings, with the odour of burning rams, I will sacrifice bullocks with goats. (Selah) [66:16] Come and hear my story all who fear God --- of what he has done for me. [66:17] For my mouth had no sooner invoked him than his praise was under my tongue. [66:18] Had I cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would never have listened. [66:19] But assuredly God has listened, and attended to my loud prayer. [66:20] Blessed be God, who turned not aside my prayer, nor withdrew his kindness from me.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. On stringed instruments. A psalm. A song. [67:1] Bless us, O God, with your favor, let the light of your face fall upon us; (Selah) [67:2] that the world may know your way, and all nations your power to save. [67:3] Let the peoples praise you, O God; let the peoples all of them praise you. [67:4] Let the nations ring out their joy; for you govern the peoples with equity, and guide the nations on earth. (Selah) [67:5] Let the peoples praise you, O God, let the peoples, all of them, praise you. [67:6] The earth has yielded her increase by the blessing of God, our God. [67:7] May this blessing of ours win people to him to all the ends of the earth.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. Of David. A psalm. A song. [68:1] God arises, his enemies scatter: they who hate him flee before him. [68:2] As smoke before wind is driven, as wax melts before fire, so before God vanish the wicked. [68:3] But the righteous rejoice in God’s presence, they exult with exceeding joy. [68:4] Sing to God, make music to his name, his name is the Lord , praise him who rides on the clouds, and exult in his presence. [68:5] Father of orphans, defender of widows, is God in his holy abode. [68:6] God brings home the lonely, he leads forth the prisoner to comfort, so that none but the rebel lives cheerless. [68:7] God, when you went in front of your people in your march through the desert, (Selah) [68:8] earth shook, the heavens poured rain at the presence of God, Sinai’s God at the presence of God, Israel’s God. [68:9] Rain in abundance, God, you did sprinkle, restoring the languishing land of your heritage. [68:10] A dwelling therein your people found: in your goodness, O God, you did care for the poor. [68:11] The Lord spoke the glad tidings of victory, a great army of women proclaim it: [68:12] “Kings of armies they flee, they flee, and the housewife divides the spoil: [68:13] dove’s wings covered with silver and pinions with shimmer of gold, [68:14] set with stones, like snow upon Zalmon.” [68:15] A mountain of God is the mountain of Bashan, a mountain of peaks is the mountain of Bashan. [68:16] You high-peaked mountains, why look you askance at the mountain which God has desired for his home whereon the Lord will live forever? [68:17] The chariots of God are twice ten thousand: the Lord came from Sinai, his holy place. [68:18] You did mount the height with trains of your captives, and gifts that you had received from the people. The rebels shall live with the Lord God. [68:19] Blest be the Lord who sustains us daily, the God who is also our savior. (Selah) [68:20] Our God is a God who is savior. The ways of escape from death are known to the Lord God. [68:21] Yes, God will shatter the head of his foes the rough scalp of those who strut on in their sins. [68:22] The Lord said: “I will bring you home from Bashan, home from the depths of the sea, [68:23] that your feet you may bathe in blood, and your dogs lick their share of the foe.” [68:24] In the temple appear God’s triumphal processions, processions in praise of my king and my God, [68:25] with singers in front, and minstrels behind, and maidens with timbrels between them, singing, [68:26] “You of the well-spring of Israel, bless the Lord God in the dance.” [68:27] There, in front, is Benjamin the little, the princes of Judah beside them, the princes of Zebulon, princes of Naphtali. [68:28] God, show your strength, your godlike might, as you did in the past, [68:29] from your temple that crowns Jerusalem. Kings shall bring tribute to you. [68:30] Rebuke the beast of the reed, the herd of bulls, with the calves of the peoples. Trample down the lovers of lies. Scatter the nations whose joy is in war. [68:31] May they come from Egypt with gifts of oil, Ethiopia haste with full hands to God. [68:32] Sing to God, O you kingdoms of earth, make melody to the Lord . (Selah) [68:33] Praise him who rides on the ancient heavens. See! He utters his voice, his mighty voice. [68:34] Ascribe strength to the God over Israel, whose strength and majesty live in the skies. [68:35] Awe-inspiring is God in his holy place, it is Israel’s God who gives strength and might to his people. Blessed be God.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. On shoshannim. Of David. [69:1] Save me, O God; for the waters are threatening my life. [69:2] I am sunk in depths of mire, where ground there is none. I am come into deep deep waters, the flood overwhelms me. [69:3] I am weary of crying, my throat is parched, my eyes are wasted with waiting for God. [69:4] More than the hairs of my head are those who wantonly hate me. More than my bones in number are those who are falsely my foes. That which I never robbed, how am I then to restore? [69:5] O God, you know my folly, my guilt is not hidden from you. [69:6] Through me let not any be shamed, who wait for you, Lord God of hosts. Through me let not those be confounded who seek you, O God of Israel. [69:7] It’s in your cause that I have borne taunts, and my face has been covered with shame; [69:8] I became to my kindred a foreigner, to my mother's sons a stranger. [69:9] It was zeal for your house that consumed me, and the insults they hurled at you fell upon me. [69:10] When I chastened myself with fasting, they took occasion to taunt me. [69:11] When I put on a garment of sackcloth, they made me the theme of a taunt-song. [69:12] Those who sit in the gate make sport of me in the music of drunken songs. [69:13] But I pray to you, Lord , for a time of favor. In your great love answer me; with your loyal help, save me [69:14] from sinking down in the mire. Lift me out of the deep deep waters, [69:15] that the rushing flood may not drown me, that the deep may not swallow me up, nor the pit close her mouth upon me. [69:16] Answer me, Lord , in your gracious kindness, turn to me in your great compassion. [69:17] Hide not your face from your servant, for I am in trouble; O answer me speedily. [69:18] Draw near to me, redeem me; because of my enemies, ransom me. [69:19] You know how I am insulted; in your sight are all my foes. [69:20] Insult has broken my heart, past cure are my shame and confusion. For pity I looked --- there was none! And for comforters, but I found none. [69:21] Poison they gave me for food, and to slake my thirst they gave vinegar. [69:22] May their table, outspread, be a trap to them, and their peace-offerings be a snare. [69:23] May their eyes be darkened and blind, make their loins to shake without ceasing. [69:24] Pour your indignation upon them, let your burning wrath overtake them. [69:25] May their camp be a desolation, in their tents be there none to live. [69:26] For those whom you struck, they persecute, and those whom you wounded, they pain yet more. [69:27] Charge them with sin upon sin, may they not be acquitted by you. [69:28] From the book of life be they blotted, may their names not be written with the righteous. [69:29] Lift me, O God, by your help above my pain and misery. [69:30] Then will I praise God in song and magnify him with thanksgiving, [69:31] which shall please the Lord better than ox, or than bullock with horns and hoofs. [69:32] The oppressed shall rejoice at the sight. You who seek after God, let your heart revive. [69:33] For the Lord listens to the poor, he does not despise his prisoners. [69:34] Let the heavens and the earth sing his praises, the seas, and all creatures that move in them. [69:35] For God will bring help to Zion, and build up the cities of Judah, his people shall live there in possession. [69:36] His servants’ children shall have it for heritage, and those who love him shall live therein.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. Of David. For commemoration. [70:1] Quickly, God, deliver me, hasten to help me, Lord . [70:2] May those who are seeking my life, be ashamed and confounded. [70:3] May those who delight in my hurt be defeated and brought to dishonor. [70:4] But may all who seek after you rejoice and be glad in you. May all who love your salvation say, “Glory to God,” evermore. [70:5] I am weak and needy: make haste, God, to me. You are my help and deliverer; Lord , don’t delay.[Psalms] ---- [71:1] In you, O Lord , I take refuge, let me never be put to shame. [71:2] In your faithfulness save me and rescue me, bend your ear to me and save me. [71:3] Be to me a rock of defence, a fortified house, to save me; for my rock and my fortress are you. [71:4] Save me, my God, from the hand of the wicked, from the grasp of the unjust and cruel. [71:5] For you, Lord , are my hope, in whom from my youth I have trusted. [71:6] On you have I leaned from my birth; from my mother’s womb it was you who did draw me. In you is my hope evermore. [71:7] I have been as a wonder to many, for you are my refuge and strength. [71:8] All the day long my mouth is filled with your praise and your glory. [71:9] Cast me not off in the time of old age; when my strength is spent, forsake me not. [71:10] For my foes whisper against me, they who watch me take counsel together; [71:11] “God has left him,” they say: “pursue and seize him, for he is helpless.” [71:12] O God, be not far from me, haste, O my God, to my help. [71:13] Put my foes to shame and dishonor, with insult and shame be they covered. [71:14] But I will never stop hoping, and more and yet more will I praise you. [71:15] All the day long shall my mouth tell your faithfulness and your salvation, though I know not how they may be counted. [71:16] I will tell of the might of the Lord , and your faithfulness praise, you alone. [71:17] You have taught me, O God, from my youth, and till now have I told of your wonders. [71:18] Even in old age and grey hair, O God, do not forsake me. Still would I tell of your might unto all generations to come. [71:19] Your power and your justice, O God, extend as far as the heavens: for great are the things you have done. Who is like you, O God? [71:20] You have caused us to see troubles many, but you will revive us again. From the depths of the earth you will bring me up again. [71:21] You will multiply my greatness, and comfort me again. [71:22] So with harp I will praise you, and your faithfulness, O my God; and make music to you on the lyre, O you Holy One of Israel. [71:23] My lips shall ring out their joy, my mouth shall sing praises to you; all of me, which you have redeemed. [71:24] Yes, all the day long shall my tongue utter your righteousness; for ashamed and confounded are they who were seeking my hurt.[Psalms] ---- Of Solomon. [72:1] Give the king, O God, your own spirit of justice your spirit of right to the son of the king, [72:2] that with right he may judge your people, and your downtrodden ones with justice. [72:3] May the mountains bear weal for the people, and the hills yield fruits of justice. [72:4] The weak may he help to their rights, may he save the sons of the needy and crush the oppressor in pieces. [72:5] May he live as long as the sun, while the moon shines — for ages and ages. [72:6] May he be like the rain on the meadow, like showers that water the earth. [72:7] In his days may justice flourish, and welfare abound, till the moon be no more. [72:8] May he reign from ocean to ocean, from the river to the ends of the earth. [72:9] May his foes bow down before him, his enemies lick the dust. [72:10] May tribute be rendered by kings of the isles and of Tarshish; may gifts be brought by the kings of Sheba and Seba. [72:11] May all kings fall prostrate before him, and all nations yield him their service. [72:12] For he saves the poor when he cries, the helpless and the downtrodden. [72:13] He pities the weak and the poor, he saves the lives of the poor. [72:14] He redeems them from wrong and from violence, for dear is their blood in his sight. [72:15] Long may he live; and may gold of Sheba be given him; prayer, too, be made for him ceaselessly, all the day long may men bless him. [72:16] May the land have abundance of corn, to the tops of the hills may it wave. May the fruit thereof flourish like Lebanon, may men spring from the city like grass of the earth. [72:17] May his name be blessed forever, may his fame endure as the sun. May all nations envy his blessedness, all tribes of the earth call him happy. [72:18] Blest be the Lord God, Israel’s God, who alone does wonders; [72:19] And blest be forever his glorious name. Let all the earth be filled with his glory. Amen and Amen. [72:20] Here end the prayers of David, son of Jesse.[Psalms] Book Three ========== ---- A psalm of Asaph. [73:1] Yes, God is good to the upright, the Lord to the pure in heart. [73:2] But my feet were almost gone, my steps had nearly slipped, [73:3] through envy of godless braggarts, when I saw how well they fared. [73:4] For never a pang have they, their body is sound and sleek. [73:5] They have no trouble like mortals, no share in human pain. [73:6] So they wear their pride like a necklace, they put on the garment of wrong, [73:7] their eyes stand out with fatness, their heart swells with riotous fancies. [73:8] Their speech is mocking and evil, condescending and crooked their speech. [73:9] They have set their mouth in the heavens, while their tongue struts about on the earth. [73:10] Small wonder that people resort to them, and drink deep draughts of their lore. [73:11] “How does God know?” they say, “And has the Most High any knowledge?” [73:12] See! These are the godless, with wealth and ease ever increasing. [73:13] Yes, in vain have I kept my heart pure, and washed my hands in innocence; [73:14] for all the day long was I plagued not a morning but I was chastised. [73:15] But to resolve to speak like they do would be treachery to your children. [73:16] So I sought to understand it, but a wearisome task it seemed: [73:17] till I entered the holy world of God and saw clearly their destiny. [73:18] Yes, you set them on slippery places; down to destruction you hurl them. [73:19] One moment and then what a horror of ruin! They are finished and ended in terrors. [73:20] Like a dream, when one wakes, shall they be, whose phantoms the waker despises. [73:21] So my bitterness of mind and the pain that stabbed my heart [73:22] show how dull I was and stupid just like a beast before you. [73:23] But I am always with you, you have hold of my right hand. [73:24] By a plan of yours you guide me and will afterward take me to glory. [73:25] Whom have I in the heavens but you? And on earth there is none I desire beside you. [73:26] Though flesh and heart waste away, yet God is the rock of my heart, yet God is my portion forever. [73:27] For see! Those who are far from you must perish, you destroy all who are false to you. [73:28] But I am happy when close to God; the Lord my God I have made my refuge, that I may recount all the things you have done.[Psalms] ---- A maskil of Asaph. [74:1] Why, O God, have you spurned us forever? Why smokes your wrath against the sheep of your pasture? [74:2] Remember the community you purchased of old to become by redemption the tribe of your heritage, Zion, the mountain you made your home. [74:3] Rouse yourself, visit its ruins complete. In the temple the foe has made havoc of all things. [74:4] Like lions your enemies roared through your house, replacing our symbols by signs of their own, [74:5] hacking, like woodsmen who lift axes on thickets of trees, [74:6] smashing with hatchets and hammers all of its carved work together. [74:7] They have set your temple on fire, to the very ground they have outraged the place where lives your name. [74:8] They have said in their heart, “Let us utterly crush them.” They have burned all the houses of God in the land. [74:9] No symbol of ours do we see any more: no prophet is there any more, none is with us who knows how long. [74:10] How long, O God, is the foe to insult? Shall the enemy spurn your name forever? [74:11] Why, O Lord , do you hold back your hand, why keep your right hand in the folds of your robe? [74:12] Yet God is our king from the ancient days, in the midst of the earth working deeds of salvation. [74:13] It was you who did cleave the sea by your might, and shatter the heads of the ocean monsters. [74:14] It was you who did crush many-headed Leviathan, and give him as food to the beasts of the wilderness. [74:15] It was you who did cleave the fountains and torrents; it was you who did dry the perennial streams. [74:16] Yours is the day; yours, too, is the night, it was you who did establish the sun and the star. [74:17] It was you who did fix all the borders of earth: summer and winter it’s you who have made them. [74:18] Yet, for all this, the foe has insulted you, Lord , and a nation of fools has reviled your name. [74:19] Do not give your dove to the beasts, do not forget your afflicted forever. [74:20] Look to the sleek ones - how full they are: the dark places of earth are the dwellings of violence. [74:21] O let not the downtrodden turn back ashamed: let the poor and the needy sing praise to your name. [74:22] Arise, God, and defend your cause: remember how fools all the day insult you. [74:23] Do not forget the uproar of your enemies, the din of your foes that ascends evermore.[Psalms] ---- For the leader; al tashheth. A psalm of Asaph, a song. [75:1] We praise you, God, we praise you: we would call on your name and declare your wonders. [75:2] “At the time I choose, I will judge fairly. [75:3] Though earth melt and all her inhabitants, it is I who keep steady her pillars.” (Selah) I say to the boasters, “Boast not “; to the wicked, “Lift not up your horn: lift not your horn on high, speak not boldly against the Rock.” For not from east nor west, not from desert nor mountains; but God himself is the judge, humbling one and exalting another. [75:8] In the hand of the Lord is a cup foaming wine, richly spiced. Out of this he pours a draught, and all the wicked of earth must drain it down to the dregs. [75:9] But I will rejoice forever, singing praise to the God of Jacob. [75:10] I will hew all the horns of the wicked, but the horns of the just shall be lifted.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. With instrumental music. A psalm of Asaph, a song. [76:1] God has made himself known in Judah, his name is great in Israel. [76:2] His tent is in Salem, his dwelling in Zion. [76:3] There he broke the lightning arrows, shield, sword, and weapons of war. (Selah) [76:4] Terrible is your splendor on the everlasting mountains. [76:5] Despoiled were the stout of heart; in the sleep into which they had fallen, none of the warriors could lift a hand. [76:6] At your rebuke, God of Jacob, sank chariot and horse to sleep. [76:7] Awful are you: who can stand before you, when once you are angry? [76:8] The judgment you gave from heaven frightened the earth into silence, [76:9] when God arose to judgment to save the oppressed of the earth. (Selah) [76:10] The fiercest will praise you, to you will the remnant hold festival. [76:11] Vow and pay to Lord your God, and let all who are round him bring presents. [76:12] He lops off the courage of princes, and with terror fills kings of the earth.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. On Jeduthun. Of Asaph, a psalm. [77:1] Loudly will I lift my cry to God, loudly to God, so he hears to me. [77:2] In the day of my trouble I seek the Lord ; in the night I lift my hands in prayer, refusing all comfort. [77:3] When I think of God, I moan; when I muse, my spirit is faint. (Selah) [77:4] When you hold my eyes awake, and I am restless and speechless, [77:5] I think of the days of old, call to mind distant years. [77:6] I commune with my heart in the night, I muse with inquiring spirit. [77:7] “Will the Lord cast us off forever, will he be gracious no more? [77:8] Has his love vanished forever? Is his faithfulness utterly gone? [77:9] Has God forgotten to be gracious, or in anger withheld his compassion?” (Selah) [77:10] Then I said, “This it is that grieves me, that the hand of the Most High has changed.’ [77:11] I will think of the deeds of the Lord , and remember your wonders of old. [77:12] I will muse on all you have wrought, and meditate on your deeds. [77:13] Then your way, O God, was majestic: what God was great as our God? [77:14] You were a God who did marvels, you did show your power to the world [77:15] by your arm you rescued your people, the children of Jacob and Joseph. (Selah) [77:16] The waters saw you, O God. The waters saw you and shivered; to their depths they trembled. [77:17] Clouds poured torrents of water, thunder rolled in the sky, your arrows sped to and fro. [77:18] Loud was the roll of your thunder, lightnings lit up the world. Earth quaked and trembled. [77:19] In your way, Lord , through the sea, in your path through the mighty waters, your footsteps were all unseen. [77:20] You did guide your folk like a flock by the hand of Moses and Aaron.[Psalms] ---- A maskil of Asaph. [78:1] My people, give ear to my teaching: bend your ears to the words of my mouth, [78:2] as I open my mouth in a poem on the riddling story of the past. [78:3] What we have heard and known, and what our ancestors have told us, [78:4] we will not hide from their children. We will tell to the next generation the praises and might of the Lord , and the wonders that he has done. [78:5] He set up a testimony in Jacob, a law he appointed in Israel, which he commanded our ancestors to make known to their children, [78:6] that the next generation should know it, that the children yet to be born should arise and tell their children; [78:7] that in God they might put their confidence, and not forget God’s works; but that they might keep his commandments, [78:8] and not be like their ancestors, a generation defiant and stubborn, a generation with heart unsteady, and spirit unfaithful towards God. [78:9] Ephraimites, armed bowmen, turned back in the day of battle. [78:10] They did not keep God’s covenant, they refused to walk in his law. [78:11] They forgot what he had done, and the wonders he had shown them. [78:12] He did wonders before their ancestors in the country of Zoan in Egypt. [78:13] Through the sea which he split he brought them, making waters stand up like a heap; [78:14] he led them by day with a cloud, all the night with a light of fire. [78:15] From the rocks which he split in the wilderness, he gave them to drink as of ocean’s abundance. [78:16] He brought streams out of the rock, and made water run down like rivers. [78:17] Yet they still went on sinning against him, they defied the Most High in the desert. [78:18] They willfully challenged God, demanding the food that they longed for. [78:19] “Is God able,“ such was their challenge, “to spread in the desert a table? [78:20] From the rock that he struck there gushed water, and torrents that overflowed; but can he also give bread, or provide his people with meat?” [78:21] When the Lord heard this, he was furious, and fire was kindled on Jacob, anger flared up against Israel. [78:22] For they put no trust in God, no confidence in his help. [78:23] So he summoned the clouds above; and, opening the doors of heaven, [78:24] he rained manna upon them for food, and grain of heaven he gave them. [78:25] Everyone ate the bread of angels; he sent them food to the full. [78:26] He launched the east wind in the heavens, and guided the south by his power. [78:27] He rained meat upon them like dust, winged bird like the sand of the sea. [78:28] In the midst of their camp he dropped it, all around their tents. [78:29] They ate and were more than filled; he had brought them the thing they desired. [78:30] But the thing they desired became loathsome: while their food was still in their mouths, [78:31] the wrath of God rose against them. He slew the stoutest among them, and laid low the young men of Israel. [78:32] Yet for all this they sinned yet more, and refused to believe in his wonders. [78:33] So he ended their days in a breath, and their years in sudden dismay. [78:34] When he slew them, then they sought after him, they turned and sought God with diligence. [78:35] They remembered that God was their rock, and the Most High God their redeemer. [78:36] But they flattered him with their mouth, and lied to him with their tongue. [78:37] Their heart was not steady with him, they were faithless to his covenant. [78:38] But he is full of pity: he pardons sin and destroys not. Often he turns his anger away, without stirring his wrath at all. [78:39] So he remembered that they were but flesh, breath that passes and does not return. [78:40] But how often they rebelled in the desert, and caused him grief in the wilderness, [78:41] tempting God again and again, provoking the Holy One of Israel. [78:42] They did not remember his strength, nor the day he redeemed from the foe, [78:43] how he set his signs in Egypt, in the country of Zoan his wonders. [78:44] He turned their canals into blood, their streams undrinkable. [78:45] He sent forth flies, which devoured them; frogs, too, which destroyed them. [78:46] Their crops he gave to the caterpillar, and the fruits of their toil to the locust. [78:47] He slew their vines with hail, and their sycamore trees with frost. [78:48] He delivered their cattle to the hail, and their flocks to bolts of fire. [78:49] He let loose his hot anger among them, fury and wrath and distress, a band of destroying angels. [78:50] He cleared a path for his anger, did not spare them from death, but gave them over to pestilence. [78:51] He struck down all the first-born in Egypt, the first fruits of their strength in the tents of Ham. [78:52] He led forth his people like sheep, he was guide to his flock in the desert. [78:53] Securely he led them, and free from fear, while their foes were drowned in the sea. [78:54] To his holy realm he brought them, to the mountain his right hand had purchased. [78:55] He drove out the nations before them, and allotted their land for possession, and their tents for Israel to live in. [78:56] Yet they tempted and angered the Most High God, they did not observe his decrees. [78:57] They drew back, false like their ancestors; they failed like a treacherous bow. [78:58] Their shrines stirred him to anger, their idols moved him to jealousy. [78:59] When God heard of this, he was furious, and he spurned Israel utterly. [78:60] He abandoned his home in Shiloh, the tent he had pitched among people. [78:61] He gave his strength up to captivity, his glory to the hands of the foe. [78:62] He gave his people to the sword, he was furious with his own. [78:63] Fire devoured their young men, and their maidens had no marriage-song. [78:64] Their priests fell by the sword, and their widows could not weep. [78:65] Then the Lord awoke as from sleep, like a warrior flushed with wine; [78:66] and he beat back his foes, putting them to perpetual scorn. [78:67] He disowned the tent of Joseph, he rejected the tribe of Ephraim; [78:68] but he chose the tribe of Judah, Mount Zion, which he loves. [78:69] And he built like the heights his sanctuary, like the earth which he founded forever. [78:70] And he chose David his servant, taking him from the sheepfolds. [78:71] From the mother-ewes he brought him, to be shepherd to Jacob his people, and to Israel his inheritance. [78:72] With upright heart did he shepherd them, and with skilful hands did he guide them.[Psalms] ---- A psalm of Asaph. [79:1] Heathen, O God, have come into your land, defiling your holy temple, and laying Jerusalem in ruins. [79:2] They have given the bodies of your dead servants to the birds of the air to devour, and the flesh of your faithful to the beasts of the field. [79:3] Round about Jerusalem they have poured out their blood like water; and there was no one to bury them. [79:4] On every side our neighbors revile us and mock us and jeer at us. [79:5] How long will you be angry, O Lord ? Will your jealousy burn like fire forever? [79:6] Pour out your wrath on the nations that don’t know you, on the kingdoms that do not call on your name. [79:7] For Jacob they devoured, they have desolated his home. [79:8] Do not remember against us our ancestors' sins; O meet us soon with your pity, for utterly weak are we. [79:9] Help us, O God our savior, for the renown of your name: for your reputation deliver us and cover over our sins. [79:10] Why should the nations say, “Where is their God?” Let revenge for the outpoured blood of your servants be shown on the heathen before our eyes. [79:11] May the groans of the prisoner come before you; free the children of death by your mighty arm. [79:12] Pay our neighbors back sevenfold for the scorn they have heaped upon you, O Lord . [79:13] Then we, your people, the flock of your pasture, will give thanks to you for evermore, and tell your praise to all generations.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. On shoshannim, eduth. Of Asaph, a psalm. [80:1] Listen, Shepherd of Israel, who leads Joseph like a flock of sheep; from your throne on the cherubs shine forth [80:2] before Ephraim, Manasseh, and Benjamin. Stir up your mighty power, come to our help. [80:3] God, restore us: show us the light of your face, so we may be saved. [80:4] O Lord of hosts, how long is your anger to smoke, despite the prayer of your people? [80:5] You have fed them with bread of tears, you have made them drink tears by the measure. [80:6] The scorn of our neighbors you make us, the laughing-stock of our foes. [80:7] God of hosts, restore us: show us the light of your face, so we may be saved. [80:8] A vine out of Egypt you brought; you did drive out the nations, and plant her; [80:9] in the ground you did clear she struck root, and she filled all the land. [80:10] The shade of her covered the mountains, her branches the cedars of God. [80:11] She sent forth her shoots to the sea, and her branches as far as the River. [80:12] Why have you torn down her fences, and left her to be plucked at by all who pass by, [80:13] to be gnawed by the boar from the forest, and devoured by the beasts of the field? [80:14] O God of hosts, return: look down from heaven and see and visit this vine, and restore her [80:15] the vine which your right hand has planted. [80:16] She is burned with fire and cut down before your stern face they are perishing. [80:17] Support the one you have chosen, the one you have raised for yourself; [80:18] then from you we will never draw back. Preserve us, and we will call on your name. [80:19] Lord , God of hosts, restore us: Show us the light of your face, so we may be saved.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. On the gittith. Of Asaph. [81:1] Sing aloud to God our strength, shout for joy to the God of Jacob. [81:2] Raise a song, sound the timbrel, sweet lyre and harp. [81:3] On the new moon blow the horn, at the full moon, the day of our festival. [81:4] For this is a statute for Israel, a ruling of the God of Jacob, [81:5] a witness he set up in Joseph, when he marched against Egypt’s land, where he heard an unknown language. [81:6] “I removed from your shoulder the burden, and freed your hands from the basket. [81:7] At your call of distress I delivered you, from the thundercloud I answered you. At Meribah’s waters I tested you. (Selah) [81:8] Listen, my people, to my warning, O Israel, if you would but listen [81:9] ‘There must not be a strange god among you, you must bow to no foreign god. [81:10] I am the Lord your God who brought you up out of Egypt. Open your mouth, that I fill it.’ [81:11] But my people did not listen to my voice, Israel would have none of me. [81:12] So to their own hard hearts I left them, to follow their own devices. [81:13] O that my people would listen, that Israel would walk in my ways. [81:14] Soon would I humble their enemies, and turn my hand on their foes. [81:15] Those who hate the Lord would cringe before him in everlasting terror. [81:16] But you would I feed with the richest wheat, and with honey from the rock to your heart’s desire.”[Psalms] ---- A psalm of Asaph. [82:1] God has taken his stand in the divine assembly: in the midst of the gods he holds judgment. [82:2] “How long will you crookedly judge, and favor the wicked? (Selah) [82:3] Do right by the weak and the orphan, acquit the innocent poor. [82:4] Rescue the weak and the needy, save them from the hand of the wicked. [82:5] They have neither knowledge nor insight, in darkness they walk to and fro, while the earth’s foundations totter. [82:6] It was I who appointed you gods, children of the Most High all of you. [82:7] Yet like mortals you will surely die, you will fall like any prince.” [82:8] Arise, O God, judge the earth, for all nations are yours by inheritance.[Psalms] ---- A song, a psalm of Asaph. [83:1] Do not keep silent, O God: hold not your peace, be not still, God. [83:2] For see! Your enemies roar, those who hate you lift up their heads, [83:3] laying crafty plans for your people, and plotting against those you treasure. [83:4] “Come, let us wipe them out as a nation, so Israel’s name will be mentioned no more.” [83:5] For, conspiring with one accord, they have made a league against you [83:6] Tents of Edom, and Ishmaelites, Moab, and the Hagrites. [83:7] Gebal and Ammon and Amalek, Philistia, with the people of Tyre; [83:8] Syria, too, is confederate, they have strengthened the children of Lot. (Selah) [83:9] Deal with them as you dealt with Midian, with Sisera, with Jabin, at the torrent of Kishon, [83:10] who at Endor were destroyed, and became dung for the field. [83:11] Make their nobles like Oreb and Zeeb, all their princes like Zebah and Zalmunna, [83:12] who said, “Let us take for ourselves the meadows of God.” [83:13] Whirl them, my God, like dust, like stubble before the wind. [83:14] As the fire that kindles the forest, as flame that sets mountains ablaze, [83:15] so with your tempest pursue them, terrify them with your hurricane. [83:16] Make them blush with shame; until they seek your name, O Lord . [83:17] Everlasting shame and confusion, disgrace and destruction be theirs. [83:18] Teach those who you alone are most high over all the earth.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. On the gittith. Of the Korahites, a psalm. [84:1] How dearly loved is the place where you live, Lord of hosts! [84:2] How I long and yearn for the courts of the Lord . Now heart and flesh cry for joy to the living God. [84:3] Even the sparrow has found her a home and the swallow a nest, to lay her young, near your altar, Lord of hosts, my king and my God. [84:4] Happy those who live in your house, praising you evermore. (Selah) [84:5] Happy those whose strength is in you, people with pilgrim hearts. [84:6] As they pass through the valley of tears, they make it a place of fountains, clothed with the blessings of early rain. [84:7] From rampart to rampart on they march, till at last God reveals himself in Zion. [84:8] Lord , God of hosts, hear my prayer, give ear, O God of Jacob. (Selah) [84:9] Behold, O God, our defender, and look upon your anointed, for better a single day in your courts than a thousand in my own chambers: better stand at the door of the house of my God than live in the tents of ungodliness, for the Lord is sun and shield, the Lord gives grace and glory. He withholds no good thing from the life that is blameless. [84:12] Lord of hosts, happy those whose trust is in you.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. Of the Korahites, a psalm. [85:1] Once, Lord , you did favor your land, granting change of fortune to Jacob, [85:2] forgiving the guilt of your people, pardoning all their sin, (Selah) [85:3] withdrawing all your fury, turning from your hot anger. [85:4] Restore us, O God our savior, put away your displeasure against us. [85:5] Will you cherish your anger against us forever, prolonging your wrath to all generations? [85:6] Will you not revive us again, that your people may be glad in you? [85:7] Show us your kindness, O Lord , grant us your salvation. [85:8] Let me hear what God the Lord will speak; for he will speak of peace to his people, to those who love him, and turn their hearts to him. [85:9] Soon those who fear him shall see how he saves, and glory shall live in our land. [85:10] Kindness and loyalty meet; peace and righteousness kiss. [85:11] Loyalty springs from the earth; righteousness looks from the sky. [85:12] The Lord shall give all that is good, our land yielding its increase, [85:13] righteousness marching before him, and peace on the path he treads.[Psalms] ---- A prayer of David. [86:1] Incline your ear, Lord , and answer me, for I am afflicted and needy. Guard me, for I am loyal: save your servant, who trusts in you. [86:3] Lord , be gracious to me, for you are my God; I cry to you all the day. [86:4] Gladden the heart of your servant; for to you, Lord , I set my hope. [86:5] For you, Lord , are good and forgiving, rich in love towards all who call on you. [86:6] Listen, O Lord , to my prayer; attend to my plea for mercy. [86:7] In the day of my trouble I call on you, with assurance that you will answer me. [86:8] None of the gods is like you, Lord , nor are any works like yours. [86:9] All the nations you have made will come and bow down before you, giving glory, O Lord , to your name. [86:10] For great are you, and a doer of wonders; you alone are God. [86:11] Teach me, O Lord , your way, that I may walk in your truth: so my heart shall rejoice in your name. [86:12] I will give you thanks, O Lord , with all my heart, my God, I will honor your name forever. [86:13] For great is your love towards me, from the depths of Sheol you have saved me. [86:14] Haughty men have risen up against me, O God, a band of the violent seeking my life, who think nothing of you. [86:15] But you are a God of pity and grace, patient and rich in kindness and faithfulness; turn to me with your grace, O Lord . [86:16] Grant your strength to your servant, and save the child of your handmaid. [86:17] Show me a sign of your favor, which those who hate me may see with confusion, since you, Lord , are my helper and comforter.[Psalms] ---- Of the Korahites, a psalm. A song. [87:1] On the holy mountain stands the city he founded. [87:2] The Lord loves the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob. [87:3] Glorious things he is speaking of you, you city of God. (Selah) [87:4] “Among those who are mine I name Rahab and Babylon, Philistia, Tyre, Ethiopia, their people will say I was born in Zion. [87:5] As for Zion it will be said each and all were born in her.” The Lord will preserve her. [87:6] The Lord will count, when enrolling the peoples, “This one was born there, and that one was born there.” (Selah) [87:7] Singers and dancers alike will say “All my springs are in you.”[Psalms] ---- [88:1] O Lord my God, I cry for help in the day-time, in the night my cry is before you; [88:2] let my prayer come into your presence, incline your ear to my cry. [88:3] For I am sated with sorrow, my life draws near to Sheol. [88:4] I am counted with those who go down to the pit; without strength am I. [88:5] My home is among the dead, like the slain that lie in the grave, whom you remember no more cut off as they are from your hand. [88:6] In the deepest pit you have put me, in shadows deep and dark. [88:7] Your wrath lies heavy upon me, waves of your anger roll over me. (Selah) [88:8] You have put my friends far from me, you have made them shun me. I am shut in, and cannot escape, [88:9] my eyes are wasted with sorrow. I call on you, Lord , every day, spreading my hands out to you. [88:10] For the dead can you work wonders? Can the shades rise again to praise you? (Selah) [88:11] Can your kindness be told in the grave, your faithfulness in the tomb? [88:12] Can your wonders be known in the darkness, or your help in the land of forgetfulness? [88:13] I cry for help to you, in the morning my prayer comes before you. [88:14] Why, O Lord , do you spurn me, and hide your face from me? [88:15] From my youth I am wretched and dying, I am numbed by the terrors I bear. [88:16] The fires of your wrath have passed over me, your terrors destroy me, [88:17] surging around me forever, hemming me in altogether. [88:18] Those who love me you put far from me; the dark is my only friend.[Psalms] ---- A song. A psalm of the Korahites. [89:1] I will sing evermore of the love of the Lord , proclaiming to all generations his faithfulness. [89:2] For your love you did promise to build up forever, your faithfulness firm as the heavens themselves. [89:3] “I have made with my chosen a covenant, and sworn to David my servant, [89:4] to establish his seed forever, and to build up his throne to all ages.” (Selah) [89:5] Then the holy assembly in heaven praised your marvelous faithfulness, Lord . [89:6] For who in the skies may compare with the Lord ? Who is like the Lord among the gods? [89:7] A God to be feared in the holy assembly, awful and great above all who are round him. [89:8] O Lord God of hosts, who is mighty as you? Your strength and faithfulness, Lord , surround you. [89:9] You are the Lord of the raging sea: when its waves surge, it is you who still them. [89:10] It was you who did pierce and crush Rahab in pieces, and scatter your foes by your mighty arm. [89:11] Yours are the heavens, yours also the earth, the world and its fulness, it’s you who did found them. [89:12] The north and the south, it’s you have created them; Tabor and Hermon shout praise to your name. [89:13] You have an arm with the might of a hero; strong is your hand, high uplifted your right hand. [89:14] Justice and right are the base of your throne, kindness and faithfulness ever attend you. [89:15] Happy the people who know the glad shout, who walk, O Lord , in the light of your face. [89:16] They exult in your name all the day, and your righteousness they extol. [89:17] For you are our strength and our pride. Your favor will lift us to honor. [89:18] For the holy Lord of Israel keeps our defender and king. [89:19] In a vision of old you did speak in this way to the one whom you loved, “A crown I have set on the hero I chose to be over the people [89:20] I found my servant David, and anointed with holy oil. [89:21] My hand will be with him forever, my arm will give him strength. [89:22] No enemy will dare to assail him, nor the wicked to oppress him; [89:23] but his foes I will shatter before him, I will strike down those who hate him. [89:24] My loyal love shall attend him, and I will lift him to honor. [89:25] I will set his hand on the sea, and his right hand on the rivers. [89:26] As for him, he will call me ‘My father, my God, and my rock of salvation.’ [89:27] And I will make him my first-born, highest of kings on the earth. [89:28] My love will I keep for him ever, my covenant with him shall stand fast. [89:29] His line will I make everlasting, and his throne as the days of the heavens. [89:30] If his children forsake my law, and walk not as I have ordained; [89:31] if they profane my statutes, and do not keep my commandments; [89:32] I will punish their sin with the rod, their iniquity with scourges. [89:33] But my love will I not take from him, nor will I belie my faithfulness. [89:34] I will not profane my covenant by changing the word that has passed my lips. [89:35] Once have I solemnly sworn and I would not lie to David, [89:36] that his line should endure forever, and his throne as the sun before me, [89:37] firm as the moon which for ever and ever is fixed in the sky.” (Selah) [89:38] But you have cast off in contempt, and been furious with your anointed. [89:39] You have spurned the covenant with your servant, and his sacred crown dashed to the ground. [89:40] You have broken down all his walls, and laid his bulwarks in ruins. [89:41] All who pass on their way despoil him, the scorn of his neighbors is he now. [89:42] You have given his foes the victory, and made all his enemies glad. [89:43] You have turned back his sword from the foe, you did not lift him up in the battle. [89:44] The sceptre you took from his hand, and his throne you did hurl to the ground. [89:45] You have shortened the days of his youth, and covered him with shame. (Selah) [89:46] How long, Lord will you hide you forever? How long are the fires of your wrath to burn? [89:47] Remember, Lord , the shortness of life how fleeting you made all people. [89:48] Who can live without seeing death? Who can rescue their life from the clutch of Sheol? (Selah) [89:49] Where, Lord , is your kindness of old, which you in your faithfulness swore to David? [89:50] Remember, O Lord , how your servants are mocked, how I bear in my heart the scorn of all nations [89:51] The scorn which your enemies hurl, O Lord , which they hurl at the footsteps of your anointed. Blest be the Lord , for ever and ever. Amen and Amen.[Psalms] Book Four ========= ---- A prayer of Moses, the man of God. [90:1] Lord , you have been a home to us one generation after another. [90:2] Before the mountains were born, or the earth and the world were brought forth, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. [90:3] You bring us back to the dust, you summon mortals to return. [90:4] For you see a thousand years as the passing of yesterday, as a watch in the night. [90:5] Your floods sweep them away; they are like a dream, or like grass which sprouts in the morning, [90:6] which blossoms and sprouts in the morning, but by evening is cut and withered. [90:7] For your anger consumes us, the heat of your wrath confounds us. [90:8] Our sins you have set before you, our secrets in the light of your face. [90:9] For through your wrath our days are declining, we bring our years to an end as a sigh. [90:10] The span of our life is seventy years, or, if we are strong, maybe eighty; yet is their breadth but empty toil, for swiftly they go, and we fly away. [90:11] Who lays to heart the power of your anger? Or who stands in reverent awe of your wrath? [90:12] O teach us to count our days so our minds may learn wisdom. [90:13] Return, O Lord ; why so long? Relent on your servants. [90:14] Grant us your love to the full in the morning, that all our days we may shout for joy. [90:15] Make us glad for the days you have humbled us, for the evil years we have seen. [90:16] Let your servants see you in action, show your majesty to their children. [90:17] Let the grace of the Lord our God be upon us, uphold what our hands are striving to do.[Psalms] ---- [91:1] You whose home is the shelter of God Most High, whose abode is the shadow of God Almighty, [91:2] can say to the Lord , “My refuge, my fortress, my God, in whom I trust,” [91:3] For he saves you from fowler’s snare, from the yawning pit of destruction. [91:4] He shelters you with his pinions, and under his wings you may hide. His truth will be a shield and buckler. [91:5] You need not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, [91:6] nor the plague that stalks in darkness, nor the pestilence raging at noon. [91:7] A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand: but it shall not draw near to you. [91:8] You will only look on with your eyes, and see how the wicked are punished. [91:9] As for you, the Lord is your refuge, you have made the Most High your defence. [91:10] You will never be met by misfortune, no plague shall come near your tent: [91:11] for he orders his angels to guard you, wherever you go. [91:12] They will carry you with their hands, lest you strike your foot on a stone. [91:13] You will tread upon lions and adders, and trample young lions and dragons. [91:14] “Because of their love for me, I will deliver them, I will protect those who trust my name. [91:15] I will answer their cry and be with them in trouble, bringing them forth into safety and honor. [91:16] I will give them a life of many days, I will show them my salvation.”[Psalms] ---- A psalm. A song; for the sabbath day. [92:1] It is good to give thanks to the Lord , to sing praise to your name, O Most High, [92:2] to declare your love in the morning, and your faithfulness in the night, [92:3] with voice and a ten-stringed harp, with music that throbs on the lyre. [92:4] For you make me glad by your deeds, Lord , at the work of your hands I will ring out my joy. [92:5] How great are your works, O Lord ; how deep are your thoughts! [92:6] The insensitive cannot know, nor can a fool understand, [92:7] that, though the wicked flourish like grass, and evil-doers all blossom, they will perish forever. [92:8] But you are exalted forever. [92:9] For see! Your enemies, Lord For see! Your enemies perish, all evil-doers are scattered. [92:10] But you lift me to honor, and anoint me afresh with oil. [92:11] My eyes will feast on my foes, and my ears will hear of the doom of the wicked. [92:12] The righteous will sprout like the palm, will grow like a cedar of Lebanon. [92:13] In the house of the Lord are they planted, in the courts of our God they will sprout. [92:14] They will still bear fruit in old age, all sappy and fresh will they be [92:15] So they proclaim the Lord to be just, my rock, in whom is no wrong.[Psalms] ---- [93:1] The Lord has taken his seat on the throne, clothed with majesty, armed with might. Now the world stands firm, to be shaken no more, [93:2] firm stands your throne from all eternity. You are from everlasting. [93:3] The floods, O Lord , have lifted, the floods have lifted their voice, the floods lift up their roar. [93:4] But more grand than the great roaring waters, more grand than the ocean waves, grand on the height stands the Lord . [93:5] What you have ordained is most sure; most sure shall your house stand inviolate, O Lord , for ever and ever.[Psalms] ---- [94:1] Lord , God of vengeance, God of vengeance, shine forth. [94:2] Rise up, judge of the earth, pay back the proud what they deserve. [94:3] Lord , how long shall the wicked, how long shall the wicked exult, [94:4] with their blustering arrogant words, their braggart and wicked speech, [94:5] crushing your people, Lord , and afflicting your heritage, [94:6] murdering widows and strangers, slaying the fatherless? [94:7] They think that the Lord does not see, nor the God of Jacob regard it. [94:8] Take heed, you dullest of people; when will you be wise, you fools? [94:9] Is he deaf, who shaped the ear? Is he blind, who fashioned the eye? [94:10] Can he who trains nations not punish them he who teaches knowledge to people? [94:11] The Lord knows the thoughts of people, that only a breath are they. [94:12] Happy are those whom you chasten, and teach out of your law, [94:13] keeping them calm in the day of misfortune, till a pit be dug for the wicked. [94:14] For the Lord will not leave his people, he will not forsake his inheritance. [94:15] For the righteous shall come to their rights, and all true-hearted people shall follow them. [94:16] Who will rise up for me against those who do evil? Who will stand up for me against workers of wrong? [94:17] Were it not for the help of the Lord , I would soon have gone to the silent grave. [94:18] When I thought that my foot was slipping, your kindness, Lord , held me up. [94:19] When with cares my heart was crowded, your comforts make me glad. [94:20] Can corrupt justice be your ally, framing mischief by statute? [94:21] They assail the life of the righteous, and innocent blood condemn. [94:22] But the Lord is my sure retreat, my God is the rock of my refuge. [94:23] He will bring back their sin upon them, for their wickedness he will destroy them; the Lord our God will destroy them.[Psalms] ---- [95:1] Come! Let us ring out our joy to the Lord , let us merrily shout to our rock of salvation. [95:2] Before his face let us come with thanks, with songs of praise let us shout to him. [95:3] For the Lord is a great God, king above all gods. [95:4] In his hand are the depths of the earth, the heights of the mountains are his. [95:5] The sea is his, for he made it: the dry land was formed by his hands. [95:6] Come! Let us worship and bow on our knees to the Lord our creator. [95:7] For he is our God; and we are the people he tends, the sheep in his care. If only you would heed his voice today: [95:8] “Do not harden your hearts as at Meribah, or at Massah, that day in the desert, [95:9] when your ancestors tempted and tried me, though they had seen my deeds. [95:10] For forty years I was filled with loathing for that generation, so I said: ‘A people with wandering hearts are they, and ignorant of my ways.’ [95:11] So I solemnly swore to them in my anger, that never would they enter my place of rest.”[Psalms] ---- [96:1] Sing to the Lord a new song, sing to the Lord , all the earth. [96:2] Sing to the Lord , bless his name, from day to day herald his victory. [96:3] Tell his glory among the nations, his wonders among all peoples. [96:4] For great is the Lord and worthy all praise; held in awe, above all gods: [96:5] for all the gods of the nations are idols, but the Lord created the heavens. [96:6] Before him are splendor and majesty, beauty and strength in his holy place. [96:7] Ascribe to the Lord , you tribes of the nations, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength. [96:8] Ascribe to the Lord the glory he manifests: bring you an offering, enter his courts. [96:9] Bow to the Lord in holy array: tremble before him, all the earth. [96:10] Say to the nations, “The Lord is king.” The world stands firm to be shaken no more. He will judge the peoples with equity. [96:11] Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice, let the sea and its fulness thunder. [96:12] Let the field, and all that is in it, exult; let the trees of the forest ring out their joy [96:13] before the Lord : for he comes, he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world with justice and the nations with faithfulness.[Psalms] ---- [97:1] The Lord is king, let the earth rejoice: let her many isles be glad. [97:2] Clouds and darkness are round about him, justice and right are the base of his throne. [97:3] Fire goes before him, and blazes around his steps, [97:4] his lightnings illumine the world: the earth quakes at the sight. [97:5] Mountains melt like wax before the Lord of all the earth. [97:6] The heavens proclaim his justice, all nations behold his glory. [97:7] Shamed are all image-worshippers, who make a boast of their idols. All the gods bow before him. [97:8] Zion is glad at the tidings, the towns of Judah rejoice because of your judgments, Lord . [97:9] For you are most high over all the earth, greatly exalted above all gods. [97:10] The Lord loves those who hate evil, he guards the lives of the faithful: from the hand of the wicked he saves them. [97:11] Light arises for the righteous, and joy for the upright in heart. [97:12] Rejoice in the Lord , you righteous: give thanks to his holy name.[Psalms] ---- A psalm. [98:1] Sing a new song to the Lord , for he has done wonders; his right hand and holy arm have won him the victory. [98:2] The Lord has made his victory known, and revealed to the eyes of the nations his righteousness. [98:3] Mindful he was of his kindness to Jacob, faithful he was to the house of Israel. All the ends of the earth have seen the victory of our God. [98:4] Shout, all the earth, to the Lord : break into cries and music. [98:5] Play on the lyre to the Lord , on the lyre and with loud melody. [98:6] With trumpet and sound of horn, shout before the king. [98:7] Let the sea and its fulness roar, the world and the dwellers upon it. [98:8] Let the streams clap their hands, let the hills shout for gladness together [98:9] before the Lord for he comes, he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world with justice and the nations with equity.[Psalms] ---- [99:1] The Lord is king; let the nations tremble: he is throned upon cherubs; let earth quake. [99:2] The Lord is great in Zion, he is high over all the nations. [99:3] Let them praise your great and terrible name. Holy is he. [99:4] You are a king who loves justice, equity you have established: justice and right you have wrought for Jacob. [99:5] Exalt the Lord our God, bow down at his footstool. Holy is he. [99:6] Among his priests were Moses and Aaron, Samuel among those who called on his name. They called to the Lord , and he gave them answer. [99:7] He spoke to them in the pillar of cloud, they kept his commands and the statute he gave them. [99:8] Lord our God, you gave them answer. A God of forgiveness were you to them, who suffered their deeds to go unpunished. [99:9] Exalt the Lord our God; bow down at his holy mountain. For holy is the Lord our God.[Psalms] ---- A psalm of praise. [100:1] Shout, all the earth, to the Lord . Serve the Lord with gladness, approach him with ringing cries. Be sure that the Lord alone is God. It is he who has made us, and his we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving, his courts with praise. Give thanks to him, bless his name. For the Lord is good, his love is forever, and to all ages endures his faithfulness.[Psalms] ---- Of David, a psalm. [101:1] If kindness and justice I sing, making melody to you, Lord . [101:2] I would look to the way that is blameless, and make it my own. Within my own house I would walk with an innocent heart. [101:3] I would never direct my eyes to a thing that is base. The impulse to stray I abhor it shall not cling to me. [101:4] Far from me be perverseness of heart, or kinship with evil. [101:5] Who slanders their neighbor in secret, I bring them to silence: haughty looks and proud hearts I will not abide. [101:6] I will favor the true in the land, they shall live in my court. Those who walk in a way that is blameless will be my attendant. [101:7] No one will live in my house who practises guile. No one that speaks a lie will abide in my presence. [101:8] Morn by morn I will wholly wipe out all the bad in the land, and cut off from the Lord ’s own city all workers of evil.[Psalms] ---- [102:1] Hear my prayer, O Lord ; let my cry for help come to you. [102:2] Hide not your face from me in the day of my distress. Incline your ear to me: when I call, answer me speedily. [102:3] For my days pass away like smoke: my bones are burned through as with fire. [102:4] My heart is scorched, withered like grass; I forget to eat my bread. [102:5] By reason of my loud groaning, my flesh clings to my bones. [102:6] Like a desert-owl of the wilderness, like an owl among ruins am I. [102:7] I make my sleepless lament like a bird on the house-top alone. [102:8] All the day wild foes revile me, using my name for a curse. [102:9] For ashes have been my bread, and tears have been mixed with my cup. [102:10] Because of your passionate anger, you did raise me, then hurl me to the ground. [102:11] My days come to an end, shadows lengthen, I wither like grass. [102:12] But you, O Lord , are enthroned forever, your fame endures to all generations. [102:13] You will arise and have pity on Zion; it’s time to be gracious; her hour has come. [102:14] For even her stones are dear to your servants, even the dust of her ruins they look on with love. [102:15] Then the nations will revere the name of theLord and all the kings of the earth his glory, [102:16] when the Lord shall have built up Zion, and revealed himself in his glory, [102:17] in response to the prayer of the destitute, whose prayer he will not despise. [102:18] Let this be recorded for ages to come, that the Lord may be praised by a people yet unborn. [102:19] For he shall look down from his holy height, from the heavens the Lord will gaze on the earth, [102:20] to hear the groans of the prisoner, to free those who are doomed to die; [102:21] that people may recount the Lord ’s fame in Zion, and the praise of him in Jerusalem, [102:22] when the nations are gathered together, and the kingdoms, to worship the Lord . [102:23] He has broken my strength on the way, he has shortened my days. [102:24] I will say, “My God, take me not hence in the midst of my days. Your years endure age after age. [102:25] Of old you have founded the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands. [102:26] They shall perish; but you do stand. They shall all wax old like a garment, and change as a robe you will change them. [102:27] But you are the same, your years are endless. [102:28] The children of your servants abide, evermore shall their seed be before you.”[Psalms] ---- Of David. [103:1] O my soul, bless the Lord ; and all that is in me, his holy name. [103:2] O my soul, bless the Lord ; and forget not one of his benefits. [103:3] He pardons all your sins, he heals all your diseases. [103:4] He ransoms your life from the pit, he crowns you with kindness and pity. [103:5] He gives you your heart’s desire, renewing your youth like the eagle’s. [103:6] The Lord executes justice - and right for all who are wronged. [103:7] He revealed his ways to Moses, his acts to the children of Israel. [103:8] Full of pity and grace is the Lord , patient, and rich in kindness: [103:9] he will not always chide, nor cherish his anger forever. [103:10] Not after our sins has he dealt with us, nor requited us after our wickedness. [103:11] For high as the heavens o’er the earth is his love over those who fear him. [103:12] Far as is east from the west has he put our transgressions from us. [103:13] As a father pities his children, so the Lord pities those who fear him; [103:14] for well he knows our frame, he remembers that we are dust. [103:15] A person's days are as grass; blossoms like a flower of the meadow. [103:16] At the breath of the wind it is gone, and the place thereof knows it no more. [103:17] But the love of the Lord is eternal, and his kindness to children’s children, [103:18] to those who keep his covenant and mindfully do his behests. [103:19] The Lord has set his throne in the heavens; the whole world is under his sway. [103:20] Bless the Lord , you angels of his, mighty heroes performing his word. [103:21] Bless the Lord , all you his hosts, you servants who do his will. [103:22] Bless the Lord , all you his works, far as his sway extends. O my soul, bless the Lord .[Psalms] ---- [104:1] Bless the Lord , O my soul. O Lord my God, you are very great, clad in awful splendor, [104:2] covered with robe of light. You stretch out the heavens like the cloth of a tent. [104:3] He lays the beams of his chambers on water. He takes dark clouds for his chariot, and rides on the wings of the wind. [104:4] He takes the winds for his messengers, the fire and the flame for his servants. [104:5] He founded the earth upon pillars, to sustain it unshaken forever. [104:6] With the garment of ocean he covered it, waters towered over the mountains. [104:7] But at your rebuke they fled, scared by the roar of your thunder, [104:8] mountains rose, valleys sank down to the place appointed for them. [104:9] They dared not pass the bounds set for them, or cover the earth any more. [104:10] He sent brooks into the valleys, they meander between the mountains. [104:11] The wild beasts all drink from them, and the wild asses quench their thirst. [104:12] The birds have their home by the banks, and sing in the branches. [104:13] From his chambers above he gives drink to the mountains, and satisfies earth with the vials of heaven. [104:14] He makes grass grow for the cattle, and herbs for people. He brings bread out of the earth; [104:15] wine, to gladden hearts; oil, to make faces shine; bread, to strengthen hearts. [104:16] The trees of the Lord drink their fill the cedars he planted on Lebanon, [104:17] where the little birds build their nest, and the stork whose home is the cypress. [104:18] The high hills are for the wild goats, and the rocks are for coneys to hide in. [104:19] He created the moon to mark seasons, and told the sun when to set. [104:20] You make it dark: night comes, when all the wild beasts creep out. [104:21] Young lions that roar for their prey, seeking their meat from God. [104:22] At sunrise they slink away, and lie down in their dens. [104:23] Then people go forth to their work, and toil till evening. [104:24] How many, O Lord , are your works, all of them made in wisdom! The earth is filled with your creatures. [104:25] And there is the great broad sea, where are countless things in motion, living creatures, both great and small. [104:26] There go the ships, and the Leviathan you made to play there. [104:27] They all look in hope to you, to give them their food in due season. [104:28] And you give with open hand; they gather and eat to their heart’s desire. [104:29] When you hide your face, they are terrified; when you take their breath away, they die and go back to their dust. [104:30] But a breath from your lips creates them, and renews the face of the earth. [104:31] May the glory of the Lord be forever, may the Lord rejoice in his works. [104:32] A glance of his makes the earth tremble, a touch of his makes the hills smoke. [104:33] I will sing to the Lord while I live, I will play to my God while I am. [104:34] May my musing be sweet to him. for I rejoice in the Lord . [104:35] But may sinners be swept from the earth, and the wicked vanish forever. O my soul, bless the Lord . Hallelujah.[Psalms] ---- [105:1] Give thanks to the Lord , call on his name: make known his deeds among the nations. [105:2] Sing to him, make music to him, tell of all his wondrous works. [105:3] Make your boast in his holy name, be glad at heart, you who seek the Lord . [105:4] Seek after the Lord and his strength, seek his face evermore. [105:5] Remember the wonders he did, his portents, the judgments he uttered. [105:7] He is the Lord our God: in all the earth are his judgments. [105:8] He remembers forever his covenant, his promise for a thousand generations [105:9] The covenant he made with Abraham, the oath he swore to Isaac, [105:10] and confirmed as a statute to Jacob, a pact everlasting to Israel [105:11] to give them the land of Canaan as the lot which they should inherit. [105:12] And when they were very few, few and but pilgrims therein, [105:13] wandering from nation to nation, journeying from people to people, [105:14] he allowed no one to oppress them, even punishing kings for their sakes. [105:15] He forbade them to touch his anointed, or do any hurt to his prophets. [105:16] When he called down famine on the land, and cut off the bread which sustained them, [105:17] he sent before them a man, Joseph, who was sold as a slave. [105:18] His feet were galled with fetters, he was laid in chains of iron, [105:19] till the time that his word came to pass, the word of the Lord that had tried him. [105:20] The king sent and freed him, the ruler of nations released him. [105:21] He made him lord of his household, and ruler of all his possessions, [105:22] to admonish his princes at will and instruct his elders in wisdom. [105:23] Thus Israel came into Egypt, Jacob sojourned in the land of Ham. [105:24] His people he made very fruitful, and mightier than their foes. [105:25] He inspired them to hate his people, and to deal with his servants craftily. [105:26] He sent his servant Moses, and Aaron whom he had chosen, [105:27] portents he wrought in Egypt, and signs in the land of Ham. [105:28] Darkness he sent, and it fell: yet they gave no heed to his word. [105:29] He turned their waters into blood, thus causing their fish to die. [105:30] Their land was alive with frogs, swarming even in the royal chambers. [105:31] At his command came flies, and lice in all their borders. [105:32] He gave them hail for rain and fire that flashed through the land, [105:33] smiting their vines and figs, breaking the trees of their border. [105:34] At his command came locusts, young locusts beyond all counting, [105:35] which ate every herb in the land, ate up, too, the fruit of their ground. [105:36] He struck down in their land all the first-born, the firstlings of all their strength [105:37] Then forth he led Israel with silver and gold, and among his tribes no one was weary. [105:38] Egypt was glad when they left, for terror had fallen upon them. [105:39] He spread out a cloud to screen them, and fire to give light in the night. [105:40] He sent quails at their entreaty, and heavenly bread in abundance. [105:41] He opened the rock; waters gushed: in the desert they ran like a river. [105:42] For he remembered his holy promise to Abraham his servant. [105:43] So he led out his people with joy, his elect with a ringing cry. [105:44] And he gave them the lands of the nations, the fruit of their toil for possession, [105:45] that so they might keep his statutes, and be of his laws observant. Hallelujah.[Psalms] ---- [106:1] Hallelujah! Give thanks to the Lord for his goodness, for his kindness endures forever. Who can describe his heroic deeds, or publish all his praise? Happy they who act justly, and do righteousness evermore. Remember me, Lord , as you remember your people, and visit me with your gracious help. [106:5] May I see the good fortune of your elect, may I share in the joy of your nation, and in the pride of your heritage. [106:6] We, like our fathers, have sinned, we have done perversely and wickedly [106:7] In the land of Egypt our fathers, all heedless of your wonders, and unmindful of your great kindness, at the Red Sea defied the Most High. [106:8] But true to his name he saved them, in order to show his might. [106:9] He rebuked the Red Sea, and it dried; they marched through the depths as through desert, [106:10] saved from the hand of the hostile, redeemed from the hand of the foe. [106:11] The waters covered their enemies: not one of them was left. [106:12] So then they believed in his words, and began to sing his praise. [106:13] But soon they forgot his deeds: they did not wait for his counsel. [106:14] Their greed was ravenous in the desert; they put God to the test in the wilderness. [106:15] He gave them the thing they had asked for, but sent wasting disease among them. [106:16] The camp grew jealous of Moses and of Aaron, holy one of the Lord . [106:17] The earth opened and swallowed up Dathan, and covered Abiram’s company. [106:18] Fire broke out on their company, flame kindled upon the wicked. [106:19] They made a calf in Horeb, and bowed to the molten image. [106:20] They exchanged their glorious God for the image of ox that eats grass. [106:21] They forgot the God who had saved them by mighty deeds in Egypt [106:22] Wonders in the land of Ham, terrors by the Red Sea. [106:23] So he vowed, and would have destroyed them, but for Moses his elect, who stepped into the breach before him, to divert his deadly wrath. [106:24] They spurned the delightsome land, they refused to believe in his word. [106:25] They grumbled in their tents, would not listen to the voice of the Lord . [106:26] So he swore with uplifted hand to lay them low in the wilderness; [106:27] to disperse their seed among heathen, to scatter them over the world. [106:28] Then they joined them to Baal of Peor, and ate what was offered the dead. [106:29] They provoked him to wrath by their deeds, and plague broke out among them. [106:30] Then Phinehas stood between, and so the plague was stayed; [106:31] and it was counted to him for righteousness unto all generations forever. [106:32] They angered him at the waters of Meribah, through them it went ill with Moses. [106:33] They rebelled against his spirit, and he uttered speech that was rash. [106:34] They did not destroy the nations, as the Lord had commanded them; [106:35] but they mingled with the heathen, and learned to do as they did. [106:36] Their idol gods they worshipped, and they were ensnared by them. [106:37] They sacrificed their sons and their daughters to the demons. [106:38] They poured out innocent blood the blood of their sons and daughters whom they offered to Canaan’s idols, and the land was polluted with blood. [106:39] They became unclean by their works, and adulterous in their deeds. [106:40] Then the Lord ’s fury was on his people, filled with horror at his inheritance. [106:41] He delivered them to the heathen, to the sway of those who hated them. [106:42] Their enemies oppressed them, and subdued them under their hand. [106:43] Many a time he saved them, but they rebelled at his counsel, and were brought low by their wrongdoing. [106:44] Yet he looked upon their distress, when he heard their cry. [106:45] He remembered his covenant, and, in his great kindness, relented. [106:46] He caused them to be pitied by all who carried them captive. [106:47] Save us, O Lord our God, and gather us out of the nations, to give thanks to your holy name, and to make our boast of your praise. Blessed be the Lord , the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. And let all the people say “Amen.” Praise the Lord .[Psalms] Book Five ========= ---- [107:1] Give thanks to the Lord for his goodness for his kindness endures forever. [107:2] Let this be the song of the ransomed, whom the Lord has redeemed from distress, [107:3] gathering them from all lands, east, west, north, and south. [107:4] In the wastes of the desert some wandered, finding no way to a city inhabited. [107:5] Full of hunger and thirst, their spirit failed. [107:6] Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them from their distresses, [107:7] guiding them straight on the way, till they reached an inhabited city. [107:8] Let them thank the Lord for his kindness, for his wonderful deeds for people; [107:9] for the thirsty he satisfies, and the hungry he fills with good things. [107:10] Some sat in darkness and gloom prisoners in irons and misery, [107:11] for rebelling against God’s word, and spurning the Most High’s counsel. [107:12] Their heart was bowed with toil; there was no one to help when they stumbled. [107:13] Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them from their distresses. [107:14] Out of darkness and gloom he brought them, and burst their chains. [107:15] Let them praise the Lord for his kindness, for his wonderful deeds for people. [107:16] For he shattered the gates of bronze, and broke bars of iron. [107:17] Some were sick from their wicked ways, and suffering because of their sins. [107:18] All manner of food they hated; they had come to the gates of death. [107:19] Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them from their distresses. [107:20] He sent his word and healed them, and delivered their life from the pit. [107:21] Let them praise the Lord for his kindness, for his wonderful deeds for people. [107:22] Let them offer to him thankofferings, and with joy tell what things he has done. [107:23] Some crossed the sea in ships, doing business in great waters. [107:24] They have seen what the Lord can do, and his wonderful deeds on the deep. [107:25] At his command rose a tempest, which lifted the waves on high. [107:26] Up to heaven they went, down to the depths; their courage failed them. [107:27] They staggered and reeled like drunkards; all their skills useless. [107:28] Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them from their distresses. [107:29] He stilled the storm to a whisper, and the waves of the sea were hushed. [107:30] They were glad, because it was quiet; they were led to the haven they longed for. [107:31] Let them praise the Lord , for his kindness, for his wonderful deeds for people. [107:32] Where the people assemble, extol him, and praise him in council of elders. [107:33] He turns streams into a wilderness, springs of water into thirsty land, [107:34] fruitful land into a salt waste, because of the sin of the people. [107:35] A desert he makes pools of water, a land of drought into springs of water. [107:36] He settles the hungry therein, they establish a city to live in. [107:37] They sow fields and plant vineyards, which furnish a fruitful yield. [107:38] By his blessing they multiply greatly, and he lets not their cattle decrease. [107:39] Yet when they are bowed and diminished by oppression, misfortune, or sorrow, [107:40] he pours contempt upon princes, and on trackless wastes leads them astray [107:41] He lifts the poor out of misery, and makes families fruitful as flocks. [107:42] At this sight shall the upright be glad, and all wicked mouths shall be stopped. [107:43] Let those who are wise observe this, and consider the love of the Lord [Psalms] ---- A song. A psalm of David. [108:1] My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast. I would sing, I would make music; awake, my soul. Awake, harp and lyre; I would wake the dawn. I would praise you among the peoples, O Lord ; make music among the nations to you. For great to heaven is your love, and your faithfulness to the clouds. Be exalted, O God, o’er the heavens, and your glory o’er all the earth. [108:6] So those you love may be rescued, save by your right hand and answer us. [108:7] God did solemnly swear: “As victor will I divide Shechem, portion out the valley of Succoth. [108:8] Mine is Gilead, mine is Manasseh, Ephraim is my helmet, Judah my sceptre of rule, [108:9] Moab the pot that I wash in, on Edom I hurl my sandal, I shout o’er Philistia in triumph.” [108:10] O to be brought to the fortified city! O to be led into Edom! [108:11] Have you not spurned us, O God? You do not march forth with our armies. [108:12] Grant us help from the foe, for human help is worthless. [108:13] With God we shall yet do bravely, he himself will tread down our foes.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. Of David, a psalm. [109:1] O God whom I praise, keep not silence; for their wicked mouths they have opened against me, they speak to me with tongues that are false, [109:3] they beset me with words of hatred, and fight without cause against me. [109:4] My love they requite with hostility, while for them I lift up my prayer. [109:5] Evil for good they reward me, and hatred for my love. [109:6] “Set over him one who is godless,” they say, “an opponent at his right hand. [109:7] From his trial let him come forth guilty, may his prayer be counted as sin. [109:8] Grant that his days may be few, that his office be seized by another. [109:9] Grant that his children be fatherless, and that his wife be a widow. [109:10] Up and down may his children go begging, expelled from their desolate home. [109:11] May all that he owns be seized by the creditor may strangers plunder the fruits of his toil. [109:12] May none extend to him kindness, or pity his fatherless children. [109:13] His descendants be doomed to destruction! Blotted out be his name in one generation! [109:14] May his father’s guilt be remembered, and his mother’s sin not blotted out: [109:15] on record always before the Lord , and his memory root from the earth; [109:16] for he gave no thought to show kindness, but pursued the poor and the needy, drove the downhearted to death. [109:17] May the curses he loved light upon him, may the blessings he loathed be afar. [109:18] Like a garment he clothed him with curses; may they pierce to his inwards like water, and cling to his bones like oil. [109:19] Let them be like the robe he wraps round him, like the belt he wears every day.” [109:20] Be this the reward of my adversaries, of those who speak evil against me. [109:21] But you, Lord my God , be true to your name, deal kindly with me; in your gracious kindness save me. [109:22] For I am poor and needy, and my heart is wounded within me. [109:23] I am gone like a lengthening shadow, I am shaken off like a locust. [109:24] My knees totter from fasting, my flesh is shrivelled and spare. [109:25] They heap insults upon me: when they see me, they shake their head. [109:26] Help me, O Lord my God, and save me in your kindness. [109:27] Teach them that this is your hand, and your own doing, O Lord . [109:28] Let them curse, if only you bless. Put my assailants to shame, and make your servant glad. [109:29] My opponents be clothed with dishonor, and wrapped in a robe of shame. [109:30] I give thanks to you, Lord , with loud voice, I give praise in the midst of the throng; [109:31] for he stands by the poor, at his right hand, to save them from those who condemn them.[Psalms] ---- Of David, a psalm. [110:1] This said the Lord concerning my lord, “Sit at my right hand, till I set your foot on the neck of your foes.” On Zion the Lord is wielding your sceptre of might, and charges you To rule over the foes that surround you. The day that you march to battle your people will follow you gladly young warriors in holy array, like dew-drops, born of the morning. The Lord has sworn and will not repent, “As for you, you are priest for ever as Melchizedek was.” By your side will the Lord shatter kings on the day of his wrath. He will execute judgment filling the valleys with dead, the broad fields with shattered heads. He will drink of the brook by the way, and march onward with uplifted head.[Psalms] ---- [111:1] Hallelujah.I will thank the Lord with all my heart, in the assembled congregation of his people. Great are the things that the Lord has done, worthy of study by those who love them. Majestic and glorious is his work, and his righteousness abides forever. For his marvelous deeds he has won renown; the Lord is gracious and full of compassion. Food he gives to those who fear him, always he remembers his covenant. His mighty works he has shown to his people, in giving to them the nations for heritage. All that he does is faithful and right, all his behests are firm and sure. [111:8] They are established for ever and ever, executed with truth and uprightness. [111:9] To his people he sent redemption, he has appointed his covenant forever. His name is holy and awe-inspiring. [111:10] The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom those who keep it are wise indeed. His praise abides for ever and ever.[Psalms] ---- [112:1] Hallelujah.Happy are those who fear the Lord , and greatly delight in his commandments. [112:2] Mighty on earth shall be their seed; a blessing shall rest on the race of the upright. [112:3] Wealth and riches are in their houses, their prosperity stands forever. [112:4] To the upright arises light in the darkness; full of favor and pity and kindness are they. [112:5] It is well with those who show pity and lend, who support all their affairs upon justice. [112:6] For they will never be shaken; the just will be forever remembered. [112:7] They will not be afraid of evil tidings, with steady heart they trust the Lord . [112:8] Their heart is firm and unafraid: they know they will feast their eyes on their enemies. [112:9] With lavish hands they give to the poor, and their prosperity stands forever. They are lifted to heights of triumph and honor. [112:10] The sight of them fills the wicked with anger: grinding their teeth with dispair. The hopes of the wicked will come to nothing.[Psalms] ---- [113:1] Hallelujah. Praise the Lord , you his servants, praise the name of the Lord . [113:2] The name of the Lord be blessed from now and for evermore. [113:3] From sunrise to sunset is the name of the Lord to be praised. [113:4] High is the Lord above all nations, above the heavens is his glory. [113:5] Who is like the Lord our God, seated on high? [113:7] He raises the weak from the dust, he lifts the poor from the dunghill, [113:8] and sets them beside the princes, even the princes of his people. [113:9] He gives the childless woman a home, and makes her the happy mother of children. Hallelujah.[Psalms] ---- [114:1] When Israel went out of Egypt, Jacob’s house from a barbarous people, [114:2] God chose Judah for himself, Israel became his kingdom. [114:3] The sea saw it, and fled, Jordan river ran backwards. [114:4] Mountains skipped like rams, hills like the young of the flock. [114:5] Why, sea, do you flee? Jordan, why run backwards? [114:6] Mountains, why skip ram-like? Why, hills, like the young of the flock? [114:7] Earth, tremble before the Lord , at the presence of Jacob’s God, [114:8] who turns rocks into pools of water, and flint into fountains of water.[Psalms] ---- [115:1] Not to us, Lord , not to us, but to your name give glory, for your kindness’ and faithfulness’ sake. Why should the heathen say, “Where is now their God?” [115:3] Our God he is in heaven; whatever he wishes, he does. [115:4] Their idols are silver and gold, made by human hands. [115:5] They have mouths, but cannot speak; they have eyes, but cannot see. [115:6] They have ears, but cannot hear; they have noses, but cannot smell. [115:7] They have hands, but cannot feel; they have feet, but cannot walk: no sound comes from their throats. [115:8] Their makers become like them, so do all who trust in them. [115:9] O Israel, trust in the Lord : he is their help and their shield. [115:10] House of Aaron, trust in the Lord : he is their help and their shield. [115:11] You who fear the Lord , trust in the Lord he is their help and their shield. [115:12] The Lord , mindful of us, will bless us: he will bless the house of Israel, he will bless the house of Aaron. [115:13] He will bless those who fear the Lord , the small and the great together. [115:14] May the Lord add to your numbers to you and to your children. [115:15] Blessed be you of the Lord , creator of heaven and earth. [115:16] The heavens are the heavens of the Lord , but the earth has he given to people. [115:17] The dead cannot praise the Lord , nor those who go down into silence. [115:18] But we will bless the Lord from now and for evermore. Hallelujah.[Psalms] ---- [116:1] I love the Lord , for he hears my voice, my pleas for mercy. [116:2] For he has inclined his ear to me: I will call upon him as long as I live. [116:3] About me were snares of death, the anguish of Sheol was upon me: distress and sorrow were mine. [116:4] Then I called on the name of the Lord : “I beseech you, O Lord , deliver me.” [116:5] Gracious and just is the Lord , compassionate is our God. [116:6] The Lord preserves the simple; when I was drooping, he saved me. [116:7] Be at peace, my heart, once more, for the Lord has been good to you. [116:8] You have rescued me from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling. [116:9] Before the Lord I will walk in the land of the living. [116:10] I held fast my faith, though I said, “Ah me! I am sore afflicted“, [116:11] though in my alarm I said, “Everyone is a liar.” [116:12] What shall I render the Lord for all his bounty to me? [116:13] I will lift up the cup of salvation, and call on the name of the Lord . [116:14] I will pay my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people. [116:15] Grave in the eyes of the Lord is the death of his loyal and loved ones. [116:16] Ah, Lord ! I am your servant, your servant, child of your handmaid. You have loosened my bonds. [116:17] I will offer to you a thank-offering, and call on the name of the Lord . [116:18] I will pay my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people, [116:19] in the courts of the house of the Lord , in the midst of you, O Jerusalem. Hallelujah.[Psalms] ---- [117:1] Praise the Lord , all you nations: laud him, all you peoples. [117:2] For his mighty love is over us: the Lord is faithful forever. Hallelujah.[Psalms] ---- [118:1] Give thanks to the Lord for his goodness, his kindness endures forever. [118:2] Let the house of Israel now say: his kindness endures forever. [118:3] Let the house of Aaron now say: his kindness endures forever. [118:4] Let those who fear the Lord now say: his kindness endures forever. [118:5] Out of straits I called on the Lord , the Lord answered and gave me room. [118:6] The Lord is mine; I am fearless. What can mere people do to me? [118:7] The Lord is mine, as my help: I shall feast my eyes on my foes. [118:8] It is better to hide in the Lord than to trust in mortals. [118:9] It is better to hide in the Lord than to put any trust in princes. [118:10] Everywhere heathen swarmed round me; in the name of the Lord I cut them down. [118:11] They swarmed, swarmed around me; in the name of the Lord I cut them down, [118:12] they swarmed around me like bees, they blazed like a fire of thorns: in the name of the Lord I cut them down. [118:13] Sore they pushed me, to make me fall; but the Lord gave me his help. [118:14] The Lord is my strength and my song, and he is become my salvation. [118:15] Hark! In the tents of the righteous glad cries of victory are ringing. The hand of the Lord has wrought bravely, [118:16] the hand of the Lord is exalted, the hand of the Lord has wrought bravely. [118:17] I shall not die: nay, I shall live, to declare the works of the Lord . [118:18] Though the Lord has chastened me sore, he has not given me over to death. (The Procession arrives at the Temple) [118:19] “Open to me the gates of victory. I would enter therein and give thanks to the Lord .” (The Welcome) [118:20] “This is the gate of the Lord : the righteous may enter therein;” [118:21] I thank you because you have heard me, and are become my salvation. [118:22] The stone which the builders despised is become the head-stone of the corner. [118:23] This has been wrought by the Lord ; it is marvelous in our eyes. [118:24] This day is the Lord ’s own creation: in it let us joy and be glad. [118:25] O Lord , save us, we pray, O Lord , prosper, we pray. [118:26] Blessed the one who enters in the name of the Lord . From the house of the Lord we bless you. [118:27] The Lord is God, he has given us light. Wreathe the dance with boughs, till they touch the horns of the altar. [118:28] You are my God, I will thank you; O my God, I will exalt you. [118:29] Give thanks to the Lord for his goodness: his kindness endures forever.[Psalms] ---- [119:1] Happy they whose life is blameless, who walk by the law of the Lord . [119:2] Happy they who keep his charges, and seek him with all their hearts; [119:3] who have done no wrong, but walk in his ways. [119:4] You yourself have appointed your precepts to be kept with diligence. [119:5] O to be steadily guided in the keeping of your statutes! [119:6] Then unashamed shall I be, when I look towards all your commandments. [119:7] I will thank you with heart unfeigned, when I learn your righteous judgments. [119:8] I will observe your statutes: O forsake me not utterly. [119:9] How can a young person keep their life pure? By giving heed to your word. [119:10] With all my heart have I sought you, let me not stray from your commandments. [119:11] In my heart have I treasured your word, to keep from sinning against you. [119:12] Blessed are you, O Lord ; teach me your statutes. [119:13] With my lips have I rehearsed all the judgments of your mouth. [119:14] I delight in the way of your charges, more than in riches of all sorts. [119:15] I will muse upon your precepts, and look to your paths. [119:16] In your statutes I delight, I will not forget your word. [119:17] Grant that your servant may live, and I will observe your word. [119:18] Open my eyes, that I see wondrous things out of your law. [119:19] But a guest am I on the earth: hide not your commandments from me. [119:20] My heart is crushed with longing for your ordinances, at all times. [119:21] You rebuke the proud, the accursed, who wander from your commandments. [119:22] Roll away from me scorn and contempt, for I have observed your charges. [119:23] Though princes sit plotting against me, your servant will muse on your statutes. [119:24] Your charges are my delight, they are my counsellors. [119:25] I lie grovelling in the dust; revive me, as you have promised. [119:26] I told of my ways, you made answer; teach me your statutes. [119:27] Grant me insight into your precepts, and I will muse on your wonders. [119:28] I am overcome with sorrow; raise me up, as you have promised. [119:29] Put the way of falsehood from me, and graciously grant me your law. [119:30] I have chosen the way of fidelity, your ordinances I long for. [119:31] I hold fast to your charges: O put me not, Lord , to shame. [119:32] I will run in the way of your commandments, for you give me room of heart. [119:33] Teach me, O Lord , the way of your statutes, and I will keep it to the end, [119:34] instruct me to keep your law, and I will observe it with all my heart. [119:35] Guide me in the path of your commandments, for therein do I delight. [119:36] Incline my heart to your charges, and not to greed of gain. [119:37] Turn away my eyes from vain sights, revive me by your word. [119:38] Confirm to your servant the promise which is given to those who fear you. [119:39] Remove the reproach which I dread, because your judgments are good. [119:40] Behold, I long for your precepts. Quicken me in your righteousness. [119:41] Visit me, Lord , with your love and salvation, as you have promised. [119:42] So shall I answer my slanderers, for my trust is in your word. [119:43] Snatch not from my mouth the word of truth, for in your judgments I hope. [119:44] I will keep your law continually, for ever and evermore. [119:45] So shall I walk in wide spaces, for I give my mind to your precepts. [119:46] I will speak of your charge before kings, and will not be ashamed thereof. [119:47] Your commandments are my delight, I love them exceedingly. [119:48] I will lift up my hands to your commandments, and muse upon your statutes. [119:49] Remember your word to your servant, on which you have made me to hope. [119:50] This is my comfort in trouble, that your word gives life to me. [119:51] The arrogant utterly scorn me, but I have not declined from your law. [119:52] When I think of your judgments of old, O Lord , I take to me comfort. [119:53] I am seized with glowing anger at the wicked who forsake your law. [119:54] Your statutes have been to me songs in the house of my pilgrimage. [119:55] I remember your name in the night, O Lord and observe your law. [119:56] My lot has been this, that I have kept your precepts. [119:57] My portion are you, O Lord : I have promised to keep your words. [119:58] I entreat you with all my heart; grant me your promised favor. [119:59] I have thought upon my ways, and turned my feet to your charges. [119:60] I hasted and tarried not to give heed to your commandments. [119:61] Though the godless have wound their cords round me, I have not forgotten your law. [119:62] At midnight I rise to praise you because of your righteous judgments. [119:63] With all those who fear you I company, aid with those who observe your precepts. [119:64] The earth, Lord , is full of your kindness; teach me your Statutes. [119:65] Well have you dealt with your servant, as you have promised, O Lord . [119:66] Teach me discretion and knowledge, for I have believed your commandments. [119:67] Till trouble came I was a wanderer, but now I observe your word. [119:68] You are good and do good; teach me your statutes. [119:69] The proud have forged lies against me, but I keep your precepts with all my heart. [119:70] Their heart is gross like fat, but I delight in your law. [119:71] It was good for me to be humbled, that I should learn your statutes. [119:72] The law of your mouth is better to me than thousands of pieces of silver and gold. [119:73] Your hands have made me and fashioned me; make me wise to learn your commandments. [119:74] Those who fear you shall see me with joy, for in your word have I hoped. [119:75] I know, O Lord , that your judgments are right, and in faithfulness you have afflicted me. [119:76] Let your love be a comfort to me, for so have you promised your servant. [119:77] Visit me with your quickening pity, for your law is my delight. [119:78] Put the proud to shame, who have wronged me falsely: I will muse on your precepts. [119:79] Let those turn to me who fear you, that they may learn your charges. [119:80] Let my heart be sound in your statutes, that I may not be put to shame. [119:81] My long for you to rescue me, I put my hope in your word. [119:82] My eyes pine away for your promise: saying, “When will you comfort me?” [119:83] Though shrivelled like wine-skin in smoke, your statutes I have not forgotten. [119:84] How few are the days of your servant! When will you judge those who harass me? [119:85] Proud people have dug for me pits people who do not conform to your law. [119:86] All your commandments are trusty. With falsehood they harass me: help me. [119:87] They had nearly made an end of me, yet I did not forget your precepts. [119:88] Spare me in your kindness, and I will observe the charge of your mouth. [119:89] Forever, O Lord , is your word fixed firmly in the heavens. [119:90] Your truth endures age after age; it is established on earth, and it stands. [119:91] By your appointment they stand this day, for all are your servants. [119:92] Had not your law been my joy, in my misery then had I perished. [119:93] I will never forget your precepts, for through them you have put life in me. [119:94] I am yours, O save me, for I give my mind to your precepts. [119:95] The wicked lay wait to destroy me, but I give heed to your charge. [119:96] I have seen a limit to all things: but your commandment is spacious exceedingly. [119:97] O how I love your law! All the day long I muse on it. [119:98] Your commandment makes me wiser than my enemies: for it is mine forever. [119:99] I am prudent above all my teachers, for your charges are my meditation. [119:100] I have insight more than the aged, because I observe your precepts. [119:101] I refrain my foot from all wicked ways, that I may keep your word. [119:102] I turn not aside from your judgments, for you yourself are my teacher. [119:103] How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth! [119:104] Insight I win through your precepts, therefore every false way I hate. [119:105] Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path. [119:106] I have sworn an oath, and will keep it, to observe your righteous judgments. [119:107] I am afflicted sorely: revive me, O Lord , as you said. [119:108] Accept, Lord , my willing praise, and teach me your judgments. [119:109] My life is in ceaseless peril; but I do not forget your law. [119:110] The wicked set traps for me, yet I do not stray from your precepts. [119:111] In your charges are my everlasting inheritance, they are the joy of my heart. [119:112] I am resolved to perform your statutes forever, to the utmost. [119:113] I hate people of divided heart, but your law do I love. [119:114] You are my shelter and shield: in your word do I hope. [119:115] Begone, you wicked people, I will keep the commands of my God. [119:116] Uphold me and spare me, as you have promised: O disappoint me not. [119:117] Hold me up, and I shall be saved: and your statutes shall be my unceasing delight. [119:118] All who swerve from your statutes you spurn: their cunning is in vain. [119:119] All the wicked of earth you count as dross, therefore I love your charges. [119:120] My flesh, for fear of you, shudders, and I stand in awe of your judgments. [119:121] Justice and right have I practised, do not leave me to my oppressors. [119:122] Be your servant’s surety for good: “Let not the proud oppress me. [119:123] My eyes pine for your salvation, and for your righteous promise. [119:124] Deal in your love with your servant, and teach me your statutes. [119:125] Your servant am I; instruct me, that I may know your charges. [119:126] It is time for the Lord to act: they have violated your law. [119:127] Therefore I love your commandments above gold, above fine gold. [119:128] So by all your precepts I guide me, and every false way I hate. [119:129] Your decrees are wonderful, gladly I keep them. [119:130] When your word is unfolded, light breaks; it imparts to the simple wisdom. [119:131] With open mouth I pant with longing for your commandments. [119:132] Turn to me with your favor, as is just to those who love you. [119:133] Steady my steps by your word, so that sin have no power over me. [119:134] Set me free from those who oppress me, and I shall observe your precepts. [119:135] Shine with your face on your servant, and teach me your statutes. [119:136] My eyes run down with rills of water, because your law is not kept. [119:137] Righteous are you, O Lord , and right are your ordinances. [119:138] The laws you has ordered are just, and trusty exceedingly. [119:139] My jealousy has undone me, that my foes have forgotten your words. [119:140] Your word has been tested well; and your servant loves it. [119:141] I am little and held in contempt, but your precepts I have not forgotten. [119:142] Just is your justice forever, and trusty is your law. [119:143] Stress and strain are upon me, but your commandments are my delight. [119:144] Right are your charges forever, instruct me that I may live. [119:145] With my whole heart I cry; O answer me. I would keep your statutes, O Lord . [119:146] I cry to you: O save me, and I will observe your charges. [119:147] Ere the dawn I cry for your help: in your word do I hope. [119:148] Awake I meet the night-watches, to muse upon your sayings. [119:149] Hear my voice in your kindness: O Lord , by your judgments revive me. [119:150] Near me are wicked tormentors, who are far from thoughts of your law; [119:151] but near, too, are you, O Lord , and all your commandments are trusty. [119:152] Long have I known from your charges that you have founded them for all time. [119:153] Look on my misery, and rescue me; for I do not forget your law. [119:154] Defend my cause and redeem me: revive me, as you have promised. [119:155] Salvation is far from the wicked, for their mind is not in your statutes. [119:156] Great is your pity, O Lord :’ Revive me, as you have ordained. [119:157] My foes and tormentors are many, but I have not declined from your charges. [119:158] I behold the traitors with loathing, for they do not observe your word. [119:159] Behold how I love your precepts: revive me, O Lord !, in your kindness. [119:160] The sum of your word is truth, all your laws are just and eternal. [119:161] Princes have harassed me wantonly: but my heart stands in awe of your word. [119:162] Over your word I rejoice as one who finds great spoil. [119:163] Falsehood I hate and abhor, but your law do I love. [119:164] Seven times a day do I praise you because of your righteous judgments. [119:165] Right well do they fare who love your law: they go on their way without stumbling. [119:166] I hope for your salvation; O Lord I do your commandments. [119:167] I observe your charges: I love them greatly. [119:168] I observe your precepts and charges: all my ways are before you. [119:169] Let my cry come before you, O Lord : give me insight, as you have promised. [119:170] Let my prayer enter into your presence: deliver me, as you have said. [119:171] My lips shall be fountains of praise, that you teach me your statutes. [119:172] My tongue shall sing of your word, for all your commandments are right. [119:173] Let your hand be ready to help me, for your precepts have been my choice. [119:174] I long, Lord , for your salvation, and your law is my delight. [119:175] Revive me that I may praise you, and let your precepts help me. [119:176] I have strayed like a wandering sheep seek your servant, because I do not forget your commandments.[Psalms] ---- A song of ascents. [120:1] In distress I cried to the Lord , and he answered me. [120:2] “Deliver me, Lord , from the lip that is false and the tongue that is crafty.” [120:3] What shall he give to you, you tongue that is crafty? What yet shall he give to you? [120:4] Arrows of warrior, sharpened, with glowing broom coals together. [120:5] Woe is me that I sojourn in Meshech, that I live by the tents of Kedar. [120:6] Already too long have I dwelt among those who hate peace. [120:7] I am for peace: but when I speak of it, they are for war.[Psalms] ---- ---- [121:1] I will lift up my eyes to the mountains. O whence shall help for me come? [121:2] From the Lord comes help to me the creator of heaven and earth. [121:3] Your foot he will not let totter: he who guards you will not sleep. [121:4] The guardian of Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. [121:5] The Lord is he who guards you your shelter upon your right hand. [121:6] The sun by day shall not strike you, nor the moon by night. [121:7] From all evil the Lord will guard you, he will guard your life. [121:8] The Lord will guard your going and coming from now and for evermore.[Psalms] ---- A song of ascents. Of David. [122:1] I was glad when they said to me, “We will go to the house of the Lord .” [122:2] Now we are standing, within your gates, O Jerusalem. [122:3] O Jerusalem, built close-packed, like a city without breach or gap, [122:4] to you do the tribes come, the tribes of the Lord , as the law has ordained for Israel, there to give thanks to the Lord . [122:5] There once stood thrones of justice even thrones of the household of David. [122:6] Pray that all may be well with Jerusalem, and well with those who love you, [122:7] well within your ramparts, and well within your palaces. [122:8] For the sake of my brethren and friends, I will wish you now prosperity: [122:9] for the sake of the house of the Lord our God, I will seek your good.[Psalms] ---- A song of ascents. [123:1] I Lift up my eyes to you, who are throned in the heavens. [123:2] As the eyes of a servant turn to the hand of his master, or the eyes of a maid to the hand of her mistress, so do our eyes turn to the Lord our God, until he is gracious to us. [123:3] Be gracious, be gracious to us, Lord . Scorn enough, and more, have we borne [123:4] More than enough have we borne of derision from those at their ease, of scorn from those who are haughty.[Psalms] ---- A song of ascents. Of David. [124:1] “Had it not been the Lord who was for us” let Israel say [124:2] “Had it not been the Lord who was for us when enemies rose against us, [124:3] then alive they’d have swallowed us up, when their anger was kindled against us. [124:4] Then the waters would’ve swept us away, and the torrent passed over us clean: [124:5] then most sure would’ve passed over us clean the wild seething waters.” [124:6] Blest be the Lord who has given us not to be torn by their teeth. [124:7] We are like a bird just escaped from the snare of the fowler. The snare is broken, and we are escaped. [124:8] Our help is the name of the Lord , the Creator of heaven and earth.[Psalms] ---- A song of ascents. [125:1] Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, that cannot be moved, but abides forever. Round Jerusalem are the mountains, and the Lord is round his people from now and for evermore. For he will not suffer the sceptre of wrong to rest on the land allotted to the righteous; else the righteous might put forth their own hand to evil. Do good, O Lord , to the good, and to the true-hearted. [125:5] But those who swerve into crooked ways will the Lord lead away with the workers of evil. Peace be upon Israel.[Psalms] ---- A song of ascents. [126:1] When the Lord turned the fortunes of Zion, we were like dreamers. [126:2] Then was our mouth filled with laughter, our tongue with glad shouts; then among the nations they said, “The Lord has dealt greatly with them.” [126:3] The Lord had dealt greatly with us, and we were rejoicing. [126:4] Turn our fortunes, O Lord , as the streams in the Negreb. [126:5] They who sow in tears shall reap with glad shouts. [126:6] Forth they fare, with their burden of seed, and they weep as they go. But home, home, with glad shouts they shall come with their arms full of sheaves.[Psalms] ---- A song of ascents. Of Solomon. [127:1] Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman wakes in vain. [127:2] In vain you rise early, and finish so late, and so eat sorrow’s bread; for he cares for his loved ones in their sleep. [127:3] Children are a gift of the Lord , the fruit of the womb, a reward. [127:4] Like arrows, by warriors wielded, are the children of youth. [127:5] Happy the man who has filled his quiver full of them. He shall not be ashamed when he speaks with enemies in the gate.[Psalms] ---- A song of ascents. [128:1] Happy all who fear the Lord , who walk in his ways. [128:2] You will eat what your hands have toiled for, and be happy and prosperous! [128:3] Like a fruitful vine shall your wife be in the innermost room of your house: your children, like olive shoots, round about your table. [128:4] See! This is the blessing of the man who fears the Lord . [128:5] The Lord shall bless you from Zion. You will see Jerusalem nourish all the days of your life. [128:6] You will see your children’s children. Peace upon Israel.[Psalms] ---- A song of ascents. [129:1] “Sore have they vexed me from youth” thus let Israel say [129:2] “Sore have they vexed me from youth, but they have not prevailed against me. [129:3] The ploughers ploughed on my back, they made their furrows long. [129:4] But the Lord , who is righteous, has cut the cords of the wicked.” [129:5] Let all who are haters of Zion be put to shame and defeated. [129:6] May they be as the grass on the house-top, which withers before it shoots up; [129:7] which fills not the arms of the reaper, nor the lap of the binder of sheaves [129:8] whereof no one says as they pass, “The blessing of God be upon you.” In the name of the Lord we bless you.[Psalms] ---- A song of ascents. [130:1] Out of the depths I call to you, Lord . [130:2] Lord , hear my voice: give heed with your ears to my loud plea. [130:3] If you should mark sin, Lord , O Lord , who could stand? [130:4] But with you is forgiveness, that you may be feared. [130:5] I wait for the Lord , I wait for his word, [130:6] I look for the Lord more than watchman for morning, than watchman for morning. [130:7] Israel, hope in the Lord : with the Lord there is love with him plenteous redemption. [130:8] And he redeems Israel from all his iniquities.[Psalms] ---- A song of ascents. Of David. [131:1] O Lord , my heart is not haughty, my eyes are not lofty, I walk not among great things, things too wonderful for me. [131:2] Yes, I have soothed and stilled myself, like a young child on his mother’s lap; like a young child am I. [131:3] O Israel, hope in the Lord from now and for evermore.[Psalms] ---- [132:1] Remember, O Lord , David all his sufferings, [132:2] the oath that he swore to the Lord , and his vow to the Strong One of Jacob, [132:3] never to enter his tent, never to lie on his bed, [132:4] never to give his eyes sleep or his eyelids slumber, [132:5] till he had found a place for the Lord , for the Strong One of Jacob to live in. [132:6] We heard of it in Ephrathah, in the fields of Jaar we found it. [132:7] We went to the place where he dwelt, we bowed ourselves low at his footstool. [132:8] “Arise, Lord , and enter your resting-place, you and your mighty ark. [132:9] Let your priests wear a garment of righteousness, your faithful shout aloud for joy. [132:10] For the sake of David your servant, do not reject your Anointed.” [132:11] The Lord swore an oath to David an oath that he will not break; “I will set on your throne a prince of your line. [132:12] If your sons keep my covenant and the statutes I teach them, then their sons, too, forever, will sit on your throne.” [132:13] For the choice of the Lord is Zion; she is the home of his heart. [132:14] “This is forever my resting-place, this is the home of my heart. [132:15] I will royally bless her provision, and give bread to her poor in abundance. [132:16] Her priests I will clothe with salvation; her faithful will shout for joy. [132:17] There will I raise up for David a dynasty of power. I have set my anointed a lamp that shall never go out. [132:18] Robes of shame I will put on his foes, but on his head a glittering crown.”[Psalms] ---- A song of ascents. Of David. [133:1] Behold! How good and how pleasant is the dwelling of kindred together! [133:2] Like precious oil on the head that ran down on the beard, the beard of Aaron, running over the collar of his robe: [133:3] like the dew upon Hermon which falls on the mountains of Zion. For there has the Lord ordained blessing --- life that is endless.[Psalms] ---- A song of ascents. [134:1] Attend! Bless the Lord , all you the Lord ’s servants, who stand by night in the house of the Lord . [134:2] Lift your hands to the holy place, bless the Lord . [134:3] The Lord who made heaven and earth, bless you from Zion.[Psalms] ---- [135:1] Hallelujah. Praise the name of the Lord . Praise the Lord , you his servants, [135:2] who stand in the house of the Lord , in the courts of the house of our God. [135:3] Praise the Lord , for the Lord is good: ‘Sing praise to his name it is pleasant. [135:4] The Lord for himself chose Jacob, Israel as his own special treasure. [135:5] For I know that the Lord is great, that our Lord is above all gods. [135:6] All that he wills he does in the heavens and on the earth, in the seas and in all the abysses. [135:7] Clouds he brings up from the ends of the earth, lightnings he makes for the rain, wind he brings out of his storehouses. [135:8] The first-born of Egypt he struck, both humans and animals. [135:9] Signs and wonders he sent into your midst, O Egypt, upon Pharaoh and all his servants. [135:10] Many nations he struck, mighty kings he slew [135:11] Sihon, king of the Amorites, Og, king of Bashan, and all the kingdoms of Canaan. [135:12] He gave their land for possession, possession to Israel his people. [135:13] Your name, O Lord , is forever; your memorial world without end. [135:14] For the Lord secures right for his people, and takes pity upon his servants. [135:15] The idols of heathen are silver made by human hands. [135:16] They have mouths, but cannot speak: they have eyes, but cannot see. [135:17] They have ears, but cannot hear: there is no breath in their mouths. [135:18] Their makers become like them, so do all who trust in them. [135:19] House of Israel, bless the Lord : house of Araon, bless the Lord . [135:20] House of Levi, bless the Lord : you who fear the Lord , bless the Lord . [135:21] Blest be the Lord out of Zion, who lives in Jerusalem. Hallelujah.[Psalms] ---- [136:1] Give thanks to the Lord for his goodness: for his kindness endures forever. Give thanks to the God of gods: for his kindness endures forever. [136:3] Give thanks to the Lord of lords: for his kindness endures forever. [136:4] To him who alone does great wonders: for his kindness endures forever. [136:5] Whose wisdom created the heavens: for his kindness endures forever. [136:6] Who spread forth the earth on the waters: for his kindness endures forever. [136:7] Who made great lights: for his kindness endures forever. [136:8] The sun to rule over the day: for his kindness endures forever. [136:9] Moon and stars to rule over the night: for his kindness endures forever. [136:10] Who struck the first-born of Egypt: for his kindness endures forever. [136:11] And brought Israel out from their midst: for his kindness endures forever. [136:12] With strong hand and outstretched arm: for his kindness endures forever. [136:13] Who cut the Red Sea in pieces: for his kindness endures forever. [136:14] And brought Israel right through the midst: for his kindness endures forever. [136:15] And shook Pharaoh with all his host into the sea for his kindness endures forever. [136:16] Who led his people through the desert: for his kindness endures forever. [136:17] Who struck down great kings: for his kindness endures forever. [136:18] And slew noble kings: for his kindness endures forever. [136:19] Sihon, king of the Amorites: for his kindness endures forever. [136:20] And Og, king of Bashan: for his kindness endures forever. [136:21] Who gave their land for possession: for his kindness endures forever. [136:22] Possession to Israel his servant: for his kindness endures forever. [136:23] Who remembered our low estate: for his kindness endures forever. [136:24] And rescued us from our foes: for his kindness endures forever. [136:25] Who gives to all flesh food: for his kindness endures forever. [136:26] Give thanks to the God of heaven: for his kindness endures forever.[Psalms] ---- [137:1] By the waters of Babylon there we sat, and we wept at the thought of Zion. [137:2] There on the poplars we hung our harps. [137:3] For there our captors called for a song: our tormentors, rejoicing, saying: “Sing us one of the songs of Zion.” [137:4] How can we sing the Lord ’s song in the foreigner’s land? [137:5] If I forget you, Jerusalem, may my right hand wither. [137:6] May my tongue stick to the roof of my mouth, if I am unmindful of you, or don’t set Jerusalem above my chief joy. [137:7] Remember the Edomites, Lord , the day of Jerusalem’s fall, when they said, “Lay her bare, lay her bare, right down to her very foundation.” [137:8] Babylon, despoiler, happy are those who pay you back for all you have done to us. [137:9] Happy are they who seize and dash your children against the rocks.[Psalms] ---- Of David. [138:1] I will thank you, O Lord , with all my heart: in the sight of the gods I will sing your praise. And, prostrate before your holy temple, will praise your name for your constant love. For you have exulted your promise above all. [138:3] When I called you, you answered; you gave me strength, you inspired me. [138:4] All the kings of the earth shall praise you, O Lord , when they shall have heard the words you have uttered; [138:5] and they shall sing of the ways of the Lord , and tell of the Lord ’s transcendent glory. [138:6] For, high though the Lord is, he looks on the lowly, and strikes down the haughty from far away. [138:7] Though my way be distressful, yet you preserve me: you lay your hand on my angry foes, and your right hand gives me victory. [138:8] The Lord will accomplish all that which concerns me. Your kindness, O Lord , endures forever. O do not abandon the work of your hands.[Psalms] ---- For the leader. Of David, a psalm. [139:1] O Lord , you search and know me; [139:2] when I sit, when I rise you know it, you perceive my thoughts from afar. [139:3] When I walk, when I lie you sift it, familiar with all my ways. [139:4] There is not a word on my tongue, but see! Lord , you know it all. [139:5] Behind and before you beset me, upon me you lay your hand. [139:6] It’s too wonderful for me to know too lofty I cannot attain it. [139:7] Whither shall I go from your spirit? Or whither shall I flee from your face? [139:8] If I climb up to heaven, you are there: or make Sheol my bed, you are there. [139:9] If I lift up the wings of the morning and fly to the end of the sea, [139:10] there also your hand would grasp me, and your right hand take hold of me. [139:11] If I say, “Let the darkness cover me, and night be the light about me,” [139:12] The dark is not dark for you, but night is as light as the day. [139:13] For you did put me together; in my mother’s womb you did weave me. [139:14] I give you praise for my fashioning so full of awe, so wonderful. Your works are wonderful. You knew me right well; [139:15] my bones were not hidden from you, when I was made in secret, and woven in the depths of the earth. [139:16] Your eyes saw all my days: they stood on your book every one written down, before they were fashioned, while none of them yet was mine. [139:17] But how far, O God, beyond measure are your thoughts! How mighty their sum! [139:18] Should I count, they are more than the sand. When I wake, I am still with you. [139:19] Will you slay the wicked, O God? And remove from me the bloodythirsty, [139:20] who maliciously defy you and take your name in vain. [139:21] Do I not hate those who hate you, Lord ? Do I not loathe those who resist you? [139:22] With perfect hatred I hate them, I count them my enemies. [139:23] Search me, O God, know my heart: test me, and know my thoughts, [139:24] and see if guile be in me; and lead me in the way everlasting.[Psalms] ---- [140:1] Rescue me, Lord , from evil people; from the violent guard me [140:2] from those who plot evil in their heart, and stir up war continually: [140:3] who make their tongue as sharp as a serpent’s, and under whose lips is the poison of adders. (Selah) [140:4] Preserve me, O Lord , from the hands of the wicked, from the violent guard me from those who are plotting to trip up my feet. [140:5] The proud have hidden a trap for me, cords they have spread as a net for my feet: snares they have set at the side of my track. (Selah) [140:6] I have said to the Lord , “My God are you; give ear, Lord , to my loud plea. [140:7] O Lord my Lord , my savior mighty, you did cover my head in the day of battle. [140:8] Grant not, O Lord , the desires of the wicked; and what they have purposed, promote you not.” (Selah) [140:9] Let them not lift up their heads against me. May the mischief they prate bring themselves to destruction, [140:10] may he rain upon them coals of fire, may he strike them down swiftly, to rise no more, [140:11] no place in the land may there be for the slanderer: may the violent be hunted from sorrow to sorrow. [140:12] I know that the Lord will do right by the weak, and will execute justice for those who are needy. [140:13] Surely the righteous shall praise your name, and they who are upright shall live in your presence.[Psalms] ---- A psalm of David. [141:1] Lord , I call to you: hasten, to me, give ear to my voice, when I call to you. [141:2] Let my prayer be presented as incense before you, and my uplifted hands as the evening meal-offering. [141:3] Set, O Lord , a watch on my mouth, put a guard on the door of my lips. [141:4] Incline not my heart to an evil matter, to busy myself in deeds of wickedness, in company with workers of evil: never may I partake of their dainties. [141:5] A wound or reproof from a good person in kindness is oil which my head shall never refuse. In their misfortune my prayer is still with them. [141:6] Abandoned they are to the hands of their judges: they shall learn that my words are true. [141:7] Like stones on a country road cleft and broken so lie our bones scattered for Death to devour. [141:8] But my eyes are turned towards you, O Lord . Do not pour out my life, for in you I take refuge. [141:9] Keep me safe from the trap they have laid for me, from the snares of the workers of trouble. [141:10] Into their own nets let wicked people fall; while I pass by in safety.[Psalms] ---- A maskil of David, while he was in the cave, a prayer. [142:1] Loudly I cry to the Lord : to the Lord plead loudly for mercy, I pour my complaint before him, I tell my troubles to him. When my spirit is faint within me, my path is known to you. In the way I am wont to walk in, they have hidden a trap for me. I look to the right and the left; but not a friend have I. No place of refuge is left me, not a man to care for me. So I cry to you, O Lord : I say, “My refuge are you, all I have in the land of the living.” Attend to my piercing cry, for very weak am I. Save me from those who pursue me, for they are too strong for me. Free me from prison, that I may give thanks to your name, for the righteous are patiently waiting till you show your bounty to me.[Psalms] ---- A psalm of David. [143:1] Listen, O Lord , to my prayer; give ear to my plea. In your faithfulness give me answer, and in your righteousness. With your servant O enter you not into judgment, for in your sight can no one alive be justified. [143:3] For the enemy persecutes me, crushing my life to the ground, making me live in the darkness, as those who have long been dead. [143:4] My spirit is faint within me, my heart is bewildered within me. [143:5] I remember the days of old, and brood over all you have done, musing on all that your hands have wrought. [143:6] I spread out my hands to you: I thirst for you, like parched earth. (Selah) [143:7] Answer me soon, Lord , because my spirit is spent. Hide not your face from me, else become I like those who go down to the pit. [143:8] Let me learn of your love in the morning, for my trust is in you. Teach me the way I should go: for my heart longs for you. [143:9] Save me, O Lord , from my foes: for to you I have fled for refuge. [143:10] Teach me to do your will, for you yourself are my God. Guide me by your good spirit, O Lord , on a way that is smooth. [143:11] Be true to your name Lord , spare me, bring me out of distress in your faithfulness. [143:12] In your kindness extinguish my enemies, and all those who vex me destroy; for I am your servant.[Psalms] ---- Of David. [144:1] Blest be the Lord my rock, who trains my hands for war, my fingers for fighting. [144:2] My rock and my fortress, my tower, my deliverer, my shield, behind whom I take refuge, who lays nations low at my feet. [144:3] Lord , what are mortals that you care for them, humans, that you think of them? [144:4] They are like a breath, their days as a shadow that passes. [144:5] Lord , bow your heavens and come down: touch the hills, so that they smoke. [144:6] Flash forth lightning and scatter them, your arrows send forth and confound them. [144:7] Stretch out your hand from on high; pluck me out of the mighty waters, out of the hands of foreigners, [144:8] who speak with the mouth of falsehood, and lift their right hand to swear lies. [144:9] O God, a new song I would sing you, on a ten-stringed harp make you music. [144:10] For to kings you give the victory, and David your servant you save. [144:11] Snatch me from the cruel sword, rescue me from the hand of foreigners, who speak with the mouth of falsehood, and lift their right hand to swear lies. ---- [144:12] May our sons in their youth be as plants well tended: our daughters like cornices carved as in palaces. [144:13] May our barns be bursting with produce of all kinds. In the fields may our sheep bear by thousands and ten thousands. [144:14] May our cattle be fat, our walls unbreached, may no cry of distress ring in our streets. [144:15] Happy the people who fares so well: [144:16] and so fares the people whose God is the Lord .[Psalms] ---- A song of praise. Of David. [145:1] I will exalt you, my God, O king: I will bless your name for ever and ever. [145:2] I will bless you every day: I will praise your name for ever and ever. [145:3] Great is the Lord and worthy all praise, his greatness is unsearchable. [145:4] One age to another shall praise your deeds, declaring the mighty things you have done. [145:5] Of your glorious majesty they shall tell, and I will muse of your many wonders. [145:6] Of the might of your terrible acts they shall speak, and the tale of your great deeds I will tell. [145:7] The fame of your abundant goodness and righteousness they shall pour forth in song. [145:8] The Lord is full of grace and pity, patient and rich in loving-kindness. [145:9] The Lord is good to all the world, and his pity is over all things that he made. [145:10] All your works give you thanks, O Lord , and you are blessed of those who love you. [145:11] They shall speak of your glorious kingdom, and of your might shall they discourse, [145:12] making known to all his mighty acts, and the glorious majesty of his kingdom. [145:13] Yours is a kingdom that lives through all ages: through all generations extends your dominion. The Lord is faithful in all that he promises, gracious is he in all that he does. [145:14] The Lord upholds all who fall; he lifts up all who are bowed down. [145:15] The eyes of all look in hope to you, and you give them their food in due season. [145:16] You yourself open your hand, and fill with your favor all things that live. [145:17] The Lord is righteous in all his ways, gracious is he in all that he does. [145:18] The Lord is near to all who call him, to all who call upon him in truth. [145:19] He will fulfil the desires of those who fear him; he will hear their cry for help and save them. [145:20] The Lord is the keeper of all who love him, but all the wicked will he destroy. [145:21] My mouth will utter the praise of the Lord , and all life will bless his holy name for ever and ever.[Psalms] ---- [146:1] My soul, praise the Lord . [146:2] I will praise the Lord , while I live; I will sing to my God, while I am. [146:3] Put not your trust in princes mortals, in whom is no help. [146:4] When their breath goes out, they go back to the dust: on that very day their purposes perish. [146:5] Happy those whose help is the God of Jacob: whose hope is set on the Lord their God, [146:6] the Creator of heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them. He remains eternally loyal. [146:7] For the wronged he executes justice; he gives bread to the hungry; the Lord releases the prisoners. [146:8] The Lord gives sight to the blind: the Lord raises those who are bowed. The Lord loves the righteous. [146:9] The Lord preserves the stranger, upholds the widow and orphan, but the wicked he leads to disaster. [146:10] The Lord shall reign forever, your God, O Zion, to all generations. Hallelujah.[Psalms] ---- [147:1] Hallelujah. It is good to sing praise to our God, for praise is sweet and seemly. [147:2] The Lord builds up Jerusalem, the outcasts of Israel he gathers. [147:3] He heals the broken in heart, and binds up their wounds. [147:4] He counts the numberless stars, he gives names to them all. [147:5] Great is our Lord , rich in power, and measureless is his wisdom. [147:6] The Lord lifts up the down-trodden, the wicked he brings to the ground. [147:7] Sing songs of thanks to the Lord , and play on the lyre to our God. [147:8] For he covers the sky with clouds, he prepares rain for the earth, makes grass to grow on the mountains. [147:9] He gives the cattle their food the young ravens when they cry. [147:10] His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, his joy is not in the speed of a runner; [147:11] but the Lord has his pleasure in those who fear him, in those who wait for his kindness. [147:12] Praise the Lord , then, O Jerusalem: sing praise to your God, O Zion. [147:13] For he strengthens the bars of your gates, and blesses your children within you. [147:14] He brings peace to your borders, and choicest of wheat in abundance. [147:15] He sends his command to the earth: his word runs very swiftly. [147:16] Snow he gives like wool, frost he scatters like ashes. [147:17] He casts forth his ice like morsels: who can stand before his cold? [147:18] He sends forth his word, and melts them: his wind blows the waters flow. [147:19] He declares his word to Jacob, his statutes and judgments to Israel. [147:20] No other nation did he do this for, they know nothing of his judgments. Hallelujah.[Psalms] ---- [148:1] Praise the Lord from the heavens, praise him in the heights. [148:2] Praise him, all his angels; praise him, all his hosts. [148:3] Praise him, sun and moon; praise him, all stars of light. [148:4] Praise him, you highest heavens, and you waters above the heavens. [148:5] Let them praise the name of the Lord , for at his command they were made. [148:6] And he fixed them for ever and ever by a law which they dare not transgress. [148:7] Praise the Lord from the earth: you depths, with your monsters, all. [148:8] Fire, hail, snow and ice, and stormy wind doing his word. [148:9] All you mountains and hills, all you fruit trees and cedars, [148:10] all you wild beasts and tame, creeping things, birds on the wing. [148:11] All you kings and nations of earth; all you princes and judges of earth: [148:12] young men and maidens together, old men and children together. [148:13] Let them praise the name of the Lord , for his name alone is exalted. Over heaven and earth is his glory. [148:14] He has lifted his people to honor. Wherefore this chorus of praise from his saints, from Israel, the people who stand in his fellowship. Hallelujah.[Psalms] ---- [149:1] Hallelujah. Sing to the Lord a new song, sound his praise where the faithful are gathered. [149:2] Let Israel rejoice in its maker, sons of Zion exult in their king. [149:3] Let them praise his name in the dance, making music with lyre and with timbrel. [149:4] For the Lord delights in his people, adorning the humble with victory. [149:5] Let the faithful exult and extol him with glad ringing cries all night long. [149:6] High praises of God in their mouth, and a two-edged sword in their hand: [149:7] on the heathen to execute vengeance, and chastisement sore on the nations, [149:8] binding their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron, [149:9] to execute on them the doom that is written. This is the glory of all his faithful. Hallelujah.[Psalms] ---- [150:1] Hallelujah. Praise God in his holy place. Praise him in the sky, his stronghold. [150:2] Praise him for his deeds of power. Praise him for his boundless greatness. [150:3] Praise him with blast of horn; praise him with harp and lyre. [150:4] Praise him with timbrel and dance; praise him with strings and pipe. [150:5] Praise him with resounding cymbals, praise him with clashing cymbals. [150:6] Let all that has breath praise the Lord . Hallelujah. ====== Daniel ====== ------------------ The Book of Daniel ------------------ [Daniel] ---- [1:1] In the third year of the reign of King Jehoiakim of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon laid siege to Jerusalem. [1:2] The Lord handed King Jehoiakim over to him, with some of the vessels of the house of God; and he carried them off to the land of Shinar to the temple of his god, and placed them in the temple treasury. [1:3] The king commanded Ashpenaz, the chief of his eunuchs, to bring to him some of the Israelite princes and nobles. [1:4] They were to be young men who were without physical defect and handsome, comfortable with all types of knowledge, well taught and quick to learn and able to serve in the king’s palace. They were to be taught the learning and the language of the Chaldeans. [1:5] The king gave to them each day some of his rich food and some of the wine which he drank. [1:6] He also commanded that they should be taught for three years, and that at the end of that time they should enter the royal service. [1:6] Among these young men were: Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, all of whom were from the tribe of Judah; [1:7] but the chief of the king’s eunuchs gave other names to them. To Daniel he gave the name Belteshazzar, and to Hananiah, Shadrach, and to Mishael, Meshach, and to Azariah, Abednego. [1:8] But Daniel made up his mind not to become ritually unclean by being contaminated by the rich food of the king nor with the wine which he drank. So he asked the chief of the king’s eunuchs to help him avoid it. [1:9] God helped Daniel to win the kindness and favor of the chief. [1:10] But the chief of the eunuchs said to Daniel, “I fear that my lord, the king, who has given you your food and your drink, will see that your faces are sadder than those of young men who are your own age, and so you will endanger my head with the king.” [1:11] So Daniel went to the guardian whom the chief of the eunuchs had put over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, and said [1:12] “Test us for ten days; and let us have vegetables to eat and water to drink. [1:13] Then compare the way we look with that of the young men who eat of the king’s rich food. Then do to us as seems best.” [1:14] So he did as they asked and tested them for ten days. [1:15] At the end of ten days they looked better and they were healthier than all the young men who ate the king’s rich food. [1:16] So the guardian took away their rich food and the wine and gave them vegetables. [1:17] To these four young men God gave knowledge, learning, and wisdom; and Daniel understood all kinds of visions and dreams. [1:18] On the date which the king had fixed for introducing all the young men to the court, the chief of his eunuchs brought them to Nebuchadnezzar, [1:19] and the king talked with them. But not one of all the young men was found equal to Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. So they began to serve the king. [1:20] On every subject which called for wisdom and understanding and about which the king questioned them, he found them ten times better than all the wise men and magicians who were in his entire kingdom. [1:21] Daniel remained at the court until the start of the reign of King Cyrus.[Daniel] ---- [2:1] Nebuchadnezzar in the second year of his reign had dreams, and his mind was so troubled that he could not sleep. [2:2] Then the king sent for the magicians and the wise men, and the Chaldaens (who studied the stars) to tell him what his dreams meant. So they came in before the king, [2:3] and he said to them, “I have had a dream and my mind is troubled, for I want to know what the dream means.” [2:4] Then those who studied the stars said to the king in Aramaic: “O king, live forever! Tell the dream to your servants and we will tell you what it means.” [2:5] The king answered, “What I now say is certain: if you do not tell me the dream and what it means, you will be torn limb from limb and your houses will be maderuins. [2:6] But if you tell the dream and what it means, you will receive from me gifts and rewards and great honors; therefore tell me the dream and what it means.” [2:7] They answered the second time, “Let the king tell the dream to his servants, and we will tell what it means.” [2:8] The king replied, “I see clearly that you wish to gain time, for you know that what I have said is certain, [2:9] and that if you do not tell the dream to me, you will all suffer the same punishment. So you have planned to speak lying and false words before me, until the time when it is to happen has passed. Therefore tell me the dream, and I will know that you can tell me what it means.” [2:10] The Chaldeans answered the king, “There is no man on earth who can do what the king asks, for no king, however great and powerful, has ever asked such a thing of any wise man or magician, or of one who studies the stars. [2:11] What the king asks is too hard. There is no one else who can tell it to the king, except the gods, who do not live among mortals.” [2:12] This made the king very angry and he ordered all the wise men of Babylon put to death. [2:13] So the command was given that the wise men were to be put to death. Search was made for Daniel and his friends that they too might be put to death. [2:14] Then Daniel approached Arioch, the captain of the king’s guard, who had gone out to put the wise men of Babylon to death, and quietly and carefully asked, [2:15] “Why is the king’s command so harsh?” When Arioch told Daniel the facts, [2:16] he went to the king and asked that he give him time to tell what the dream meant. [2:17] Then Daniel went to his house and told the facts to his friends, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, so that they might beg the God of heaven to be kind to them and to tell Daniel this secret, so that they might not die with the rest of the wise men of Babylon. [2:19] Then the secret was told to Daniel in a vision at night, and he praised the God of heaven and said: [2:20] “Blessed be the name of God from everlasting to everlasting! For wisdom and power are his. [2:21] He controls the seasons and times, he removes and installs kings, He gives wisdom to the wise, and knowledge to those who have insight. [2:22] He shows the deep, secret things; he knows what is in the darkness, and the light of truth dwells in him. [2:23] God of my fathers: I give you thanks and praise, For you gave me wisdom and strength, and havemade known the things we asked; You have made known to us the king’s secret!” [2:24] Then Daniel went to Arioch, whom the king had commanded to kill the wise men of Babylon, and said to him, “Do not kill the wise men of Babylon. Take me to the king, and I will tell him what his dream means.” [2:25] Then Arioch quickly brought Daniel to the king and said to him, “I have found a man among the captives from Judah who will tell you what this dream means.” [2:26] The king said to Daniel (whose name was Belteshazzar), “Can you make known to me the dream which I have had and what it means?” [2:27] Daniel answered, “The secret which the king asks is something that neither wise men, magicians, nor those who study the stars can make known to him; [2:28] but there is a God in heaven who tells secrets, and he has made known to King Nebuchadnezzar what will come in the future. Your dream and the visions which you had as you lay asleep are these: [2:29] “The thoughts which came into your mind on your bed concerned what will happen in the future. The one who reveals secrets has made known to you what will come to pass. [2:30] This secret was not revealed to me because I am wiser than other living people, but so that the king might learn the interpretation: so that you might understand the thoughts that have come to you. [2:31] “You, O king, had a vision and saw a great image. That image was large and it was exceedingly bright as it stood before you, and its appearance was terrifying. [2:32] The head of the image was of fine gold, its breast and its arms of silver, its body and its thighs of bronze, [2:33] its legs of iron, its feet part of iron and part of clay. [2:34] You looked at it until a stone was cut out, not by human hands, which struck the image on its feet of iron and clay and broke them in pieces. [2:35] Then the iron, the clay, the bronze, the silver, and the gold were all broken in pieces and became like the chaff which blows from the summer threshing-floors, and the wind carried them away so that nothing was left of them. But the stone that struck the image became a great mountain and filled the earth. [2:36] “This is the dream, and we will tell the king what it means: [2:37] O king, you are the king of kings to whom the God of heaven has given the rule, the power, the strength, and the glory. [2:38] Over the whole world he has given into your power, people, the wild beasts and the birds, and has made you rule over them all. You are the head of gold. [2:39] “After you will rise another kingdom not so strong as you are, and a third kingdom of bronze, which will rule over the whole earth. [2:40] A fourth kingdom will be strong as iron, for iron breaks in pieces and shatters all things, and like iron which crushes, it will break in pieces and crush all things. [2:41] As you saw the feet and toes, part clay and part iron, it will be a divided kingdom; but there will be in it some of the strength of the iron, for you saw the iron mixed with clay. [2:42] As the toes of the feet were part iron and part clay, so the kingdom will be partly strong and partly broken. [2:43] You saw the iron mixed with clay, for the ruling families will arrange marriage alliances between each other, but they will not stick together, just as iron does not stick to clay. [2:44] “During the reigns of these kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom which will never be destroyed, nor will the power be left to another people; but it will break in pieces and destroy all these kingdoms, and it will stand forever. [2:45] This is shown by the fact that you saw a stone cut out of the mountain, but not with human hands. It broke in pieces the iron, the bronze, the clay, the silver, and the gold. “The great God has made known to the king what is to come, and the dream is real and this meaning true.” [2:46] Then King Nebuchadnezzar fell upon his face and worshipped Daniel, and ordered that a sacrifice and sweet odors should be offered to him. [2:47] The king also said to Daniel, “Your God is the God of gods and the Lord of kings, and one who tells his secrets to his servant, for you have been able to tell this great secret.” [2:48] Then the king gave Daniel a high position and many costly gifts, and made him ruler over the whole province of Babylon and chief over all the wise men in Babylon. [2:49] But at Daniel’s request the king placed Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in charge of the province of Babylon; while Daniel stayed in the king’s court.[Daniel] ---- [3:1] Nebuchadnezzar, the king, made a statue of gold ninety feet high and nine feet wide. He set it up in the plain of Dura, in the province of Babylon. [3:2] Then he sent for the officers, the governors, the judges, the treasurers, and all the rulers of the provinces to attend the dedication of the statue he had set up. [3:3] So the officers, the governors, the judges, the treasurers, and all the rulers of the provinces all came together for the dedication and stood before the statue that Nebuchadnezzar had set up. [3:4] Then the herald cried aloud, “To you it is commanded, peoples, nations: [3:4] The moment you hear the sound of the horn, pipe, lyre, trigon, harp, drum, and entire musical ensemble, you must fall down and worship the golden statue which King Nebuchadnezzar has set up. [3:6] Whoever does not fall down and worship will be thrown into a burning, fiery furnace.” [3:7] So when all the people heard the sound of the horn, pipe, lyre, trigon, harp, drum, and entire musical ensemble, all the peoples, nations, and the speakers of all languages fell down and worshipped the golden statue that King Nebuchadnezzar had set up. [3:8] But at that time certain Chaldeans came near to the king and made this accusation against the Jews: [3:9] “O king, live forever! O king, you have commanded that every man who hears the sound of the horn, pipe, lyre, trigon, harp, drum, and entire musical ensemble willmust fall down and worship the golden statue, [3:11] and that whoever does not fall down and worship will be thrown into a burning, fiery furnace. [3:12] There are certain Jews, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, whom you have placed in charge of the province of Babylon. These men, O king, have not obeyed your command; they do not serve your gods nor worship the golden statue which you have set up.” [3:13] Then Nebuchadnezzar in his rage and fury gave command to bring in Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. [3:14] When they were brought before the king, Nebuchadnezzar said to them, “Is it true, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, that you do not serve my god nor worship the golden statue which I have set up? [3:15] If you are now ready, as soon as you hear the sound of the horn, pipe, lyre, trigon, harp, drum, and entire musical ensemble, to fall down and worship the statue which I have made, well and good; but if you do not worship, you will at once be thrown into a burning, fiery furnace. Where is there a god who can deliver you out of my hands?” [3:16] Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied, “O king, there is no need of our answering you about this. [3:17] Our God whom we serve is able to save us from the burning, fiery furnace; he will save us out of your hand, O king. [3:18] But if not, know, O king, that we will not serve your gods nor worship the golden image which you have set up.” [3:19] Then Nebuchadnezzar was very angry and the appearance of his face changed, as he looked at Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. He ordered that the furnace should be heated seven times hotter than usual. [3:20] He also commanded certain strong men who were in his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and throw them into the burning, fiery furnace. [3:21] Then these men were bound in their cloaks, their tunics, their robes, and their other garments, and were thrown into the burning, fiery furnace. [3:22] As the king’s command was urgent and the furnace very hot, the flames destroyed the men who took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. [3:23] But Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, fell down, bound, into the midst of the burning, fiery furnace. [3:24] Nebuchadnezzar, the king, was so astonished that he rose up hastily and said to his counsellors, “Did we not throw three men, bound, into the fire?” They answered, “True, O king.” [3:25] He said, “Now I see four men, unbound, walking in the midst of the fire, and they are unhurt, and the fourth looks like a god.” [3:26] Then Nebuchadnezzar went near the door of the burning, fiery furnace and said, “Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out.” Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego came out of the fire. [3:27] The officers, governors, and counsellors who were there saw that the fire had no power over the bodies of these men, and that the hair of their heads was not singed and that their cloaks were not harmed, and that there was no smell of fire. And [3:28] Nebuchadnezzar said, “Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who has sent his angel to save his servants who trusted in him and refused to obey the king’s command and have offered their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god except their own. [3:29] Therefore I command that every people, nation, and speaker of every language that says anything against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego will be cut in pieces and their house will be made a ruin, for there is no other god who is so able to save as is this one.” [3:30] Then the king gave high positions, in the province of Babylon, to Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.[Daniel] ---- [4:1] Nebuchadnezzar the king to all peoples, nations, and languages that live throughout the earth: May your peace be great. [4:2] It has seemed good to me to show the signs and wonders that the Most High God worked for me. [4:3] How great are his signs! And how mighty are his wonders! His kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and his rule lasts from generation to generation. [4:4] I, Nebuchadnezzar, was at rest in my house, and prosperous in my palace. [4:5] I saw a dream that made me afraid; and the thoughts on my bed and the visions of my head troubled me. Therefore I made a decree to bring in all the wise men of Babylon before me, so that they might make known to me the interpretation of the dream. [4:7] Then the magicians, the enchanters, the Chaldeans, and the astrologers came in, and I told the dream to them; but they did not make known to me its interpretation. [4:8] But at last there came before me Daniel, whose name was Belteshazzar, according to the name of my god, in whom is the spirit of the holy gods; and I told the dream to him: [4:9] “Belteshazzar, chief of the magicians, because I know that the spirit of the holy gods is in you, and no secret troubles you, tell me the secret visions of my dream that I have seen, and its interpretation. [4:10] These were the visions of my head on my bed: I saw a tree in the midst of the earth, and its height was great. [4:11] The tree grew and was strong, and its height reached to heaven, and it could be seen to the end of the earth. [4:12] Its leaves were fair, and its fruit abundant, and in it was food for all; the animals of the field found shade under it, and the birds of the heavens nested in its branches, and every kind of living being was fed from it. [4:13] I saw in the visions of my head on my bed a watcher, a holy one, came down from heaven. [4:14] He cried aloud, ‘Hew down the tree, and cut off its branches, shake off its leaves, and scatter its fruit; let the animals get away from under it, and the birds from its branches. [4:15] But leave the stump of its roots in the earth, with a band of iron and bronze; bound with iron and bronze he will be fed with the grass of the field, and wet with the dew of heaven, and his portion will be with the animals. [4:16] His mind will be changed so that it will not be that of a man, and an animals’s mind will be given to him, and seven times will pass over him. [4:17] The sentence is by the decree of the watchers, and the affair by the word of the holy ones, that the living may know that the Most High rules over human kingdoms of gives them to whoever he will, and can set up as ruler the humblest of people. [4:18] This dream I, King Nebuchadnezzar, have seen; and you, O Belteshazzar, must declare the interpretation, since all the wise men of my kingdom are not able to make known to me the interpretation; but you are able, for the spirit of the holy gods is in you.” [4:19] Then Daniel, whose name was Belteshazzar, was dumfounded for a moment, and his thoughts troubled him. The king said, “Belteshazzar, let not the dream or the interpretation trouble you.” Belteshazzar answered , “My lord, I wish the dream applied to those who hate you, and its interpretation to your adversaries! [4:20] The tree which you saw, which grew and was strong, whose height reached to heaven, and the sight of it to all the earth, [4:21] whose leaves were fair, and whose fruit abundant, and in which was food for all; under which the animals sheltered, and upon whose branches the birds of the heavens had their nests, [4:22] is you, O king --- you who are great and strong; and your greatness has grown, and reaches to heaven, and your dominion to the end of the earth. [4:23] You saw a watcher, a holy one, coming down from heaven, and saying. Hew down the tree and destroy it. [4:24] This is the interpretation, O king, and it is the decree of the Most High, which has come upon my lord the king: [4:25] You will be driven from people, and your dwelling will be with the animals of the field, and you will be made to eat grass as oxen, and will be wet with the dew of heaven, and seven times will pass over you; until you know that the Most High rules in human kingdoms and gives them to whomever he will. [4:26] And as they commanded to leave the stump of the roots of the tree, so your kingdom will be secure to you as soon as you recognize that the heavens do rule. [4:27] Therefore, O king, let my counsel be acceptable to you, and break off your sins by righteous works, and your iniquities by showing mercy to the poor; then perhaps there may be a continuation of your prosperity.” [4:28] All this happened to King Nebuchadnezzar: [4:29] At the end of twelve months he was walking in the royal palace of Babylon. [4:30] The king said, “Is not this great Babylon which I have built for a residence, by the might of my power and for the glory of my majesty?” [4:31] While the word was in the king’s mouth, a voice came down from heaven: “King Nebuchadnezzar, to you it is spoken: The kingdom has passed away from you, [4:32] and you will be driven from people, and your home will be with the animals of the field; you will be made to eat grass as oxen; and seven times will pass over you, until you know that the Most High rules in human kingdoms and gives them to whom he will.” [4:33] The same hour the word was fulfilled upon Nebuchadnezzar; and he was driven from people, and ate grass like oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven, until his hair had grown like eagles’ feathers and his nails like birds’ claws. [4:34] At the end of the appointed time I, Nebuchadnezzar, lifted up my eyes to heaven, and my reason returned to me, and I blessed the Most High, and praised and honored him who lives forever; for his dominion is an everlasting dominion and his kingdom lasts generation to generation; [4:25] and all the inhabitants of the earth are considered as nothing; and he does according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth; and no oone can stay his hand, or say to him. What are you doing? [4:36] At that same time my reason returned to me, and for the sake of my royal honor, my majesty and my kingly appearance were restored to me. Then my counsellors and my nobles sought eagerly for me; and I was established in my kingdom, and still greater power was added to me. [4:37] Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and extol and honor the King of heaven, for all his works are truth, and his ways justice; and those who walk in pride he is able to humble. ---- ---- [4:1] Belshazzar, the king, made a great feast for a thousand of his nobles and drank wine before them all. [4:2] Under the influence of wine, he gave command to bring the gold and silver utensils which his father, Nebuchadnezzar, had taken from the temple at Jerusalem, so that the king, his nobles, his wives, and concubines might drink from them. [4:3] So they brought the golden vessels which were taken from the temple of God which was at Jerusalem. The king, his nobles, his wives, and concubines drank from them. [4:4] They drank wine and praised the gods of gold, of silver, of bronze, of iron, of wood, and of stone. [4:5] At that moment the fingers of a human hand appeared and wrote opposite the lamp on the plaster of the wall of the king’s palace; and the king saw the palm of the hand that wrote. [4:6] Then the king grew pale, and fear filled his mind, his legs trembled and his knees knocked together. [4:7] He called for the magicians and the Chaldeans (who study the stars) and said to the wise men of Babylon, “Whoever reads this writing and tells me what it means will be clothed in purple and have a chain of gold about his neck and will be the third ruler in the kingdom.” [4:8] Then all the king’s wise men came in, but they could not read the writing nor tell the king what it meant. [4:9] So King Belshazzar was greatly troubled, and his face grew pale, and his nobles were thrown into confusion. [4:10] Now the queen, because of what the king and his nobles had said, came into the banquet-house and said, “O king, live forever; let not your thoughts trouble you nor let yourself grow pale. [4:11] There is a man in your kingdom in whom is the spirit of the holy gods, and in the days of your father he was found to have light and understanding and wisdom, like the wisdom of the gods. King Nebuchadnezzar, your father, put him in charge of all the magicians, Chaldeans and those who study the stars. [4:12] for an excellent spirit and knowledge and understanding, the interpreting of dreams and explaining of riddles and the solving of difficulties were found in this same Daniel, whose name the king changed to Belteshazzar. Now let Daniel be called, and he will tell what it means.” [4:13] So Daniel was brought in before the king, and the king said to him, “Are you that Daniel, one of the men who were carried away captive, whom the king, my father, brought from Judah? [4:14] I have heard that the spirit of the gods is in you, and that you have understanding and great wisdom. [4:15] The wise men and the magicians have been brought in before me to read this writing and to tell what it means; but they are not able. [4:16] I have heard that you can tell what dreams mean and answer hard questions. Now if you can read the writing and tell what it means, you will be clothed with purple and have a chain of gold about your neck and will be the third ruler in the kingdom.” [4:17] Then Daniel answered the king, “Keep your gifts and give your rewards to another. Without them I will read the writing to the king, and tell what it means. [4:18] O king, the Most High God gave Nebuchadnezzar, your father, the kingdom and power, glory and majesty. [4:19] Because of the power that he gave him, all peoples, nations, and races trembled and feared him. He killed or kept alive as he wished; and he raised up or put down whom he pleased. [4:20] But when he became proud and haughty, he was made to come down from his kingly throne and his glory was taken from him, [4:21] and he was driven away from men, and his mind became like that of the beasts, and he lived with the wild asses; he was fed with grass like oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven, until he learned that the Most High God rules over the realm of humanity and that he sets up over it whom he will. [4:22] “But you, his son Belshazzar, have not been humble, though you knew all this, [4:23] but you have raised yourself against the Lord of heaven, and have had the utensils of his temple brought before you, and you, your nobles, your wives, and the others of your household have drunk wine from them. You have given praise to the gods of silver, of gold, of bronze, of iron, of wood, and of stone, which cannot see nor hear nor know; and you have not praised the God in whose control are your very breath and all that you do.” [4:24] “Then the hand was sent out before him and traced this writing: [4:25] MENE, MENE, TEKEL, UPHARSIN. [4:26] “This is what it means: Mene: God has numbered the days your kingdom and brought it to an end. [4:27] Tekel: you are weighed in the scales and found wanting. [4:28] Upharsin: your kingdom is divided and given to the Medes and Persians.” [4:29] Then at Belshazzar’s command Daniel was clothed with purple and a chain of gold was put about his neck, and he was proclaimed the third ruler in the kingdom. [4:30] But on that very night Belshazzar, the Chaldean king, was killed, [4:31] and Darius, the Mede, who was sixty-two years old, received the kingdom.[Daniel] ---- [6:1] It pleased Darius to set over the kingdom a hundred and twenty officers who ruled the whole kingdom, [6:2] and over them three chief officials, of whom Daniel was one, so that these officers might report to them and that the king should lose nothing. [6:3] Daniel was better than the other chief officials and the officers, for he had a fine spirit; and the king intended to set him over the whole empire. [6:4] Then the chief officials and the officers tried to find a way to accuse Daniel of not having done his duty, but they could not find anything against him, for he was faithful and was not guilty of any mistake or wrong-doing. [6:5] Then these men said, “We will not find any way to accuse this Daniel unless we find it in connection with the law of his God.” [6:6] So these chief officials and officers all went to the king, and said to him, “King Darius, live forever. [6:7] All the chief officials of the kingdom, the counsellors and the officers, the judges and the governors, have consulted together to have the king make a law and give a strong command that whoever will ask a petition of any god or person for thirty days, except of you, O king, will be thrown into a den of lions. [6:8] Now, O king, give the command and sign the law that, like the law of the Medes and Persians, it may not be changed.” [6:9] So King Darius signed the law and the command. [6:10] When Daniel learnt that the law was signed, he went into his house. His windows were open in his room toward Jerusalem, and he knelt upon his knees three times a day and prayed, and gave thanks to his God as he had done before. [6:11] Then these men rushed in and found Daniel praying and calling upon his God. [6:12] So they went before the king and spoke to him about the royal command: “Have you not signed a command, that everyone who asks a petition of any person or god within thirty days, except of you, O king, will be thrown into the den of lions?” The king answered, “The rule is fixed according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which cannot be changed.” [6:13] Then they went on to say to the king, “Daniel, who is one of the captives from Judah, pays no attention to you, O king, nor to the command that you have signed, but prays three times a day.” [6:14] When the king heard these words, he was greatly displeased, and set his heart on saving Daniel, and he worked until the sun set to save him. [6:15] Then these men all went to the king and said to him, “Know, O king, that it is a law of the Medes and Persians, that no command nor law which the king gives may be changed.” [6:16] So the king gave his command, and they brought Daniel and threw him into the den of lions. But the king said to Daniel, “Your God, whom you always serve, will save you.” [6:17] Then a stone was brought and laid at the entrance to the den; and the king sealed it with his own seal-ring and with those of his nobles, that no change might be made so as to rescue Daniel. [6:18] Then the king went to his palace and passed the night fastingalone; he could not sleep. [6:19] At dawn, as soon as it was light, the king rose and hurried to the den of lions. [6:20] When he came near to the den where Daniel was, he called anxiously, “Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God, whom you always serve, been able to save you from the lions?” [6:21] Daniel said to the king, “O king, live forever. [6:22] My God has sent his angel and has closed the lions’ mouths, and they have not hurt me, for I was innocent before him; and also before you, O king, I have done no wrong.” [6:23] Then the king was very glad and commanded that they should take Daniel up out of the den. So Daniel was taken up out of the den, and it was found that he was not injured, for he had trusted in his God. [6:24] Then the king commanded that those men who had accused Daniel should be brought and thrown into the den of lions, with their wives and children. Before they reached the floor of the den, the lions pounced on them and tore them to pieces. [6:25] King Darius wrote to all the peoples, nations, and races in all his kingdom, “May your peace be great! [6:26] I make a law that throughout all my kingdom, men tremble and fear before the God of Daniel; for he is the living God, and is the same forever, and his kingdom is one that will not be destroyed; and his rule will be without end. [6:27] He saves and rescues, and does wonderful things in heaven and earth; it is he who has saved Daniel from the power of the lions.” [6:28] So Daniel was successful and happy during the reign of Darius and the reign of Cyrus the Persian.[Daniel] ---- [7:1] In the first year of Belshazzar king of Babylon Daniel had a dream and visions as he lay on his bed. Then he wrote down the dream: [7:2] “I saw in my vision by night the four winds of heaven broke forth upon the great sea. [7:3] Four great beasts came up from the sea, each different from the other. [7:4] The first was like a lion and had eagle’s wings. I looked until its wings were stripped off, and it was lifted up from the earth, and made to stand upon two feet as a person; and a human heart was given to it. [7:5] And I saw a second beast, like a bear; and it was raised up on one side, and three ribs were in its mouth, between its teeth; and they said to it: ‘Arise, devour much flesh.’ [7:6] After this I saw another like a leopard, which had upon its sides four wings of a bird; and the beast had also four heads, and dominion was given to it. [7:6] After this I saw in the night-visions a fourth beast, terrible and fearful, and exceedingly strong; and it had great iron teeth; it devoured and broke in pieces and stamped the rest with its feet; and it differed from all the beasts that were before it; and it had ten horns. [7:8] While I considered the horns, another little horn came up among them, before which three of the first horns were plucked up by the roots; in this horn were eyes, like human eyes, and a mouth speaking arrogrant things. [7:9] “I waited until thrones were set up, and an aged one took his seat; his clothing was white as snow, and his hair like spotless wool, his throne was fiery flames, its wheels burning fire. [7:10] A fiery stream issued and came forth before him: thousands of thousands ministered to him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him; the judgment was set and the books were opened. [7:11] “I looked at that time because of the sound of the arrogant words which the horn spoke --- I looked even until the beast was slain, and its body destroyed, and given to be fuel for the fire. [7:12] Also the rule of the rest of the beasts was taken away; but their lives were prolonged for a fixed time and season. [7:13] “I saw in the night-visions that there came with the clouds of heaven one like a human being, and he came even to the Aged One, and was brought near before him. [7:14] There was given him dominion and glory, and sovereignty, that all the peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion which will not pass away, and his sovereignty one which will not be destroyed.” [7:15] As for me, Daniel, my spirit was grieved by reason of this, and the visions of my head troubled me. [7:16] I came near to one of those who stood by, and asked him the truth concerning all this. So he told me the interpretation of the things: [7:17] “These four great beasts are four kings who will arise out of the earth. [7:18] But the holy ones of the Most High will receive the sovereignty, and possess the sovereignty for ever, for ever and ever. [7:19] Then I desired to know the truth concerning the fourth beast, which was different from all of them, exceedingly terrible, whose teeth were of iron, and its nails of bronze; which devoured, broke in pieces, and stamped the rest with its feet: [7:20] and concerning the ten horns that were on its head, and the other horn which came up, and before which three horns fell --- it that had eyes, and a mouth that spoke arrogant things, and it appeared to be greater than the rest. [7:21] I looked, and the same horn made war with the holy ones, and prevailed against them, [7:22] until the Aged One came, and judgment was given to the holy one of the Most High, and the fixed time came that the holy ones possessed the sovereignty. [7:23] Thus he said: “The fourth beast will be a fourth kingdom upon earth, which will be different from all the kingdoms; and will devour the whole earth, and will tread it down, and break it in pieces. [7:24] As for the ten horns, out of this kingdom ten kings will arise; and another will arise after them; and he will be different from the former, and he will put down three kings. [7:25] He will speak words against the Most High, and will continually harass the holy ones of the Most High; and he will think to change the fixed times and the law; and they will be given into his hand until a time and times and half a time. [7:26] But the judgment will be set, and they will take away his kingdom, to consume and to destroy finally. [7:27] The sovereignty, and the dominion, and the greatness of the kingdoms under the whole heaven, will surely be given to the holy people of the Most High; his sovereignty is an everlasting sovereignty, and all dominions will serve and obey him.” [7:28] Here is the end of the matter. As for me, Daniel, my thoughts troubled me much, and I turned pale, but I kept the matter in my mind.[Daniel] ---- [8:1] In the third year of the reign of King Belshazzar a vision came to me, Daniel, after that which appeared to me previously. [8:2] I saw in a vision --- and when I saw, I was in the Shushan, the royal palace, which is in the province of Elam --- and I saw in a vision, and I was by the River Ulai. [8:3] Then I looked up and saw standing before the river a ram which had two horns, and the two horns were high, but one was higher than the other, and the higher came up last. [8:4] I saw the ram pushing westward and northward and southward, and no beast could stand before him, and none could escape, but he did as he pleased and exulted himself. [8:5] As I was observing, a he-goat came from the west over the face of the whole earth, without touching the ground; and the goat had a conspicuous horn between his eyes. [8:6] He came to the ram that had two horns, which I saw standing before the river, and ran upon him in the fury of his power. [8:7] I saw him come close to the ram, and he was angered against him, and stuck the ram, and broke his two horns; and the ram had no strength to stand before him, but he threw him down to the ground and trampled upon him, and none could rescue the ram from him. [8:8] The he-goat exulted himself exceedingly; and when he had become strong, the great horn was broken. In its place there came up four other horns toward the four winds of heaven. [8:9] Out of one of them came another little horn, which grew exceedingly great, toward the south, and toward the east, and toward the glorious land. [8:10] It grew great, even to the host of heaven; and some of the host, and of the stars it cast down to the ground and trampled upon them. [8:11] It exulted itself even to the prince of the host, and took away from him the daily sacrifice, and threw down the place of his sanctuary, [8:12] and it set up the sacrilegious tithing over the daily sacrifice, and threw down truth to the ground, and did it and prospered. [8:13] Then I heard a holy one speaking; and another holy one said to the one who spoke, “For how long will the vision be that the daily sacrifice will be taken away and the appalling sacrilege set up and the sanctuary and the host trampled under foot?” [8:14] He answered, “For two thousand and three hundred evenings and mornings. Then will the sanctuary be justified.” [8:15] When I, Daniel, had seen the vision, I sought to understand it; and suddenly there stood before me one who had the appearance of a man. [8:16] I heard a human voice between the banks of the Ulai, which called and said, “Gabriel, cause this man to understand the vision.” [8:17] So he came near where I stood; and when he came I was afraid and fell upon my face, but he said to me, “Understand, mortal, for the vision belongs to the time of the end.” [8:18] Now as he was speaking with me, I fell into a deep trance with my face toward the ground; but he touched me, and set me upright in my place. [8:19] He said, “I will make you know what will be in the time of wrath, for it belongs to the appointed time of the end. [8:20] The ram which you saw, with the two horns, represents the kings of Media and Persia. [8:21] The he-goat is the king of Greece, and the great horn between his eyes is the first king. [8:22] As for that which was broken so that four stood up in its place, four kingdoms will arise out of his nation, but not with his power. [8:23] In the later days of their rule, when the transgressors have come to the full, a king defiant and skilled in dissimulation will stand up. [8:24] His power will be mighty, but not by his own power; and he will utter monstrous things, and will achieve, and will destroy the mighty ones. [8:25] His cleverness will be directed against the holy people; he will succeed through deceit, and devise great things, and he will destroy many unawares; he will also stand up against the prince of princes; but he will be destroyed, but not by human hands. [8:26] The vision of the evenings and mornings which has been told is true; but hide the vision for it belongs to many days to come.” [8:27] I, Daniel, fainted, and was sick for days; then I rose up and did the king’s business and I wondered at the vision, but no one understood it.[Daniel] ---- [9:1] In the first year of Darius the son of Ahasuerus, by birth a Mede, who was made king over the realm of the Chaldeans, [9:2] in the first year of his reign, I, Daniel, perceived by the books the number of years concerning which the word of the Lord came to Jeremiah the prophet, that they should be completed while Jerusalem stood in ruins --- namely seventy years. [9:3] I turned my face to the Lord God, to apply myself to prayer and supplication, with fasting and sackcloth and ashes. [9:4] I prayed to the Lord my God, and made confession, and said, “Oh, Lord, the great and the terrible God, who keeps the covenant and shows mercy to those who serve him and keep his commands, [9:5] we have sinned and have dealt perversely, and have done wickedly, and have rebelled, even turning aside from your precepts and from your ordinances; [9:6] neither have we listened to your servants the prophets, who spoke in your name to our kings, our princes, and our fathers, and to all the people of the land. [9:7] Lord, righteousness belongs to you, but shame belongs, as at this day, to the people of Judah, and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and to all Israel who are near, and those who are afar off, in the lands where you have driven them, because of their crimes which they have committed against you. [9:8] “Lord, to us belongs shame, to our kings, to our princes, and to our ancestors, because we have sinned against you. [9:9] To the Lord our God belongs compassion and forgiveness, for we have rebelled against him, [9:10] neither have we obeyed the voice of the Lord our God, to walk in his teachings which he set before us by his servants the prophets. [9:11] All Israel have transgressed your law and have turned so as not to obey your voice. Therefore the curse has been poured out upon us, and the oath which is written in the law of Moses, the servant of God; for we have sinned against him. [9:12] He has confirmed his words, which he spoke against us and against our rulers who ruled us, by bringing upon us a great misfortune; for under the whole heaven nothing has ever been done as has been done to Jerusalem. [9:13] As it is written in the law of Moses, all this evil has come upon us; yet we have not entreated the favour of the Lord our God, that we should turn from our iniquities, and discern your faithfulness. [9:14] Therefore the Lord has watched over the evil and brought it upon us, for the Lord our God is righteous in all his works which he does, and we have not obeyed his voice. [9:15] “Now, O Lord our God, who brought your people forth out of the land of Egypt with a mighty hand, and have gained renown as at this day, we have sinned and we have done wickedly. [9:16] O Lord, according to all your righteousness, let your anger and your wrath, I beg you, be turned away from your city, Jerusalem, your holy mountain; because for our sins and for the iniquities of our ancestors, Jerusalem and your people have become an object of reproach to all who are round about us. [9:17] Listen, our God to the prayer of your servant, and to his supplications, and show favor to your sanctuary, which is desolate, for the sake of your servants, O Lord. [9:18] O my God, incline your ear, and hear; open your eyes, and behold our desolations, and the city which bears your name; for we do not present our supplications before you because of our righteousness, but because of your great compassion. [9:19] O Lord, hear! O Lord, forgive! O Lord, listen and perform; defer not, for your own sake, O my God, because your city and your people are called by your name.” [9:20] While I was speaking, and praying, and confessing, my sin and the sin of my people Israel, and presenting my supplication before the Lord my God for the holy mountain of my God, [9:21] while I was speaking in prayer, the man Gabriel, whom I had seen earlier in the vision, being made to fly swiftly, approached me about the time of the evening offering. [9:22] He came, and talked with me, and said, “ Daniel, I have now come forth to give you wisdom and insight. [9:23] At the beginning of your supplications the command went forth, and I have come to tell you; for you you greatly beloved; therefore heed the word, and understand the vision. [9:23] “Seventy weeks have been decreed upon your people and upon your holy city, to make an end of the sacrilege, and to complete the sin, and to make atonement for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most holy. [9:25] Know therefore and discern, that from the going forth of the command to repeople and rebuild Jerusalem to the anointed one, the prince, will be seven weeks; sixty-two weeks will it be rebuilt, with broad places and streets. At the end of times [9:26] (even after the sixty-two weeks) an anointed one will be cut off without judicial trial; and the city and the sanctuary will be destroyed together, and his end will come with a flood and even to the end there will be war, a sentence of desolations. [9:27] The covenant will be annulled for many for one week; and in the midst of the week the sacrifice and the offering will cease, and in its place will be an appalling abomination and that until the ruin determined upon, is poured out upon the appalling thing.”[Daniel] ---- [10:1] In the third year of Cyrus king of Persia, a a revelation came to Daniel, whose name was called Belteshazzar; and the word was true, and it means great distress. He gave heed to the words, and understood the vision: [10:2] “In those days I, Daniel, was mourning three whole weeks. [10:3] I ate no pleasant bread, neither did any meat or wine enter my mouth, nor did I anoint myself at all, until three whole weeks were past. [10:4] In the twenty-fourth day of the first month, as I was by the side of the great river, [10:5] I looked up, and there was a man clothed in linen, with a belt of pure gold of Ophir; [10:6] his body also was like the chrysolith, and his face like lightning, and his eyes like flaming torches, and his arms and his feet like polished bronze, and the sound of his words like the sound of a multitude. [10:7] I, Daniel, alone saw the vision; for the men who were with me did not see the vision, but a great trembling seized them, and they fled to hide themselves. [10:8] So I was left alone and saw this great vision, and no strength was left in me, for my fresh appearance was changed to pallor. [10:9] Yet when I heard the sound of his words, I fell into a deep trance with my face toward the ground. [10:10] “Suddenly, a hand touched me, which set me trembling upon my knees and upon the palms of my hands. [10:11] He said to me, ‘Daniel, greatly beloved, give heed to the words that I speak to you, and stand upright, for to you have I now been sent.’ When he had spoken this word to me, I stood trembling. [10:12] Then he said to me, ‘Do not be afraid, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart to gain insight, and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard; and I have come because of your words. [10:13] The prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me twenty-one days; but Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me; and I left him there with the prince of the kings of Persia. [10:14] Now I have come to make you understand what will befall your people in the latter days; for the vision is yet for many days. [10:15] When he had said these words to me, I turned my face toward the ground, and was dumb. [10:16] Then one who looked human touched my lips; then I opened my mouth, and spoke, and said to him who stood before me, ‘My Lord, because of the vision my pangs have come upon me, and I retain no strength, [10:17] for how can this the servant of my Lord talk with my Lord? For as for me, henceforth there remains no strength in me, nor is there breath left in me. [10:18] “Then another in appearance like a person touched me, and strengthened me. [10:19] He said, ‘Greatly beloved, fear not; peace be to you; be strong, be bold.’ When he spoke to me I was strengthened, and said, ‘Let my Lord speak; for you have strengthened me.’ [10:20] Then he said, ‘Do you know why I have come to you? Now I will return to fight with the prince of Persia, and when I go forth, then the prince of Greece will come; [10:21] and none who help me against these, except Michael, your prince, stand as my helper and defence. [Daniel] [11:1] “‘But now I will tell you what is written in the book of truth. [11:2] Three more kings will stand up for Persia; and the fourth will be far richer than them all; and when he has grown strong through his riches, he will stir up all against the realm of Greece. [11:3] Then a warrior king will stand up, who will rule with great dominion and do according to his will. [11:4] When he has become strong, his kingdom will be broken, and will be divided to the four winds of heaven, but it will not belong to his posterity, nor will it be as great as his dominion, which he ruled, for his kingdom will be overthrown and will belong to others besides these. [11:5] “‘The king of the south will be strong, but one of his princes will be stronger than he, and will rule; his dominion will be great. [11:6] At the end of some years they will make an alliance with one another, and the daughter of the king of the south will come to the king of the north to make an agreement, but that support will not retain strength, neither will his supports stand; but she will be given up, and they who brought her, and her child, and he who supported her. [11:7] “‘But in those times a shoot out of her roots will arise in his place, who will come to the army, and will enter into the fortress of the king of the north, and will act against them and prevail, [11:8] and also will carry away their gods, together with their molten images and their costly things of silver and gold, captive into Egypt; and he will refrain some years from the king of the north. [11:9] Then another will come into the realm of the king of the south, but he will return to his own land. [11:10] His son will war, and will assemble a multitude of great forces, and he will come onward, and overflow, and pass through, and will return and war, even to his fortress. [11:11] The king of the south will be enraged, and the will come forth and fight with him. even with the king of the north, and that one will raise a great multitude, but the multitude will be delivered into his hands. [11:12] The multitude will be carried away, and his heart will be exalted; and he will cast down tens of thousands, but he will not show himself strong. [11:13] “‘The king of the north will return, and will raise a multitude greater than the former; and he will come after a period of several years, with a great army and with much equipment. [11:14] In those times many will stand up against the king of the south, also the sons of the violent among your people will lift themselves up to establish the vision, but they will be overthrown. [11:15] “‘So the king of the north will come, and cast up a mound, and take a well-fortified city; and the forces of the south will not stand, nor his chosen men, and there will be no strength to stand. [11:16] But he who will come against him, will do as he desires, and none will withstand him; and he will stand in the glorious land, and in his hand will be destruction. [11:17] He will set his face to come with the strength of his whole kingdom, but he will make an agreement with him; and he will perform them; and he will give him the daughter of women, to ruin it; but it will not avail nor will he attain it. [11:18] After this he will turn his face to the coast-lands, and he will take many; but a consul will put an end to the insults offered by him; and will repay his insults sevenfold. [11:19] Then he will turn his face toward the fortresses of his own land; but he will stumble and fall and will no longer be found. [11:20] “‘Then one will stand up in his place who will cause an exactor to pass through the glory of the kingdom; but within a few days he will be broken, but not in anger nor in battle. [11:21] In his place there will stand up a contemptible person upon whom they had not conferred the royal honor; but he will come unexpectedly, and will obtain the kingdom by intrigues. [11:22] Forces will be utterly overwhelmed before him and will be broken, and also a prince of the covenant. [11:23] After they make a league with him he will act deceitfully; for he will rise and become strong, with a small nation. [11:24] He will come unperceived, even into the fattest parts of a province; and he will do that which his fathers have not done, nor his fathers’ fathers; he will scatter among them prey and spoil and riches, and he will devise plans against the strongholds, even for a time. [11:25] He will arouse his might and his courage against the king of the south with a great army; and the king of the south will make war with an exceedingly great army; but he will not stand, for they will devise plans against him. [11:26] Those who eat his dainties will ruin him, and his army will be swept away as a flood, and many will fall down slain. [11:27] As for these kings, their hearts will be bent on mischief, and they will speak lies at one table; but it will not prosper, for yet the end will be at the time appointed. [11:28] “‘Then will he return to his land with great riches, and his heart will be against the holy covenant; and he will do his pleasure, and return to his own land. [11:29] At the time appointed he will return, and enter into the south; but it will not be in the latter time as in the former; [11:30] for ships of Kittim will come against him; therefore he will be cowed, and will return, and vent his rage on the holy covenant, and will do his pleasure. He will return and fix his attention on those who forsake the holy covenant. [11:31] Forces sent by him will prevail, and they will profane the sanctuary, the fortress, and will take away the daily offering and set up the appalling abomination. [11:32] He will pervert by specious promises, those who bring guilt upon the covenant; but the people who know their God will be valiant and do exploits. [11:33] “‘They who are wise among the people will give understanding to many; yet they will fall by the sword and by flame, by captivity and by spoil many days. [11:34] Now when they are falling, they will be helped with a little help; but many will join themselves to them with false protestations. [11:35] Some of those who are wise will fall, in order to refine them and cleanse them and make them white, until the time of the end, for it is yet for the time appointed. [11:36] “‘The king will do according to his will; and he will exalt and magnify himself above every god, and will speak marvellous things against the God of gods; and he will prosper until God’s wrath be exhausted; for that which is decreed will be done. [11:37] Neither will he regard the gods of his fathers; nor the desire of women, nor regard any god, for he will magnify himself above all. [11:38] But in his place will he honor a god of fortresses; and a god whom his fathers knew not will he honor with gold and silver, with precious stones and costly things. [11:39] He will procure for the strong fortresses the people of a foreign god. Whomsoever he regards with favor he will raise to great honor, and he will make them to rule over many, and he will divide the land for a price. [11:40] “‘At the time of the end the king of the south will contend with him; and the king of the north will come against him like a whirlwind, with chariots, with horsemen, and with many ships; and he will enter into the countries, and he will overflow them and pass through. [11:41] He will enter also into the glorious land, and many thousands will fall; but these will be delivered out of his hand: Edom, and Moab, and the remnant of the Ammonites. [11:42] He will stretch forth his hand also upon the countries, and the land of Egypt will not escape. [11:43] He will have power over the treasures of gold and of silver, and over all the precious things of Egypt; and the Libyans and Ethiopians will follow in his train. [11:44] But rumors out of the east and north will trouble him; and he will go forth with great fury to destroy and to utterly exterminate many. [11:45] He will plant his palace between the Mediterranean and the glorious holy mountain; so he will come to his end, and none will help him. [Daniel] [12:1] “‘At that time Michael will stand up, the great prince who stands for the children of my people; and there will be a time of affliction such as there never was since there was a nation, even to that time; and at that time your people will be delivered, every one who will be found written in the loyal book. [12:2] Many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt. [12:3] They who are wise will shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they who turn many to righteousness as the stars forever and ever. [12:4] But thou, Daniel, shut up the words and seal the book, to the time of the end; many will run to and fro and knowledge will be increased.’ [12:5] “Then I, Daniel, looked, and behold, two others were standing, the one on the brink of the river on this side, and the other on the brink of the river on the other side. [12:6] One said to the man clothed in linen, who was above the waters of the river, ‘How long will it be to the end of these marvels?’ [12:7] The man clothed in linen, who was above the waters of the river, and he lifted up his right and his left hand to heaven, and swore by him who lives forever: ‘It will be for a time, times, and a half; and when the power of the shatterer of the holy people will come to an end all these things will be finished.’ [12:8] I heard but I understood not. Then I said, ‘My lord, what will be the end of these things?’ [12:9] He said, ‘Go your way, Daniel; for the words are shut up and sealed until the time of the end. [12:10] Many will cleanse themselves, and make themselves white, and be refined; but the wicked will do wickedly; and none of the wicked will understand, but they who are wise will understand. [12:11] From the time that the daily sacrifice will be taken away, and the appalling abomination set up will be twelve hundred and ninety days. [12:12] Blessed is he who waits and comes to the thousand, three hundred and thirty-five days. [12:13] But go your way to the end. You will take your rest and stand up to receive your lot at the end of the days.’” ==== Joel ==== ---- Joel ---- [Joel] [1:1] The message of the Lord that came to Joel, son of Pethuel. Locust plague and drought ========================= [1:2] Hear this, elders, pay attention, all inhabitants of the land, Has this been in your days, or in the days of your ancestors? [1:3] Recount it to your children; let your children tell it to their children, and their children to the generation that follows. [1:4] That which the shearer has left, the swarmer has eaten, that which the swarmer has left, the devourer has eaten, and that which the devourer has left, the destroyer has eaten. [1:5] Awake, drunkards, and weep, and wail, all drinkers of wine; the new wine is cut off from your mouth. [1:6] For a nation has come up on my land, powerful, and numberless; its teeth are the teeth of a lion, and its jaw-teeth are like those of a lioness. [1:7] It has laid my vine waste, and barked my fig-tree; it has peeled and cast it away, bleached are the branches. [1:8] Wail as a bride, clad in sack-cloth, for the husband of her youth. [1:9] Cut off are the cereal and drink-offerings from the house of the Lord ; in mourning are the priests, who minister at the Lord ’s altar. [1:10] The fields are blasted, the land is in mourning, for blasted is the corn, the new wine fails and the oil is dried up. [1:11] Be dismayed, farmers; wail, vine-dressers. For the wheat and the barley; for the harvest is lost from the fields. [1:12] The vine fails to bear fruit, and the fig-tree is drooping; the pomegranate, the palm also, and the apple; all the trees of the field are dried up. Yes, joy fails from the people. [1:13] Put on sackcloth, and beat your breasts, priests; wail, ministers of the altar; come, lie all night in sack-cloth, ministers of God; for cereal-offering and drink-offering are cut off from the house of your God. [1:14] Sanctify a fast, summon an assembly, gather the elders and all the inhabitants of the land into the house of the Lord your God, cry to the Lord : [1:15] Alas for the day! Near at hand is the day of the Lord , and as destruction from the Almighty it comes. [1:16] Is not food cut off from before us, gladness and joy from the house of our God? [1:17] The grains shrivel under their hoes, the store-houses are desolate, the barns broken down, for the corn is withered - what will we put in them? [1:18] How the herds of cattle are filled with perplexity, for they have no pasture! The flocks of sheep are forlorn. [1:19] To you, the Lord , I cry. For fire has devoured the pastures of the wilderness, and flame has scorched all the trees of the field. [1:20] The wild animals also look up to you longingly, for the water-courses are dried up, and fire has devoured the pastures of the wilderness. [Joel] [2:1] Blow a horn in Zion, sound an alarm in my holy mountain, let all the inhabitants of the land tremble, for the day of the Lord comes, for near is [2:2] the day of darkness and gloom, the day of cloud and thick darkness! Like the light of dawn scattered over the mountains, a people great and powerful; its like has not been from of old, neither will be any more after it, even to the years of coming ages. [2:3] Before them the fire devours, and behind them a flame burns; like the garden of Eden is the land before them, and after them it is a desolate desert, nothing escapes them. [2:4] Their appearance is as the appearance of horses, and like horsemen they run. [2:5] Like the sound of chariots on the tops of the mountains they leap, like the crackle of flames devouring stubble. like a mighty people preparing for battle. [2:6] Peoples are in anguish before them, all faces grow pale. [2:7] Like mighty men they run, like warriors they mount up a wall, they march each by himself, they break not their ranks, [2:8] none jostles the other. They march each in his path. They fall upon the weapons without breaking. [2:9] They scour the city, they run on the wall. They climb up into the houses. Like a thief they enter the windows. [2:10] Earth trembles before them, heaven quakes, the sun and moon become dark, and the stars withdraw their shining; [2:11] and the Lord utters his voice before his army, for his host is exceedingly great. Mighty is he who performs his word. For great is the day of the Lord , it is terrible, who can endure it? [2:12] But now this is the message of the Lord : Turn to me with all your heart, and with fasting and weeping and mourning, [2:13] rend your hearts and not your garments, and turn to the Lord your God; for he indeed is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and plenteous in love, and relents of the evil. [2:14] Who knows but he will turn and relent, and leave a blessing behind him, a cereal and drink-offering for the Lord your God. [2:15] Blow a horn in Zion, sanctify a fast, summon an assembly, [2:16] gather the people, make holy the congregation, assemble the elders, gather the children, and the infants at the breast. Let the bridegroom come forth from his chamber, and the bride from her bridal tent. [2:17] Between the porch and the altar, let the priests, the ministers of the Lord weep aloud, let them say: Spare, the Lord , your people. Make not your heritage an object of reproach, for the heathen to mock them. Why should it be said among the nations, ‘Where is their God?’ Future blessings ================ [2:18] Then the Lord became jealous for his land, and took pity upon his people, [2:19] and the Lord answered and said to his people: I will send you corn, and wine, and oil. And you will be satisfied with it; I will not make you again an object of reproach among the nations, [2:20] I will remove far from you the northern foe, and I will drive it into a land barren and desolate, its front into the eastern sea, and its rear to the western sea. And from it a stench will arise. Fear not, land, exult. [2:21] Rejoice for the Lord has done great things. [2:22] Fear not, animals of the field. For the pastures of the wilderness are putting forth new grass, for the trees bear their fruit, fig-tree and vine yield their strength. [2:23] Be glad, then, sons of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God, For he has given you the early rain in just measure, and poured down upon you the winter rain, and sent the latter rain as before. [2:24] The threshing floors will be full of grain, and the vats will overflow with new wine and oil. [2:25] I will make restoration to you for the years which the swarmer has eaten. The devourer, the destroyer, and the shearer, my great army which I sent among you, [2:26] and you will eat your food and be satisfied, and praise the name of the Lord your God, who has dealt so wonderfully by you, [2:27] and you will know that I am in the midst of Israel, that I am the Lord your God and none else. And my people will never more be ashamed. [2:28] And it will come to pass afterwards that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh. And your sons and your daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams. Your young men will see visions, [2:29] and even upon your male and female slaves in those days, I will pour out my spirit. [2:30] And I will show signs in heaven and earth: Blood and fire and pillars of smoke. [2:31] The sun will be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood before the coming of the great and terrible day of the Lord . [2:32] But whoever will call upon the name of the Lord will be saved. For in Mount Zion and in Jerusalem there will be those who escape, even as the Lord has said, and among the fugitives those whom the Lord calls. [Joel] [3:1] For, in those days and in that time, when I bring back again the captivity of Judah and Jerusalem, [3:2] I will also gather all the nations and bring them down into the Valley of Jehoshaphat, and there I will enter into judgment with them for my people and my heritage Israel, whom they have scattered among the nations, and divided my land. [3:3] They have cast lots for my people. They have traded boys for prostitutes, and sold girls for wine, and drunk it. [3:4] What are you to me, Tyre and Sidon and all the districts of Philistia? Were you repaying any deed of mine, or were you doing something for me? Quickly will I return your deed upon your heads. [3:5] You who have taken my silver and my gold, and you have brought my goodly jewels into your palaces, [3:6] you have sold the people of Judah and of Jerusalem to the Greeks, so that you might remove them far from their own borders. [3:7] I am about to stir them up from the place to which you have sold them, and I will turn your deeds upon your own head. [3:8] I will sell your sons and your daughters into the hands of the people of Judah, and they will sell them to the Sabeans, to a nation far off, for the Lord has spoken. [3:9] Proclaim this among the nations, sanctify war. Arouse the warriors, let all the fighting men muster and go up. [3:10] Beat your ploughshares into swords, and your pruning-hooks into lances; let the weak say, I, indeed, am strong. [3:11] Bestir yourselves and come, all you nations round about. Quickly gather yourselves together, ask the Lord to bring his warriors. [3:12] Let the nations rouse themselves and come up to the Valley of Jehoshaphat, for there will I sit to judge all the surrounding nations. [3:13] Put in the sickle, for the harvest is ripe; come, get you down, for the press is full. The vats overflow, for great is their wickedness. [3:14] Noisy multitudes, noisy multitudes in the valley of decision For near is the Lord ’s day in the valley of decision! [3:15] Sun and moon have turned dark, and the stars withdrawn their shining. [3:16] Whenever the Lord roars from Zion and utters his voice from Jerusalem, heaven and earth quake; but the Lord is a refuge to his people, and a fortress to the people of Israel. [3:17] And you will know that I am the Lord your God, I who dwells in Zion, and Jerusalem will be holy, and strangers will not pass through her any more. [3:18] And it will come to pass in that day, that the mountains will drop sweet wine, the hills will flow with milk, all the channels of Judah will flow with water, fountain will spring from the house of Judah, and will water the Valley of Shittim. [3:19] Egypt will become a desolation, and Edom a wilderness, because of the violence done to the people of Judah, because they shed innocent blood in their land, Judah will remain inhabited forever, and Jerusalem from generation to generation. [3:20] I will avenge their blood which I have not yet avenged. The Lord lives in Zion! ======= Obadiah ======= ------------- The Vision of ------------- ------- Obadiah ------- --------------- Concerning Edom --------------- [Obadiah] [1:1] The vision of Obadiah; what the Lord said about Edom: We have heard a report from the Lord , a messenger has been sent among the nations; Rise up, let us rise against Edom in battle! [1:2] I will make you small among the nations, and despised by all! [1:3] Your proud heart has misled you, you who live in the clefts of the rock, you who build on high your dwelling. You say to yourselves, ‘Who can bring me down to earth?’ [1:4] Though you build high as the eagle, though between the stars you set your nest, from there will I bring you down, says the Lord . [1:5] If thieves had come to you, marauders by night would they not have stolen only as much as they needed? If grape-gatherers had come to you would they not have left some gleanings? [1:6] Descendents of Esau, all your treasures are looted. [1:7] To your border they have driven you, all your allies have betrayed you. Your avowed friends have overpowered you, they have set a trap for you. Where is your wisdom now? [1:8] The Lord says: On that day, I will destroy the wise of Edom, drive wisdom out of Mount Esau. [1:9] Your warriors will be filled with terror, Teman, none will be left alive on Mount Esau. [1:10] Because of the violence done to your relatives, the people of Jacob shame covers you, you are cut off forever. [1:11] In the day when you stood aloof, in the day when strangers carried away their wealth, and strangers entered into their gates, and over Jerusalem cast lots, you were as one of those strangers. [1:12] You should not have gloated in the day of your relatives:, in the day of their misfortune. You should not have exulted over the land of Judah in the day of their destruction. You should not have laughed loudly in their distress. [1:13] You should not have entered in at the gate of my people in the day of their disaster. You should not have gloated over their calamity, in the day of their disaster, nor stretched out your hand after their wealth in the day of their disaster, [1:14] nor stood at the parting of the ways to cut down their fugitives, nor should you have betrayed their refugees in the day of distress. [1:15] Near at hand is the Lord 's day for all the nations. As you have done so will it be done to you. Your deed will come back upon your own head. [1:16] As you have drunk upon my holy mountain, so all the nations will drink in turn; They will drink deep and be as though they had not been. [1:17] But on Mount Zion some will escape, and those of the house of Jacob will again enter into their possessions. For the house of Jacob will be a fire, and the house of Joseph a flame, but the house of Esau will become stubble. They will kindle and devour it. Not even one of the house of Esau will escape, for the Lord has spoken. [1:19] They will possess the Negeb and Mount Esau, and the Shephelah of the Philistines. They will possess the territory of Ephraim and Gilead, and Benjamin will possess Gilead. [1:20] The exiles of Israel will possess the land of the Canaanites as far as Zarephath. The captives of Jerusalem who are in Sepharad will possess the cities of the Negreb. [1:21] The rescued will come up on Mount Zion to judge Mount Esau, and the kingdom will belong to the Lord . ===== Jonah ===== ----- Jonah ----- [Jonah] Jonah runs away =============== [1:1] This message from the Lord came to Jonah, the son of Amittai: [1:2] “Arise, go to that great city, Nineveh, and preach against it; for their wickedness is known to me.” [1:3] But Jonah started to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord . He went down to Joppa and found a ship going to Tarshish. So he paid the fare and went aboard to go with them to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord . [1:4] But the Lord made a furious wind blow over the sea, and there was such a great storm that the ship was in danger of breaking to pieces. [1:5] The sailors were terrified and each cried for help to his own god. They threw the ship’s cargo into the sea to make the ship lighter. [1:6] Meanwhile Jonah had gone down into the bottom of the ship and lay fast asleep. [1:6] The captain of the ship went and said to him, “How can you sleep? Call on your god; perhaps that god will think of us, so that we may not be lost.” [1:7] The sailors said to one another, “Come, let us cast lots to discover on whose account this evil has come upon us.” So they cast lots, and the lot indicated Jonah. [1:8] So they said to him, “Tell us, what is your business, and where do you come from? What is your country and to what people do you belong?” [1:9] He replied, “I am a Hebrew, and a worshipper of the Lord , the God of heaven, who made the sea and the dry land.” [1:10] Then the men were greatly frightened and said to him, “What have you done?” For they knew that he was fleeing from the presence of the Lord , because he had told them. [1:11] Then they said to him, “What should we do to you, to make the sea calm for us?” For the sea grew more and more stormy. [1:12] He said to them, “Take me up and throw me into the sea, and the sea will be calm for you, for I know that it is because of me this fierce storm has overtaken you.” [1:13] But instead the men rowed hard to get back to the land; they could not, however, for the sea grew more and more stormy ahead. [1:14] So they cried to the Lord and said, “We beg you, Lord , we beg you, don’t let us die for this man’s life, and don’t let us be guilty of shedding innocent blood, for you are the Lord ; you have done as it pleases you.” [1:15] And they took up Jonah, and threw him into the sea; and the sea became calm. [1:16] Then the men greatly feared the Lord , and they offered a sacrifice and made vows to him. [1:17] But the Lord arranged for a great fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah was inside the fish three days and three nights. Jonah’s song ============ [Jonah] [2:1] Jonah prayed to the Lord his God, out of the belly of the fish, [2:2] and said: I cried out of my distress, to the Lord and he answered me; Out of the midst of Sheol I cried aloud, and you heard my voice. [2:3] For you cast me into the heart of the seas, and the great flood rolled about me; all your breakers and your waves passed over me. [2:4] Then I said, I am driven out away from your sight; How will I ever again look towards your holy temple? [2:5] The waters surrounded me, the great deep engulfed me, the sea weeds were wrapped about my head. [2:6] I went down to the roots of the mountains; the prison of the earth closed over me forever.. Yet you brought up my life from destruction, O Lord my God. [2:7] As my life slipped away, I remembered the Lord ; and my prayer reached you, in your holy temple. [2:8] Those who worship worthless idols abandon their own mercy, [2:9] but I will sacrifice to you with loud thanksgiving! I will pay that which I have vowed. Salvation is the Lord ’s. [2:10] And the Lord spoke to the fish, and it threw up Jonah upon the dry land.[Jonah] The message to Nineveh ====================== [3:1] This message from the Lord came to Jonah the second time, [3:2] “Arise, go to that great city, Nineveh, and proclaim to it the message that I tell you.” [3:3] So Jonah started for Nineveh, as the Lord commanded. Now Nineveh was so large a city that it took three days’ journey to cross it. [3:4] Jonah began by going a day’s journey into the city, and he proclaimed, “Forty days more and Nineveh shall be overthrown.” [3:5] And the people of Nineveh believed God; and they ordered a fast and put on sackcloth, from the greatest to the least of them. [3:6] And when word came to the king of Nineveh, he rose from his throne, took off his robe, dressed in sackcloth, and sat in ashes. [3:7] And he made this proclamation and published it in Nineveh: [3:8] “By the decree of the king and his nobles: People, beast, herd, and flock shall not taste anything; let them not eat nor drink water. [3:8] Let both people and animals put on sackcloth and let them cry earnestly to God; let them each turn from their evil ways and from the deeds of violence which they are doing. [3:9] Who knows? God may relent and avert his fierce anger, so that we may not die.” [3:10] When God saw that they turned from their evil course, he relented the evil which he said he would do to them, and did not do it.[Jonah] Jonah sulks =========== [4:1] But this seemed very wrong to Jonah and he became angry. [4:2] He prayed to the Lord and said, “Ah, Lord , wasn’t this what I said when I was still in my own country? That was why I fled at once to Tarshish; for I knew that you are a gracious and merciful God, patient, and loving and ready to forgive. [4:3] Therefore, Lord , I beg you, take my life from me; for it is better for me to die than to live!” [4:4] But the Lord said, “Are you doing right in being angry?” [4:5] Then Jonah went out of the city and sat down on the east side, and there made a hut for himself and sat under it, waiting to see what would become of the city. [4:6] And the Lord arranged for a bush to grow up over Jonah as a shade for his head to make him comfortable. The bush gave Jonah great pleasure; [4:7] but at dawn the next day God arranged for a worm which attacked the bush, so that it wilted. [4:8] And when the sun rose, God arranged a hot east wind. And the sun beat upon Jonah’s head, so that he was faint and begged that he might die, saying, “It is better for me to die than to live.” [4:9] But God said to Jonah, “Are you doing right in being angry about the bush?’ He replied, “I have every right to be as angry as I could possibly be!” Jonah is rebuked ================ [4:10] The Lord said, “You care about a bush which has cost you no trouble and which you have not made grow, which came up in a night and wilted in a night. [4:11] Should I not care for the great city Nineveh, in which there are one hundred and twenty thousand people who do not know their right hand from their left; and many cattle too?” ===== Nahum ===== ----- Nahum ----- [Nahum] [1:1] A message about Nineveh, a vision which came to Nahum from Elkosh. God’s wrath =========== [1:2] A jealous God is the Lord , vengeful is the Lord and full of wrath. The Lord does not fail to punish. Vengeful is the Lord against his enemies. [1:3] The Lord is slow to anger, great in power. The guilty will not escape his punishment. Storm tempest is his path, and cloud is the dust of his feet. [1:4] He rebukes the sea and dries it up, and makes all the streams run dry. Bashan and Carmel are languishing, and the bloom of Lebanon is withered. [1:5] The mountains tremble before him and the hills dissolve. The earth heaves before him, the world and all who live in it. [1:6] Before his indignation who can stand? Who can withstand the heat of his anger? His wrath pours forth like fire, he shatters rocks. [1:7] The Lord is good to those who hope in him, a place of refuge in the day of trouble. [1:8] In the midst of the overwhelming flood he rescues them. An end he makes of those who rise up against him, and drives his enemies into darkness. [1:9] Why do you plot against the Lord ? He will end you. He only takes vengeance once. [1:10] Thorns, tangled and drenched, they are consumed like dry stubble. [1:11] Nineveh! From you has arisen one who plots evil against the Lord , a counsellor or wickedness. Good news for Judah =================== [1:12] The Lord says: “Though they are many and strong, they will pass away and be gone. Though I have afflicted you, I will afflict you no more, [1:13] and now I will break his yoke from your necks and snap your chains.” [1:14] The Lord has given this command concerning you, Nineveh: “Your name will no longer be remembered. I will destroy every idol and image in the house of your God . I will destroy even your tomb, for you are worthless.” [1:15] Look! On the mountains a messenger bringing good news, announcing peace! “Celebrate the feasts, Judah, fulfill your vows. Never again will evil Nineveh invade your land, they are destroyed!” Destruction of the city ======================= [Nahum] [2:1] Nineveh! The destroyer has come up against you; mount guard upon the rampart; watch the road; brace yourselves; strengthen your might to the utmost. [2:2] For the Lord is restoring the majesty of Jacob and of Israel, though the devastators have plundered them and destroyed their vines. [2:3] The shields of his warriors are dyed red, his soldiers are clothed in scarlet, his chariots gleam like fire on the day he prepares for battle spears are shaken. [2:4] Chariots rush across the fields, plunge about in the open places; they look like flaming torches, as lightning they dart to and fro like lightening. [2:5] A leader rallies his nobles, they hurl themselves forward. They speed on toward the wall; the storming-shield is set up. [2:6] The water-gates are thrown open, and the palace dissolves in ruins. [2:7] The queen is stripped, she is carried off. Her maids moan like doves, beating upon their breasts. [2:8] Like a pool of water is Nineveh, her waters fast ebbing away. “Stand firm! Stand firm!” someone cries. But no one turns back. [2:9] “Loot the silver, loot the gold, for there is no end to the treasure, the wealth and precious things.” [2:10] Nineveh is empty, desolate, devastated, with faint heart and knocking knee. There is weakness in every limb, and faces grow pale. [2:11] Where now is the den of lions? Where now the lair of their young? Where the lion used to withdraw, with his cubs, with none to disturb them? [2:12] The lion tore enough for his cubs, and strangled the prey for his lionesses. He filled his caves with the kill, he filled his lairs with fresh meat. [2:13] “But see, I am against you,” the Lord of hosts declares, “I will burn up your chariots in smoke and fire. The sword will devour your young lions. You will never again prey on the land. No more will your messengers be heard.” Ruin ==== [Nahum] [3:1] Woe to the bloody city! Full of lies and plunder, without end is the spoil. [3:2] Hear the crack of the whip, hear the rattle of wheels. Galloping horses, jolting chariots. [3:3] Horsemen charging, swords flashing. spears glittering, a multitude of slain, a heap of carcasses. No end to the corpses over which people stumble! [3:4] “Because you acted like a whore, bewitching the nations, enticing the peoples, [3:5] I am against you, Nineveh” the Lord of hosts declares. “I will strip your clothes and show the nations your nakedness, and the kingdoms your shame. [3:6] “I will fling loathsome filth at you, and make you an object of contempt, a spectacle, so that everyone who sees you will flee from you and say: ‘Nineveh is laid waste; who will mourn for her?’ [3:8] “Are you any better than Thebes, which stood on the banks of the Nile, with waters around as a rampart, whose wall was the sea of waters? [3:9] Her strength was Ethiopia and Egypt. The Libyans were her helpers, and Put with its countless people. [3:10] Yet she was exiled and made captive. On all corners of the streets her infants were dashed to pieces. Lots were cast for her nobles, all her great ones were bound in chains. [3:11] “You too, Nineveh, will be drunk with fear; you too will seek a place of escape from the foe. [3:12] All your fortresses are fig-trees with the first ripe figs; if shaken, they fall into the mouth of the eater! [3:13] Your troops are weak as women before your foes; the gates of your land are wide open; your defenses burned down. [3:14] “Draw water for the siege, strengthen your fortresses. Go to the clay pits and tread the clay; take up the brick moulds. [3:15] There the fire will consume you, the sword will cut you down. “Multiply like the locust or a swarm of grasshoppers. [3:16] Increase the numbers of your merchants until they are more than the stars of heaven, [3:17] until your watchmen are locusts, and your scribes like grasshoppers, which swarm in the hedges on a cold day; but when the sun rises they fly away, no one knows where. [3:18] “King of Assyria: your princes slumber, your nobles sleep! Your people are scattered on the mountains with no one to gather them! [3:19] There is no healing for your hurt, your wound is incurable. All who hear of your fate clap their hands in joy, for who has escaped your limitless cruelty?” ======== Habakkuk ======== -------- Habakkuk -------- [Habakkuk] Habakkuk’s message ================== [1:1] The message seen by the prophet Habakkuk. [1:2] How long, Lord , have I cried out and without you hearing me! I cry to you, “Violence!,” but you do not help. [1:3] Why do you make me look upon wickedness and behold trouble? Destruction and violence are before my eyes, and fighting and quarrelling. [1:4] Therefore law is relaxed, and justice is never rendered; For the wicked surround the righteous. So that justice is perverted. The Lord says: [1:5] Look around dealers of treason, look well, Shudder and be shocked. For I am about to do a work in your days; You will not believe it when it is told. [1:6] For behold I am about to raise up the Chaldeans, a nation grim and quick of action who go through the whole breadth of the earth to possess dwelling places not their own. ' [1:7] Awful and terrible are they. They write their own rules. [1:8] Their horses are swifter than leopards, and their riders quicker than the wolves of evening. From afar they come swooping down, like the eagle which hastens to devour. [1:9] They all come to do violence, the direction of their faces is straight ahead. And they gather up captives like sand. [1:10] At kings they scoff, and princes are sport to them. They laugh at every fortress. and heap up earth and take it. [1:11] Then they sweep on like the wind, Their strength is their god. [1:12] Are you not eternal, O the Lord , My holy One, who does not die? the Lord you have appointed them for judgment, you have established them for correction, my Rock; [1:13] With eyes too pure to see evil, can you not not look on iniquity? Why do you regard the treacherous in silence, while the wicked swallows the upright? [1:14] They treat people like the fish of the sea, like reptiles that have no ruler. [1:15] They sweep them all into their nets, And gathers them into their drag-nets. [1:16] Therefore they sacrifice to their net, and burn offerings to their drag-net; For by their nets are their portions generous, and their food is rich. [1:17] Will they empty their nets continually, to slaughter nations unpityingly? [Habakkuk] [2:1] I will take my stand on my watch-tower, and station myself on a turret. I will watch to see what the Lord will say to me, what answer he will make to my complaint. [2:2] Then the Lord answered me and said: Inscribe the vision plainly on tablets, that even someone running by can read it. [2:3] Though the vision waits for the time set, it hastens to fulfilment and will not fail; Though it linger long, wait for it. For it surely will come and will not be delayed. And this is the message: [2:4] The soul of the wicked faints within him, But the upright lives by his faithfulness. [2:5] Wealth is treacherous. the arrogant never have enough, They makes their desire as wide as Sheol, are like death, unsatisfied, For they gather to themselves all the nations, bring together to themselves all peoples. [2:6] Should not everyone mock them? sing a taunt-song against them, and say. Woe to him who amasses what is not his, and loads himself down with pledges! [2:7] Will your debtors not suddenly rise, and those who will overthrow you awake, and you become their prey? [2:8] For as you have plundered many peoples, the survivors will prey upon you. [2:9] Woe to him who gets false gain, and stores up evil for his house, to set his nest on high, to be safe from the grip of misfortune! [2:10] You have planned only shame for your house. You have cut off many peoples. And brought guilt upon yourself; [2:11] The stone will cry out from the wall, and the beam from the timber will answer it. [2:12] Woe to him who builds a city by bloodshed, and founds a town by crime, [2:13] while the peoples toil for what fires will consume, and the nations weary themselves for nothing! This the Lord of hosts has said, [2:14] and the earth will be as full of the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as the seas are full of water. [2:15] Woe to him who in fury gives drink to his neighbor to make him drunk, and see him naked., [2:16] You are filled with shame, not glory; drink yourself and be uncovered, The cup from the Lord ’s hand will pass in turn to you, and shame will cover your glory! [2:17] For the violence done to Lebanon overwhelm you. and the destruction of animals will terrify you, because you shed people’s blood on the earth, destroyed people and their cities. [2:18] What use is an idol? A human made it, a metal image, It cannot speak, it cannot teach truth, Why does its maker trust it? [2:19] Woe to him who says to a block, awake! to a dumb stone, arise! It may be set with gold and silver, but there is no breath at all within it. [2:20] the Lord is in his holy temple. Let all the earth be silent before him![Habakkuk] ---- [3:1] A prayer of Habakkuk the prophet, according to the Sigionnoth. [3:2] I have heard, the Lord , of your fame, I have seen, the Lord , your work; Through the years you have make yourself known, in wrath you remember mercy. [3:3] God comes from Teman, and the Holy One from the mountain-land of Paran. His glory covers the heavens, and his splendor fills the earth. [3:4] Before him it is like the light, rays he has at his side, where his power is hidden. [3:4] Before him pestilence stalks, after him plague follows. [3:6] He stands, and the earth trembles, he looks, and the nations melt away, and the mountains of old are scattered, the everlasting hills bow down. These are his ways from of old. [3:7] The tents of Cushan are afraid, the curtains of Midian tremble. [3:8] Is your wrath, the Lord , with the rivers? Is your anger against the streams? Or your wrath against the sea? Is that why you ride on thy war-steeds? Why you mount your chariots of victory? [3:9] Why you bare your bow? Why you fill your quiver with shafts? You split the earth with torrents. [3:10] The mountains see you and writhe. The tempest of waters sweeps by. The great deep sends forth its voice. The height lifts up its hands. [3:11] The sun forgets to rise. The moon stands still in its place. Your arrows go forth to give light. Your glittering spear is as lightning. [3:12] In rage you stride over the earth. In wrath you trample the nations. [3:13] You go forth to save your people. You go to help your anointed. You crush the head of the wicked, laying him bare from thigh to neck. [3:14] You pierced his head with his spears, as his champions storm out to scatter me, as they rejoice to devour the poor secretly. [3:15] You tread the sea with your horses, while the mighty waters roar. [3:16] I heard, and my body trembles, and at the sound my lips quiver. My bones begin to decay, and my footsteps totter beneath me, while I wait for the day of distress to come upon those who attack us. [3:17] Though the fig-tree bears no fruit, and there is no vintage on the vines, though the olive harvest fails, and the fields produce no food, though the flock be cut off from the fold, and there is no herd in the stalls, [3:18] yet I will exult in the Lord , and rejoice in the God who saves me. [3:19] The Lord the Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of deer, and causes me to walk on the heights! To the music director: Use stringed instruments. ========= Zephaniah ========= --------- Zephaniah --------- [Zephaniah] [1:1] The message of the Lord , which came toZephaniah, son of Cushi, son of Gedaliah, son of Amariah, son of Hezekiah, inthe time of Josiah of Judah who was son of Amon . The Day of Judgment upon Judah ============================== [1:2] I will completely take away everything from off the face of the earth, is the message from the Lord . [1:3] I will take away human and animal, the birds of the heavens and the fish of the sea. I will cause the wicked to stumble, and I will cut off humanity from the face of the earth. [1:4] And I will stretch out my hand over Judah and all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and I will cut off from this place the surviving Baalism and the name of the heathen priestlings, [1:5] and those who worship on the housetops the host of the heavens, and those worshippers of the Lord who also pay homage to Milcom, [1:6] and those who turn back from following the Lord , And those who do not seek the Lord nor strive to find him. [1:7] Bow before the Lord God , for near is the day of the Lord , For the Lord has prepared a sacrifice, he has sanctified his guests. [1:8] I will punish the officers and the royal princes, and all those who clothe themselves in foreign apparel; [1:9] and I will punish all who leap over the threshold, who fill the house of their lord with violence and deceit. [1:10] Hark! a cry from the Fish Gate, and a wailing from the New Quarter, and a great din from the hills, and a wailing from the inhabitants of the Mortar, for all the merchants are destroyed, all those laden with money are cut off. [1:12] I will search Jerusalem with a lamp and I will punish those who are at ease, sit comfortably with their wine, who are saying to themselves, “the Lord brings neither prosperity nor calamity.” [1:13] Their wealth will become a prey and their houses a desolation. Though they build houses, they will not inhabit them; though they plant vineyards, they will not drink wine from them. [1:14] Near is the day of the Lord ! near and rapidly approaching! Near is the bitter day of the Lord , and strong men will then cry out; [1:15] That day is a day of wrath, a day of trouble and distress, a day of destruction and desolation, a day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and thick darkness, [1:16] a day of the trumpet and battle-cry, against the fortified cities and against the high battlements. [1:17] And I will bring distress upon men and they will walk as the blind, And their blood will be poured out as dust and their flesh as dung. [1:18] Neither their silver nor their gold will be able to deliver them. For in the day of the wrath of the Lord and in the fire of his jealousy the whole earth will be devoured. For he will make a speedy end of all the inhabitants of the earth.[Zephaniah] The Imminent Judgment upon the Nations ====================================== [2:1] Be ashamed within yourselves, be ashamed, [2:2] before you become as the drifting chaff, before the day of the Lord comes upon you, before the day of the Lord 's wrath comes upon you. [2:3] Seek the Lord all you meek of the earth, you who execute his law; Seek righteousness, seek meekness; perhaps you may be hidden in the day of the Lord 's wrath. [2:4] For Gaza will be forsaken; Ashkelon a desolation; Ashdod - by noon will they rout her and Ekron be torn up! [2:5] Woe to the dwellers by the seashore; people of the Cherethitesl The word of the Lord is against you, Canaan, land of the Philistines! I will destroy you so that you will be without inhabitant, [2:6] and you will become shepherds cots and folds for flocks. [2:7] In the house of Ashkelon will they lie down at evening by the sea will they feed. [2:8] I have heard the taunts of Moab, and the revilings of the Ammonites, how they have taunted my people, and spoken boastfully concerning their border. [2:9] Therefore as I live, says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel: Moab will be like Sodom, and the Ammonites like Gomorrah, a breeding-place of nettles, and saltpits, and a desolation, forever; the residue of my people will plunder them, and the remnant of my nation will inherit them. [2:10] This will they have for their pride, because they have taunted and spoken boastfully against the people of the Lord of hosts. [2:11] The Lord will terrify them; he will reduce all the gods of the earth; then all the peoples of the nations will worship him, each in their own land. [2:12] You, also, Ethiopians, slain by his sword are you! [2:13] And I will stretch out my hand against the north and destroy Assyria; And I will make Nineveh a desolation, dry as the wilderness, [2:14] And herds will lie down in her, amidst every beast of the earth, Both desert owl and screech owl will lodge in its capitals. The owl will hoot in the window; the raven on the doorstep, for the city is destroyed. [2:15] This is the exultant city which sat secure. She who said to herself, I am and there is none else! How has she become a desolation! A lair of beasts! Every passerby hisses at her, shakes his hand.[Zephaniah] Jerusalem's Deep-seated Corruption ================================== [3:1] Woe to the rebellious and unclean city of oppression, [3:2] She has not obeyed the voice, she has not accepted instruction, In the Lord she has not trusted, to her God she has not drawn near. [3:3] Her rulers in her midst are roaring lions. Her judges are evening wolves, who leave nothing over until the morning, [3:4] Her prophets are braggarts, faithless men. Her priests profane what is holy and do violence to the law. [3:5] The Lord is righteous in her midst, he does no wrong, Morning by morning he establishes his decree, Light is not lacking, an oversight is unknown. [3:6] "I have cut off nations, their turrets are destroyed; I have laid waste their broad streets, so that none passes over them. Desolate are their cities without a man, without inhabitant." [3:7] I said, “Surely she will fear me, she will accept instruction. Nothing will vanish from her eyes that I have impressed upon her; But the more zealously have they made all their deeds corrupt.” The Future Vindication and Exultation of Jerusalem ================================================== [3:8] Wait for me, is the Lord ’s message, until the day when I stand up as a witness, for it is my fixed purpose to gather the nations, to collect the kingdoms, to pour upon them my wrath, even my hot anger; for by the fire of my jealousy will all the earth be consumed. [3:11] In that day you will not be ashamed of all your transgressions which you only have committed against me; for then I will put out of the midst of you your proudly exulting ones, and you will never again vaunt yourself in my holy mountain. [3:12] But I will leave in your midst a people humble and poor, and the remnant of Israel will trust in the name of the Lord . [3:13] They will not do evil, nor speak falsehood, and a deceitful tongue will not be found in their mouth; but they will pasture and lie down, and no one will make them afraid. [3:14] Cry out with joy, O daughter of Zion, shout aloud, O Israel! Rejoice and exult with all your heart, O daughter of Jerusalem. [3:15] The Lord has put away your adversaries, he has turned away your foes; the Lord is king in your midst, you will see evil no more. [3:16] In that day it will be said to Jerusalem, Fear not; O Zion, let not your hands droop. [3:17] The Lord your God is in your midst, a victorious hero. He will rejoice over you with joy, he will renew his love, He will exult over you with singing, [3:18] as on a day of festival. I will take away from you your disgrace, and put away from you your reproach. [3:19] I will destroy at that time all who afflict you. I will deliver the lame, and gather the outcast, I will make them an object of renown and fame in all the earth. [3:20] I will do good to you, at the time when I gather you. For I will make you an object of fame and renown among all the peoples of the earth; when I bring back your captivity before your eyes. This says the Lord . ====== Haggai ====== ---------------- The addresses of ---------------- ------ Haggai ------ ---------------------- to the temple builders ---------------------- [Haggai] The call to rebuild the Temple ============================== [1:1] In the second year of Darius the king, on the first day of the sixth month, this message from the Lord came through Haggai the prophet to Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and to Joshua the son of Jehozadak, the high priest: [1:2] The Lord of hosts says: “The people say that the time has not yet come to rebuild the temple of the Lord .” [1:3] Then this message from the Lord came to Haggai the prophet: [1:4] “Is it a time for you yourselves to dwell in your own well-roofed houses, while this temple lies in ruins?” [1:5] The Lord of hosts says: “Consider your past experiences. [1:6] You sow much, but bring in little; you eat, but you do not have enough; you drink, but are not filled; you clothe yourselves, but not enough to be warm; and he who earns wages, puts those wages in a bag with holes.” [1:7] The Lord of hosts says: [1:8] “Consider your experiences. Go up to the mountains, and bring wood and rebuild the temple; then I will be pleased with it, and I will reveal my glory.” The Lord says: [1:9] “You looked for much, and it came to little; and when you brought the harvest home, I blew it away. Why?” The Lord of hosts says: “Because of my temple lies in ruins, while you shelter in your own houses. [1:10] Therefore the heavens withhold the dew, and the earth withholds its fruit. [1:11] And I have called forth a drought upon the land and upon the mountains, and upon the grain and the new wine and the oil and upon that which the ground brings forth, and upon people and animals, and upon all the labor of your hands.” [1:12] Then Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel and Joshua the son of Jehozadak the high priest, with all the rest of the people, obeyed the command of the Lord their God and the words of Haggai the prophet, as the Lord their God had sent him to them. They feared the Lord . [1:13] Haggai, the prophet of the Lord , as the Lord commanded him, told the people: “The Lord says: I am with you.” [1:14] And the Lord stirred up the spirit of Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and the spirit of Joshua the son of Jehozadak the high priest, and the spirit of all the rest of the people, so that they came and worked on the temple of the Lord of hosts, their God, in the twenty-fourth day of the sixth month. The future glory of the new Temple ================================== [1:15] In the second year of Darius the king, [Haggai] [2:1] on the twenty-first day of the seventh month, this message from the Lord came to Haggai the prophet, [2:2] telling him to speak to Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and to Joshua, the son of Jehozadak, the high priest, and to all the remnant of the people: [2:3] “Who is left among you that saw this temple in its former glory? And how do you see it now? Is it not in your eyes as nothing? [2:4] Yet now be strong, Zerubbabel,” says the Lord , “and be strong, Joshua, son of Jehozadak, the high priest; and be strong, all you people of the land,” says the Lord , “Begin the work, for I am with you” says the Lord of hosts, [2:5] “When your ancestors left Egypt I made a promise to you, and I am still with you. Do not be afraid!” [2:6] The Lord of hosts says: “In a little while, I will shake the heavens, and the earth, and the sea, and the land. [2:7] And I will shake all nations, and the precious things of all nations shall come here; and I will fill this temple with glory,” [2:8] “The silver is mine, and the gold is mine,” [2:9] the Lord of hosts says, “The later glory of this temple shall be greater than the former,” the Lord of hosts says, “and in this place will I grant prosperity.” This is the message of the Lord of hosts. Former displeasure and the new promise of blessings =================================================== [2:10] In the twenty-fourth day of the ninth month, in the second year of Darius, this message from the Lord came to Haggai the prophet: [2:11] The Lord of hosts says: “Ask the priests for a ruling: [2:12] ‘If one carries consecrated meat in the fold of his garment, and with his garment touches bread, or stew, or wine, or oil, or any food, will it become holy?’” And the priests answered: “No.” [2:13] Then said Haggai, “If one that is unclean by reason of a dead body touches any of these, will it be unclean?” And the priests answered: “It would be unclean.” [2:14] Haggai replied: So is this people and so is this nation before me; the Lord declares, and so is every work of their hands; and that which they offer there is unclean. [2:15] Think back from this day, before a stone was laid upon a stone in the temple of the Lord ; [2:16] how were you? When you came to a heap of grain expecting twenty measures, there were only ten ; when you came to the wine vat to draw out fifty vessels, there were only twenty. [2:17] “I struck with blasting and blight, with mildew and with hail all the work of your hands; yet you didn’t turn to me,” says the Lord . [2:18] “Think back from this day, think! From the twenty-fourth day of the ninth month, from the day when the foundations of the temple of the Lord were laid, and consider. [2:19] The seed is in the granary, but the vine and the fig tree and the pomegranate and the olive tree have not yet brought forth fruit. From this day will I bless you.” Zerubbabel ========== [2:20] This message from the Lord came to Haggai a second time on the twenty-fourth day of the month: [2:21] Speak to Zerubbabel, governor of Judah. Tell him: “I will shake the heavens and the earth; and I will overthrow the throne of kingdoms; and I will destroy the strength of the kingdoms of the nations; and I will overthrow the chariots, and those who ride in them; and the horses and their riders shall come down, each by the sword of his fellow.” [2:23] “In that day,” the Lord of hosts says, “I will take you, Zerubbabel, my servant, the son of Shealtiel,” the Lord says, “and will make you like a signet ring, for I have chosen you,” the Lord of hosts says. ========= Zechariah ========= --------- Zechariah --------- [Zechariah] The Lesson from the Past ======================== [1:1] In the eighth month in the second year of Darius, this message of the Lord came to the prophet Zechariah, the son of Berechiah, the son of Iddo: [1:2] The Lord was furious with your ancestors. [1:3] So tell the people this message of the Lord of hosts: "Return to me," says the Lord of hosts. [1:4] "Do not be like your ancestors to whom the former prophets cried, 'The Lord of hosts says to turn now from your evil ways, and from your evil deeds'. They did not heed nor listen to me," says the Lord . [1:5] "Your ancestors, where are they? And the prophets, do they live forever? [1:6] But did not my words and my statutes with which I charged my servants the prophets overtake your ancestors? And they turned and said, 'Just as the Lord of hosts planned to do to us, according to our ways, and according to our deeds, so he has dealt with us.'" The ==== Lord 's Jealous Love for Zion [1:7] In the twenty-fourth day of the eleventh month, which is the month Shebat, in the second year of Darius, this message of the Lord came to the prophet Zechariah, the son of Berechiah, the son of Iddo: [1:8] I saw in the night and there was a man standing among the myrtle trees that were in the valley-bottom, and behind him there were horses, red, sorrel, and white. [1:9] Then said I, "My Lord, what are these?" And the messenger who was talking with me said , "I will show you what these are." [1:10] And the man who was standing among the myrtle trees answered , "These are they whom the Lord has sent to go to and fro through the earth." [1:11] And the riders answered the messenger of the Lord who was standing among the myrtle trees , "We have gone up and down through the earth and behold, all the earth is still and at peace." [1:12] Then the messenger of the Lord answered , "Lord of hosts, how long will you have no pity for Jerusalem and the cities of Judah with which you have been angry for seventy years? [1:13] And the Lord answered the messenger who was talking with me with kind and comforting words. [1:14] So the messenger who was talking with me said to me, "Proclaim now, that the Lord of hosts says: "I . [1:15] But with great wrath am I wroth with the arrogant nations; for I was but a little angry with Israel, but they helped to make greater the calamity. [1:16] Therefore," thus says the Lord : "I am turning to show mercy to Jerusalem; if my temple will be built in it," says the Lord ofhosts," and a measuring line will be stretched over Jerusalem." [1:17] Proclaim again, 'Thus says the Lord of hosts: "My cities will yet overflow with prosperity; and the Lord will yet comfort Zion and choose Jerusalem."'************************************** Destruction of the Heathen Powers ================================= [1:18] Now I lifted up mine eyes and looked, and there were four horns. [1:19] And I said to the messenger who was talking with me, 'What are these?' And he assured me, 'These are the horns with which he scattered Judah.' [1:20] Then the Lord showed me four smiths. [1:21] And I said, What are these coming to do? And he said, These are the horns which scattered Judah, so that none lifted up his head; but these are come to terrify them, to strike down the horns of the nations, which lifted up their horn against the land of Judah to scatter it.[Zechariah] Promise that Jerusalem Shall be Gloriously Restored =================================================== [2:1] Then I lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and there was a man with a measuring line in his hand. [2:2] Then I said, Where are you going? And he said to me, To measure Jerusalem, to see what is its breadth and length. [2:3] Thereupon the messenger who talked with me stood still, and another messenger went out to meet him, [2:4] and said to him, Run, speak to this young man, saying, 'Jerusalem will be inhabited as villages without walls, because of the multi- tude of men and cattle in her midst. [2:5] For I,' says the Lord , 'will be a wall of fire round about her, and I will be the glory in the midst of her.' [2:6] Ho, ho! Flee from the land of the north, is the Lord 's oracle. For I have spread you abroad as the four winds of the heavens, is the Lord 's oracle. [2:7] Ho, escape to Zion, you who dwell in Babylon. [2:8] For thus says the Lord of hosts to the nations which plundered you. He that toucheth you toucheth the apple of mine eye. [2:9] For, behold, I am about to shake my hand over them. And they will be a spoil to those who served them; and you will know that the Lord of hosts hath sent me. [2:10] Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion, for, lo, I come, And I will dwell in the midst of thee, is the Lord 's oracle. [2:11] And many nations will join themselves to the Lord in that day, And will be his people, and he will dwell in the midst of thee, And thou shalt know that the Lord of hosts hath sent me to thee. [2:12] And the Lord will inherit Judah as his portion in the holy land. And he will yet comfort Zion and choose Jerusalem. [2:13] Be silent, all flesh, before the Lord ; For he hath waked up out of his holy habitation.[Zechariah] Purification of the Priesthood and Nation ========================================= [3:1] Then he showed me Joshua, the high priest, standing before the messenger of the Lord and the adversary standing at his right hand to accuse him. [3:2] And the messenger of the Lord said to the adversary, the Lord rebuke thee, O adversary; yea, the Lord , who hath chosen Jerusalem, rebuke thee. Is not this a brand plucked out of the fire? [3:3] Now Joshua was clothed with filthy garments and was standing before the messenger. [3:4] And the messenger answered and spoke to those who stood before him, saying, Take the filthy garments from off him, and clothe him with robes of state; [3:5] set a clean turban upon his head. So they set a clean turban upon his head, and clothed him with garments; and the messenger of the Lord was standing by. [3:6] And the messenger of the Lord testified to Joshua, saying, [3:7] Thus says the Lord of hosts: 'If thou wilt walk in my ways, and if thou wilt keep my charge, then thou also shalt rule my house and shalt also keep my courts and I will give thee a place of access among these that stand by. [3:8] Hear now, O Joshua the high priest, thou and thy associates who sit before me; for they are men who are a sign; for behold, I am about to bring forth my servant the Branch. [3:9] For, behold, the stone that I have set before Joshua; upon one stone are seven facets: behold, I will engrave it,' says the Lord of hosts, 'and I will remove the iniquity of that land in one day. [3:10] In that day,' says the Lord of hosts, 'you will each invite his neighbor under the vine and under the fig tree.'[Zechariah] The Supporters of the Temple Service ==================================== [4:1] Then the messenger who talked with me came again and waked me, as a man who is wakened out of his sleep. [4:2] And he said to me. What seest thou? And I said, I see there a candlestick, all of gold, with a bowl upon the top of it, and its seven lamps upon it; there are seven pipes to each of the lamps, which are upon the top of it, [4:3] and two olive trees by it, one on the right side of the bowl, and the other on its left side. [4:4] And I spoke and said to the messenger who talked with me, What are these, my lord? [4:5] Then the messenger who talked with me answered and said to me, Knowest thou not what these are? And I said. No, my lord. [4:6] Then he answered and spoke to me, saying. The eyes of the Lord , which rove to and fro through the whole earth. This is the message of the Lord regarding Zerubbabel, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, says the Lord of hosts, will I make the great mountain before Zerubbabel a plain; and he will bring forth the top stones with shoutings of, 'Grace, grace, to it.' [4:8] Moreover this message of the Lord came to me: [4:9] The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this temple; his hands will also finish it; and you will know that the Lord of hosts hath sent me to you. [4:10] For who hath despised the day of small things? for they will rejoice, and will see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel. [4:11] Then I answered, and said to him, What are these two olive trees upon the right side of the candlestick and upon its left side? [4:13] And he answered me and said, Knowest thou not what these are? And I said. No, my lord.[Zechariah] The Flying Roll =============== [5:1] Then again I lifted up mine eyes, and saw, and there was a flying roll. [5:2] And he said to me, What seest thou? And I answered, I see a flying roll; its length is twenty cubits, and its breadth ten cubits. [5:3] Then he said to me, This is the curse that goes over the whole land; for every thief and every sinner one who swears falsely, has, for a long time, remained unpunished. [5:4] I will cause it to go forth, is the oracle of the Lord of hosts, and it will enter into the house of the thief, and into the house of him who swears falsely by my name; and it will abide in the midst of his house and will consume it with its timber and its stones. The Woman in an Ephah ===================== [5:5] Then the messenger who talked with me went forth, and said to me, Lift up now thine eyes, and see what is this ephah that goeth forth. [5:6] And I said. What is it? And he said, This ephah that goeth forth, is their iniquity in all the land. [5:7] And behold, a round leaden cover was lifted up, and there was a woman sitting in the midst of the ephah. [5:8] And he said, This is Wickedness. And he cast her down into the midst of the ephah; and he cast the round leaden cover upon its mouth. [5:9] Then lifted I up mine eyes and saw, and there came forth two women, and the wind was in their wings. Now they had wnngs like the wings of a stork; and they lifted up the ephah between them. [5:10] Then I said to the messenger who talked with me, Whither do these bear the ephah? [5:11] And he said to me, To build her a house in the landof Shinar; and when it is prepared, they will cause her to rest in herown place.[Zechariah] The War-Chariots of the ======================== Lord [6:1] Again I lifted up mine eyes and looked, and four chariots came from between two mountains; and the mountains were mountains of brass. [6:2] On the first chariot were red horses; and on the second chariot black horses; [6:3] and on the third chariot white horses; and on the fourth chariot dappled horses. [6:4] Then I spoke and said to the messenger who talked with me, What are these, my lord? [6:5] And the messenger answered and said to me, These go forth to the four winds of heaven, after standing before the Lord of all the earth. [6:6] The black horses are going forth toward the north country; and the white went forth toward the land of the east; and the dappled went forth toward the south country. [6:7] And the red went forth, and sought to go that they might walk to and fro through the earth. And he said. Go forth, walk to and fro through the earth. [6:8] Then he cried, and said to me. Behold, they that go toward the north country will quiet my spirit in the north country. Preparations for the Crowning of Zerubbabel =========================================== [6:9] Now this message of the Lord came to me: [6:10] Take of them of the captivity, even of Heldai, of Tobijah of Jedaiah and of Josiah the son of Zephaniah who have come from Babylon, [6:11] yea, take of them silver and gold in order to make a crown and set it on tlie head of Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel. [6:12] Thou shalt also say to them: 'Thus says the Lord of hosts: "Behold, the man whose name is the Branch; and he will grow up out of his place; and he will build the temple of the Lord ; [6:13] and he will bear the glory and will sit and rule upon his throne; and Joshua, the son of Jehozadak will be a priest upon his right, and the counsel of peace will be between them both. [6:14] And the crown will be to Heldai and Tobijah and Jedaiah, and Josiah the son of Zephaniah, as a memorial in the temple ofthe Lord . [6:15] And they who are far off will come and build in the temple of the Lord ; and you will know that the Lord of hosts hath sent me to you. And this will come to pass, if you will diligently obey the voice of the Lord your God."'[Zechariah] the ==== Lord 's Real Demands, [7:1] In the fourth year King Darius, on the fourth day of the ninth month, [7:2] the city of Bethel sent Sharezer and Regem-melech and their men, to entreat the favor of the Lord , [7:3] and to speak to the priests of the house of the Lord of hosts, and to the prophets, saying,should I weep in the fifth month, separating myself, as I have done these many years? [7:4] Then this message of the Lord of hosts came to me: [7:5] Speak to all the people of the land, and to the priests, saying, 'When you fasted and mourned in the fifth and in the seventh month, even these seventy years, did you at all fast to me, even to me? [7:6] And when you eat and when you drink, do you not eat for yourselves, and drink for yourselves? [7:7] Should you not hear these words which the Lord cried by the former prophets, when Jerusalem was inhabited and in prosperity, and her cities round about her, and the South Country, and the lowland were inhabited? [7:8] This message of the Lord came to Zechariah: [7:9] The Lord of hosts declares: Execute true judgment, and show kindness and pity each to his brother; [7:10] and oppress not the widow nor the fatherless, the resident alien nor the poor; and let none of you devise evil against your brother in his heart. [7:11] But they refused to heed, and turned a stubborn shoulder, and stopped their ears, that they might not hear. [7:12] Yea, they made their hearts as an adamant lest they should hear the teaching, and the words which the Lord of hosts had sent by his spirit through the former prophets. Therefore there came great wrath from the Lord of hosts. [7:13] And it came to pass, that, as I cried and they would not hear, so they cried and I did not hear, says the Lord of hosts. [7:14] So I scattered them by a whirlwind among the nations which they did not know. Thus the land was left desolate behind them, so that no man passed to or fro; for they made the pleasant land a desolation.[Zechariah] Promises that the Scattered Exiles Will Return and the ======================================================= Lord 's Rule be Widely Acknowledged [8:1] Now this message of the Lord of hosts came to me: [8:2] Thus says the Lord of hosts, 'I cherish for Zion a great jealousy, And I am jealous for her with great indignation.' [8:3] Thus says the Lord , 'I have returned to Zion, And will dwell in the midst of Jerusalem And Jerusalem will be called, "The City of Truth"; And the mountain of the Lord of hosts, "The Holy Mountain."' [8:4] Thus says the Lord of hosts: 'Old men and old women will again sit in the broad places of Jerusalem, Each man with his staff in his hand because of old age. [8:5] And the streets of the city will be full of boys, And of girls playing in its broad places.' [8:6] Thus says the Lord of hosts: Because it seenieth impossible to the remnant of this people, Is it also impossible for me? says the Lord of hosts. [8:7] Thus says the Lord of hosts: I am about to rescue my people. From the land of the east and the land of the west, [8:8] And I will bring them and they will dwell in the midst of Jerusalem. And they will be my people in truth and righteousness, And I will in turn be their God. [8:9] Thus says the Lord of hosts: Let your hands be strong, you who hear in these days the words of the prophets. [8:10] For before these days there was no hire for man, nor any hire for beasts, neither was there any peace to him who went out or came in, because of the foe; for I set each against his neighbor. [8:11] But now I will not be to the remnant of the people as in former days, says the Lord of hosts. [8:12] For I will scatter prosperity broadcast; the vine will bear its fruit and the ground will yield its increase, and the heavens will give their dew, and I will cause the remnant of this people to inherit all these things. [8:13] And it will come to pass that, as you were accursed among the nations, O house of Judah and house of Israel, so will I save you and you will be a blessing. Fear not, but let your hands be strong. [8:14] For thus says the Lord of hosts: As I thought to do evil to you when your ancestors provoked me to wrath, says the Lord of hosts, and I relented not, [8:15] so again have I thought in these days to do good to Jerusalem and to the house of Judah; do not be afraid. [8:16] These are the things that you should do; Speak the truth with your neighbor; render peaceful decisions in your gates; [8:17] and let none of you devise evil in your heart against your neighbor; and love no false oath; for all these are things I hate, says the Lord . [8:18] And this message of the Lord of hosts came to me: [8:19] Thus says the Lord of hosts: 'The fast of the fourth month, and the fast of the fifth, and the fast of the seventh, and the fast of the tenth, will be for the house of Judah joy and gladness, and cheerful feasts; therefore love truth and peace.' [8:20] Thus says the Lord of hosts: Peoples, and the inhabitants of many cities will come; [8:21] and the inhabitants of one city will go to another, saying, 'Let us go speedily to entreat the favor of the Lord , and to seek the Lord of hosts; I will go also.' [8:22] Yea, many peoples and strong nations will come to seek the Lord of hosts in Jerusalem, and to entreat the favor of the Lord . [8:23] Thus says the Lord of hosts: In those days ten men will take hold out of all the languages of the nations, they will take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew, saying, 'We will go with you, for we have heard that God is with you.'[Zechariah] The Conquest of Israel's Foes ============================= [9:1] the Lord is in the land of Hadrach, And Damascus is his resting-place. For the cities of Aram belong to the Lord , [9:2] And also Hamath which borders on it. Tyre and Sidon, for they are very wise. [9:3] And Tyre built for herself a fortress. And heaped up silver as dust, And gold like the dirt of the streets. [9:4] Behold the Lord will dispossess her, And cast down her rampart into the sea. And she will be consumed in fire. [9:5] Ashkelon will see and hear, And Gaza writhe in anguish, Ekron, also for her hope will be put to shame. And the king will perish from Gaza, And Ashkelon will remain uninhabited. [9:6] A mixed race will dwell in Ashdod, And I will cut off the pride of the Philistines. [9:7] I will take their blood from their mouth, And their abominations from between their teeth; They also will be a remnant for our God, And like a clan in Judah, And Ekron will be as the Jebusites. [9:8] But I will encamp as a guard about my house, So that none will pass through or return, And no exactor will pass through them again; For now do I regard with mine eyes. [9:9] Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold thy king will come to thee; Vindicated and victorious is he, Humble, and riding upon an ass. Upon the foal of an ass. [9:10] He will cut off chariots from Ephraim, And horses from Jerusalem; The battle-bow will also be cut off, And he will speak peace to the nations; His rule will be from sea to sea, From the river to the ends of the earth. [9:11] And thou, too --- because of thy blood covenant, I have set free thy prisoners from the pit. [9:12] To thee, O Zion will the prisoners of hope return; Also this day he declares, Double will I restore to thee. [9:13] For I have bent Judah to me, As a bow which I have filled with Ephraim; I will urge thy sons against the sons of Greece, And I will make thee like the sword of a hero. Then the Lord will be seen above themm And his shaft will go forth like lightning; the Lord will blow a blast upon a trumpet, And travel on the whirlwinds of the south. [9:14] the Lord of hosts will defend them; And they will devour and tread down the slingstones, They will drink their blood like wine, They will be filled with it like the crevices of an altar. [9:16] And Jeliovah their God will give them victory in that day. Like sheep he will feed them in his land. [9:17] Yea, how good and how beantiful will it be! Corn will make the young men flourish, and new wine the maidens![Zechariah] Victory and Restoration for the ================================ Lord 's Betrayed but Loyal People [10:1] Ask from the Lord rain, From the Lord who formeth the lightnings, And the winter rain he giveth to them, For every one herbage in the field. [10:2] But the teraphim speak vanity, And the diviners see lies, And idle dreams they relate, In vain they offer comfort; Therefore the people wander like sheep, They suffer because there is no shepherd. [10:3] My wrath is hot against the shepherds, And upon the he-goats will I bring punishment; For the Lord will visit his flock,' And make them his splendid war-steeds. [10:4] From him come the cornerstone and the stay, From him the battle-bow, From him goeth forth every ruler. [10:5] Together they will trample on warriors, As on the dirt of the streets in battle, And fight, for the Lord is with them, So that the riders on horses will be put to shame. [10:6] I will make strong the house of Judah, And I will bring deliverance to the house of Joseph, Yea, I will bring them back, for I have compassion upon them, And they will be as if I had not driven them away For I am the Lord their God and will answer them. [10:7] The Ephraimites will be like warriors, And their hearts will rejoice as with wine, Yea, they will see their children and rejoice, Their hearts will exult in the Lord . [10:8] I will whistle for them, and gather them, And they will be as many as they once were, [10:9] And I will sow them among the peoples, But in distant lands they will remember me, And they will bring up their children and come back. [10:10] I will bring them home from the land of Egypt, And from Assyria will I gather them; Into the land of Gilead and Lebanon will I bring them, Though these will not be found sufficient for them. [10:11] And when they pass through the sea of distress, He will smite the sea of breakers, And all the deeps of the Nile will be dried up; The pride of Assyria also will be brought low, And the sceptre of Egypt turned aside.[Zechariah] Fate of Judah's Traitorous Rulers and the Ultimate Deliverance ============================================================== [11:1] Open thy doors, O Lebanon, That the fire may devour thy cedars. [11:2] Wail, O pine-tree, for the cedar is fallen; Wail, O oaks of Bashan, For the inaccessible forest has fallen. [11:3] Hark, the wailing of the shepherds! For their glory is destroyed; Hark, the roaring of young lions! For blasted is the jungle of the Jordan. [11:4] Thus the Lord said to me, shepherd the flock of slaughter, [11:5] whose possessors slaughter them, and hold themselves not guilty! And they who sell them say, Blessed be the Lord , for I am rich! And their shepherds have no compassion upon them. [11:6] I will no longer have pity on the people of this earth, says the Lord . I will turn neighbor against neighbor, and put everyone into the power of a king, and when the land is devastated I will not rescue them. [11:7] So I shepherded the flock of slaughter for the sheep-merchants. And I took to me two staves; one I called Grace, and the other I called Union. So I shepherded the sheep. [11:8] And I set aside three of the shepherds in one month; for I was indignant against them, and they also were displeased at me. [11:9] And I said, I will not shepherd you; what is dead, let it die; what is set aside, let it be set aside; and let those who are left devour one another's flesh. [11:10] And I took my staff, Grace, and broke it, so as to break my covenant which I had made with all the peoples. [11:11] In that day it was broken, and the sheep-merchants who watched me knew that it was the Lord 's message. [11:12] And I said to them, If it is good in your sight, give me my wage; and if not, do not do so. So they weighed out my wage, thirty pieces of silver. [11:13] And the Lord said to me, Cast it into the treasury --- the precious wage that at which I was valued by them! So I took the thirty pieces of silver and cast them into the house of the Lord , into the treasury. [11:14] Then I broke my second staff so as to dissolve the brotherhood between Judah and Jerusalem. [11:15] And the Lord said to me. Take again the implements of a worthless shepherd. [11:16] For behold, I am about to appoint a shepherd over the land; those who are thrust down he will not visit; those who are scattered he will not seek out, the wounded he will not heal, the sick he will not make whole; but the flesh of the fat he will devour and even their hoofs he will tear. [11:17] Woe to my worthless shepherd, who deserts the flock! The sword be upon his arm and his right eye; May his arm completely wither, And his right eye be blinded.[Zechariah] Jerusalem's Deliverance from Heathen Attack =========================================== [12:1] This is a message from the Lord about Israel: This says the Lord , who streches out the heavens who laid the earth on its foundations who gave breath to people: [12:2] Behold, I am about to make Jerusalem A bowl of reeling for all the surrounding peoples, And there will be a siege of Jerusalem. [12:3] And it will come to pass in that day that I will make Jerusalem A stone to be lifted up by all the peoples All who lift it up will surely wound themselves! And all the nations of the earth will be gathered together against it. [12:4] In that day, is the Lord 's oracle, I will smite Every horse with panic, and his rider with madness; But over the house of Judah I will open my eyes, Though I smite every horse belonging to the peoples with blindness. [12:5] And the chieftains of Judah will say in their heart, The strength of the inhabitants is in the the Lord of hosts their God. [12:6] In that day I will make the chieftains of Judah Like a pan of fire in the woods, and like a torch among sheaves, So that thy people will devour right and left all the surrounding peoples, But Jerusalem will abide on its own site.And the Lord will first give victory to the tents of Judah, [12:7] So that the glory of the house of David, and of the inhabitants of Jerusalem be not exalted above Judah. [12:8] In that day the Lord will protect the inhabitants of Jerusalem, And he that is feeble among them will in that day be like David, And the house of David like God, like the messenger of the Lord before them. [12:9] And in that day I will seek to destroy all the nations who have come up against Jerusalem. [12:10] And I will pour out upon the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem The spirit of petition and supplication, and they will look upon him whom they have pierced; And they will lament for him as one laments for an only son, They will bitterly grieve for him as one grieves for the first-born. [12:11] In that day lamentation will be as great in Jerusalem,As the lamentation for Hadadrimmon in the Valley of Megiddo. [12:12] And the land will mourn, each family by itself: The family of the house of David by itself, and their wives by themselves, And the family of the house of Nathan by itself, and their wives by themselves, [12:13] And the family of the house of Eli by itself, and their wives by themselves, The family of the Shimeites by itself, and their wives by themselves, [12:14] And all the families who are left, each by itself, and their wives by themselves.[Zechariah] [13:1] In that day a fountain will be opened for the house of David, And for the inhabitants of Jerusalem, for sin and for uncleanness. [13:2] And it will be in that day, is the oracle of the Lord of hosts, I will cut off the names of the idols from the land and they will be remembered no more. Also the prophets and the unclean spirit will I banish from the land. [13:3] And it will come to pass, if any man prophesy any more, His father and his mother who begat him, will say to him, Thou shalt not live, for thou speakest falsehood in the name of the Lord ; And his father and his mother who begat him will thrust him through when he is seized by the prophetic frenzy. [13:4] And it will be in that day that the prophets will be ashamed, each of his vision, And will not wear the hairy mantle in order to deceive; [13:5] And he will say, I am not a prophet, A tiller of the ground am I, for the ground is my possession from my youth. [13:6] And they will say to him. What are these scars on thy hands? And he will say. The sears which I received in the house of my lovers. [13:7] Awake, O sword against my shepherd. And against the man who stands near to me; I will smite the shepherd, that the sheep may be scattered, And I will turn my hand against the little ones. v 8 And it will come to pass in all the land, is the Lord 's oracle, That two-thirds in it will be cut off; But a third will be left in it. [13:9] And I will bring the third into the fire, And melt it as one melts silver, And test it as one tests gold. Then he will call upon my name, And I myself will answer him; And I will say, He is my people, And he will say, the Lord my God.[Zechariah] The Judgment upon the Heathen and the Exaltation of the ======================================================== Lord [14:1] A day is coming for the Lord , when your plundered possessions will be divided while you watch. [14:2] And all the nations will gather to Jerusalem, to fight against it, and the city will be taken and the houses plundered and the women raped; and half of the city will go into captivity, and the rest of the people left in the ruins. [14:3] Then the Lord will go forth and fight against these nations, as once he fought in the day of battle. [14:4] And on that day his feet will stand on the Mount of Olives, (which is opposite Jerusalem, on the east); and the Mount of Olives will be split into halves, from east to west, by an exceedingly great valley; and half of the mountain will slide northwards and half southwards. [14:5] You will escape through my valley --- the valley between the hills will extend as far as Azel, and you will flee as you fled from before the earthquake, in the days of Uzziah king of Judah. But the Lord your God will come, and all the holy ones with him. [14:6] And in that day, there will be no heat nor cold nor frost, [14:7] but it will be constant day --- it is known to the Lord --- with neither day nor night; even at evening time there will be light. [14:8] And on that day living waters will flow from Jerusalem, half of them to the eastern sea and half of them to the western sea; in both summer and winter . [14:9] And the Lord will be king over all the earth; on that day the Lord will be one, and his name one. [14:10] The land will be changed to plain, from Geba to Rimmon, south of Jerusalem; but Jerusalem will be high and inhabited as it stands, from the Benjamin Gate, up to the place of the first gate, and from the Tower of Hananel, to the Corner Gate, and as far as the king's winepresses. [14:11] And there will be no more curse, but Jerusalem will abide in security. ---- [14:12] And this is the plague with which the Lord will smite all the peoples, who array themselves against Jerusalem: he will make their flesh rot while they stand upon their feet, and their eyes will rot in their sockets, and their tongues will rot in their mouth. [14:13] On that day a great panic sent by the Lord will fall on them, everyone will seize their neighbours and attack them. [14:14] Even Judah will fight at Jerusalem, and the wealth of the surrounding nations will be gathered up --- gold and silver and piles of clothing. [14:15] And plague will fall upon the horses, mules, camels, and asses, and upon all the beasts, which are in all those camps. [14:16] And all that will be left of all the nations which fought against Jerusalem will come up from year to year to worship the King, the Lord of hosts, and to keep the feast of tabernacles. [14:17] And whoever of all the peoples of the earth, will not come up to Jerusalem, to worship the King, the Lord of hosts, upon them there will be no rain. [14:18] And if the family of Egypt does not go up nor enter in, upon them also will come the plague, with which the Lord will smite the nations. [14:19] This will be the punishment for the sin of Egypt and the punishment for the sin of all nations, which do not come up to keep the feast of the tabernacles. [14:20] On that day there will be inscribed upon the bells of the horses, "Holy To the Lord " and the pots in the house of the Lord will be as holy as the sacrificial bowls before the altars; [14:21] every pot in Jerusalem and in Judah will be holy to the Lord of hosts, and all who sacrifice will come and take of them and cook in them. And there will be no more traffickers in the house of the Lord of hosts in that day. ======= Matthew ======= --- The --- ---------------------- Good News According to ---------------------- ------- Matthew ------- [Matthew] The Birth, Parentage and Infancy ================================ [1:1] A genealogy of Jesus Christ, a descendant of David and Abraham. [1:2] Abraham was the father of Isaac, Isaac of Jacob, Jacob of Judah and his brothers, [1:3] Judah of Perez and Zerah, whose mother was Tamar, Perez of Hezron, Hezron of Ram, [1:4] Ram of Amminadab, Amminadab of Nashon, Nashon of Salmon, [1:5] Salmon of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab, Boaz of Obed, whose mother was Ruth, Obed of Jesse, [1:6] Jesse of David the King. David was the father of Solomon, whose mother was Uriah’s widow, [1:7] Solomon of Rehoboam, Rehoboam of Abijah, Abijah of Asa, [1:8] Asa of Jehoshaphat, Jehoshaphat of Jehoram, Jehoram of Uzziah, [1:9] Uzziah of Jotham, Jotham of Ahaz, Ahaz of Hezekiah, [1:10] Hezekiah of Manasseh, Manasseh of Ammon, Ammon of Josiah, [1:11] Josiah of Jeconiah and his brothers, at the time of the Exile to Babylon. [1:12] After the Exile to Babylon — Jeconiah was the father of Shealtiel, Shealtiel of Zerubbabel, [1:13] Zerubbabel of Abiud, Abiud of Eliakim, Eliakim of Azor, [1:14] Azor of Zadok, Zadok of Achim, Achim of Eliud, [1:15] Eliud of Eleazar, Eleazar of Matthan, Matthan of Jacob, [1:16] Jacob of Joseph, the husband of Mary, who was the mother of Jesus, who is called ‘Christ’. [1:17] So the whole number of generations from Abraham to David is fourteen; from David to the Exile to Babylon fourteen; and from the Exile to Babylon to the Christ fourteen. ---- [1:18] This is how Jesus Christ was born: His mother Mary was engaged to Joseph, but, before the marriage took place, she found herself to be pregnant by the power of the Holy Spirit. [1:19] Her husband, Joseph, was a religious man and, since he did not want to disgrace her publicly, he resolved to put an end to their engagement privately. [1:20] He had been thinking this over, when an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream. “Joseph, son of David,” the angel said, “do not be afraid to take Mary for your wife, for her child has been conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit. [1:21] She will give birth to a son; name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” [1:22] All this happened in fulfillment of these words of the Lord in the prophet, where he says — [1:23] ‘The virgin will conceive and will give birth to a son, and they will give him the name Immanuel’ — a word which means ‘God is with us.’ [1:24] When Joseph woke up, he did as the angel of the Lord had directed him. [1:25] He made Mary his wife, but they did not sleep together until after the birth of her son; and to this son he gave the name Jesus.[Matthew] ---- [2:1] After the birth of Jesus at Bethlehem in Judea, in the reign of King Herod, some astrologers from the East arrived in Jerusalem, asking: [2:2] “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? For we saw his star in the east, and have come to worship him.” [2:3] When King Herod heard of this, he was much troubled, and so, too, was all Jerusalem. [2:4] He called together all the chief priests and teachers of the law in the nation, and questioned them as to where the Christ was to be born. [2:5] “At Bethlehem in Judea,” was their answer; “for it is said in the prophet — [2:6] ‘And you, Bethlehem in Judah’s land, are in no way least among the chief cities of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler — who will shepherd my people Israel.’” [2:7] Then Herod secretly sent for the astrologers, and found out from them the date of the appearance of the star; [2:8] and, sending them to Bethlehem, he said: “Go and make careful inquiries about the child, and, as soon as you have found him, bring me word so that I, too, can go and worship him.” [2:9] The astrologers heard what the king had to say, and then continued their journey. The star which they had seen in the east led them on, until it reached, and stood over, the place where the child was. [2:10] At the sight of the star they were filled with joy. [2:11] Entering the house, they saw the child with his mother, Mary, and fell at his feet and worshipped him. Then they opened their treasure chests, and offered to the child presents of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. [2:12] But afterwards, having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their own country by another road. [2:13] After they had left, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, and said: “Get up, take the child and his mother, and seek refuge in Egypt; and stay there until I tell you to return, for Herod is about to search for the child, to put him to death.” [2:14] Joseph woke up, and taking the child and his mother by night, went into Egypt, [2:15] and there he stayed until Herod’s death; in fulfillment of these words of the Lord in the prophet, where he says — ‘Out of Egypt I called my Son.’ [2:16] When Herod found out that the astrologers had tricked him, he flew into a rage. He sent and put to death all the boys in Bethlehem and the whole of that neighborhood, who were two years old or under, guided by the date which he had learned from the astrologers. [2:17] Then were fulfilled these words spoken in the prophet Jeremiah, where he says — [2:18] ‘A voice was heard in Ramah, weeping and mourning loudly; Rachel, weeping for her children, refusing all comfort for they were dead.’ [2:19] But, on the death of Herod, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, and said: [2:20] “Get up, take the child and his mother, and go into the Land of Israel, for those who sought to take the child’s life are dead.” [2:21] He woke up, and taking the child and his mother, went into the Land of Israel. [2:22] But, hearing that Archelaus had succeeded his father Herod as king of Judea, he was afraid to go back there; and having been warned in a dream, he went into the part of the country called Galilee. [2:23] There he settled in the town of Nazareth, in fulfillment of these words in the prophets — ‘He will be called a Nazarene.’[Matthew] The Preparation =============== [3:1] About that time John the Baptist first appeared, proclaiming in the wilderness of Judea: [3:2] “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [3:3] John was the one who was spoken of in the prophet Isaiah, where he says — ‘The voice of one crying aloud in the wilderness: “Make ready the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.”’ [3:4] John’s clothes were made of camels’ hair, with a leather strap around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey. [3:5] At that time Jerusalem, and all Judea, as well as the whole district of the Jordan, went out to him [3:6] and were baptized by him in the Jordan River, confessing their sins. [3:7] But when John saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to receive his baptism, he said to them: “You children of snakes! Who has prompted you to seek refuge from the coming judgment? [3:8] Let your life, then, prove your repentance; [3:9] and do not think that you can say among yourselves ‘Abraham is our ancestor,’ for I tell you that out of these stones God is able to raise descendants for Abraham! [3:10] Already the axe is lying at the root of the trees. Therefore every tree that fails to bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire. [3:11] I, indeed, baptize you with water to teach repentance; but he who is coming after me is more powerful than I, and I am not fit even to carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. [3:12] His winnowing-fan is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing-floor, and store his grain in the barn, but the chaff he will burn with a fire that cannot be put out.” [3:13] Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan, to John, to be baptized by him. [3:14] But John tried to prevent him. “I need to be baptized by you,” he said, “so why have you come to me?” [3:15] “This is the way it should be for now,” Jesus answered, “because we should do everything that God requires.” So John agreed. [3:16] After the baptism of Jesus, and just as he came up from the water, the heavens opened, and he saw the Spirit of God coming down like a dove and resting on him, [3:17] and from the heavens there came a voice which said: “This is my dearly loved son, who brings me great joy.”[Matthew] ---- [4:1] Then Jesus was led up into the wilderness by the Spirit to be tempted by the devil. [4:2] And, after he had fasted for forty days and forty nights, he became hungry. [4:3] The Tempter came to him, and said: “If you are God’s Son, tell these stones to become loaves of bread.” [4:4] But Jesus answered: “Scripture says — ‘It is not on bread alone that a person is to live, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” [4:5] Then the devil took him to the Holy City, and, placing him on the parapet of the temple, said to him: [4:6] “If you are God’s Son, throw yourself down, for scripture says — ‘He will give his angels commands about you, and on their hands they will lift you up, so you do not even strike your foot against a stone.’” [4:7] “Scripture also says,” answered Jesus, “You must not tempt the Lord your God.’” [4:8] The third time, the devil took Jesus to a very high mountain, and, showing him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor, said to him: [4:9] “All these I will give you, if you will fall at my feet and worship me.” [4:10] Then Jesus said to him: “Go away, Satan! For scripture says — ‘You must worship the Lord your God, and worship him only.’” [4:11] Then the devil left him alone, and angels came and helped him. The Work in Galilee =================== [4:12] When Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he returned to Galilee. [4:13] Afterwards, leaving Nazareth, he went and settled at Capernaum, which is by the side of the Sea, within the borders of Zebulun and Naphtali; [4:14] in fulfillment of these words in the prophet Isaiah — [4:15] ‘The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, the land of the Road by the Sea, and beyond the Jordan, with Galilee of the Gentiles — [4:16] The people who were living in darkness have seen a great light, and, for those who were living in the shadow-land of death, a light has dawned!’ ---- [4:17] At that time Jesus began to proclaim — “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [4:18] As Jesus was walking along the shore of the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers — Simon, also known as Peter, and his brother Andrew — casting a net into the Sea; for they were fishermen. [4:19] “Come and follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will teach you to fish for people.” [4:20] The two men left their nets at once and followed him. [4:21] Going further on, he saw two other men who were also brothers, James, Zebedee’s son, and his brother John, in their boat with their father, mending their nets. Jesus called them, [4:22] and they at once left their boat and their father, and followed him. [4:23] Jesus went all through Galilee, teaching in their Synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and curing every kind of disease and every kind of sickness among the people; [4:24] and his fame spread all through Syria. They brought to him all who were ill with any form of disease, or who were suffering pain — any who were either possessed by demons, or were lunatic, or paralyzed; and he cured them. [4:25] He was followed by large crowds from Galilee, the district of the Ten Towns, Jerusalem, Judea, and from beyond the Jordan. [Matthew] [5:1] On seeing the crowds of people, Jesus went up the hill; and, when he had taken his seat, his disciples came up to him; [5:2] and he began to teach them, saying [5:3] “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. [5:4] Blessed are the mourners, for they will be comforted. [5:5] Blessed are the gentle, for they will inherit the earth. [5:6] Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied. [5:7] Blessed are the merciful, for they will find mercy. [5:8] Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. [5:9] Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. [5:10] Blessed are those who have been persecuted in the cause of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. [5:11] Blessed are you when people insult you, and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil lies about you because of me. [5:12] Be glad and rejoice, because your reward in heaven will be great; this is the way they persecuted the prophets who lived before you. [5:13] You are salt for the world. But if salt becomes tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, but is thrown away, and trampled underfoot. [5:14] It is you who are the light of the world. A town that stands on a hill cannot be hidden. [5:15] People do not light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lamp-stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. [5:16] Let your light so shine before the eyes of others so that, seeing your good actions, they will praise your Father who is in heaven. [5:17] Do not think that I have come to do away with the law or the prophets; I have not come to do away with them, but to complete them. [5:18] For I tell you, until the heavens and the earth disappear, not even the smallest letter, nor one stroke of a letter, will disappear from the law until all is done. [5:19] Whoever, therefore, breaks one of these commandments, even the least of them, and teaches others to do so, will be the least esteemed in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever keeps them, and teaches others to do so, will be esteemed great in the kingdom of heaven. [5:20] Indeed I tell you that, unless you obey God's commands better than of the teachers of the law, and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. [5:21] You have heard that to our ancestors it was said — ‘You must not commit murder,’ and ‘Whoever commits murder will be brought to trial.’ [5:22] But I say to you that anyone who is angry at their brother or sister will be brought to trial; and whoever insults their brother or sister will be brought before the High Council, while whoever calls them a fool will be in danger of the fires of Gehenna. [5:23] Therefore, when presenting your gift at the altar, if even there you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, [5:24] leave your gift there, before the altar, go and be reconciled to them, first, then come and present your gift. [5:25] Be ready to make friends with your opponent, even when you meet them on your way to the court; otherwise they might hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the judicial officer, and you will be thrown into prison. [5:26] I tell you, you will not come out until you have paid the last cent. [5:27] You have heard that it was said — ‘You must not commit adultery.’ [5:28] But I say to you that anyone who looks at a woman and desires her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. [5:29] If your right eye causes you to sin, take it out and throw it away. It would be best for you to lose one part of your body, and not to have the whole of it thrown into Gehenna. [5:30] And, if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It would be best for you to lose one part of your body, and not to have the whole of it go down to Gehenna. [5:31] It was also said — ‘Let anyone who divorces his wife serve her with a notice of separation.’ [5:32] But I say to you that anyone who divorces his wife, except on the ground of some serious sexual sin, leads to her committing adultery; while anyone who marries her after her divorce is guilty of adultery. [5:33] Again, you have heard that our ancestors were told — ‘Do not break your oaths, keep your vows to the Lord.’ [5:34] But I say to you that you must not swear at all, either by heaven, since that is God’s throne, [5:35] or by the earth, since that is his footstool, or by Jerusalem, since that is the city of the Great King. [5:36] Nor should you swear by your head, since you cannot make a single hair either white or black. [5:37] Let your words be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from what is evil. [5:38] You have heard that it was said — ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ [5:39] But I say to you that you must not resist those who wrong you; but, if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other to them also. [5:40] If someone sues you for your shirt, let them have your cloak as well. [5:41] If you are forced to carry a soldier's pack for one mile, carry it two. [5:42] Give to anyone who asks and, if someone wants to borrow from you, do not turn them away. [5:43] You have heard that it was said — ‘You must love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ [5:44] But what I tell you is this: love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you, [5:45] so that you may become children of your Father who is in heaven; for he causes his sun to rise on bad and good alike, and sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous. [5:46] For, if you love only those who love you, what reward will you have? Even the tax-gatherers do this! [5:47] And, if you only welcome your brothers and sisters, what are you doing more than others? Even the Gentiles do this! [5:48] You, then, must become perfect — as your heavenly Father is perfect. [Matthew] [6:1] Take care not to perform your religious duties in public in order to be seen by others; if you do, your Father who is in heaven has no reward for you. [6:2] Therefore, when you do acts of charity, do not have a trumpet blown in front of you, as hypocrites do in the Synagogues and in the streets so that people will praise them. There, I tell you, is their reward! [6:3] But, when you do acts of charity, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, [6:4] so that your charity may be secret; and your Father, who sees what is in secret, will reward you. [6:5] And, when you pray, you are not to behave as hypocrites do. They like to pray standing in the Synagogues and at the corners of the streets, so that people will see them. There, I tell you, is their reward! [6:6] But, when one of you prays, let them go into their own room, shut the door, and pray to their Father who dwells in secret; and their Father, who sees what is secret, will reward them. [6:7] When praying, do not repeat the same words over and over again, as is done by the Gentiles, who think that by using many words they will obtain a hearing. [6:8] Do not imitate them; for God, your Father, knows what you need before you ask him. [6:9] You, therefore, should pray like this — ‘Our Father, who is in heaven, may your name be held holy, [6:10] your kingdom come, your will be done — on earth, as in heaven. [6:11] Give us today the bread that we will need; [6:12] and forgive us our wrong-doings, as we have forgiven those who have wronged us; [6:13] and take us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.’ [6:14] For, if you forgive others their offenses, your heavenly Father will forgive you also; [6:15] but, if you do not forgive others their offenses, not even your Father will forgive your offenses. [6:16] And, when you fast, do not put on gloomy looks, as hypocrites do who disfigure their faces so that they may be seen by people to be fasting. That, I tell you, is their reward! [6:17] But, when one of you fasts, let them anoint their head and wash their face, [6:18] so that they may not be seen by people to be fasting, but by their Father who dwells in secret; and their Father, who sees what is secret, will reward them. [6:19] Do not store up treasures for yourselves on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. [6:20] But store up treasures for yourselves in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal. [6:21] For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. [6:22] The lamp of the body is the eye. If your eye is unclouded, your whole body will be lit up; [6:23] but, if your eye is diseased, your whole body will be darkened. And, if the inner light is darkness, how intense must that darkness be! [6:24] No one can serve two masters, for either they will hate one and love the other, or else they will attach themselves to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money. [6:25] This is why I say to you: Do not be anxious about your life — what you can get to eat or drink, or about your body — what you can get to wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? [6:26] Look at the wild birds — they neither sow, nor reap, nor gather into barns; and yet your heavenly Father feeds them! Aren’t you more precious than they? [6:27] But which of you, by being anxious, can prolong their life a single moment? [6:28] And why be anxious about clothing? Study the wild lilies, and how they grow. They neither toil nor spin; [6:29] yet I tell you that even Solomon in all his splendor was not robed like one of these. [6:30] If God so clothes even the grass of the field, which is living today and tomorrow will be thrown into the oven, will not he much more clothe you, you of little faith? [6:31] Do not then ask anxiously ‘What can we get to eat?’ or ‘What can we get to drink?’ or ‘What can we get to wear?’ [6:32] All these are the things for which the nations are seeking, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. [6:33] But first seek his kingdom and the righteousness that he requires, and then all these things will be added for you. [6:34] Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own anxieties. Every day has trouble enough of its own. [Matthew] [7:1] Do not judge and you will not be judged. [7:2] For, just as you judge others, you will yourselves be judged, and the standard that you use will be used for you. [7:3] Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your friend’s eye, while you pay no attention at all to the plank of wood in yours? [7:4] How will you say to your friend ‘Let me take out the speck from your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own? [7:5] Hypocrite! Take out the plank from your own eye first, and then you will see clearly how to take out the speck from your friend’s. [7:6] Do not give what is sacred to dogs; they will turn and maul you. Do not throw your pearls before pigs; they will trample them underfoot. [7:7] Ask, and it will be given to you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you. [7:8] For the person who asks receives, the person who searches finds, and to the door will be opened to the person who knocks. [7:9] Who among you, when their child asks them for bread, will give them a stone, [7:10] or when they ask for a fish, will give them a snake? [7:11] If you, then, wicked though you are, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give what is good to those who ask him! [7:12] Do to others whatever you would wish them to do to you; for that is the teaching of both the law and the prophets. [7:13] Go in by the small gate. Broad and spacious is the road who leads to destruction, and those that go in by it are many; [7:14] for small is the gate, and narrow the road, who leads to life, and those that find it are few. [7:15] Beware of false teachers — people who come to you in the guise of sheep, but at heart they are ravenous wolves. [7:16] By the fruit of their lives you will know them. Do people pick grapes from thorn bushes, or figs from thistles? [7:17] So, too, every sound tree bears good fruit, while a worthless tree bears bad fruit. [7:18] A sound tree cannot produce bad fruit, nor can a worthless tree bear good fruit. [7:19] Every tree that fails to bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. [7:20] So it is by the fruit of their lives that you will know such people. [7:21] Not everyone who says to me ‘Master! Master!’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. [7:22] On ‘that day’ many will say to me ‘Master, Master, was not it in your name that we taught, and in your name that we drove out demons, and in your name that we did many miracles?’ [7:23] And then I will say to them plainly ‘I never knew you. Go from my presence, you who live in sin.’ [7:24] Everyone, therefore, who listens to this teaching of mine and acts on it may be compared to a prudent person, who built their house on the rock. [7:25] The rain poured down, the rivers rose, the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, for its foundations were on the rock. [7:26] Everyone who listens to this teaching of mine and does not act on it may be compared to a foolish person, who built their house on the sand. [7:27] The rain poured down, the rivers rose, the winds blew and struck against that house, and it fell; and great was its downfall.” [7:28] By the time that Jesus had finished speaking, the crowd was filled with amazement at his teaching. [7:29] For he taught them like one who had authority, and not like their teachers of the law.[Matthew] ---- [8:1] When Jesus had come down from the hill, great crowds followed him. [8:2] He saw a leper who came up, and bowed to the ground before him, and said: “Master, if only you are willing, you are able to make me clean.” [8:3] Stretching out his hand, Jesus touched him, saying as he did so: “I am willing; become clean.” Instantly he was made clean from his leprosy; [8:4] and then Jesus said to him: “Be careful not to say a word to anyone, but go and show yourself to the priest, and offer the gift directed by Moses, as evidence of your cure.” [8:5] After Jesus had entered Capernaum, a captain in the Roman army came up to him, entreating his help. [8:6] “Sir,” he said, “my manservant is lying ill at my house with a stroke of paralysis, and is suffering terribly.” [8:7] “I will come and cure him,” answered Jesus. [8:8] “Sir,” the captain went on, “I am unworthy to receive you under my roof; but only speak, and my manservant will be cured. [8:9] For I myself am a man under the orders of others, with soldiers under me; and, if I say to one of them ‘Go,’ he goes, and to another ‘Come,’ he comes, and to my slave ‘Do this,’ he does it.” [8:10] Jesus was surprised to hear this, and said to those who were following him: “Never I tell you, in any Israelite have I met with such faith as this! [8:11] Yes, and many will come in from East and West and take their places beside Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven; [8:12] while the heirs to the kingdom will be ‘banished into the darkness’ outside; there, there will be weeping and grinding of teeth.” [8:13] Then Jesus said to the captain: “Go now, and it will be according to your faith.” And the man was cured that very hour. [8:14] When Jesus went into Peter’s house, he saw Peter’s mother-in-law prostrated with fever. [8:15] On his taking her hand, the fever left her, and she rose and began to take care of him. [8:16] In the evening the people brought to Jesus many who were possessed by demons; and he drove out the spirits with a word, and cured all who were ill, [8:17] in fulfillment of these words in the prophet Isaiah — ‘He took our infirmities on himself, and bore the burden of our diseases.’ [8:18] Seeing a crowd around him, Jesus gave orders to go across. [8:19] A teacher of the law came up to him, and said: “Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go.” [8:20] “Foxes have holes,” answered Jesus, “and wild birds their nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head.” [8:21] “Master,” said another, who was a disciple, “let me first go and bury my father.” [8:22] But Jesus answered: “Follow me, and leave the dead to bury their dead.” [8:23] Then he got into the boat, followed by his disciples. [8:24] Suddenly so great a storm came up on the Sea, that the waves broke right over the boat. But Jesus was asleep; [8:25] and the disciples came and roused him. “Master,” they cried, “save us; we are lost!” [8:26] “Why are you so timid?” he said. “You of little faith!” Then Jesus rose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and a great calm followed. [8:27] The men were amazed, and exclaimed: “What kind of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him!” [8:28] On getting to the other side — the country of the Gadarenes — Jesus met two men who were possessed by demons, coming out of the tombs. They were so violent that no one was able to pass that way. [8:29] Suddenly they shrieked out: “What do you want with us, Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before our time?” [8:30] A long way off, there was a drove of many pigs, feeding; [8:31] and the foul spirits began begging Jesus: “If you drive us out, send us into the drove of pigs.” [8:32] “Go,” he said. The spirits came out, and entered the pigs; and the whole drove rushed down the steep slope into the Sea, and died in the water. [8:33] At this the men who tended them ran away and went to the town, carrying the news of all that had occurred, and of what had happened to the possessed men. [8:34] At the news the whole town went out to meet Jesus, and, when they saw him, they entreated him to go away from their neighborhood. [Matthew] [9:1] Afterwards Jesus got into a boat, and, crossing over, came to his own city. [9:2] There some people brought to him a paralyzed man on a bed. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the man: “Courage, child! Your sins are forgiven.” [9:3] Then some of the teachers of the law said to themselves: “This man is blaspheming!” [9:4] Knowing their thoughts, Jesus exclaimed: “Why do your cherish such wicked thoughts? [9:5] Which, I ask, is the easier? — to say ‘Your sins are forgiven’? Or to say ‘Get up, and walk’? [9:6] But to show you that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins” — then he said to the paralyzed man — “Get up, take up your bed, and return to your home.” [9:7] The man got up and went to his home. [9:8] When the crowd saw this, they were awe-struck, and praised God for giving such power to human beings. [9:9] As Jesus went along, he saw a man, called Matthew, sitting in the tax office, and said to him: “Follow me.” Matthew got up and followed him. [9:10] And, later on, when he was having dinner in the house, a number of tax-gatherers and outcasts came in and took their places at the table with Jesus and his disciples. [9:11] When the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples: “Why does your teacher eat in the company of tax-gatherers and outcasts?” [9:12] On hearing this, Jesus said: “It is not those who are healthy who need a doctor, but those who are ill. [9:13] Go and learn what this means — ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice’; for I did not come to call the religious, but the outcast.” [9:14] Then John’s disciples came to Jesus, and asked: “Why do we and the Pharisees fast while your disciples do not?” [9:15] Jesus answered: “Can the groom’s friends mourn as long as the groom is with them? But the days will come, when the groom will be taken away from them, and they will fast then. [9:16] Nobody ever puts a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment; for such a patch tears away from the garment, and a worse tear is made. [9:17] Nor do people put new wine into old wine-skins; for, if they do, the skins burst, and the wine runs out, and the skins are lost; but they put new wine into fresh skins, and so both are preserved.” [9:18] While Jesus was saying this, a synagogue leader came up and bowed to the ground before him. “My daughter,” he said, “Has just died; but come and place your hand on her, and she will be restored to life.” [9:19] So Jesus rose and followed him, and his disciples went also. [9:20] But meanwhile a woman, who had been suffering from hemorrhage for twelve years, came up behind and touched the tassel of his cloak. [9:21] “If I only touch his cloak,” she said to herself, “I will get well.” [9:22] Turning and seeing her, Jesus said: “Courage, daughter! Your faith has delivered you.” And at that very moment she became well. [9:23] When Jesus reached the leader’s house, seeing the flute players, and a number of people all in confusion, [9:24] he said: “Go away, the little girl is not dead; she is asleep.” They began to laugh at him; [9:25] but, when the people had been sent out, Jesus went in, and took the little girl’s hand, and she rose. [9:26] The report of this spread through all that part of the country. [9:27] As Jesus was passing on from there, he was followed by two blind men, who kept calling out: “Take pity on us, Son of David!” [9:28] When he had gone indoors, the blind men came up to him; and Jesus asked them: “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” “Yes, Master!” they answered. [9:29] Then he touched their eyes, and said: “It will be according to your faith.” [9:30] Then their eyes were opened. Jesus sternly cautioned them. “See that no one knows of it,” he said. [9:31] But the men went out, and spread the news about him through all that part of the country. [9:32] Just as they were going out, some people brought up to Jesus a dumb man who was possessed by a demon; [9:33] and, as soon as the demon had been driven out, the dumb man spoke. The people were astonished at this, and exclaimed: “Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel!” [9:34] But the Pharisees said: “He drives out the demons by the help of the chief of the demons.” [9:35] Jesus went around all the towns and the villages, teaching in their Synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and curing every kind of disease and every kind of sickness. [9:36] But, when he saw the crowds, his heart was moved with compassion for them, because they were distressed and harassed, ‘like sheep without a shepherd’; [9:37] and he said to his disciples: “The harvest is abundant, but the laborers are few. [9:38] Therefore pray to the owner of the harvest to send laborers to gather in his harvest.” [Matthew] [10:1] Calling his twelve Disciples to him, Jesus gave them authority over foul spirits, so that they could drive them out, as well as the power of curing every kind of disease and every kind of sickness. [10:2] The names of the twelve apostles are these: First Simon, also known as Peter, and his brother Andrew; James the son of Zebedee, and his brother John; [10:3] Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax-gather; James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; [10:4] Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot — the apostle who betrayed him. [10:5] These twelve Jesus sent out as his messengers, after giving them these instructions — “Do not go to the Gentiles, nor enter any Samaritan town, [10:6] but make your way rather to the lost sheep of Israel. [10:7] On your way proclaim that the kingdom of heaven is at hand. [10:8] Cure the sick, raise the dead, make the lepers clean, drive out demons. You have received free of cost, give free of cost. [10:9] Do not provide yourselves with gold, or silver, or coins in your purses; [10:10] not even with a bag for the journey, or a change of clothes, or sandals, or even a staff; for the worker is worth his food. [10:11] Whatever town or village you visit, find out who is worthy in that place, and remain there until you leave. [10:12] As you enter the house, greet it. [10:13] Then, if the house is worthy, let your blessing rest on it, but, if it is unworthy, let your blessing return on yourselves. [10:14] If no one welcomes you, or listens to what you say, as you leave that house or that town, shake off its dust from your feet. [10:15] I tell you, the doom of the land of Sodom and Gomorrah will be more bearable in the ‘day of judgment’ than the doom of that town. [10:16] Remember, I am sending you out as my messengers like sheep among wolves. So be as wise as snakes, and as blameless as doves. [10:17] Be on your guard against others, for they will betray you to courts of law, and scourge you in their Synagogues; [10:18] and you will be brought before governors and kings for my sake so that you may witness for me before them and the nations. [10:19] Whenever they betray you, do not be anxious as to how you will speak or what you will say, for what you will say will be given you at the moment; [10:20] for it will not be you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father that speaks within you. [10:21] Brother will betray brother to death, and the father his child; and children will turn against their parents, and cause them to be put to death; [10:22] and you will be hated by everyone because of me. Yet the person who endures to the end will be saved. [10:23] But, when they persecute you in one town, escape to the next; for, I tell you, you will not have come to the end of the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes. [10:24] A scholar is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master. [10:25] It is enough for a scholar to be treated like his teacher, and a servant like his master. If the head of the house has been called Beelzebul, how much more the members of his household! [10:26] Do not, therefore, be afraid of them. There is nothing concealed which will not be revealed, nor anything hidden which will not become known. [10:27] What I tell you in the dark, say again in the light; and what is whispered in your ear, proclaim on the housetops. [10:28] Do not be afraid of those who kill the body, but are unable to kill the soul; rather be afraid of him who is able to destroy both soul and body in Gehenna. [10:29] Are not two sparrows sold for a one copper coin? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground without your Father’s knowledge. [10:30] While as for you, even the hairs of your head are numbered. [10:31] Do not, therefore, be afraid; you are of more value than many sparrows. [10:32] Everyone, therefore, who will publicly acknowledge me, I, too, will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven; [10:33] but, if anyone publicly disowns me, I, too, will disown him before my Father who is in heaven. [10:34] Do not imagine that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have come to bring, not peace, but the sword. [10:35] For I have come to set — ‘a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. [10:36] A person’s enemies will be the members of their own household.’ [10:37] Anyone who loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; and anyone who loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. [10:38] Anyone who does not take their cross and follow in my steps is not worthy of me. [10:39] The person who has found their life will lose it, while the person who, for my sake, has lost their life will find it. [10:40] Anyone who welcomes you is welcoming me; and anyone who welcomes me is welcoming him who sent me as his messenger. [10:41] The person who welcomes a prophet, because they are a prophet, will receive a prophet’s reward; and anyone who welcomes a good person, because they are a good person, will receive a good person’s reward. [10:42] And, if anyone gives but a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because they are a disciple, I tell you that they will assuredly not lose their reward.” [Matthew] [11:1] After Jesus had finished giving directions to his twelve Disciples, he left that place in order to teach and preach in their towns. [11:2] Now John had heard in prison what the Christ was doing, and he sent a message by his disciples, [11:3] and asked — ” Are you ‘the coming one,’ or are we to look for someone else?” [11:4] The answer of Jesus to the question was — “Go and report to John what you hear and see — [11:5] the blind recover their sight and the lame walk, the lepers are made clean and the deaf hear, the dead, too, are raised to life, and the good news is told to the poor. [11:6] Blessed is the person who finds no hindrance in me.” [11:7] While John’s disciples were going back, Jesus began to say to the crowds with reference to John: [11:8] “What did you go out into the wilderness to look at? A reed waving in the wind? If not, what did you go out to see? A man richly dressed? Why, those who wear rich things are to be found in the courts of kings! [11:9] What, then, did you go for? To see a prophet? Yes, I tell you, and far more than a prophet. [11:10] This is the man of whom scripture says — ‘I am sending my messenger ahead of you, and he will prepare your way before you.’ [11:11] I tell you, no one born of a woman has yet appeared who is greater than John the Baptist; and yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. [11:12] From the time of John the Baptist to this very hour, the kingdom of heaven has been taken by force, and people using force have been seizing it. [11:13] For the teaching of all the prophets and of the law continued until the time of John; [11:14] and — if you are ready to accept it — John is himself the Elijah who was destined to come. [11:15] Let him who has ears hear. [11:16] But to what will I compare the present generation? It is like little children sitting in the market-places and calling out to their playmates — [11:17] ‘We have played the flute for you, but you have not danced; We have wailed, but you have not mourned.’ [11:18] For, when John came, neither eating nor drinking, people said ‘He has a demon in him’; [11:19] and now that the Son of Man has come, eating and drinking, they are saying ‘Here is a glutton and a wine-drinker, a friend of tax-gatherers and outcasts!’ And yet wisdom is vindicated by her actions.” [11:20] Then Jesus began to reproach the towns in which most of his miracles had been done, because they had not repented: [11:21] “Alas for you, Chorazin! Alas for you, Bethsaida! For, if the miracles which were done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. [11:22] Yet, I tell you, the doom of Tyre and Sidon will be more bearable in the ‘day of judgment’ than yours. [11:23] And you, Capernaum! Will you ‘exalt yourself to heaven’? ‘You will go down to the place of death.’ For, if the miracles which have been done in you had been done in Sodom, it would have been standing to this day. [11:24] Yet, I tell you, the doom of Sodom will be more bearable in the ‘day of judgment’ than yours.” [11:25] At that same time Jesus uttered the words: “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that, though you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, you have revealed them to the child-like! [11:26] Yes, Father, I thank you that this has seemed good to you. [11:27] Everything has been committed to me by my Father; nor does anyone fully know the Son, except the Father, or fully know the Father, except the Son and those to whom the Son may choose to reveal him. [11:28] Come to me, all you who toil and are burdened, and I will give you rest! [11:29] Take my yoke on you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble, and ‘you will find rest for your souls’; [11:30] for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew] [12:1] About the same time Jesus walked through the cornfields one Sabbath. His disciples were hungry, and began to pick some ears of wheat and eat them. [12:2] But, when the Pharisees saw this, they said: “Look! Your disciples are doing what it is not allowable to do on a Sabbath!” [12:3] “Haven’t you read,” replied Jesus, “what David did, when he and his companions were hungry — [12:4] how he went into the house of God, and how they ate the consecrated bread, through it was not allowable for him or his companions to eat it, but only for the priests? [12:5] And haven’t you read in the law that, on the Sabbath, the priest in the Temple break the Sabbath and yet are not guilty? [12:6] Here, however, I tell you, there is something greater than the Temple! [12:7] Had you learned the meaning of the words — ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice,’ you would not have condemned those who are not guilty. [12:8] For the Son of Man is lord of the Sabbath.” [12:9] Passing on, Jesus went into their synagogue, [12:10] and there he saw a man with a withered hand. Some people asked Jesus whether it was allowable to work a cure on the Sabbath — so that they might have a charge to bring against him. [12:11] But Jesus said to them: “Which of you, if he had only one sheep, and that sheep fell into a pit on the Sabbath, would not lay hold of it and pull it out? [12:12] How much more precious a person is than a sheep! Therefore it is allowable to do good on the Sabbath.” [12:13] Then he said to the man. “Stretch out your hand.” The man stretched it out; and it had become as sound as the other. [12:14] On coming out, the Pharisees plotted against Jesus, to put him to death. [12:15] Jesus, however, became aware of it, and went away from that place. A number of people followed him, and he cured them all; [12:16] but he warned them not to make him known, [12:17] in fulfillment of these words in the prophet Isaiah — [12:18] ‘Here is my chosen servant, who I love and who pleases me! I will breathe my spirit on him, and he will announce a time of judgment to the Gentiles. [12:19] He will not contend, nor cry aloud, Neither will anyone hear his voice in the streets; [12:20] a bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not quench, until he has brought the judgment to a victorious issue, [12:21] and on his name will the Gentiles rest their hopes.” [12:22] Then some people brought to Jesus a possessed man, who was blind and dumb; and he cured him, so that the man who had been dumb both talked and saw. [12:23] At this all the people were astounded. “Is it possible that this is the son of David?” they exclaimed. [12:24] But the Pharisees heard of it and said: “He drives out demons only by the help of Beelzebul the chief of the demons.” [12:25] Jesus, however, was aware of what was passing in their minds, and said to them: “Any kingdom divided against itself becomes a desolation, and any town or household divided against itself will not last. [12:26] So, if Satan drives Satan out, he must be divided against himself; and how, then, can his kingdom last? [12:27] And, if it is by Beelzebul’s help that I drive out demons, by whose help is it that your own sons drive them out? Therefore they will themselves be your judges. [12:28] But, if it is by the help of the Spirit of God that I drive out demons, then the kingdom of God must already be upon you. [12:29] How, again, can anyone get into a strong man’s house and carry off his goods, without first securing him? Not until then will he plunder his house. [12:30] Anyone who is not with me is against me, and the person who does not help me to gather is scattering. [12:31] Therefore, I tell you, people will be forgiven every sin and slander; but slander against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven. [12:32] Whoever speaks against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in the present age, or in the age to come. [12:33] You must assume either that both tree and fruit are good, or that both tree and fruit are worthless; since it is by its fruits that a tree is known. [12:34] You children of snakes! How can you, evil as you are, say anything good? For what fills the heart will rise to the lips. [12:35] A good person, from his good stores, produces good things; while an evil person, from his evil stores, produces evil things. [12:36] I tell you that for every careless thing that people say, they must answer on the ‘day of judgment.’ [12:37] For it is by your words that you will be acquitted, and by your words that you will be condemned.” [12:38] At this point, some teachers of the law and Pharisees spoke up. “Teacher,” they said, “we want to see some sign from you.” [12:39] “It is a wicked and unfaithful generation,” answered Jesus, “that is asking for a sign, and no sign will be given it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. [12:40] For, just as ‘Jonah was inside the sea-monster three days and three nights,’ so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. [12:41] At the judgment, the people of Nineveh will stand up with this generation, and will condemn it, because they repented at Jonah’s proclamation; and here is more than a Jonah! [12:42] At the judgment the Queen of the South will rise up with the present generation, and will condemn it, because she came from the ends of the earth to listen to the wisdom of Solomon; and here is more than a Solomon! [12:43] No sooner does a foul spirit leave a person, than it passes through places where there is no water, in search of rest, and does not find it. [12:44] Then it says ‘I will go back to the home which I left’; but, on coming there, it finds it unoccupied, and swept, and put in order. [12:45] Then it goes and brings with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in, and make their home there; and the last state of that man proves to be worse than the first. So, too, will it be with this wicked generation.” [12:46] While he was still speaking to the crowds, his mother and brothers were standing outside, asking to speak to him. [12:47] Someone told him this, and Jesus replied: [12:48] “Who is my mother? And who are my brothers?” [12:49] Then, stretching out his hands towards his disciples, he said: “Here are my mother and my brothers! [12:50] For anyone who does the will of my Father who is in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.” [Matthew] [13:1] That same day, when Jesus had left the house and was sitting by the Sea, [13:2] such great crowds gathered around him, that he got into a boat, and sat in it, while all the people stood on the beach. [13:3] Then he told them many truths in parables. “The sower,” he began, “went out to sow; and, [13:4] as they were sowing, some seed fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. [13:5] Some fell on rocky places, where it had not much soil, and, because the soil wasn't deep, sprang up at once. [13:6] As soon as the sun had risen, it was scorched, and, because their roots were not deep enough, withered away. [13:7] Some, again, fell into the brambles; but the brambles shot up and choked it. [13:8] Some, however, fell on good soil, and yielded a return, sometimes one hundred, sometimes sixty, sometimes thirty fold. [13:9] Let those who have ears hear.” [13:10] Afterwards his disciples came to him, and said: “Why do you speak to them in parables?” [13:11] “To you,” answered Jesus, “the knowledge of the hidden truths of the kingdom of heaven has been imparted, but not to those. [13:12] For, to all who have, more will be given, and they will have abundance; but, from all who have nothing, even what they have will be taken away. [13:13] That is why I speak to them in parables, because, though they have eyes, they do not see, and though they have ears, they do not hear or understand. [13:14] In them is being fulfilled that prophecy of Isaiah which says — ‘You will hear with your ears without ever understanding, and, though you have eyes, you will see without ever perceiving, [13:15] for the mind of this nation has grown dense, and their ears are dull of hearing, their eyes also have they closed; Otherwise some day they might perceive with their eyes, and with their ears they might hear, and in their mind they might understand, and might turn — and I might heal them.’ [13:16] But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear; [13:17] for I tell you that many prophets and good people have longed for the sight of the things which you are seeing, yet never saw them, and to hear the things which you are hearing, yet never heard them. [13:18] Listen, then, yourselves to the parable of the sower. [13:19] When anyone hears the message of the kingdom without understanding it, the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in their mind. This is the person meant by the seed which was sown along the path. [13:20] By the seed which was sown on rocky places is meant the person who hears the message, and at once accepts it joyfully; [13:21] but, as they have no root, they stand for only a short time; and, when trouble or persecution arises because of the message, they fall away at once. [13:22] By the seed which was sown among the brambles is meant the person who hears the message, but the cares of life and the glamour of wealth completely choke the message, so that it gives no return. [13:23] But by the seed which was sown on the good ground is meant the person who hears the message and understands it, and really yields a return, sometimes one hundred, sometimes sixty, sometimes thirty fold.” [13:24] Another parable which Jesus told them was this — “The kingdom of heaven is compared to a person who sowed good seed in their field. [13:25] But, while everyone was asleep, their enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and then went away. [13:26] So, when the blades of corn shot up, and came into ear, the weeds made their appearance also. [13:27] The owner’s servants came to them, and said ‘Was not it good seed that you sowed in your field? Where, then, do the weeds in it come from?’ [13:28] ‘An enemy has done this,’ was the owner’s answer. ‘Do you wish us, then,’ they asked,’ to go and gather them together?’ [13:29] ‘No,’ said he, ‘because while you are pulling up the weeds you might uproot the wheat with them. [13:30] Let both grow side by side until harvest; and then I will say to the reapers, Gather the weeds together first, and tie them in bundles for burning; but bring all the wheat into my barn.’” [13:31] Another parable which he told them was this — “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a person took and sowed in his field. [13:32] This seed is smaller than all other seeds, but, when it has grown up, it is larger than the herbs and becomes a tree, so that ‘the wild birds come and roost in its branches.’” [13:33] This was another parable which Jesus related — “The kingdom of heaven is like some yeast which a woman took and covered up in three pecks of flour, until the whole had risen.” [13:34] Of all this Jesus spoke to the crowd in parables; indeed to them he used never to speak at all except in parables, [13:35] in fulfillment of these words in the prophet — ‘I will speak to them in parables; I will utter things kept secret since the foundation of the world.’ [13:36] Then Jesus left the crowd, and went into the house. Presently his disciples came to him, and said: “Explain to us the parable of the weeds in the field.” [13:37] He answered: “The sower of the good seed is the Son of Man. [13:38] The field is the world. By the good seed is meant the people of the kingdom. The weeds are the wicked, [13:39] and the enemy who sowed them is the devil. The harvest time is the close of the age, and the reapers are angels. [13:40] And, just as the weeds are gathered and burnt, so it will be at the close of the age. [13:41] The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will gather from his kingdom all that hinders and those who live in sin, [13:42] and ‘will throw them into the blazing furnace,’ where there will be weeping and grinding of teeth. [13:43] Then will the righteous shine, like the sun, in the kingdom of their Father. Let him who has ears hear. [13:44] The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in a field, which a person found and hid again, and then, in their delight, went and sold everything that they had, and bought that field. [13:45] Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of choice pearls. [13:46] Finding one of great value, they went and sold everything that they had, and bought it. [13:47] Or again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net which was cast into the sea, and caught fish of all kinds. [13:48] When it was full, they hauled it up on the beach, and sat down and sorted the good fish into baskets, but threw the worthless ones away. [13:49] So will it be at the close of the age. The angels will go out and separate the wicked from the righteous, [13:50] and ‘will throw them into the blazing furnace,’ where there will be weeping and grinding of teeth. [13:51] Have you understood all this?” Jesus asked. “Yes,” they answered. [13:52] Then he added: “So every teacher of the law, who has received instruction about the kingdom of heaven, is like a householder who produces from his stores things both new and old.” [13:53] When Jesus had finished these parables, he withdrew from that place. [13:54] Going to his own part of the country, he taught the people in their synagogue in such a manner that they were deeply impressed. “Where did he get this wisdom?” they said, “and the miracles? [13:55] Is not he the carpenter’s son? Is not his mother called Mary, and his brothers James, and Joseph, and Simon, and Judas? [13:56] And his sisters, too — are not they all living among us? Where, then did he get all this?” [13:57] These things proved a hindrance to their believing in him. But Jesus said: “A prophet is not without honor, except in his own country and in his own house.” [13:58] He did not work many miracles there, because of their want of faith. [Matthew] [14:1] At that time Prince Herod heard of the fame of Jesus, [14:2] and said to his attendants: “This must be John the Baptist; he must be risen from the dead, and that is why these miraculous powers are active in him.” [14:3] For Herod had arrested John, put him in chains, and shut him up in prison, to please Herodias, the wife of Herod’s brother Philip. [14:4] For John had said to him ‘You have no right to be living with her.’ [14:5] Yet, though Herod wanted to put him to death, he was afraid of the people, because they looked on John as a prophet. [14:6] But, when Herod’s birthday came, the daughter of Herodias danced before his guests, and so pleased Herod, [14:7] that he promised with an oath to give her whatever she asked. [14:8] Prompted by her mother, the girl said ‘Give me here, on a dish, the head of John the Baptist.’ [14:9] The king was distressed at this; yet, because of his oath and of the guests at his table, he ordered it to be given her. [14:10] He sent and beheaded John in the prison; [14:11] and his head was brought on a dish and given to the girl, and she took it to her mother. [14:12] Then John’s disciples came, and took the body away, and buried it; and went and told Jesus. [14:13] When Jesus heard of it, he left privately in a boat to a lonely spot. The people, however, heard of his going, and followed him in crowds from the towns on foot. [14:14] On getting out of the boat, Jesus saw a great crowd, and his heart was moved at the sight of them; and he cured all the sick among them. [14:15] In the evening the disciples came up to him, and said: “This is a lonely spot, and the day is now far advanced; send the crowds away so that they can to the villages, and buy themselves food.” [14:16] But Jesus said: “They need not go away, it is for you to give them something to eat.” [14:17] “We have nothing here,” they said, “except five loaves and two fishes.” [14:18] “Bring them here to me,” was his reply. [14:19] Jesus ordered the people to take their seats on the grass; and, taking the five loaves and the two fishes, he looked up to heaven, and said the blessing, and, after he had broken the loaves, gave them to his disciples; and they gave them to the crowds. [14:20] Everyone had sufficient to eat, and they picked up enough of the broken pieces that were left to fill twelve baskets. [14:21] The men who ate were about five thousand in number, without counting women and children. [14:22] Immediately afterwards Jesus made the disciples get into a boat and cross over in advance of him, while he dismissed the crowds. [14:23] After dismissing the crowds, he went up the hill by himself to pray; and, when evening fell, he was there alone. [14:24] The boat was by this time some miles from shore, laboring in the waves, for the wind was against her. [14:25] Three hours after midnight, however, Jesus came towards the disciples, walking on the water. [14:26] But, when they saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. “It is a ghost,” they exclaimed, and cried out in fear. [14:27] But Jesus at once spoke to them. “Courage!” he said, “It is I; do not be afraid!” [14:28] “Master,” Peter exclaimed, “if it is you, tell me to come to you on the water.” [14:29] Jesus said: “Come.” So Peter got down from the boat, and walked on the water, and went towards Jesus; [14:30] but, when he felt the wind, he was frightened, and, beginning to sink, cried out: “Master! Save me!” [14:31] Instantly Jesus stretched out his hand, and caught hold of him. “You of little faith!” he said, “Why did you falter?” [14:32] When they had got into the boat, the wind dropped. [14:33] But the men in the boat threw themselves on their faces before him, and said: “You are indeed God’s Son.” [14:34] When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret. [14:35] But the people of that place, recognizing Jesus, sent out to the whole country around, and brought to him all who were ill, [14:36] begging him merely to let them touch the tassel of his cloak; and all who touched were made perfectly well. [Matthew] [15:1] Then some Pharisees and teachers of the law came to Jesus, and said: [15:2] “How is it that your disciples break the traditions of our ancestors? For they do not wash their hands when they eat food.” [15:3] His reply was: “How is it that you on your side break God’s commandments out of respect for your own traditions? [15:4] For God said — ‘Honor your father and mother,’ and ‘Let him who abuses his father or mother suffer death,’ [15:5] but you say ‘Whenever anyone says to his father or mother “Whatever of mine might have been of service to you is ‘Given to God,’” [15:6] he is in no way bound to honor his father.’ In this way you have nullified the words of God for the sake of your traditions. [15:7] Hypocrites! It was well said by Isaiah when he prophesied about you — [15:8] ‘This is a people that honor me with their lips, While their hearts are far removed from me; [15:9] but vainly do they worship me, For they teach but human precepts.’” [15:10] Then Jesus called the people to him, and said: “Listen, and mark my words. [15:11] It is not what enters a person’s mouth that ‘defiles’ them, but what comes out from their mouth — that does defile them!” [15:12] His disciples came up to him, and said: “Do you know that the Pharisees were shocked on hearing what you said?” [15:13] “Every plant,” Jesus replied, “that my heavenly Father has not planted will be rooted up. [15:14] Let them be; they are but blind guides; and, if one blind person guides another, both of them will fall into a ditch.” [15:15] Peter spoke up: “Explain this saying to us.” [15:16] “What, do even you understand nothing yet?” Jesus exclaimed. [15:17] “Don’t you see that whatever goes into the mouth passes into the stomach, and is afterwards expelled? [15:18] But the things that come out of the mouth proceed from the heart, and it is these that defile a person; [15:19] for out of the heart proceed evil thoughts — murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, perjury, slander. [15:20] These are the things that defile a person; but eating with unwashed hands does not defile a person.” [15:21] On going away from that place, Jesus went to the country around Tyre and Sidon. [15:22] There, a Canaanite woman of that district came out and began calling to Jesus: “Take pity on me, Master, Son of David; my daughter is grievously possessed by a demon.” [15:23] But Jesus did not answer her a word; and his disciples came up and begged him to send her away. “She keeps calling out after us,” they said. [15:24] “I was not sent,” replied Jesus, “to anyone except the lost sheep of Israel.” [15:25] But the woman came, and, bowing to the ground before him, said: “Master, help me.” [15:26] “It is not fair,” replied Jesus, “to take the children’s food and throw it to dogs.” [15:27] “Yes, Master,” she said, “for even dogs do feed on the scraps that fall from their owners’ table.” [15:28] “Your faith is great,” was his reply to the woman; “it will be as you wish!” And her daughter was cured that very hour. [15:29] On leaving that place, Jesus went to the shore of the Sea of Galilee; and then went up the hill, and sat down., you will do what not only what has been done to the fig tree, but, even if you should say to this hill ‘Be lifted up and hurled into the sea!’ it would be done. [15:30] Great crowds of people came to him, bringing with them those who were lame, crippled, blind, or dumb, and many others. They put them down at his feet, and he cured them; [15:31] and the crowds were astonished, when they saw the dumb talking, the cripples made sound, the lame walking about, and the blind with their sight restored; and they praised the God of Israel. [15:32] Afterwards Jesus called his disciples to him, and said: “My heart is moved at the sight of all these people, for they have already been with me three days and they have nothing to eat; and I am unwilling to send them away hungry; they might faint on the way home.” [15:33] “Where can we,” his disciples asked, “in a lonely place find enough bread for such a crowd as this?” [15:34] “How many loaves have you?” said Jesus. “Seven,” they answered, “and a few small fish.” [15:35] Telling the crowd to sit down on the ground, [15:36] Jesus took the seven loaves and the fish, and, after saying the thanksgiving, broke them, and gave them to the disciples; and the disciples gave them to the crowds. [15:37] Everyone had sufficient to eat, and they picked up seven baskets full of the broken pieces left. [15:38] The men who ate were four thousand in number without counting women and children. [15:39] Then, after dismissing the crowds, Jesus got into the boat, and went to the neighborhood of Magadan. [Matthew] [16:1] Here the Pharisees and Sadducees came up, and, to test Jesus, requested him to show them some sign from the heavens. [16:2] But Jesus answered: “In the evening you say ‘It will be fine weather, for the sky is as red as fire.’ [16:3] But in the morning you say ‘Today it will be stormy, for the sky is as red as fire and threatening.’ You learn to read the sky; yet you are unable to read the signs of the times! [16:4] A wicked and unfaithful generation is asking for a sign, but no sign will be given it except the sign of Jonah.” So he left them and went away. [16:5] Now the disciples had crossed to the opposite shore, and had forgotten to take any bread. [16:6] Presently Jesus said to them: “Take care and be on your guard against the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” [16:7] But the disciples began talking among themselves about their having brought no bread. [16:8] On noticing this, Jesus said: “Why are you talking among yourselves about your being short of bread, you of little faith? [16:9] Don’t you yet see, nor remember the five loaves for the five thousand, and how many baskets you took away? [16:10] Nor yet the seven loaves for the four thousand, and how many basketfuls you took away? [16:11] How is it that you do not see that I was not speaking about bread? Be on your guard against the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” [16:12] Then they understood that he had told them to be on their guard, not against the leaven of bread, but against the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees. [16:13] On coming into the neighborhood of Caesarea Philippi, Jesus asked his disciples this question — “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” [16:14] “Some say John the Baptist,” they answered, “Others, however, say that he is Elijah, while others again say Jeremiah, or one of the prophets.” [16:15] “But you,” he said, “who do you say that I am?” [16:16] To this Simon Peter answered: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” [16:17] “Blessed are you, Simon, Son of Jonah,” Jesus replied. “For no human being has revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. [16:18] Yes, and I say to you, Your name is ‘Peter — a Rock, and on this rock I will build my church, and the powers of the place of death will not prevail over it. [16:19] I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven. Whatever you forbid on earth will be held in heaven to be forbidden, and whatever you allow on earth will be held in heaven to be allowed.” [16:20] Then he charged his disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Christ. [16:21] At that time Jesus Christ began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem, and undergo much suffering at the hands of the councillors, and chief priests, and teachers of the law, and be put to death, and rise on the third day. [16:22] But Peter took Jesus aside, and began to rebuke him. “Master,” he said, “please God that will never be your fate!” [16:23] Jesus, however, turning to Peter, said: “Out of my way, Satan! You are a hindrance to me; for you look at things, not as God does, but as person does.” [16:24] Then Jesus said to his disciples: “If anyone wishes to walk in my steps, let him renounce self, and take up his cross, and follow me. [16:25] For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, and whoever, for my sake, loses his life will find it. [16:26] What good will it do a person to gain the whole world, if he forfeits his life? Or what will a person give that is of equal value with his life? [16:27] For the Son of Man is to come in his Father’s glory, with his angels, and then he ‘will give to everyone what his actions deserve.’ [16:28] I tell you, some of those who are standing here will not know death until they have seen the Son of Man coming into his kingdom.” [Matthew] [17:1] Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter, and the brothers James and John, and led them up a high mountain alone. [17:2] There his appearance was transformed before their eyes; his face shown like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light. [17:3] All at once Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Jesus. [17:4] “Master,” exclaimed Peter, interposing, “it is good to be here; if you wish, I will make three tents here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” [17:5] While he was still speaking, a bright cloud enveloped them, and there was a voice from the cloud that said — “This is my dearly loved son, who brings me great joy; listen to him.” [17:6] The disciples, on hearing this, fell on their faces, greatly afraid. [17:7] But Jesus came and touched them, saying as he did so: “Rise up, and do not be afraid.” [17:8] When they raised their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus himself alone. [17:9] As they were going down the mountain side, Jesus gave them this warning — “Do not speak of this vision to anyone, until the Son of Man has risen from the dead.” [17:10] “How is it,” his disciples asked, “that our teachers of the law say that Elijah has to come first?” [17:11] “Elijah indeed does come,” Jesus replied, “and will restore everything; [17:12] and I tell you that Elijah has already come, and people have not recognized him, but have treated him just as they pleased. In the same way, too, the Son of Man is destined to undergo suffering at people’s hands.” [17:13] Then the disciples understood that it was of John the Baptist that he had spoken to them. [17:14] When they came to the crowd, a man came up to Jesus, and, kneeling down before him, said: [17:15] “Master, take pity on my son, for he is epileptic and suffers terribly; indeed, he often falls into the fire and into the water; [17:16] I brought him to your disciples, but they could not cure him.” [17:17] “Faithless and perverse generation!” Jesus exclaimed, “how long must I be among you? How long must I have patience with you? Bring the boy here to me.” [17:18] Then Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of the boy; and he was cured from that very hour. [17:19] Afterwards the disciples came up to Jesus, and asked him privately: “Why was it that we could not drive it out?” [17:20] “Because you have so little faith,” he answered; “for, I tell you, if your faith were only like a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain ‘Move from this place to that!’ and it would be moved; and nothing would be impossible to you.” [17:22] While Jesus and his disciples were together in Galilee, he said to them: “The Son of Man is destined to be betrayed into human hands, [17:23] and they will put him to death, but on the third day he will rise.” The disciples were greatly distressed. [17:24] After they had reached Capernaum, the collectors of the Temple-rate came up to Peter, and said: “Does not your Master pay the Temple-rate?” [17:25] “Yes,” answered Peter. But, on going into the house, before he could speak, Jesus said: “What do you think, Simon? From whom do earthly kings take taxes or tribute? From their sons, or from others?” [17:26] “From others,” answered Peter. “Well then,” continued Jesus, “their sons go free. [17:27] Still, so we don't offend them, go and throw a line into the Sea; take the first fish that rises, open its mouth, and you will find in it a piece of money. Take that, and give it to the collectors for both of us.” [Matthew] [18:1] On the same occasion the disciples came to Jesus, and asked him: “Who is really the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” [18:2] Jesus called a little child to him, and placed it in the middle of them, and then said: [18:3] “I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven at all. [18:4] Therefore, anyone who will humble themselves like this child — that person will be the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. [18:5] And anyone who, for the sake of my name, welcomes even one little child like this, is welcoming me. [18:6] But, if anyone puts temptation in the way of one of these little ones who believe in me, it would be best for them to be sunk in the depths of the sea with a great millstone hung around their neck. [18:7] Alas for the world because of such temptations! There cannot but be temptations but sorrow awaits the person who does the tempting! [18:8] If your hand or your foot causes you to sin, cut it off, and throw it away. It would be better for you to enter the life maimed or lame, than to have both hands, or both feet, and be thrown into the fire that never goes out. [18:9] If your eye causes you to sin, take it out, and throw it away. It would be better for you to enter the life with only one eye, than to have both eyes and be thrown into the fires of Gehenna. [18:10] Beware of despising one of these little ones, for in heaven, I tell you, their angels always see the face of my Father who is in heaven. [18:12] What think you? If a person owns a hundred sheep, and one of them strays, will the person not leave the ninety-nine on the hills, and go and search for the one that is straying? [18:13] And, if they succeed in finding it, I tell you that they rejoice more over that one sheep than over the ninety-nine which did not stray. [18:14] So, too, it is the will of my Father who is in heaven that not one of these little ones should be lost. [18:15] If your brother or sister does wrong, go to them and convince them of their fault when you are both alone. If they listen to you, you have won them over. [18:16] But, if they do not listen to you, take with you one or two others, so that ‘on the evidence of two or three witnesses, every word may be put beyond dispute.’ [18:17] If they refuse to listen to them, speak to the church; and, if they also refuse to listen to the church, treat him as you would a Gentile or a tax-gatherer. [18:18] I tell you, all that you forbid on earth will be held in heaven to be forbidden, and all that you allow on earth will be held in heaven to be allowed. [18:19] Again, I tell you that, if but two of you on earth agree as to what they will pray for, whatever it be, it will be granted them by my Father who is in heaven. [18:20] For where two or three have come together in my name, I am present with them.” [18:21] Then Peter came up, and said to Jesus: “Master, how often am I to forgive someone who wrongs me? As many as seven times?” [18:22] But Jesus answered: “Not seven times, but ‘seventy times seven.’ [18:23] Therefore the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants. [18:24] When he had begun to do so, one of them was brought to him who owed him ten thousand bags of gold; [18:25] and, as he could not pay, his master ordered him to be sold towards the payment of the debt, together with his wife, and his children, and everything that he had. [18:26] The servant threw himself down on the ground before him and said ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you all.’ [18:27] The master was moved with compassion; and he let him go, and forgave him the debt. [18:28] But, on going out, that same servant came upon one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred silver coins. Seizing him by the throat, he said ‘Pay what you owe me.’ [18:29] His fellow servant threw himself on the ground and begged for mercy. ‘Have patience with me,’ he said, ‘and I will pay you.’ [18:30] But the other would not, but went and put him in prison until he should pay his debt. [18:31] When his fellow servants saw what had happened, they were greatly distressed, and went to their master and laid the whole matter before him. [18:32] So the master sent for the servant, and said to him ‘You wicked servant! When you begged me for mercy, I forgave you the whole of that debt. [18:33] Shouldn’t you, also, to have shown mercy to your fellow servant, just as I showed mercy to you?’ [18:34] Then his master, in anger, handed him over to the jailers, until he should pay the whole of his debt. [18:35] So, also, will my heavenly Father do to you, unless each one of you forgives his brother or sister from your heart.” [Matthew] The Journey to Jerusalem ======================== [19:1] At the conclusion of this teaching, Jesus withdrew from Galilee, and went into that district of Judea which is on the other side of the Jordan. [19:2] Great crowds followed him, and he cured them there. [19:3] Presently some Pharisees came up to him, and, to test him, said: “Has a man the right to divorce his wife for every cause?” [19:4] “Haven’t you read,” replied Jesus, “that at the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female,’ [19:5] and said — ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother, and be united to his wife, and the man and his wife will become one’? [19:6] So that they are no longer two, but one. What God himself, then, has yoked together people must not separate.” [19:7] “Why, then,” they said, “did Moses direct that a man should ‘serve his wife with a notice of separation and divorce her’?” [19:8] “Moses, owing to the hardness of your hearts,” answered Jesus, “permitted you to divorce your wives, but that was not so at the beginning. [19:9] But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except on the ground of some serious sexual sin, and marries another woman, is guilty of adultery.” [19:10] “If that,” said the disciples, “is the position of a man with regard to his wife, it is better not to marry.” [19:11] “It is not everyone,” replied Jesus, “who can accept this teaching, but only those who have been enabled to do so. [19:12] Some men, it is true, have from birth been disabled for marriage, while others have been disabled by their fellow men, and others again have disabled themselves for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. Let him accept it who can.” [19:13] Then some little children were brought to Jesus, for him to place his hands on them, and pray; but the disciples found fault with those who had brought them. [19:14] Jesus, however, said: “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for it is to the childlike that the kingdom of heaven belongs.” [19:15] So he placed his hands on them, and then went on his way. [19:16] A man came up to Jesus, and said: “Teacher, what good thing must I do to obtain eternal life?” [19:17] “Why ask me about goodness?” answered Jesus. “There is but One who is good. If you want to enter the life, keep the commandments.” [19:18] “What commandments?” asked the man. “These,” answered Jesus: — “‘You must not kill. You must not commit adultery. You must not steal. You must not say what is false about others. [19:19] Honor your father and your mother.’ And ‘You must love your neighbor as you love yourself.” [19:20] “I have observed all these,” said the young man. “What is still wanting in me?” [19:21] “If you wish to be perfect,” answered Jesus, “go and sell your property, and give to the poor, and you will have wealth in heaven; then come and follow me.” [19:22] On hearing these words, the young man went away distressed, for he had great possessions. [19:23] At this, Jesus said to his disciples: “I tell you that a rich person will find it hard to enter the kingdom of heaven! [19:24] I say again, it is easier for a camel to get through a needle’s eye than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of heaven!” [19:25] On hearing this, the disciples exclaimed in great astonishment: “Who then can possibly be saved?” [19:26] But Jesus looked at them, and said: “With people this is impossible, but with God everything is possible.” Then Peter turned and said to Jesus: [19:27] “But we — we left everything, and followed you; what, then, will we have?” [19:28] “I tell you,” answered Jesus, “that at the new creation, ‘when the Son of Man takes his seat on his throne of glory,’ you who followed me will be seated on twelve thrones, as judges of the twelve tribes of Israel. [19:29] Everyone who has left houses, or brothers, or sisters, or father, or mother, or children, or land, for my sake, will receive many times as much, and will ‘gain eternal life.’ [19:30] But many who are first now will then be last, and those who are last will be first.[Matthew] [20:1] For the kingdom of heaven is like an employer who went out in the early morning to hire laborers for his vineyards. [20:2] He agreed with the laborers to pay them the standard daily rate of two silver coins, and sent them into his vineyard. [20:3] On going out again, about nine o’clock, he saw some others standing in the marketplace, doing nothing. [20:4] ‘You also may go into my vineyard,’ he said, ‘and I will pay you what is fair.’ [20:5] So they went. Going out again about midday and about three o’clock, he did as before. [20:6] When he went out about five, he found some others standing there, and said to them ‘Why have you been standing here all day long, doing nothing?’ [20:7] ‘Because no one has hired us,’ they answered. ‘You also may go into my vineyard,’ he said. [20:8] In the evening the owner of the vineyard said to his steward ‘Call the laborers, and pay them their wages, beginning with the last, and ending with the first. [20:9] Now when those who had been hired about five o’clock went up, they received two silver coins each. [20:10] So, when the first went up, they thought that they would receive more, but they also received two silver coins each; [20:11] on which they began to grumble at their employer. [20:12] ‘These last,’ they said, ‘have done only one hour’s work, and yet you have put them on the same footing with us, who have borne the brunt of the day’s work, and the heat.’ [20:13] ‘My friend,’ was his reply to one of them, ‘I am not treating you unfairly. Didn’t you agree with me for two silver coins? [20:14] Take what belongs to you, and go. I choose to give to this last man the same as to you. [20:15] Have not I the right to do as I choose with what is mine? Are you envious because I am liberal?’ [20:16] So those who are last will be first, and the first last.” [20:17] When Jesus was on the point of going up to Jerusalem, he gathered the twelve disciples around him by themselves, and said to them as they were on their way: [20:18] “Listen! We are going up to Jerusalem; and there the Son of Man will be betrayed to the chief priests and teachers of the law, and they will condemn him to death, [20:19] and give him up to the Gentiles for them to mock, and to scourge, and to crucify; and on the third day he will rise.” [20:20] Then the mother of Zebedee’s sons came to him with her sons, bowing to the ground, and begging a favor. [20:21] “What is it that you want?” he asked. “I want you to say,” she replied, “that in your kingdom these two sons of mine may sit, one on your right, and the other on your left.” [20:22] “You do not know what you are asking,” was Jesus’ answer. “Can you drink the cup that I am to drink?” “Yes,” they exclaimed, “we can.” [20:23] “You will indeed drink my cup,” he said, “but as to a seat at my right and at my left — that is not mine to give, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.” [20:24] On hearing of this, the ten others were very indignant about the two brothers. [20:25] Jesus, however, called the ten to him, and said: “The rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them as you know, and their high officials oppress them. [20:26] Among you it is not so. [20:27] No, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to take the first place among you, must be your slave; [20:28] just as the Son of Man came, not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” [20:29] As they were going out of Jericho, a great crowd followed him. [20:30] Two blind men who were sitting by the roadside, hearing that Jesus was passing, called out: “Take pity on us, Master, Son of David!” [20:31] The crowd told them to be quiet; but the men only called out the louder: “Take pity on us, Master, Son of David!” [20:32] Then Jesus stopped and called them. “What do you want me to do for you?” he said. [20:33] “Master,” they replied, “we want our eyes to be opened.” [20:34] So Jesus, moved with compassion, touched their eyes, and immediately they recovered their sight, and followed him.[Matthew] The Last Days ============= [21:1] When they had almost reached Jerusalem, having come as far as Bethphage, on the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent on two disciples. [21:2] “Go to the village facing you,” he said, “and you will immediately find an ass tethered, with a foal by her side; untie her, and lead her here for me. [21:3] And, if anyone says anything to you, you are to say this — ‘The Master wants them’; and he will send them at once.” [21:4] This happened in fulfillment of these words in the prophet — [21:5] ‘Say to the people of Zion — “Your King is coming to you, gentle, and riding on an ass, and on the foal of a beast of burden.”’ [21:6] So the disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them. [21:7] They led the ass and the foal back, and, when they had put their cloaks on them, he seated himself on them. [21:8] The immense crowd of people spread their cloaks in the road, while some cut branches off the trees, and spread them on the road. [21:9] The crowds that led the way, as well as those that followed behind, kept shouting: “God save the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! God save him from on high!” [21:10] When he had entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred, and asked — [21:11] “Who is this?”, to which the crowd replied — “This is the prophet Jesus from Nazareth in Galilee.” [21:12] Jesus went into the Temple Courts, and drove out all those who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers, and the seats of the pigeon-dealers, [21:13] and said to them: “Scripture says ‘My house will be called a house of prayer’; but you are making it ‘a den of robbers.’” [21:14] While he was still in the Temple Courts, some blind and some lame people came up to him, and he cured them. [21:15] But, when the chief priests and the teachers of the law saw the wonderful things that Jesus did, and the boys who were calling out in the Temple Courts “God save the Son of David!”, they were indignant, [21:16] and said to him: “Do you hear what these boys are saying?” “Yes,” answered Jesus; “but did you never read the words — ‘Out of the mouths of babes and sucklings you have called forth perfect praise’?” [21:17] Then he left them, and went out of the city to Bethany, and spent the night there. [21:18] The next morning, in returning to the city, Jesus became hungry; [21:19] and, noticing a solitary fig tree by the roadside, he went up to it, but found nothing on it but leaves. So he said to it: “Never again will fruit be gathered off you.” And suddenly the fruit tree withered up. [21:20] When the disciples saw this, they exclaimed in astonishment: “How suddenly the fig tree withered up!” [21:21] “I tell you,” replied Jesus, “if you have faith, without ever a doubt, you will do what not only what has been done to the fig tree, but, even if you should say to this hill ‘Be lifted up and hurled into the sea!’ it would be done. [21:22] And whatever you ask for in your prayers will, if you have faith, be granted you.” [21:23] After Jesus had come into the Temple Courts, the chief priests and the councillors of the Nation came up to him as he was teaching, and said: “What authority have you to do these things? Who gave you this authority?” [21:24] “I, too,” said Jesus in reply, “will ask you one question; if you will give me an answer to it, then I, also, will tell you what authority I have to act as I do. [21:25] It is about John’s baptism. What was its origin? Divine or human?” But they began arguing among themselves: “If we say ‘divine,’ he will say to us ‘Why then didn’t you believe him?’ [21:26] But if we say ‘human,’ we are afraid of the people, for everyone regards John as a prophet.” [21:27] So the answer they gave Jesus was — “We do not know.” “Then I,” he said, “refuse to tell you what authority I have to do these things. [21:28] What do you think of this? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the elder and said ‘Go and work in the vineyard today my son.’ [21:29] ‘Yes, sir,’ he answered; but he did not go. [21:30] Then the father went to the second son, and said the same. ‘I will not,’ he answered; but afterwards he was sorry and went. [21:31] Which of the two sons did as his father wished?” “The second,” they said. “I tell you,” added Jesus, “that tax-gatherers and prostitutes are going into the kingdom of God before you. [21:32] For when John came to you, walking in the path of righteousness, you did not believe him, but tax-gatherers and prostitutes did; and yet you, though you saw this, even then were not sorry, nor did you believe him. [21:33] Listen to another parable. A man, who was an employer, once planted a vineyard, put a fence around it, dug a winepress in it, built a tower, and then let it out to tenants and went abroad. [21:34] When the time for the grape harvest drew near, he sent his servants to the tenants, to receive his share of the produce. [21:35] But the tenants seized his servants, beat one, killed another, and stoned a third. [21:36] A second time the owner sent some servants, a larger number than before, and the tenants treated them in the same way. [21:37] As a last resource he sent his son to them. ‘They will respect my son,’ he said. [21:38] But the tenants, on seeing his son, said to each other ‘Here is the heir! Come, let us kill him, and get his inheritance.’ [21:39] So they seized him, and threw him outside the vineyard, and killed him. [21:40] Now, when the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those tenants?” [21:41] “Miserable wretches!” they exclaimed, “he will put them to a miserable death, and he will let out the vineyard to other tenants, who will pay him his share of the produce at the proper times.” [21:42] Then Jesus added: “Have you never read in the scriptures? — ‘The stone which the builders despised — Has now itself become the corner-stone; This corner-stone has come from the Lord, and is marvelous in our eyes.’ [21:43] That, I tell you, is why the kingdom of God will be taken from you, and given to a nation that does produce the fruit of the kingdom. [21:44] Yes, and he who falls on this stone will be dashed to pieces, while anyone on whom it falls — it will scatter him as dust.” [21:45] After listening to these parables, the chief priests and the Pharisees saw that it was about them that he was speaking; [21:46] yet, although eager to arrest him, they were afraid of the crowds, who regarded him as a prophet. [Matthew] [22:1] Once more Jesus spoke to them in parables. [22:2] “The kingdom of heaven,” he said, “may be compared to a king who gave a banquet in honor of his son’s wedding. [22:3] He sent his servants to call those who had been invited to the banquet, but they were unwilling to come. [22:4] A second time he sent some servants, with orders to say to those who had been invited ‘I have prepared my breakfast, my cattle and fat beasts are killed and everything is ready; come to the banquet.’ [22:5] They, however, took no notice, but went off, one to their farm, another to their business; [22:6] while the rest, seizing his servants, ill-treated them and killed them. [22:7] The king, in anger, sent his troops, put those murderers to death, and set their city on fire. [22:8] Then he said to his servants ‘The banquet is prepared, but those who were invited were not worthy. [22:9] So go to the cross-roads, and invite everyone you find to the banquet.’ [22:10] The servants went out into the roads and collected all the people whom they found, whether bad or good; and the bridal-hall was filled with guests. [22:11] But, when the king went in to see his guests, he noticed there a man who had not put on a wedding-robe. [22:12] So he said to him ‘My friend, how is it that you came in here without a wedding-robe?’ The man was speechless. [22:13] Then the king said to the attendants ‘Tie him hand and foot, and ‘put him out into the darkness’ outside, where there will be weeping and grinding of teeth.’ [22:14] For many are called, but few chosen.” [22:15] Then the Pharisees went away and conferred together as to how they might lay a trap for Jesus in the course of conversation. [22:16] They sent their disciples, with the Herodians, to say to him: “Teacher, we know that you are an honest person, and that you teach the way of God honestly, and are not afraid of anyone; for you pay no regard to a person’s position. [22:17] Tell us, then, what you think. Are we right in paying taxes to the Emperor, or not?” [22:18] Perceiving their malice, Jesus answered: “Why are you testing me, you hypocrites? [22:19] Show me the coin with which the tax is paid.” And, when they had brought him a coin, [22:20] he asked: “Whose head and title are these?” [22:21] “The Emperor’s,” they answered: on which he said to them: “Then pay to the Emperor what belongs to the Emperor, and to God what belongs to God.” [22:22] They wondered at his answer, and left him alone and went away. [22:23] That same day some Sadducees came up to Jesus, maintaining that there is no resurrection. Their question was this: — [22:24] “Teacher, Moses said — ‘should a man die without children, the man’s brother will become the husband of the widow, and raise a family for his brother.’ [22:25] Now we had living among us seven brothers; of whom the eldest married and died, and, as he had no family, left his wife for his brother. [22:26] The same thing happened to the second and the third brothers, and indeed to all the seven. [22:27] The woman herself died last of all. [22:28] At the resurrection, then, whose wife will she be out of the seven, all of them having been married to her?” [22:29] “Your mistake,” replied Jesus, “is due to your ignorance of the scriptures, and of the power of God. [22:30] For at the resurrection there is no marrying or being married, but all who rise are as angels in heaven. [22:31] As to the resurrection of the dead, have you not read these words of God — [22:32] ‘I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’? He is not the God of dead people, but of living.” [22:33] The crowds, who had been listening to him, were greatly struck with his teaching. [22:34] When the Pharisees heard that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, they collected together. [22:35] Then one of them, a Student of the law, to test him, asked this question — [22:36] “Teacher, what is the great commandment in the law?” [22:37] His answer was: “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ [22:38] This is the great first commandment. [22:39] The second, which is like it, is this — ‘You must love your neighbor as you love yourself.’ [22:40] On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.” [22:41] Before the Pharisees separated, Jesus put this question to them — [22:42] “What do you think about the Christ? Whose son is he?” “David’s,” they said. [22:43] “How is it, then,” Jesus replied, “that David, speaking under inspiration, calls him ‘lord,’ in the passage — [22:44] ‘The Lord said to my Lord: “Sit at my right hand, until I put your enemies beneath your feet”’? [22:45] Since, then, David calls him ‘lord,’ how is he David’s son?” [22:46] No one could say a word in answer; nor did anyone after that day venture to question him further. [Matthew] [23:1] Then Jesus speaking to the crowds and to his disciples, said: [23:2] “The teachers of the law and the Pharisees now occupy the chair of Moses. [23:3] Therefore practice and lay to heart everything that they tell preach but do not practice. [23:4] While they make up heavy loads and pile them on other people’s shoulder’s they decline, themselves, to lift a finger to move them. [23:5] All their actions are done to attract attention. They widen their phylacteries, and increase the size of their tassels, [23:6] and like to have the place of honor at dinner, and the best seats in the Synagogues, [23:7] and to be greeted in the markets with respect, and to be called ‘Rabbi’ for everybody. [23:8] But do not allow yourselves to be called ‘Rabbi,’ for you have only one teacher, and you yourselves are all brothers and sisters. [23:9] And do not call anyone on the earth your ‘Father,’ for your have only one Father, the heavenly Father. [23:10] Nor must you allow yourselves to be called ‘leaders,’ for you have only one leader, the Christ. [23:11] The person who wants to be the greatest among you must be your servant. [23:12] Whoever exalts themselves will be humbled, and whoever humbles themselves will be exalted. [23:13] But alas for you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, hypocrites that you are! You turn the key of the kingdom of heaven in people’s faces. For you do not go in yourselves, and do not allow those who try to go in to do so. [23:14] Alas for you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, hypocrites that you are! You destroy widow’s houses, even while pretending to make long prayers; therefore you will receive greater condemnation. [23:15] Alas for you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, hypocrites that you are! You scour land and sea to make a single convert, and, when they are gained, you make them twice as deserving of Gehenna as you are yourselves. [23:16] Alas for you, you blind guides! You say ‘if any answer by the Temple, their oath counts for nothing; but, if anyone swears by the gold of the Temple, their oath is binding them’! [23:17] Fools that you are and blind! Which is the more important? The gold? Or the Temple which has given sacredness to the gold? [23:18] You say, too, ‘If anyone swears by the altar, their oath counts for nothing, but, if anyone swears by the offering placed on it, their oath is binding on them’! [23:19] Blind indeed! Which is the more important? The offering? Or the altar which gives sacredness to the offering? [23:20] Therefore a person, swearing by the altar, swears by it and by all that is on it, [23:21] and a person, swearing by the Temple, swears by it and by him who dwells in it, [23:22] while a person, swearing by heaven, swears by the throne of God, and by him who sits on it. [23:23] Alas for you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, hypocrites that you are! You pay tithes on mint, fennel, and caraway seed, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law — justice, mercy, and good faith. These last you ought to have put into practice, without neglecting the first. [23:24] You blind guides, to strain out a gnat and to swallow a camel! [23:25] Alas for you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, hypocrites that you are! You clean the outside of the cup and the dish, but inside they are filled with the results of greed and self-indulgence. [23:26] You blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and the dish, so that the outside may become clean as well. [23:27] Alas for you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, hypocrites that you are! You are like whitewashed tombs, which indeed look fair outside, while inside they are filled with dead people’s bones and all kinds of filth. [23:28] It is the same with you. Outwardly, and to others, you have the look of religious people, but inwardly you are full of hypocrisy and sin. [23:29] Alas for you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, hypocrites that you are! You build the tombs of the prophets, and decorate the monuments of religious people, [23:30] and say ‘Had we been living in the days of our ancestors, we should have taken part in their murder of the prophets! [23:31] By doing this you are furnishing evidence against yourselves that you are true children of the people who murdered the prophets. [23:32] Fill up the measure of your ancestor’s guilt. [23:33] You snakes and children of snakes! How can you escape being sentenced to Gehenna? [23:34] That is why I send you prophets, wise people, and teachers of the law, some of whom you will crucify and kill, and some of whom you will scourge in your Synagogues, and persecute from town to town; [23:35] in order the blood on your heads may fall every drop of innocent ‘blood split on earth,’ from the blood of innocent Abel down to that of Zechariah, Barachiah’s son, whom you murdered between the Temple and the altar. [23:36] All this, I tell you, will come home to the present generation. [23:37] Jerusalem! Jerusalem! She who slays the prophets and stones the messengers sent to her — Oh, how often have I wished to gather your children around me, as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you would not come! [23:38] Verily, your house is left to you desolate! [23:39] For nevermore, I tell you, will you see me, until you say — ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!’” [Matthew] [24:1] Leaving the Temple Courts, Jesus was walking away, when his disciples came up to draw his attention to the Temple buildings. [24:2] “Do you see all these things?” was his answer. “I tell you, not a single stone will be left here on another, which will not be thrown down,” [24:3] so, while Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives, his disciples came up to him privately and said: “Tell us when this will be, and what will be the sign of your coming, and of the close of the age.” [24:4] Jesus replied to them: “See that no one leads you astray; [24:5] for, many will take my name, and come saying ‘I am the Christ,’ and will lead many astray. [24:6] You will hear of wars and rumors of wars; take care not to be alarmed, for such things must occur; but the end is not yet here. [24:7] For ‘nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom,’ and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. [24:8] All this, however, will be but the beginning of the birth pangs! [24:9] When that time comes, they will give you up to persecution, and will put you to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me. [24:10] And then many will fall away, and will betray one another, and hate one another. [24:11] Many false prophets, also, will appear and lead many astray; [24:12] and, owing to the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold. [24:13] Yet the person who endures to the end will be saved. [24:14] This good news of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the world as a witness to all nations; and then will come the end. [24:15] As soon, then, as you see ‘the Foul Desecration,’ mentioned by the prophet Daniel, standing in the Holy place,” (the reader must consider what this means) [24:16] “then those of you who are in Judea must take refuge in the mountains; [24:17] and a man on the housetop must not go down to get the things that are in his house; [24:18] nor must one who is on their farm turn back to get his cloak. [24:19] Alas for pregnant women, and for those who are nursing infants in those days! [24:20] Pray, too, that your flight may not take place in winter, nor on a Sabbath; [24:21] for that will be ‘a time of great distress, the like of which has not occurred from the beginning of the world down to the present time’ — no, nor ever will again. [24:22] Had not those days been limited, not a single soul would escape; but for the sake of ‘God’s people’ a limit will be put to them. [24:23] At that time, if anyone should say to you ‘Look! Here is the Christ!’ or ‘Here he is!’, do not believe it; [24:24] for false Christs and false prophets will arise, and will display great signs and marvels, so that, were it possible, even God’s people would be led astray. [24:25] Remember, I have told you beforehand. [24:26] Therefore, if people say to you ‘He is in the wilderness!’, do not go out there; or ‘He is in an inner room!’, do not believe it; [24:27] for, just as lightning will start from the east and flash across to the west, so will it be with the coming of the Son of Man. [24:28] Wherever a dead body lies, there will the vultures flock.’ [24:29] Immediately after the distress of those days, ‘the sun will be darkened, the moon will not give her light, the stars will fall from the heavens,’ and ‘the forces of the heavens will be convulsed.’ [24:30] Then will appear the sign of the Son of Man in the heavens; and all the peoples of the earth will mourn, when they see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the heavens,’ with power and great glory; [24:31] and he will send his angels, with a great trumpet, and they will gather his people around him from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other. [24:32] Learn the lesson taught by the fig tree. As soon as its branches are full of sap, and it is bursting into leaf, you know that summer is near. [24:33] And so may you, as soon as you see all these things, know that he is at your doors. [24:34] I tell you, even the present generation will not pass away, until all these things have taken place. [24:35] The heavens and the earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. [24:36] But about that day and hour, no one knows — not even the angels of heaven, not even the Son — but only the Father himself. [24:37] For, just as in the days of Noah, so will it be at the coming of the Son of Man. [24:38] In those days before the flood they went on eating and drinking, marrying and being married, up to the very day on which Noah entered the ark, [24:39] taking not notice until the flood came and swept them one and all away; and so will it be at the coming of the Son of Man. [24:40] At that time, of two men on a farm one will be taken and one left; [24:41] of two women grinding with the hand-mill one will be taken and one left. [24:42] Therefore watch; for you cannot be sure on what day your Master is coming. [24:43] But this you do know, that, had the owner of the house known at what time of night the thief was coming, they would have been on the watch, and would not have allowed their house to be broken into. [24:44] Therefore, you must also prepare, since it is just when you are least expecting him that the Son of Man will come. [24:45] Who, then is that trustworthy, careful servant, who has been placed by their master over his household, to give them their food at the proper time? [24:46] Happy will that servant be whom their master, when he comes home, will find doing this. [24:47] I tell you that their master will put them in charge of the whole of his property. [24:48] But, should the servant be a bad servant, and say to themselves ‘My master is a long time in coming,’ [24:49] and begin to beat their fellow servants, and eat and drink with drunkards, [24:50] that servant’s master will come on a day when they do not expect him, and at an hour of which they are unaware, [24:51] and will flog the servant severely, and assign them their place among the hypocrites, where there will be weeping and grinding of teeth. [Matthew] [25:1] Then the kingdom of heaven will be like ten bridesmaids who took their lamps and went out to meet the groom. [25:2] Five of them were foolish, and five were prudent. [25:3] The foolish ones took their lamps, but took no oil with them; [25:4] while the prudent ones, besides taking their lamps, took oil in their jars. [25:5] As the groom was late in coming, they all became drowsy, and slept. [25:6] But at midnight a shout was raised — ‘The groom is coming! Come out to meet him!’ [25:7] Then all the bridesmaids woke up and trimmed their lamps, [25:8] and the foolish said to the prudent ‘Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.’ [25:9] But the prudent ones answered ‘No, There may not be enough for you and for us. Go instead to those who sell it, and buy for yourselves.’ [25:10] But while they were on their way to buy it, the groom came; and the bridesmaids who were ready went in with him to the banquet, and the door was shut. [25:11] Afterwards the other bridesmaids came. ‘Sir, Sir,’ they said, ‘open the door to us!’ [25:12] But the groom answered ‘I tell you, I do not know you.’ [25:13] Therefore watch, since you know neither the day nor the hour. [25:14] For it is as though a man, going on his travels, called his servants, and gave his property into their charge. [25:15] He gave five bags of gold to one, two to another, and one bag to a third, in proportion to the ability of each. Then he set out on his travels. [25:16] The servant who had received the five bags of gold went at once and traded with it, and made another five bags. [25:17] So, too, the servant who had received the two bags of gold made another two bags. [25:18] But the servant who had received the one bag went and dug a hole in the ground, and hid his master’s money. [25:19] After a long time the master of those servants returned, and settled accounts with them. [25:20] The servant who had received the five bags of gold came up and brought five bags more. ‘Sir,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with five bags of gold; look, I have made another five bags!’ [25:21] ‘Well done, good, trustworthy servant!’ said his master. ‘You have been trustworthy with a small sum; now I will place a large one in your hands; come and share your master’s joy!’ [25:22] Then the one who had received the two bags of gold came up and said ‘Sir, you entrusted me with two bags pounds; look, I have made another two!’ [25:23] ‘Well done, good, trustworthy servant!’ said his master. ‘You have been trustworthy with a small sum; now I will place a large one in your hands; come and share your master’s joy!’ [25:24] The man who had received the single bag of gold came up, too, and said ‘Sir, I knew that you were a hard man; you reap where you have not sown, and gather up where you have not winnowed; [25:25] and, in my fear, I went and hid your money in the ground; look, here is what belongs to you!’ [25:26] ‘You lazy, worthless servant!’ was his master’s reply. ‘You knew that I reap where I have not sown, and gather up where I have not winnowed? [25:27] Then you ought to have placed my money in the hands of bankers, and I, on my return, should have received my money, with interest. [25:28] ‘Therefore,’ he continued, ‘take away from him the one bag of gold, and give it to the one who has the ten bags. [25:29] For, to him who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but, as for him who has nothing, even what he has will be taken away from him. [25:30] As for the useless servant, ‘put him out into the darkness’ outside, where there will be weeping and grinding of teeth.’ [25:31] When the Son of Man has come in his glory and all the angels with him, then he ‘will take his seat on his throne of glory’; [25:32] and all the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people — just as a shepherd separates sheep from goats — [25:33] placing the sheep on his right hand, and the goats on his left. [25:34] Then the king will say to those on his right ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, enter into possession of the kingdom prepared for you ever since the beginning of the world. [25:35] For, when I was hungry, you gave me food; when I was thirsty, you gave me drink; when I was a stranger, you took me to your homes; [25:36] when I was naked, you clothed me; when I fell ill, you visited me; and when I was in prison, you came to me.’ [25:37] Then the righteous will answer ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry, and feed you? Or thirsty, and give you a drink? [25:38] When did we see you a stranger, and take you to our homes? Or naked, and clothe you? [25:39] When did we see you ill, or in prison, and come to you?’ [25:40] And the king will reply ‘I tell you, as often as you did it to one of these my brothers or sisters, however unimportant they seemed, you did it to me.’ [25:41] Then he will say to those on his left ‘Go from my presence, accursed, into the ‘permanent fire which has been prepared for the devil and his angels.’ [25:42] For, when I was hungry, you gave me no food; when I was thirsty, you gave me no drink; [25:43] when I was a stranger, you did not take me to your homes; when I was naked, you did not clothe me; and, when I was ill and in prison, you did not visit me.’ [25:44] Then they, in their turn, will answer ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry, or thirsty, or a stranger, or naked, or ill, or in prison, and did not supply your wants?’ [25:45] And then he will reply ‘I tell you, as often as you failed to do it to one of these, however unimportant, you failed to do it to me.’ [25:46] And these last will go away ‘into lasting correction,’ but the righteous ‘into lasting life.’” [Matthew] [26:1] When Jesus had finished teaching all of that, he said to his disciples: [26:2] “You know that in two days time the Festival of the Passover will be here; and that the Son of Man is to be given up to be crucified.” [26:3] Then the chief priests and the councillors of the Nation met in the house of the high priest, who was called Caiaphas, [26:4] and plotted together to arrest Jesus by stealth and put him to death; [26:5] but they said: “Not during the Festival, or the people may riot.” [26:6] After Jesus had reached Bethany, and while he was in the house of Simon the leper, [26:7] a woman came up to him with an alabaster jar of very costly perfume, and poured the perfume on his head as he sat at the table. [26:8] The disciples were indignant at seeing this. “What is this waste for?” they exclaimed. [26:9] “It could have been sold for a large sum, and the money given to poor people.” [26:10] “Why are you troubling the woman?” Jesus said, when he noticed it. “For this is a beautiful deed that she has done to me. [26:11] You always have the poor with you, but you will not always have me. [26:12] In pouring this perfume on my body, she has done it for my burying. [26:13] I tell you, wherever, in the whole world, this good news is proclaimed, what this woman has done will be told in memory of her.” [26:14] It was then that one of the Twelve, named Judas Iscariot, made his way to the chief priests, [26:15] and said “What are you willing to give me, if I betray Jesus to you?” The Priests ‘weighed him out thirty pieces of silver’ as payment. [26:16] So from that time Judas looked for an opportunity to betray Jesus. [26:17] On the first day of the Festival of the unleavened bread, the disciples came up to Jesus, and said: “Where do you wish us to make preparations for you to eat the Passover?” [26:18] “Go into the city to a certain man,” he answered, “and say to him ‘The teacher says — My time is near. I will keep the Passover with my disciples at your house.’” [26:19] The disciples did as Jesus directed them, and prepared the Passover. [26:20] In the evening Jesus took his place with the twelve disciples, [26:21] and, while they were eating, he said: “I tell you that one of you will betray me.” [26:22] In great grief they began to say to him, one by one: “Can it be I, Master?” [26:23] “The one who dipped his bread beside me in the dish,” replied Jesus, “is the one who will betray me. [26:24] True, the Son of Man must go, as scripture says of him, yet alas for that man by whom the Son of Man is being betrayed! For that man ‘it would be better never to have been born!’” [26:25] Judas, who was betraying him, turned to him and said: “Can it be I, Rabbi?” “It is,” answered Jesus. [26:26] While they were eating, Jesus took some bread, and, after saying the blessing, broke it and, as he gave it to his disciples, said: “Take it and eat it; this is my body.” [26:27] Then he took a cup, and, after saying the thanksgiving, gave it to them, with the words: “Drink from it, all of you; [26:28] for this is my covenant blood, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. [26:29] I tell you that I will never, after this, drink of this juice of the grape, until that day when I will drink it new with you in the kingdom of my Father.” [26:30] They then sang a hymn, and went out to the Mount of Olives. [26:31] Then Jesus said to them: “Even you will all fall away from me tonight. Scripture says — ‘I will strike down the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.’ [26:32] But, after I have risen, I will go before you into Galilee.” [26:33] “If everyone else falls away from you,” Peter answered, “I will never fall away!” [26:34] “I tell you,” replied Jesus, “that this very night, before the cock crows, you will disown me three times!” [26:35] “Even if I must die with you,” Peter exclaimed, “I will never disown you!” All the disciples spoke in the same way. [26:36] Then Jesus came with them to a garden called Gethsemane, and he said to his disciples: “Sit down here while I go and pray over there.” [26:37] Taking with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, he began to show signs of sadness and deep distress of mind. [26:38] “I am sad at heart,” he said, “sad even to death; wait here and watch with me.” [26:39] Going on a little further, he threw himself on his face in prayer. “My Father,” he said, “if it is possible, let me be spared this cup; only, not as I will, but as you will.” [26:40] Then he came to his disciples, and found them asleep. “What!” he said to Peter, “could none of you watch with me for one hour? [26:41] Watch and pray so that you don't fall into temptation. True, the spirit is eager, but human nature is weak.” [26:42] Again, a second time, he went away, and prayed. “My Father,” he said, “if I cannot be spared this cup, but must drink it, your will be done!” [26:43] And coming back again he found them asleep, for their eyes were heavy. [26:44] So he left them, and went away again, and prayed a third time, again saying the same words. [26:45] Then he came to the disciples, and said: “Sleep on now, and rest yourselves. Look - my time is close at hand, and the Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of wicked people. [26:46] Up, and let us be going. Look! My betrayer is close at hand.” [26:47] And, while he was still speaking, Judas, who was one of the Twelve, came in sight; and with him was a great crowd of people, with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests and councillors of the nation. [26:48] Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them. “The man whom I kiss,” he had said, “will be the one; arrest him.” [26:49] So he went up to Jesus at once, and exclaimed: “Welcome, Rabbi!” and kissed him; [26:50] on which Jesus said to him: “Friend, do what you have come for.” The men went up, seized Jesus, and arrested him. [26:51] Suddenly one of those who were with Jesus stretched out his hand, and drew his sword, and striking the high priest’s servant, cut off his ear. [26:52] “Sheathe your sword,” Jesus said, “for all who draw the sword will be put to the sword. [26:53] Do you think that I cannot ask my Father for help, when he would at once send to my aid more than twelve legions of angels? [26:54] But in that case how would the scriptures be fulfilled, which say that this must be?” [26:55] Jesus at the same time said to the crowds: “Have you come out, as if after a robber, with swords and clubs, to take me? I have sat teaching day after day in the Temple Courts, and yet you did not arrest me.” [26:56] The whole of this occurred in fulfillment of the Prophetic scriptures. Then the disciples all forsook him and fled. [26:57] Those who had arrested Jesus took him to Caiaphas, the high priest, where the teachers of the law and the councillors had assembled. [26:58] Peter followed him at a distance as far as the courtyard of the offices, to see the end. [26:59] Meanwhile the chief priests and the whole of the High Council were trying to get such false evidence against Jesus, as would warrant putting him to death, [26:60] but they did not find any, although many came forward with false evidence. Later on, however, two men came forward and said: [26:61] “This man said ‘I am able to destroy the Temple of God, and to build it in three days.’” [26:62] Then the high priest stood up, and said to Jesus: “Have you no answer? What is this evidence which these men are giving against you?” [26:63] But Jesus remained silent. The high priest said to him: “I order you, by the living God, to tell us whether you are the Christ, the Son of God.” [26:64] “It is true,” Jesus answered; “Moreover I tell you all that hereafter you will ‘see the Son of Man sitting on the right hand of the Almighty, and coming on the clouds of the heavens.’” [26:65] Then the high priest tore his robes. “This is blasphemy!” he exclaimed. “Why do we want any more witnesses? You have just heard his blasphemy! [26:66] What is your decision?” They answered: “He deserves death.” [26:67] Then they spat in his face, and struck him, while others dealt blows at him, saying as they did so: [26:68] “Now play the prophet for us, you Christ! Who was it that struck you?” [26:69] Peter, meanwhile, was sitting outside in the courtyard; and a maidservant came up to him, and exclaimed: “Why, you were with Jesus the Galilean!” [26:70] But Peter denied it before them all. “I do not know what you mean,” he replied. [26:71] When he had gone out into the gateway, another maid saw him, and said to those who were there: “This man was with Jesus of Nazareth!” [26:72] Again he denied it with an oath: “I do not know the man!” [26:73] But soon afterwards those who were standing by came up and said to Peter: “You also are certainly one of them; why, even your way of speaking proves it!” [26:74] Then Peter said: “I swear that I do not know the man! May God punish me if I am lying!” At that moment a cock crowed; [26:75] and Peter remembered the words which Jesus had said — ‘Before a cock has crowed, you will disown me three times’;and he went outside, and wept bitterly. [Matthew] [27:1] At daybreak all the chief priests and the councillors of the nation consulted together against Jesus, to bring about his death. [27:2] They put him in chains and led him away, and gave him up to the Roman Governor, Pilate. [27:3] Then Judas, who betrayed him, seeing that Jesus was condemned, repented of what he had done, and returned the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and councillors. [27:4] “I did wrong in betraying a good man to his death,” he said. “What has that to do with us?” they replied. “You must see to that yourself.” [27:5] Judas flung down the pieces of silver in the Temple, and left; and went away and hanged himself. [27:6] The chief priests took the pieces of silver, but they said: “We must not put them into the Temple treasury, because they are blood-money.” [27:7] So, after consultation, they bought with them the ‘Potter’s Field’ for a burial-ground for foreigners; [27:8] and that is why that field is called the ‘Field of Blood’ to this very day. [27:9] Then it was that these words spoken by the prophet Jeremiah were fulfilled — ‘They took the thirty pieces of silver, the price of him who was valued, whom some of the people of Israel valued, [27:10] and gave them for the Potter’s field, as the Lord commanded me.’ [27:11] Meanwhile Jesus was brought before the Roman Governor. “Are you the king of the Jews?” asked the Governor. “It is true,” answered Jesus. [27:12] While charges were being brought against him by the chief priests and councillors, Jesus made no reply. [27:13] Then Pilate said to him: “Don’t you hear how many accusations they are making against you?” [27:14] Yet Jesus made no reply — not even a single word; at which the Governor was greatly astonished. [27:15] Now, at the feast, the Governor was accustomed to grant the people the release of any one prisoner whom they might choose. [27:16] At that time they had a notorious prisoner called Barabbas. [27:17] So, when the people had collected, Pilate said to them: “Which do you wish me to release for you? Barabbas? Or Jesus who is called ‘Christ’?” [27:18] For he knew that it was out of jealousy that they had given Jesus up to him. [27:19] While he was still on the Bench, his wife sent this message to him — “Do not have anything to do with that good man, for I have been very unhappy today in a dream because of him.” [27:20] But the chief priests and the councillors persuaded the crowds to ask for Barabbas, and to kill Jesus. [27:21] The Governor, however, said to them: “Which of these two do you wish me to release for you?” “Barabbas,” they answered. [27:22] “What then,” Pilate asked, “should I do with Jesus who is called ‘Christ?’ “Let him be crucified,” they all replied. [27:23] “Why, what harm has he done?” he asked. But they kept shouting furiously: “Let him be crucified!” [27:24] When Pilate saw that his efforts were unavailing, but that, on the contrary, a riot was beginning, he took some water, and washed his hands in the sight of the crowd, saying as he did so: “I am not answerable for this bloodshed; you must see to it yourselves.” [27:25] And all the people answered: “His blood be on our heads and on our children’s!” [27:26] The Pilate released Barabbas to them; but Jesus he scourged, and gave him up to be crucified. [27:27] After that, the Governor’s soldiers took Jesus with them into the Government house, and gathered the whole garrison around him. [27:28] They stripped him, and put on him a red military cloak, [27:29] and having twisted some thorns into a crown, put it on his head, and a rod in his right hand, and then, going down on their knees before him, they mocked him. “Long life to you, king of the Jews!” they said. [27:30] They spat at him and, taking the rod, kept striking him on the head; [27:31] and, when they had left off mocking him, they took off the military cloak, and put his own clothes on him, and led him away to be crucified. [27:32] As they were on their way out, they came upon a man from Cyrene of the name of Simon; and they compelled him to go with them to carry the cross. [27:33] On reaching a place named Golgotha (a place named from its likeness to a skull), [27:34] they gave him some wine to drink which had been mixed with gall; but after tasting it, Jesus refused to drink it. [27:35] When they had crucified him, they divided his clothes among them by casting lots. [27:36] Then they sat down, and kept watch over him there. [27:37] Above his head they fixed the accusation against him written out — ‘THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS.’ [27:38] At the same time two robbers were crucified with him, one on the right, the other on the left. [27:39] The passers-by railed at him, shaking their heads as they said: [27:40] “You who ‘destroy the Temple and build one in three days,’ save yourself! If you are God’s Son, come down from the cross!” [27:41] In the same way the chief priests, with the Teaches of the law and councillors, said in mockery: [27:42] “He saved others, but he cannot save himself! He is the ‘king of Israel’! Let him come down from the cross now, and we will believe in him. [27:43] He has trusted in God; if God wants him, let him deliver him now; for he said ‘I am God’s Son.’” [27:44] Even the robbers, who were crucified with him, insulted him in the same way. [27:45] After midday a darkness came over all the country, lasting until three in the afternoon. [27:46] About three Jesus called out loudly: “Eloi, Eloi, lema sabacthani” — that is to say, ‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?’ [27:47] Some of those standing by heard this, and said: “The man is calling for Elijah!” [27:48] One of them immediately ran and took a sponge, and, filling it with common wine, put it on the end of a rod, and offered it to him to drink. [27:49] But the rest said: “Wait and let us see if Elijah is coming to save him.” [27:50] But Jesus, uttering another loud cry, gave up his spirit. [27:51] Suddenly the Temple curtain was torn in two from top to bottom, the earth shook, the rocks were torn asunder, [27:52] the tombs opened, and the bodies of many of God’s people who had fallen asleep rose, [27:53] and they, leaving their tombs, went, after the resurrection of Jesus, into the Holy City, and appeared to many people. [27:54] The Roman captain, and the men with him who were watching Jesus, on seeing the earthquake and all that was happening, became greatly frightened and exclaimed: “This must indeed have been God’s Son!” [27:55] There were many women there, watching from a distance, who had accompanied Jesus from Galilee and had been attending on him. [27:56] Among them were Mary of Magdala, Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of Zebedee’s sons. [27:57] When evening had fallen, there came a rich man belonging to Ramah, named Joseph, who had himself become a disciple of Jesus. [27:58] He went to see Pilate, and asked for the body of Jesus. Pilate ordered it to be given him. [27:59] So Joseph took the body, and wrapped it in a clean linen sheet, [27:60] and laid it in his newly made tomb which he had cut in the rock; and, before he left, he rolled a great stone against the entrance of the tomb. [27:61] Mary of Magdala and the other Mary remained behind, sitting in front of the grave. [27:62] The next day — that is, the day following the Preparation-day — the chief priests and Pharisees came in a body to Pilate, and said: [27:63] “Sir, we remember that, during his lifetime, that impostor said ‘I will rise after three days.’ [27:64] So order the tomb to be made secure until the third day. Otherwise his disciples may come and steal him, and then say to the people ‘He has risen from the dead,’ when the latest imposture will be worse than the first.” [27:65] “You may have a guard,” was Pilate’s reply; “go and make the tomb as secure as you can.” [27:66] So they went made the tomb secure, by sealing the stone, in presence of the guard.[Matthew] The Risen Life ============== [28:1] After the Sabbath, as the first day of the week began to dawn, Mary of Magdala and the other Mary had gone to look at the grave, [28:2] when suddenly a great earthquake occurred. For an angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled away the stone, and seated himself on it. [28:3] His appearance was as dazzling as lightning, and his clothing was as white as snow; [28:4] and, in their terror of him, the men on guard trembled violently and became like dead men. [28:5] But the angel, addressing the women, said; “You need not be afraid. I now that it is Jesus, who was crucified, for whom you are looking. [28:6] He is not here; for he has risen, as he said he would. Come, and see the place where he was lying; [28:7] and then go quickly and say to him disciples ‘He has risen from the dead, and is going before you into Galilee; there you will see him.’ Remember, I have told you.” [28:8] They left the tomb quickly, in awe and great joy, and ran to tell the news to the disciples. [28:9] Suddenly Jesus met them. “Welcome!” he said. The women went up to him, and clasped his feet, bowing to the ground before him. Then Jesus said to them: [28:10] “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers and sisters to set out for Galilee, and they will see me there.” [28:11] While they were still on their way, some of the guard came into the city, and reported to the chief priests everything that had happened. [28:12] So they and the councillors met and, after holding a consultation, gave a large sum of money to the soldiers, [28:13] and told them to say that his disciples came in the night, and stole him while they were asleep; [28:14] “And should this matter come before the Governor,” they added, “we will satisfy him, and see that you have nothing to fear.” [28:15] So the soldiers took the money, and did as they were instructed. This story spread widely; the people of Judea still tell it today. [28:16] The eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus told them to meet him; [28:17] and, when they saw him, they bowed to the ground before him; although some felt doubtful. [28:18] Then Jesus came up, and spoke to them , saying: “All authority in heaven and on the earth has been given to me. [28:19] Therefore go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them into the faith of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, [28:20] and teaching them to lay to heart all the commands that I have given you; and, remember, I myself am with you every day until the close of the age.” ==== Mark ==== --- The --- ---------------------- Good News According to ---------------------- ---- Mark ---- [Mark] The Preparation =============== [1:1] The beginning of the good news about Jesus Christ. [1:2] It is said in the prophet Isaiah — ‘I am sending my messenger ahead of you; he will prepare your way. [1:3] The voice of one crying aloud in the wilderness: “Prepare the road for the Lord, make a straight path for him.”’ [1:4] John the Baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism on repentance, for the forgiveness of sins. [1:5] The whole of Judea, as well as all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, went out to him; and they were baptized by him in the Jordan River, confessing their sins. [1:6] John wore clothes made of camels’ hair, with a leather strap around his waist, and lived on locusts and wild honey; [1:7] and he proclaimed — “After me is coming someone more powerful than I am, and I am not fit even to stoop down and unfasten his sandals. [1:8] I have baptized you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” [1:9] Now about that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee, and was baptized by John in the Jordan. [1:10] Just as he was coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens split open and the Spirit coming down to him like a dove, [1:11] and from the heavens came a voice — “You are my dearly loved son; you bring me great joy.” [1:12] Immediately afterwards the Spirit drove Jesus out into the wilderness; [1:13] and he was there in the wilderness forty days, tempted by Satan, and among the wild beasts, while the angels helped him. The Work in Galilee =================== [1:14] After John had been arrested, Jesus went to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God — [1:15] “The time has come, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent, and believe the good news.” [1:16] As Jesus was going along the shore of the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net in the Sea, for they were fishermen. [1:17] “Come and follow me,”Jesus said, “and I will teach you to fish for people.” [1:18] They left their nets at once, and followed him. [1:19] Going on a little further, he saw James, Zebedee’s son, and his brother John, who were in their boat mending the nets. [1:20] Jesus called them at once, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the crew, and went after him. [1:21] They walked to Capernaum. On the next Sabbath Jesus went into the synagogue and began to teach. [1:22] The people were amazed at his teaching, for he taught them like one who had authority, and not like the teachers of the law. [1:23] Now there was in their synagogue at the time a man under the power of a foul spirit, who called out: [1:24] “What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are — the Holy One of God!” [1:25] But Jesus rebuked the spirit: “Be silent! Come out from him.” [1:26] The foul spirit threw the man into a fit, and with a loud cry came out from him. [1:27] They were all so amazed that they kept asking each other: “What is this? What is this strange teaching? He gives his commands with authority even to the foul spirits, and they obey him!” [1:28] His fame spread at once in all directions, through the whole neighborhood of Galilee. [1:29] As soon as they had left the synagogue, they went, with James and John, into the house of Simon and Andrew. [1:30] Now Simon’s mother-in-law was lying ill with a fever, and they at once told Jesus about her. [1:31] Jesus went up to her and, grasping her hand, raised her up; the fever left her, and she began to take care of them. [1:32] In the evening, after sunset, the people brought to Jesus all who were ill or possessed by demons; [1:33] and the whole city was gathered around the door. [1:34] Jesus cured many who were ill with various diseases, and drove out many demons, and would not permit them to speak, because they knew him to be the Christ. [1:35] In the morning, long before daylight, Jesus rose and went out, and, going to a lonely spot, there began to pray. [1:36] But Simon and his companions went out searching for him; [1:37] and, when they found him, they exclaimed: “Everyone is looking for you!” [1:38] But Jesus said to them: “Let us go somewhere else, into the country towns nearby so that I can make my proclamation in them also; for that was why I came.” [1:39] And he went about making his proclamation in their Synagogues all through Galilee, and driving out the demons. [1:40] One day a leper came to Jesus and, falling on his knees, begged him for help. “If only you are willing,” he said, “you are able to make me clean.” [1:41] Moved with compassion, Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him, saying as he did so: “I am willing; become clean.” [1:42] Instantly the leprosy left the man, and he became clean; [1:43] and then Jesus, after sternly warning him, immediately sent him away, and said to him: [1:44] “Be careful not to say anything to anyone; but go and show yourself to the priest, and make the offerings for your cleansing directed by Moses, as evidence of your cure.” [1:45] The man, however, went away, and began to speak about it publicly, and to spread the story so widely, that Jesus could no longer go openly into a town, but stayed outside in lonely places; and people came to him from every direction. [Mark] [2:1] Some days later, when Jesus came back to Capernaum, the news spread that he was in a house there; [2:2] and so many people collected together, that after a while there was no room for them even around the door; and he began to tell them his message. [2:3] Some people came, bringing to him a paralyzed man, who was being carried by four of them. [2:4] Being, however, unable to get him near to Jesus, owing to the crowd, they removed the roofing above Jesus; and, when they had made an opening, they let down the mat on which the paralyzed man was lying. [2:5] When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the man: “Child, your sins are forgiven.” [2:6] But some of the teachers of the law who were sitting there were debating in their minds: [2:7] “Why does this man speak like this? He is blaspheming! Who can forgive sins except God?” [2:8] Jesus, at once intuitively aware that they were debating with themselves in this way, said to them: “Why are you debating in your minds about this? [2:9] Which is easier? — to say to the paralyzed man, ‘Your sins are forgiven’? Or to say ‘Get up, and take up your mat, and walk’? [2:10] But so you may know that the Son of Man has power to forgive sins on earth”— here he said to the paralyzed man — [2:11] “To you I say, Get up, take up your mat, and return to your home.” [2:12] The man got up, and immediately took up his mat, and went out before them all; at which they were amazed, and, as they praised God, they said: “We have never seen anything like this!” [2:13] Jesus went out again to the Sea; and all the people came to him, and he taught them. [2:14] As he went along, he saw Levi, the son of Alphaeus, sitting in the tax office, and said to him: “Follow me.”Levi got up and followed him. [2:15] Later on he was in his house having dinner, and a number of tax-gatherers and outcasts took their places at the table with Jesus and his disciples; for many of them were following him. [2:16] When the teachers of the law belonging to the party of the Pharisees saw that he was eating in the company of such people, they said to his disciples: “He is eating in the company of tax-gatherers and outcasts!” [2:17] Hearing this, Jesus said: “It is not those who are healthy who need a doctor, but those who are ill. I did not come to call the religious, but the outcast.” [2:18] Now John’s disciples and the Pharisees were fasting, and people came and asked Jesus: “Why is it that John’s disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees fast, while yours do not?” [2:19] Jesus answered: “Can the groom’s friends fast, while the groom is with them? As long as they have the groom with them, they cannot fast. [2:20] But the days will come, when the groom will be taken away from them, and they will fast then — when that day comes. [2:21] “No one ever sews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment; if they do, the patch tears away from it — the new from the old — and a worse tear is made. [2:22] And no one ever puts new wine into old wine-skins; if they do, the wine will burst the skins, and both the wine and the skins are lost. But new wine is put into fresh skins.” [2:23] One Sabbath, as Jesus was walking through the cornfields, his disciples began to pick the ears of wheat as they went along. [2:24] “Look!” the Pharisees said to him, “why are they doing what is not allowed on the Sabbath?” [2:25] “Have you never read,”answered Jesus, “what David did when he was in need and hungry, he and his companions — [2:26] How he went into the house of God, in the time of Abiathar the high priest, and ate the consecrated bread, which only the priests are allowed to eat, and gave some to his comrades as well?” [2:27] Then Jesus added: “The Sabbath was made for people, and not people for the Sabbath; [2:28] so the Son of Man is lord even of the Sabbath.” [Mark] [3:1] On another occasion Jesus went in to a synagogue, where there was a man whose hand was withered. [3:2] And they watched Jesus closely, to see if he would cure the man on the Sabbath, so that they might have a charge to bring against him. [3:3] “Stand out in the middle,”Jesus said to the man with the withered hand; [3:4] and to the people he said: “Is it allowable to do good at the Sabbath — or harm? To save a life, or destroy it?” [3:5] As they remained silent, Jesus looked around at them in anger, grieving at the hardness of their hearts, and said to the man: “Stretch out your hand.”The man stretched it out; and his hand had become sound. [3:6] Immediately on leaving the synagogue, the Pharisees and the Herodians united in laying a plot against Jesus, to put him to death. ---- [3:7] Then Jesus went away with his disciples to the Sea, followed by a great number of people from Galilee. [3:8] A great number, hearing of all that he was doing, came to him from Judea, from Jerusalem, from Edom, from beyond the Jordan, and from the country around Tyre and Sidon. [3:9] So Jesus told his disciples to keep a small boat close by, so that the crowd would not crush him. [3:10] For he had cured many of them, and so people kept crowding around him, so all who were sick might touch him. [3:11] The foul spirits, too, whenever they caught sight of him, flung themselves down before him, and screamed out: “You are the Son of God”! [3:12] But he repeatedly warned them not to make him known. [3:13] Jesus made his way up the hill, and called those whom he wished; and they went to him. [3:14] He appointed twelve — whom he also named ‘apostles’ — so that they might be with him, and that he might send them out as his messengers, to preach, [3:15] and with power to drive out demons. [3:16] So he appointed the Twelve — Peter (which was the name that Jesus gave to Simon), [3:17] James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John (to whom he gave the name of Boanerges, which means the Thunderers), [3:18] Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot, [3:19] and Judas Iscariot, the man who betrayed him. [3:20] Jesus went into a house; and again a crowd collected, so that they were not even able to eat their food. [3:21] When his relations heard of it, they went to take charge of him, for they said that he was out of his mind. [3:22] The teachers of the law, who had come down from Jerusalem, said: “He has Beelzebul in him! He he drives the demons out by the help of their chief.” [3:23] So Jesus called them to him, and answered them in parables: “How can Satan drive out Satan? [3:24] When a kingdom is divided against itself, it cannot last; [3:25] and when a household is divided against itself, it will not be able to last. [3:26] So, if Satan is in revolt against himself and is divided, he cannot last — his end has come! [3:27] “No man who has got into a strong man’s house can carry off his goods, without first securing him; and not until then will he plunder his house. [3:28] I tell you that people will be forgiven everything — their sins, and all the slanders that they utter; [3:29] but whoever slanders the Holy Spirit remains unforgiven to the end; he has to answer for an enduring sin.” [3:30] This was said in reply to the charge that he had a foul spirit in him. [3:31] His mother and his brothers came, and stood outside, and sent to ask him to come to them. [3:32] There was a crowd sitting around Jesus, and some of them said to him: “Look, your mother and your brothers are outside, asking for you.” [3:33] “Who is my mother? And my brothers?”was his reply. [3:34] Then he looked around on the people sitting in a circle around him, and said: “Here are my mother and my brothers! [3:35] Whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.”[Mark] ---- [4:1] Jesus again began to teach by the Sea; and, as an immense crowd was gathering around him, he got into a boat, and sat in it on the Sea, while all the people were on the shore at the water’s edge. [4:2] Then he taught them many truths in parables; and in the course of his teaching he said to them: [4:3] “Listen! The sower went out to sow; [4:4] and presently, as he was sowing, some of the seed fell along the path; and the birds came, and ate it up. [4:5] Some fell on rocky ground, where it had not much soil, and, because the soil wasn't deep, sprang up at once; [4:6] but, when the sun rose, it was scorched, and, because their roots were not deep enough, withered away. [4:7] Some of the seed fell among brambles; but the brambles shot up and completely choked it, and it yielded no return. [4:8] Some fell into good soil, and, shooting up and growing, yielded a return, amounting to thirty, sixty, and even a hundred fold.” [4:9] And Jesus said: “Let anyone who has ears to hear with hear.” [4:10] Afterwards, when he was alone, his followers and the Twelve asked him about his parables; [4:11] and he said: “To you the hidden truth of the kingdom of God has been imparted; but to those who are outside it all teaching takes the form of parables so that — [4:12] ‘Though they have eyes, they may see without perceiving; and though they have ears, they may hear without understanding; otherwise some day they might turn and be forgiven.’ [4:13] “You do not know the meaning of this parable?”he went on; “Then how will you understand all the other parables? [4:14] The sower sows the message. [4:15] The people meant by the seed that falls along the path are these — where the message is sown, but, as soon as they have heard it, Satan immediately comes and carries away the message that has been sown in them. [4:16] So, too, those meant by the seed sown on the rocky places are the people who, when they have heard the message, at once accept it joyfully; [4:17] but, as they have no root, they stand only for a short time; and so, when trouble or persecution arises because of the message, they fall away at once. [4:18] Those meant by the seed sown among the brambles are different; they are the people who hear the message, [4:19] but the cares of life, and the glamour of wealth, and cravings for many other things come in and completely choke the message, so that it gives no return. [4:20] But the people meant by the seed sown on the good ground are those who hear the message, and welcome it, and yield a return, thirty, sixty, and even a hundred fold.” [4:21] Jesus said to them: “Is a lamp brought to be put under a basket or under the couch, instead of being put on the lamp-stand? [4:22] There is nothing hidden that will not come to light and nothing is concealed that will not be brought into the open. [4:23] Let all who have ears to hear with hear. [4:24] Take care what you listen to,”said Jesus. “The standard you use will be used for you, and more will be added for you. [4:25] For, to those who have, more will be given; while, from those who have nothing, even what they have will be taken away.” [4:26] Jesus also said: “This is what the kingdom of God is like — like a man who has scattered seed on the ground, [4:27] and then sleeps by night and rises by day, while the seed is shooting up and growing — he knows not how. [4:28] The ground bears the crop of itself — first the blade, then the ear, and then the full grain in the ear; [4:29] but, as soon as the crop is ready, immediately he ‘puts in the sickle because harvest has come’.” [4:30] Jesus also said: “To what can we liken the kingdom of God? [4:31] By what can we illustrate it? Perhaps by the growth of a mustard seed. This seed, when sown in the ground, though it is smaller than all other seeds, [4:32] yet, when sown, shoots up, and becomes larger than any other herb, and puts out great branches, so that even ‘the wild birds can roost in its shelter.’” [4:33] With many such parables Jesus used to speak to the people of his message, as far as they were able to receive it; [4:34] and to them he never used to speak except in parables; but in private to his own disciples he explained everything. ---- [4:35] In the evening of the same day, Jesus said to them: “Let us go across.” [4:36] So, leaving the crowd behind, they took him with them, just as he was, in the boat; and there were other boats with him. [4:37] A violent squall came on, and the waves kept dashing into the boat, so that the boat was actually filling. [4:38] Jesus was in the stern asleep on the cushion; and the disciples roused him and cried: “Teacher! Is it nothing to you that we are lost?” [4:39] Jesus rose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea: “Hush! Be still!”Then the wind dropped, and a great calm followed. [4:40] “Why are you so timid?”he exclaimed. “Have you no faith yet?” [4:41] But they were struck with great awe, and said to one another: “Who can this be that even the wind and the sea obey him?”[Mark] [5:1] They came to the other side of the Sea — the country of the Gerasenes; [5:2] and, as soon as Jesus had got out of the boat, he met a man coming out of the tombs, who was under the power of a foul spirit, [5:3] and who made his home in the tombs. No one had ever been able to secure him, even with a chain; [5:4] for, though he had many times been left secured with fetters and chains, he had snapped the chains and broken the fetters to pieces, and no one could master him. [5:5] Night and day alike, he was continually shrieking in the tombs and among the hills, and cutting himself with stones. [5:6] Catching sight of Jesus from a distance, he ran and bowed to the ground before him, [5:7] shrieking out in a loud voice: “What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? For God’s sake do not torment me!” [5:8] For Jesus had said: “Come out from the man, you foul spirit.” [5:9] And he asked him: “What is your name?”“My name,” he said, “is Legion, for there are many of us;” [5:10] and he begged Jesus again and again not to send them away out of that country. [5:11] There was a large drove of pigs close by, feeding on the hillside; [5:12] and the spirits begged Jesus: “Send us into the pigs so that we can take possession of them.” [5:13] Jesus gave them leave. They came out, and entered into the pigs; and the drove — about two thousand in number — rushed down the steep slope into the Sea and were drowned in the Sea. [5:14] Then the men who tended them ran away, and carried the news to the town, and to the country around; and the people went to see what had happened. [5:15] When they came to Jesus, they found the possessed man sitting there, clothed and in his right mind — the man who had had the ‘Legion’ in him — and they were awe-struck. [5:16] Then those who had seen it related to them all that had happened to the possessed man, as well as about the pigs; [5:17] so they began to beg Jesus to leave their neighborhood. [5:18] As Jesus was getting into the boat, the possessed man begged him to let him stay with him. [5:19] But Jesus refused. “Go back to your home, to your own people,”he said, “and tell them of all that the Lord has done for you, and how he took pity on you.” [5:20] So the man went, and began to proclaim in the district of the Ten Towns all that Jesus had done for him; and everyone was amazed. [5:21] By the time Jesus had recrossed in the boat to the opposite shore, a great number of people had gathered to meet him, and were standing by the Sea. [5:22] One of the Presidents of the synagogue, whose name was Jaeirus, came and, as soon as he saw Jesus, threw himself at his feet with repeated entreaties. [5:23] “My little daughter,” he said, “is at the point of death; I beg you to come and place your hands on her so that her life may be spared.” [5:24] So Jesus went with him. A great number of people followed Jesus, and kept pressing around him. [5:25] Meanwhile a woman who for twelve years had suffered from hemorrhage, [5:26] and undergone much at the hands of many doctors, (spending all she had without obtaining any relief, but, on the contrary, growing worse), [5:27] heard about Jesus, came behind in the crowd, and touched his cloak. [5:28] “If I can only touch his clothes,” she said, “I will get well!” [5:29] At once her bleeding stopped, and she felt in herself that she was cured of her complaint. [5:30] Jesus at once became aware of the power that had gone out from him, and, turning around in the crowd, he said: “Who touched my clothes?” [5:31] “You see the people pressing around you,” exclaimed his disciples, “and yet you say ‘Who touched me?’” [5:32] But Jesus looked about to see who had done it. [5:33] Then the woman, in fear and trembling, knowing what had happened to her, came and threw herself down before him, and told him the whole truth. [5:34] “Daughter,”he said, “your faith has delivered you. Go, and peace be with you; be free from your complaint.” [5:35] Before he had finished speaking, some people from the house of the synagogue leader came and said: “Your daughter is dead! Why should you trouble the teacher further?” [5:36] But Jesus, overhearing what they were saying, said to the synagogue leader: “Do not be afraid; only have faith.” [5:37] And he allowed no one to accompany him, except Peter, James, and John, the brother of James. [5:38] Presently they reached the leader’s house, where Jesus saw a scene of confusion — people weeping and wailing incessantly. [5:39] “Why this confusion and weeping?”he said on entering. “The little child is not dead; she is asleep.” [5:40] They began to laugh at him; but he sent them all out, and then, with the child’s father and mother and his companions, went into the room where she was lying. [5:41] Taking her hand, Jesus said to her: “Taleitha, koum!”— which means ‘little girl, I am speaking to you — Rise!’ [5:42] The little girl stood up at once, and began to walk about; for she was twelve years old. And, as soon as they saw it, they were overwhelmed with amazement; [5:43] but Jesus repeatedly cautioned them not to let anyone know of it, and told them to give her something to eat. [Mark] [6:1] On leaving that place, Jesus, followed by his disciples, went to his own part of the country. [6:2] When the Sabbath came, he began to teach in the synagogue; and the people, as they listened, were deeply impressed. “Where did he get this?” they said, “and what is this wisdom that has been given him? And these miracles which he is doing? [6:3] Is not he the carpenter, the son of Mary, and the brother of James, and Joses, and Judas, and Simon? And are not his sisters, too, living here among us?” This proved a hindrance to their believing in him; [6:4] on which Jesus said: “A prophet is not without honor, except in his own country, and among his own relations, and in his own home.” [6:5] And he could not work any miracle there, beyond placing his hands on a few infirm persons, and curing them; [6:6] and he wondered at the want of faith shown by the people. Jesus went around the villages, one after another, teaching. ---- [6:7] He called the Twelve to him, and began to send them out as his messengers, two and two, and gave them authority over foul spirits. [6:8] He instructed them to take nothing but a staff for the journey — not even bread, or a bag, or coins in their purse; [6:9] but they were to wear sandals, and not to put on a second coat. [6:10] “Whenever you go to stay at a house,”he said, “remain there until you leave that place; [6:11] and if a place does not welcome you, or listen to you, as you go out of it shake off the dust that is on the soles of your feet, as a protest against them.” [6:12] So they set out, and proclaimed the need of repentance. [6:13] They drove out many demons, and anointed with oil many who were infirm, and cured them. [6:14] Now King Herod heard of Jesus; for his name had become well known. People were saying — “John the Baptizer must have risen from the dead, and that is why these miraculous powers are active in him.” [6:15] Others again said — “He is Elijah,” and others — “He is a prophet, like one of the great prophets.” [6:16] But when Herod heard of him, he said — “The man whom I beheaded — John — he must be risen!” [6:17] For Herod himself had sent and arrested John, and put him in prison, in chains, to please Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip, because Herod had married her. [6:18] For John had said to Herod — “You have no right to be living with your brother’s wife.” [6:19] So Herodias was incensed against John, and wanted to put him to death, but was unable to do so, [6:20] because Herod stood in fear of John, knowing him to be an upright and holy man, and protected him. He had listened to John, but still remained much perplexed, and yet he found pleasure in listening to him. [6:21] A suitable opportunity, however, occurred when Herod, on his birthday, gave a dinner to his high officials, and his generals, and the foremost men in Galilee. [6:22] When his daughter — that is, the daughter of Herodias — came in and danced, she delighted Herod and those who were dining with him. “Ask me for whatever you like,” the king said to the girl, “and I will give it to you”; [6:23] and he swore to her that he would give her whatever she asked him — up to half his kingdom. [6:24] The girl went out, and said to her mother “What must I ask for?” “The head of John the Baptizer,’ answered her mother. [6:25] So she went in as quickly as possible to the king, and made her request. “I want you,” she said, “to give me at once, on a dish, the head of John the Baptist.” [6:26] The king was much distressed; yet, because of his oath and of the guests at his table, he did not like to refuse her. [6:27] He immediately dispatched one of his bodyguard, with orders to bring John’s head. The man went and beheaded John in the prison, [6:28] and, bringing his head on a dish, gave it to the girl, and the girl gave it to her mother. [6:29] When John’s disciples heard of it, they came and took his body away, and laid it in a tomb. [6:30] When the apostles came back to Jesus, they told him all that they had done and all that they had taught. [6:31] “Come by yourselves privately to some lonely spot,”he said, “and rest for a while”— for there were so many people coming and going that they had not time even to eat. [6:32] So they set off privately in their boat for a lonely spot. [6:33] Many people saw them going, and recognized them, and from all the towns they flocked together to the place on foot, and got there before them. [6:34] On getting out of the boat, Jesus saw a great crowd, and his heart was moved at the sight of them, because they were ‘like sheep without a shepherd’; and he began to teach them many things. [6:35] When it grew late, his disciples came up to him, and said: “This is a lonely spot, and it is already late. [6:36] Send the people away, so that they may go to the farms and villages around and buy themselves something to eat.” [6:37] But Jesus answered: “It is for you to give them something to eat.”“Are we to go and spend almost a year's wages on bread,” they asked, “to give them to eat?” [6:38] “How many loaves have you?”he asked; “Go, and see.”When they had found out, they told him: “Five, and two fishes.” [6:39] Jesus directed them to make all the people take their seats on the green grass, in parties; [6:40] and they sat down in groups — in hundreds, and in fifties. [6:41] Taking the five loaves and the two fishes, Jesus looked up to heaven, and said the blessing; he broke the loaves into pieces, and gave them to his disciples for them to serve out to the people, and he divided the two fishes also among them all. [6:42] Everyone had sufficient to eat; [6:43] and they picked up enough broken pieces to fill twelve baskets, as well as some of the fish. [6:44] The people who ate the bread were five thousand in number. [6:45] Immediately afterwards Jesus made his disciples get into the boat, and cross over in advance, in the direction of Bethsaida, while he himself was dismissing the crowd. [6:46] After he had taken leave of the people, he went away up the hill to pray. [6:47] When evening fell, the boat was out in the middle of the Sea, and Jesus on the shore alone. [6:48] Seeing them laboring at the oars — for the wind was against them — about three hours after midnight Jesus came towards them, walking on the water, intending to join them. [6:49] But, when they saw him walking on the water, they thought it was a ghost, and cried out; [6:50] for all of them saw him, and were terrified. But Jesus at once spoke to them. “Courage!”he said, “it is I; do not be afraid!” [6:51] Then he got into the boat with them, and the wind dropped. The disciples were utterly amazed, [6:52] for they had not understood about the loaves, their minds being slow to learn. [6:53] When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret, and moored the boat. [6:54] But they had no sooner left her than the people, recognizing Jesus, [6:55] hurried over the whole country-side, and began to carry about on mats those who were ill, wherever they heard he was. [6:56] So wherever he went — to villages, or towns, or farms — they would lay their sick in the market-places, begging him to let them touch only the tassel of his cloak; and all who touched were made well.[Mark] ---- [7:1] One day the Pharisees and some of the teachers of the law who had come from Jerusalem gathered around Jesus. [7:2] They had noticed that some of his disciples ate their food with their hands ‘defiled,’ by which they meant unwashed. [7:3] (For the Pharisees, and indeed all strict Jews, will not eat without first scrupulously washing their hands, holding in this to the traditions of their ancestors. [7:4] When they come from market, they will not eat without first sprinkling themselves; and there are many other customs which they have inherited and hold to, such as the ceremonial washing of cups, and jugs, and copper pans). [7:5] So the Pharisees and the teachers of the law asked Jesus this question — “How is it that your disciples do not follow the traditions of our ancestors, but eat their food with defiled hands?” [7:6] His answer was: “It was well said by Isaiah when he prophesied about you hypocrites in the words — ‘This is a people who honor me with their lips, while their hearts are far removed from me; [7:7] but vainly do they worship me, For they teach but human precepts.’ [7:8] You neglect God’s commandments and hold to human traditions. [7:9] Wisely do you set aside God’s commandments,”he exclaimed, “to keep your own traditions! [7:10] For while Moses said ‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and ‘Let anyone who abuses their father or mother suffer death,’ [7:11] you say ‘If a person says to their father or mother “Whatever of mine might have been of service to you is Korban”’(which means ‘Given to God’) — [7:12] why, then you do not allow them to do anything further for their father or mother! [7:13] In this way you nullify the words of God by your traditions, which you hand down; and you do many similar things.” [7:14] Then Jesus called the people to him again, and said: “Listen to me, all of you, and mark my words. [7:15] There is nothing external to a person, which by going into them can ‘defile’ them; but the things that come out of a person are the things that defile them.” [7:17] When Jesus went indoors, away from the crowd, his disciples began questioning him about this saying. [7:18] “What, do even you understand so little?”exclaimed Jesus. “Don’t you see that there is nothing external to a person, which by going into a person, can ‘defile’ them, [7:19] because it does not pass into his heart, but into his stomach, and is afterwards got rid of? — in saying this Jesus pronounced all food ‘clean.’ [7:20] “It is what comes out from a person,”he added, “that defiles them, [7:21] for it is from within, out of the hearts of people, that there come evil thoughts — sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, [7:22] greed, wickedness, deceit, indecency, envy, slander, haughtiness, folly; [7:23] all these wicked things come from within, and do defile a person.” [7:24] On leaving that place, Jesus went to the district of Tyre and Sidon. He went into a house, and did not wish anyone to know it, but could not escape notice. [7:25] For a woman, whose little daughter had a foul spirit in her, heard of him immediately, and came and threw herself at his feet — [7:26] the woman was a foreigner, from Syrian Phoenicia — and she begged him to drive the demon out of her daughter. [7:27] “Let the children be satisfied first,”answered Jesus. “For it is not fair to take the children’s food, and throw it to dogs.” [7:28] “Yes, Master,” she replied; “even the dogs under the table do feed on the children’s crumbs.” [7:29] “For saying that,”he answered, “you may go. The demon has gone out of your daughter.” [7:30] The woman went home, and found the child lying on her bed, and the demon gone. [7:31] On returning from the district of Tyre, Jesus went, by way of Sidon, to the Sea of Galilee, across the district of the Ten Towns. [7:32] Some people brought to him a man who was deaf and almost dumb, and they begged Jesus to place his hand on him. [7:33] Jesus took him aside from the crowd quietly, put his fingers into the man’s ears, and touched his tongue with saliva. [7:34] Then, looking up to heaven, he sighed, and said to the man: “Ephphatha!”which means ‘Be opened.’ [7:35] The man’s ears were opened, the string of his tongue was freed, and he began to talk plainly. [7:36] Jesus insisted on their not telling anyone; but the more he insisted, the more perseveringly they made it known, [7:37] and a profound impression was made on the people. “He has done everything well!” they exclaimed. “He makes even the deaf hear and the dumb speak!”[Mark] ---- [8:1] About that time, when there was again a great crowd of people who had nothing to eat, Jesus called his disciples to him, and said: [8:2] “My heart is moved at the sight of all these people, for they have already been with me three days and they have nothing to eat; [8:3] and if I send them away to their homes hungry, they will break down on the way; and some of them have come a long distance.” [8:4] “Where will it be possible,” his disciples answered, “to get sufficient bread for these people in this lonely place?” [8:5] “How many loaves have you?”he asked. “Seven,” they answered. [8:6] Jesus told the crowd to sit down on the ground. Then he took the seven loaves, and, after saying the thanksgiving, broke them, and gave them to his disciples to serve out; and they served them out to the crowd. [8:7] They had also a few small fish; and, after he had said the blessing, he told the disciples to serve out these as well. [8:8] The people had sufficient to eat, and they picked up seven baskets full of the broken pieces that were left. [8:9] There were about four thousand people. Then Jesus dismissed them. [8:10] Immediately afterwards, getting into the boat with his disciples, Jesus went to the district of Dalmanutha. [8:11] Here the Pharisees came out, and began to argue with Jesus, asking him for some sign from the heavens, to test him. [8:12] Sighing deeply, Jesus said: “Why does this generation ask for a sign? I tell you, no sign will be given it.” [8:13] So he left them to themselves, and, getting into the boat again, went away to the opposite shore. [8:14] Now the disciples had forgotten to take any bread with them, one loaf being all that they had in the boat. [8:15] So Jesus gave them this warning. “Take care,”he said, “beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.” [8:16] They began talking to one another about their being short of bread; [8:17] and, noticing this, Jesus said to them: “Why are you talking about your being short of bread? Don’t you yet see or understand? Are your minds still so slow or comprehension? [8:18] “Though you have eyes, do you not see? And though you have ears, do you not hear?’ Don’t you remember, [8:19] when I broke up the five loaves for the five thousand, how many baskets of broken pieces you picked up?” “Twelve,” they said. [8:20] “And when the seven for the four thousand, how many basketfuls of broken pieces did you pick up?” “Seven,” they said. [8:21] “Don’t you understand now?”he repeated. [8:22] They came to Bethsaida. There some people brought a blind man to Jesus, and begged him to touch him. [8:23] Taking the blind man’s hand, Jesus led him to the outskirts of the village, and, when he had put saliva on the man’s eyes, he placed his hands on him, and asked him: “Do you see anything?” [8:24] The man looked up, and said: “I see the people, for, as they walk about, they look to me like trees.” [8:25] Then Jesus again placed his hands on the man’s eyes; and the man saw clearly, his sight was restored, and he saw everything with perfect distinctness. [8:26] Jesus sent him to his home, and said: “Do not go even into the village.” ---- [8:27] Afterwards Jesus and his disciples went into the villages around Caesarea Philippi; and on the way he asked his disciples this question — “Who do people say that I am?” [8:28] “John the Baptist,” they answered, “but others say Elijah, while others say one of the prophets.” [8:29] “But you,”he asked, “who do you say that I am?”To this Peter replied: “You are the Christ.” [8:30] On which Jesus charged them not to say this about him to anyone. [8:31] Then he began to teach them that the Son of Man must undergo much suffering, and that he must be rejected by the councillors, and the chief priests, and the teachers of the law, and be put to death, and rise again after three days. [8:32] He said all this quite openly. But Peter took Jesus aside, and began to rebuke him. [8:33] Jesus, however, turning around and seeing his disciples, rebuked Peter. “Out of my sight, Satan!”he exclaimed. “For you look at things, not as God does, but as people do.” [8:34] Calling the people and his disciples to him, Jesus said: “If anyone wishes to walk in my steps, let them renounce self, take up their cross, and follow me. [8:35] For whoever wishes to save their life will lose it, and whoever, for my sake and for the sake of the good news, will lose their life will save it. [8:36] What good is it to a person to gain the whole world and forfeit their life? [8:37] For what could a person give that is of equal value with their life? [8:38] Whoever is ashamed of me and of my teaching, in this unfaithful and wicked generation, of them will the Son of Man be ashamed, when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.” [Mark] [9:1] “I tell you,”he added, “that some of those who are standing here will not know death until they have seen the kingdom of God come in power.” [9:2] Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter, James, and John, and led them up a high mountain alone by themselves. There his appearance was transformed before their eyes, [9:3] and his clothes became of a more dazzling white than any bleacher in the world could make them. [9:4] And Elijah appeared to them, in company with Moses; and they were talking with Jesus. [9:5] “Rabbi,” said Peter, interposing, “it is good to be here; let us make three tents, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” [9:6] For he did not know what to say, because they were much afraid. [9:7] Then a cloud came down and enveloped them; and from the cloud there came a voice — “This is my dearly loved son; listen to him.” [9:8] And suddenly, on looking around, they saw that there was now no one with them but Jesus alone. [9:9] As they were going down the mountainside, Jesus cautioned them not to relate what they had seen to anyone, until after the Son of Man should have risen again from the dead. [9:10] They seized on these words and discussed with one another what this ‘rising from the dead’ meant. [9:11] “How is it,” they asked Jesus, “that our teachers of the law say that Elijah has to come first?” [9:12] “Elijah does indeed come first,”answered Jesus, “and re-establish everything; and does not scripture speak, with regard to the Son of Man, of his undergoing much suffering and being utterly despised? [9:13] But I tell you that Elijah has come, and people have treated him just as they pleased, as scripture says of him.” [9:14] When they came to the other disciples, they saw a great crowd around them, and some teachers of the law arguing with them. [9:15] But, as soon as they saw Jesus, all the people, in great astonishment, ran up and greeted him. [9:16] “What are you arguing about with them?”Jesus asked. [9:17] “Teacher,” answered a man in the crowd, “I brought my son to see you, as he has a dumb spirit in him; [9:18] and, wherever it seizes him, it dashes him down; he foams at the mouth and grinds his teeth, and he is pining away. I asked your disciples to drive the spirit out, but they failed.” [9:19] “Faithless generation!”exclaimed Jesus. “How long must I be with you? How long must I have patience with you? Bring the boy to me.” [9:20] They brought him to Jesus; but no sooner did the boy see him than the spirit threw him into convulsions; and he fell on the ground, and rolled about, foaming at the mouth. [9:21] “How long has he been like this?”Jesus asked the boy’s father. [9:22] “From his childhood,” he answered; “and it has often thrown him into fire and into water to put an end to his life; but, if you can possibly do anything, take pity on us, and help us!” [9:23] Why say ‘possibly’?”Jesus replied. “Everything is possible for one who has faith.” [9:24] The boy’s father immediately cried out: “I have faith; help my want of faith!” [9:25] But, when Jesus saw that a crowd was quickly collecting, he rebuked the foul spirit: “Deaf and dumb spirit, it is I who command you. Come out from him and never enter him again.” [9:26] With a loud cry the spirit threw the boy into repeated convulsions, and then came out from him. The boy looked like a corpse, so that most of them said that he was dead. [9:27] But Jesus took his hand, and lifted him; and he stood up. [9:28] When Jesus had gone indoors, his disciples asked him privately: “Why could not we drive it out?” [9:29] “A spirit of this kind,”he said, “can be driven out only by prayer.” ---- [9:30] Leaving that place, Jesus and his disciples went on their way through Galilee; but he did not wish anyone to know it, [9:31] for he was instructing his disciples, and telling them — “The Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of his fellow men, and they will put him to death, but, when he has been put to death, he will rise again after three days.” [9:32] But the disciples did not understand his meaning and were afraid to question him. [9:33] They came to Capernaum. When Jesus had gone into the house, he asked them: “What were you discussing on the way?” [9:34] But they were silent; for on the way they had been arguing with one another which was the greatest. [9:35] Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said: “If anyone wishes to be first, he must be last of all, and servant of all.” [9:36] Then Jesus took a little child, and placed it in the middle of them. Folding it in his arms, he said to them: [9:37] “Anyone who, for the sake of my name, welcomes even a little child like this is welcoming me, and anyone who welcomes me is welcoming not me, but him who sent me as his messenger.” [9:38] “Teacher,” said John, “we saw a man driving out demons by using your name, and we tried to prevent him, because he did not follow us.” [9:39] “None of you must prevent the man,”answered Jesus, “for no one will use my name in working a miracle, and yet find it easy to speak evil of me. [9:40] He who is not against us is for us. [9:41] If anyone gives you a cup of water because you belong to Christ, I tell you, he will assuredly not lose his reward. [9:42] ‘And, if anyone puts temptation in the way of one of these little ones who believe in me, it would be far better for him if he had been thrown into the sea with a great millstone around his neck. [9:43] If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It would be better for you to enter the life maimed, than to have both your hands and go into Gehenna, into the fire that cannot be put out. [9:45] If your foot causes you to sin, cut it off. It would be better for you to enter the life lame, than to have both your feet and be thrown into Gehenna. [9:47] If your eye causes you to sin, tear it out. It would be better for you to enter the kingdom of God with only one eye, than to have both eyes and be thrown into Gehenna, [9:48] where ‘their worm does not die, and the fire is not put out.’ [9:49] ‘For it is by fire that everyone will be salted. [9:50] ‘Salt is good, but, if the salt should lose its saltiness, what will you use to season it? ‘You must have salt in yourselves, and live at peace with one another.”[Mark] The Journey to Jerusalem ======================== [10:1] On leaving that place, Jesus went into the district of Judea on the other side of the Jordan. Crowds gathered about him again; and again, as usual, he began teaching them. [10:2] Presently some Pharisees came up and, to test him, asked: “Has a husband the right to divorce his wife?” [10:3] “What direction did Moses give you?”replied Jesus. [10:4] “Moses,” they said, “permitted a man to ‘draw up in writing a notice of separation and divorce his wife.’” [10:5] “It was owing to the hardness of your hearts,”said Jesus, “that Moses gave you this direction; [10:6] but, at the beginning of the Creation, God ‘made them male and female.’ [10:7] ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother, [10:8] and the man and his wife will become one;’ so that they are no longer two, but one. [10:9] What God himself, then, has yoked together no one must separate.” [10:10] When they were indoors, the disciples asked him again about this, [10:11] and he said: “Anyone who divorces his wife and marries another woman is guilty of adultery against his wife; [10:12] and, if the woman divorces her husband and marries another man, she is guilty of adultery.” [10:13] Some of the people were bringing little children to Jesus, for him to touch them; but the disciples found fault with those who had brought them. [10:14] When, however, Jesus saw this, he was indignant. “Let the little children come to me,”he said, “do not hinder them; for it is to the childlike that the kingdom of God belongs. [10:15] I tell you, unless a person receives the kingdom of God like a child, they will not enter it at all.” [10:16] Then he folded the children in his arms, and, placing his hands on them, gave them his blessing. [10:17] As Jesus was resuming his journey, a man came running up to him, and threw himself on his knees before him. “Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to gain eternal life?” [10:18] “Why do you call me good?”answered Jesus. “No one is good but God. [10:19] You know the commandments — ‘Do not kill. Do not commit adultery. Do not steal. Do not say what is false about others. Do not cheat. Honor your father and your mother.’” [10:20] “Teacher,” he replied, “I have observed all these from my childhood.” [10:21] Jesus looked at the man, and his heart went out to him, and he said: “There is still one thing wanting in you; go and sell all that you have, and give to the poor, and you will heave wealth in heaven; then come and follow me.” [10:22] But the man’s face clouded at these words, and he went away distressed, for he had great possessions. [10:23] Then Jesus looked around, and said to his disciples: “How hard it will be for people of wealth to enter the kingdom of God!” [10:24] The disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said again: “My children, how hard a thing it is to enter the kingdom of God! [10:25] It is easier for a camel to get through a needle’s eye, than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.” [10:26] “Then who can be saved?” they exclaimed in the greatest astonishment. [10:27] Jesus looked at them, and answered: “With people it is impossible, but not with God; for everything is possible with God.” [10:28] “But we,” began Peter, “we left everything and have followed you.” [10:29] “I tell you,”said Jesus, “there is no one who has left house, or brothers, or sisters, or mother, or father, or children, or land, for my sake and for the good news, [10:30] who will not receive a hundred times as much, even now in the present — houses, and brothers, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and land — though not without persecutions, and, in the age that is coming, eternal life. [10:31] But many who are first now will then be last, and the last will be first.” ---- [10:32] One day, when they were on their way, going up to Jerusalem, Jesus was walking in front of the apostles, who were filled with misgivings; while those who were following behind were alarmed. Gathering the Twelve around him once more, Jesus began to tell them what was about to happen to him. [10:33] “Listen!”he said. “We are going up to Jerusalem; and there the Son of Man will be betrayed to the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and they will condemn him to death, and they will give him up to the Gentiles, [10:34] who will mock him, spit on him, and scourge him, and put him to death; and after three days he will rise again.” [10:35] James and John, the two sons of Zebedee, went to Jesus, and said: “Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask.” [10:36] “What do you want me to do for you?”he asked. [10:37] “Grant us this,” they answered, “to sit, one on your right, and the other on your left, when you come in glory.” [10:38] “You do not know what you are asking,”Jesus said to them. “Can you drink the cup that I am to drink? Or receive the baptism that I am to receive?” [10:39] “Yes,” they answered, “we can.” “You will indeed drink the cup that I am to drink,”Jesus said, “and receive the baptism that I am to receive, [10:40] but as to a seat at my right or at my left — that is not mine to give, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared.” [10:41] On hearing of this, the ten others were at first very indignant about James and John. [10:42] But Jesus called the ten to him, and said: “Those who are regarded as ruling among the Gentiles lord it over them, as you know, and their great men oppress them. [10:43] But among you it is not so. No, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, [10:44] and whoever wants to take the first place among you must be the servant of all; [10:45] for even the Son of Man came, not be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” [10:46] They came to Jericho. When Jesus was going out of the town with his disciples and a large crowd, Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, a blind beggar, was sitting by the roadside. [10:47] Hearing that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to call out: “Jesus, Son of David, take pity on me.” [10:48] Many of the people kept telling him to be quiet; but the man continued to call out all the louder: “Son of David, take pity on me.” [10:49] Then Jesus stopped. “Call him,”he said. So they called the blind man. “Courage!” they exclaimed. “Get up; he is calling you.” [10:50] The man threw off his cloak, sprang up, and came to Jesus. [10:51] “What do you want me to do for you?”said Jesus, addressing him. “Rabboni,” the blind man answered, “I want to recover my sight.” [10:52] “You may go,”Jesus said; “your faith has delivered you.”Immediately he recovered his sight, and began to follow Jesus along the road.[Mark] The Last Days ============= [11:1] When they had almost reached Jerusalem, as far as Bethphage and Bethany, near the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent on two of his disciples. [11:2] “Go to the village facing you,”he said; “and, as soon as you get there, you will find a foal tethered, which no one has ever ridden; untie it, and bring it. [11:3] And, if anyone says to you ‘Why are you doing that?’, say ‘The Master wants it, and will be sure to send it back here at once.’” [11:4] The two disciples went, and, finding a foal tethered outside a door in the street, they untied it. [11:5] Some of the bystanders said to them: “What are you doing, untying the foal?” [11:6] And the two disciples answered as Jesus had told them; and they allowed them to go. [11:7] Then they brought the foal to Jesus, and, when they had laid their cloaks on it, he seated himself on it. [11:8] Many of the people spread their cloaks on the road, while some strewed boughs which they had cut from the fields; [11:9] and those who led the way, as well as those who followed, kept shouting: “‘God save him! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!’ [11:10] Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David! ‘God save him from on high!’” [11:11] Jesus entered Jerusalem, and went into the Temple Courts; and, after looking around at everything, as it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the Twelve. [11:12] The next day, after they had left Bethany, Jesus became hungry; [11:13] and, noticing a fig-tree at a distance in leaf, he went to it to see if by any chance he could find something on it; but, on coming up to it, he found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs. [11:14] So, addressing the tree, he exclaimed: “May no one ever again eat of your fruit!”And his disciples heard what he said. [11:15] They came to Jerusalem. Jesus went into the Temple Courts, and began to drive out those who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers, and the seats of the pigeon-dealers, [11:16] and would not allow anyone to carry anything across the Temple Courts. [11:17] Then he began to teach. “Does not scripture say,”he asked, “‘My house will be called a house of prayer for all the nations’? But you have made it a den of robbers.’” [11:18] Now the chief priests and the teachers of the law heard this and began to look for some way of putting Jesus to death; for they were afraid of him, since all the people were greatly impressed by his teaching. [11:19] As soon as evening fell, Jesus and his disciples went out of the city. [11:20] As they passed by early in the morning, they noticed that the fig-tree was withered up from the roots. [11:21] Then Peter recalled what had occurred. “Look, Rabbi,” he exclaimed, “the fig-tree which you doomed is withered up!” [11:22] “Have faith in God!”replied Jesus. [11:23] “I tell you that if anyone should say to this hill ‘Be lifted up and hurled into the sea!’, without ever a doubt in his mind, but in the faith that what he says will be done, he would find that it would be. [11:24] And therefore I say to you ‘Have faith that whatever you ask for in prayer is already granted you, and you will find that it will be.’ [11:25] ‘And, whenever you stand up to pray, forgive any grievance that you have against anyone, so that your Father who is in heaven also may forgive you your offenses.” ---- [11:27] They came to Jerusalem again. While Jesus was walking about in the Temple Courts, the chief priests, the teachers of the law, and the councillors came up to him. [11:28] “What authority have you to do these things?” they said. “Who gave you the authority to do them?” [11:29] “I will put one question to you,”said Jesus. “Answer me that, and then I will tell you what authority I have to act as I do. [11:30] It is about John’s baptism. Was it of divine or human origin? Answer me that.” [11:31] They began arguing together; “If we say ‘divine,’ he will say ‘Why then didn’t you believe him?’ [11:32] Yet can we say ‘human’?” — They were afraid of the people, for everyone regarded John as undoubtedly a prophet. [11:33] So their answer to Jesus was — “We do not know.” “Then I,”replied Jesus, “refuse to tell you what authority I have to do these things.” [Mark] [12:1] Jesus began to speak to them in parables: “A man once planted a vineyard, put a fence around it, dug a wine-press, built a tower, and then let it out to tenants and went abroad. [12:2] At the proper time he sent a servant to the tenants, to receive from them a share of the produce of the grape harvest; [12:3] but they seized him, and beat him, and sent him away empty-handed. [12:4] A second time the owner sent a servant to them; this man, too, the tenants struck on the head, and insulted. [12:5] He sent another, but him they killed; and so with many others — some they beat and some they killed. [12:6] He had still one son, who was very dear to him; and him he sent to them last of all. ‘They will respect my son,’ he said. [12:7] But those tenants said to one another ‘Here is the heir! Come, let us kill him, and his inheritance will be ours.’ [12:8] So they seized him, and killed him, and threw his body outside the vineyard. [12:9] What will the owner of the vineyard do? He will come and put the tenants to death, and he will let the vineyard to others. [12:10] ‘Have you never read this passage of scripture? — ‘The stone which the builders despised has now itself become the corner-stone; [12:11] this corner-stone has come from the Lord, and is marvelous in our eyes.’” [12:12] After this his enemies were eager to arrest him, but they were afraid of the crowd; for they saw that it was at them that he had aimed the parable. So they let him alone, and went away. ---- [12:13] Afterwards they sent to Jesus some of the Pharisees and of the Herodians, to set a trap for him in the course of conversation. [12:14] These men came to him and said: “Teacher, we know that you are an honest man, and are not afraid of anyone, for you pay no regard to a person’s position, but teach the way of God honestly; are we right in paying taxes to the Emperor, or not? [12:15] Should we pay, or should we not pay?” Knowing their hypocrisy, Jesus said to them: “Why are you testing me? Bring me a coin to look at.” [12:16] And, when they had brought it, he asked: “Whose head and title are these?” “The Emperor’s,” they said; [12:17] and Jesus replied: “Pay to the Emperor what belongs to the Emperor, and to God what belongs to God.”And they wondered at him. [12:18] Next came some Sadducees — the men who maintain that there is no resurrection. Their question was this — [12:19] “Teacher, in our scriptures Moses decreed that, should a man’s brother die, leaving a widow but no child, the man should take the widow as his wife, and raise up a family for his brother. [12:20] There were once seven brothers; of whom the eldest took a wife, but died and left no family; [12:21] and the second took her, and died without family; and so did the third. [12:22] All the seven died and left no family. The woman herself died last of all. [12:23] At the resurrection whose wife will she be, all seven brothers having had her as their wife?” [12:24] “Is not the reason of your mistake,”answered Jesus, “your ignorance of the scriptures and of the power of God? [12:25] When people rise from the dead, there is no marrying or being married; but they are as angels in heaven. [12:26] “As to the dead, and the fact that they rise, have you never read in the book of Moses, in the passage about the Bush, how God spoke to him saying — ‘I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’? [12:27] He is not God of dead people, but of living. You are greatly mistaken.” [12:28] Then came up one of the teachers of the law who had heard their discussions. Knowing that Jesus had answered them wisely, he asked him this question: “What is the first of all the commandments?” [12:29] “The first,”answered Jesus, “is — ‘Hear, Israel; the Lord our God is the one Lord; [12:30] and you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ [12:31] The second is this — ‘You must love your neighbor as you love yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” [12:32] “Wisely answered, teacher!” exclaimed the teacher of the law. “It is true, as you say, that ‘there is one God,’ and that ‘there is no other besides him’; [12:33] and to ‘love him with all one’s heart, and with all one’s understanding, and with all one’s strength,’ and to ‘love one’s neighbor as one loves oneself’ is far beyond all ‘burnt offerings and sacrifices.’” [12:34] Seeing that he had answered with discernment, Jesus said to him: “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” After that no one ventured to question him further. [12:35] While Jesus was teaching in the Temple Courts, he asked: “How is it that the teachers of the law say that the Christ is to be David’s son? [12:36] David said himself, speaking under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit — ‘The Lord said to my lord: “Sit at my right hand, until I put your enemies beneath your feet.’” [12:37] David himself calls him ‘lord,’ how comes it, then, that he is to be his son?” The mass of the people listened to Jesus with delight. [12:38] In the course of his teaching, Jesus said: “See that you are on your guard against the teachers of the law, who delight to walk about in long robes, and to be greeted in the streets with respect, [12:39] and to have the best seats in the Synagogues, and places of honor at dinner. [12:40] They are the men who rob widows of their homes, and make a pretense of saying long prayers. Their sentence will be all the heavier.” [12:41] Then Jesus sat down opposite the chests for the Temple offerings, and watched how the people put money into them. Many rich people were putting in large sums; [12:42] but one poor widow came and put in two small coins, worth very little. [12:43] Then, calling his disciples to him, Jesus said: “I tell you that this poor widow has put in more than all the others who were putting money into the chests; [12:44] for everyone else put in something from what he had to spare, while she, in her need, put in all she had — everything that she had to live on.”[Mark] ---- [13:1] As Jesus was walking out of the Temple Courts, one of his disciples said to him: “Teacher, look what fine stones and buildings these are!” [13:2] “Do you see these great buildings?”asked Jesus. “Not a single stone will be left here on another, which will not be thrown down.” [13:3] When Jesus had sat down on the Mount of Olives, facing the Temple, Peter, James, John and Andrew questioned him privately: [13:4] “Tell us when this will be, and what will be the sign when all this is drawing to its close.” [13:5] Then Jesus began: “See that no one leads you astray. [13:6] Many will take my name, and come saying ‘I am He’, and will lead many astray. [13:7] “And, when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed; such things must occur; but the end is not yet. [13:8] For ‘nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom’; there will be earthquakes in various places; there will be famines. This will be but the beginning of the birth-pangs. [13:9] “See to yourselves! They will betray you to courts of law; and you will be taken to Synagogues and beaten; and you will be brought up before governors and kings for my sake, so that you can bear witness before them. [13:10] But the good news must first be proclaimed to every nation. [13:11] Whenever they betray you and hand you over for trial, do not be anxious beforehand as to what you will say, but say whatever is given you at the moment; for it will not be you who speak, but the Holy Spirit. [13:12] Brother will betray brother to death, and the father his child; and children will turn against their parents, and cause them to be put to death; [13:13] and you will be hated by everyone because of me. Yet the person who endures to the end will be saved. [13:14] “As soon, however, as you see ‘the Foul Desecration’ standing where he ought not”(the reader must consider what this means) “then those of you who are in Judea must take refuge in the mountains; [13:15] and a person on the house-top must not go down, or go in to get anything out of their house: [13:16] nor must one who is on their farm turn back to get their cloak. [13:17] And alas for pregnant women, and for those who are nursing infants in those days! [13:18] Pray, too, that this may not occur in winter. [13:19] For those days will be a time of distress, the like of which has not occurred from the beginning of God’s creation until now — and never will again. [13:20] And, had not the Lord put a limit to those days, not a single soul would escape; but, for the sake of God’s own chosen people, he did limit them. [13:21] “And at that time if anyone should say to you ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ ‘Look, there he is!’, do not believe it; [13:22] for false Christs and false prophets will arise, and display signs and marvels, to lead astray, were it possible, even God’s people. [13:23] But see that you are on your guard! I have told you all this beforehand. [13:24] “In those days, after that time of distress, ‘the sun will be darkened, the moon will not give her light, [13:25] the stars will be falling from the heavens,’ and ‘the forces that are in the heavens will be convulsed.’ [13:26] Then will be seen the ‘Son of Man coming in clouds’ with great power and glory; [13:27] and then he will send the angels, and gather his people from the four winds, from one end of the world to the other. [13:28] “Learn the lesson taught by the fig-tree. As soon as its branches are full of sap, and it is bursting into leaf, you know that summer is near. [13:29] And so may you, as soon as you see these things happening, know that he is at your doors. [13:30] I tell you that even the present generation will not pass away, until all these things have taken place. [13:31] The heavens and the earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. [13:32] “But about ‘that day,’ or ‘the hour,’ no one knows — not even the angels in heaven, not even the Son — but only the Father. [13:33] “See that you are on the watch; for you do not know when the time will be. [13:34] It is like a man going on a journey, who leaves his home, puts his servants in charge — each having their special duty — and orders the porter to watch. [13:35] Therefore watch, for you cannot be sure when the Master of the house is coming — whether in the evening, at midnight, at daybreak, or in the morning — [13:36] otherwise he might come suddenly and find you asleep. [13:37] And what I say to you I say to all — Watch!”[Mark] ---- [14:1] It was now two days before the Festival of the Passover and the unleavened bread. The chief priests and the teachers of the law were looking for an opportunity to arrest Jesus by stealth, and to put him to death; [14:2] for they said: “Not during the Festival, or the people may riot.” [14:3] When Jesus was still at Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper, while he was sitting at the table, a woman came with an alabaster jar of choice spikenard perfume of great value. She broke the jar, and poured the perfume on his head. [14:4] Some of those who were present said to one another indignantly: “Why has the perfume been wasted like this? [14:5] This perfume could have been sold for more than a year's wages, and the money given to the poor.” [14:6] “Leave her alone,”said Jesus, as they began to find fault with her, “why are you troubling her? This is a beautiful deed that she has done for me. [14:7] You always have the poor with you, and whenever you wish you can do good to them; but you will not always have me. [14:8] She has done what she could; she has perfumed my body beforehand for my burial. [14:9] And I tell you, wherever, in the whole world, the good news is proclaimed, what this woman has done will be told in memory of her.” [14:10] After this, Judas Iscariot, one of the Twelve, went to the chief priests, to betray Jesus to them. [14:11] They were glad to hear what he said, and promised to pay him. So he began looking for a good opportunity to betray Jesus. ---- [14:12] On the first day of the Festival of the unleavened bread, when it was customary to kill the Passover lambs, his disciples said to Jesus: “Where do you wish us to go and make preparations for your eating the Passover?” [14:13] Jesus sent forward two of his disciples and said to them: “Go into the city, and there a man carrying a pitcher of water will meet you; follow him; [14:14] and, wherever he goes in, say to the owner of the house ‘The teacher says — Where is my room where I am to eat the Passover with my disciples?’ [14:15] He will himself show you a large upstairs room, set out ready; and there make preparations for us.” [14:16] So the disciples set out and went into the city, and found everything just as Jesus had told them; and they prepared the Passover. [14:17] In the evening he went there with the Twelve, [14:18] and when they had taken their places and were eating, Jesus said: “I tell you that one of you is going to betray me — one who is eating with me.” [14:19] They were grieved at this, and began to say to him, one after another: “Can it be I?” [14:20] “It is one of you Twelve,”said Jesus, “the one who is dipping his bread beside me into the dish. [14:21] True, the Son of Man must go, as scripture says of him, yet alas for that man by whom the Son of Man is being betrayed! For that man ‘it would be better never to have been born!’” [14:22] While they were eating, Jesus took some bread, and, after saying the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them, and said: “Take it; this is my body.” [14:23] Then he took a cup, and, after saying the thanksgiving, gave it to them, and they all drank from it. [14:24] “This is my covenant-blood,”he said, “which is poured out on behalf of many. [14:25] I tell you that I will never again drink of the juice of the grape, until that day when I will drink it new in the kingdom of God.” [14:26] They then sang a hymn, and went out up the Mount of Olives, [14:27] presently Jesus said to them: “All of you will fall away; for scripture says — ‘I will strike down the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.’ [14:28] Yet, after I have risen, I will go before you into Galilee.” [14:29] “Even if everyone else falls away,” said Peter, “yet I will not.” [14:30] “I tell you,”answered Jesus, “that you yourself today — yes, this very night — before the cock crows twice, will disown me three times.” [14:31] But Peter vehemently protested: “Even if I must die with you, I will never disown you!” And they all said the same. ---- [14:32] Presently they came to a garden known as Gethsemane, and Jesus said to his disciples “Sit down here while I pray.” [14:33] He took with him Peter, James, and John; and began to show signs of great dismay and deep distress of mind. [14:34] “I am sad at heart,”he said, “sad even to death; wait here, and watch.” [14:35] Going on a little further, he threw himself on the ground, and began to pray that, if it were possible, he might be spared that hour. [14:36] “Abba, Father,”he said, “all things are possible to you; take away this cup from me; yet, not what I will, but what you will.” [14:37] Then he came and found the three apostles asleep. “Simon,”he said to Peter, “are you asleep? Couldn’t you watch for one hour? [14:38] Watch and pray,” he said to them all, “so that you may not fall into temptation. True, the spirit is eager, but human nature is weak.” [14:39] Again he went away, and prayed in the same words; [14:40] and coming back again he found them asleep, for their eyes were heavy; and they did not know what to say to him. [14:41] A third time he came, and said to them: “Sleep on now, and rest yourselves. Enough! My time has come. Look: the Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of wicked people. [14:42] Up, and let us be going. Look! My betrayer is close at hand.” [14:43] And just then, while he was still speaking, Judas, who was one of the Twelve, came up; and with him a crowd of people, with swords and clubs, sent by the chief priests, the teachers of the law, and the councillors. [14:44] Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them. “The man whom I kiss,” he had said, “will be the one; arrest him and take him away safely.” [14:45] As soon as Judas came, he went up to Jesus at once, and said: “Rabbi!” and kissed him. [14:46] Then the men seized Jesus, and arrested him. [14:47] One of those who were standing by drew his sword, and struck at the high priest’s servant, and cut off his ear. [14:48] But Jesus spoke up, and said to the men: “Have you come out, as if after a robber, with swords and clubs, to take me? [14:49] I have been among you day after day in the Temple Courts teaching, and yet you did not arrest me; but this is in fulfillment of the scriptures.” [14:50] And all the apostles forsook him, and fled. [14:51] One young man did indeed follow him, wrapped only in a linen sheet. They tried to arrest him; [14:52] but he left the sheet in their hands, and fled naked. ---- [14:53] Then they took Jesus to the high priest; and all the chief priests, the councillors, and the teachers of the law assembled. [14:54] Peter, who had followed Jesus at a distance into the courtyard of the high priest, was sitting there among the police officers, warming himself at the blaze of the fire. [14:55] Meanwhile the chief priest and the whole of the High Council were trying to get such evidence against Jesus as would warrant his being put to death, but they could not find any; [14:56] for, though there were many who gave false evidence against him, yet their evidence did not agree. [14:57] Presently some men stood up, and gave this false evidence against him — [14:58] “We ourselves heard him say ‘I will destroy this Temple made with hands, and in three days build another made without hands.’” [14:59] Yet not even on that point did their evidence agree. [14:60] Then the high priest stood forward, and questioned Jesus. “Have you no answer to make?” he asked. “What is this evidence which these men are giving against you?” [14:61] But Jesus remained silent, and made no answer. A second time the high priest questioned him. “Are you,” he asked, “the Christ, the Son of the Blessed One?” [14:62] “I am,”replied Jesus, “and you will all see the Son of Man sitting on the right hand of the Almighty; and ‘coming in the clouds of heaven’.” [14:63] At this the high priest tore his vestments. “Why do we want any more witnesses?” he exclaimed. [14:64] “You heard his blasphemy? What is your verdict?” They all condemned him, declaring that he deserved death. [14:65] Some of those present began to spit at him, and to blindfold his eyes, and strike him, saying, as they did so, “Now play the prophet!” and even the police officers received him with blows. [14:66] While Peter was in the courtyard down below, one of the high priest’s maidservants came up; [14:67] and, seeing Peter warming himself, she looked closely at him, and exclaimed: “Why, you were with Jesus, the Nazarene!” [14:68] But Peter denied it. “I do not know or understand what you mean,” he replied. Then he went out into the porch; [14:69] and there the maidservant, on seeing him, began to say again to the bystanders: “This is one of them!” [14:70] But Peter again denied it. Soon afterwards the bystanders again said to him: “You certainly are one of them; why you are a Galilean!” [14:71] But he said to them: “I swear that I do not know the man you are talking about! May God punish me if I am lying!” [14:72] At that moment, for the second time, a cock crowed; and Peter remembered the words that Jesus had said to him — ‘Before a cock has crowed twice, you will disown me three times’;and, as he thought of it, he began to weep.[Mark] ---- [15:1] As soon as it was daylight, the chief priests, after holding a consultation with the councillors and teachers of the law — that is to say, the whole High Council — put Jesus in chains, and took him away, and gave him up to Pilate. [15:2] “Are you the king of the Jews?” asked Pilate. “It is true,”replied Jesus. [15:3] Then the chief priests brought a number of charges against him. [15:4] So Pilate questioned Jesus again. “Have you no reply to make?” he asked. “Listen, how many charges they are bringing against you.” [15:5] But Jesus still made no reply whatever; at which Pilate was astonished. [15:6] Now, at the feast, Pilate used to grant the people the release of any one prisoner whom they might ask for. [15:7] A man called Barabbas was in prison, with the rioters who had committed murder during a riot. [15:8] So, when the crowd went up and began to ask Pilate to follow his usual custom, [15:9] he answered: “Do you want me to release the ‘king of the Jews’ for you?” [15:10] For he was aware that it was out of jealousy that the chief priests had given Jesus up to him. [15:11] But the chief priests incited the crowd to get Barabbas released instead. [15:12] Pilate, however, spoke to them again: “What should I do then with the man whom you call the ‘king of the Jews’?” [15:13] Again they shouted: “Crucify him!” [15:14] “Why, what harm has he done?” Pilate kept saying to them. But they shouted furiously: “Crucify him!” [15:15] And Pilate, wishing to satisfy the crowd, released Barabbas to them, and, after scourging Jesus, gave him up to be crucified. [15:16] The soldiers then took Jesus away into the courtyard — that is the Government house — and they called the whole garrison together. [15:17] They dressed him in a purple robe, and, having twisted a crown of thorns, put it on him, [15:18] and then began to salute him. “Long life to you, king of the Jews!” they said. [15:19] And they kept striking him on the head with a rod, spitting at him, and bowing to the ground before him — going down on their knees; [15:20] and, when they had left off mocking him, they took off the purple robe, and put his own clothes on him. ---- [15:21] They led Jesus out to crucify him; and they compelled a passer-by, Simon from Cyrene, who was on his way in from the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to go with them to carry his cross. [15:22] They brought Jesus to the place which was known as Golgotha — a name which means ‘place of a Skull.’ [15:23] There they offered him drugged wine; but Jesus refused it. [15:24] Then they crucified him, and divided his clothes among them, casting lots for them, to settle what each should take. [15:25] It was nine in the morning when they crucified him. [15:26] The words of the charge against him, written up over his head, read — ‘THE KING OF THE JEWS.’ [15:27] And with him they crucified two robbers, one on the right, and the other on the left. [15:29] The passers-by railed at him, shaking their heads, as they said: “Ah! You who would destroy the Temple and build one in three days, [15:30] come down from the cross and save yourself!” [15:31] In the same way the chief priests, with the teachers of the law, said to one another in mockery: [15:32] “He saved others, but he cannot save himself! Let the Christ, the ‘king of Israel,’ come down from the cross now so that we can see it and believe.” Even the men who had been crucified with Jesus insulted him. [15:33] At midday, a darkness came over the whole country, lasting until three in the afternoon. [15:34] And, at three, Jesus called out loudly: ‘Eloi, Eloi, lama sabacthani?’”which means ‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?’ [15:35] Some of those standing around heard this, and said: “Listen! He is calling for Elijah!” [15:36] And a man ran, and, soaking a sponge in common wine, put it on the end of a rod, and offered it to him to drink, saying as he did so: “Wait and let us see if Elijah is coming to take him down.” [15:37] But Jesus, giving a loud cry, expired. [15:38] The Temple curtain was torn in two from top to bottom. [15:39] The Roman officer, who was standing facing Jesus, on seeing the way in which he expired, exclaimed: “This man must indeed have been ‘God’s Son’!” ---- [15:40] There were some women also watching from a distance, among them being Mary of Magdala, Mary the mother of James the Little and of Joseph, and Salome — [15:41] all of whom used to accompany Jesus when he was in Galilee, and attend on him — besides many other women who had come up with him to Jerusalem. [15:42] The evening had already fallen, when, as it was the Preparation day — the day before the Sabbath — [15:43] Joseph from Ramah, a Councillor of good position, who was himself living in expectation of the kingdom of God, came and ventured to go in to see Pilate, and to ask for the body of Jesus. [15:44] But Pilate was surprised to hear that he had already died. So he sent for the officer, and asked if he were already dead; [15:45] and, on learning from the officer that it was so, he gave the corpse to Joseph. [15:46] Joseph, having bought a linen sheet, took Jesus down, and wound the sheet around him, and laid him in a tomb which had been cut out of the rock; and then rolled a stone up against the entrance of the tomb. [15:47] Mary of Magdala and Mary, the mother of Joseph, were watching to see where he was laid.[Mark] The Risen Life Announced ======================== [16:1] When the Sabbath was over, Mary of Magdala, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought some spices, so that they might go and anoint the body of Jesus. [16:2] Very early on the first day of the week they went to the tomb, after sunrise. [16:3] They were saying to one another: “Who will roll away the stone for us from the entrance of the tomb?” [16:4] But, on looking up, they saw that the stone had already been rolled back; it was a very large one. [16:5] Going into the tomb, they saw a young man sitting on their right, in a white robe, and they were dismayed; but he said to them: [16:6] “Do not be dismayed; you are looking for Jesus, the Nazarene, who has been crucified; he has risen, he is not here! Look! Here is the place where they laid him. [16:7] But go, and say to his disciples and to Peter ‘He is going before you into Galilee; there you will see him, as he told you.’” [16:8] They went out, and fled from the tomb, for they were trembling and bewildered; and they did not say a word to anyone, for they were frightened; A late appendix =============== (Inserted in some manuscripts from an ancient source) ----------------------------------------------------- [16:9] after his rising again, early on the first day of the week, Jesus appeared first of all to Mary of Magdala, from whom he had driven out seven demons. [16:10] She went and told the news to those who had been with him and who were now in sorrow and tears; [16:11] yet even they, when they heard that he was alive and had been seen by her, did not believe it. [16:12] Afterwards, altered in appearance, he made himself known to two of them, as they were walking, on their way into the country. [16:13] They also went and told the rest, but they did not believe even them. [16:14] Later on, he made himself known to the Eleven themselves as they were at a meal, and reproached them with their want of faith and their stubbornness, because they did not believe those who had seen him after he had risen from the dead. [16:15] Then he said to them: “Go into all the world, and proclaim the good news to all creation. [16:16] He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who refuses to believe will be condemned. [16:17] Moreover these signs will attend those who believe. In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak with ‘tongues’; [16:18] they will take up snakes in their hands; and, if they drink any poison, it will not hurt them; they will place their hands on sick people and they will recover.” [16:19] So the Lord Jesus, after he had spoken to them, was taken up into heaven, and sat at the right hand of God. [16:20] But they set out, and made the proclamation everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the message by the signs which attended it. Another appendix ================ But all that had been revealed to them they reported briefly to Peter and his companions. Afterwards Jesus himself sent them out, from east to west, the sacred and imperishable proclamation of eternal salvation. ==== Luke ==== --- The --- ---------------------- Good News According to ---------------------- ---- Luke ---- [Luke] Dedication ========== [1:1] To his Excellency, Theophilus. Many attempts have been already made to draw up an because of those events which have reached their conclusion among us, [1:2] just as they were reported to us by those who from the beginning were eye-witnesses, and afterwards became bearers of the message. [1:3] And, therefore, I also, since I have investigated all these events with great care from their very beginning, have resolved to write a connected history of them for you, [1:4] in order that you may be able to satisfy yourself of the accuracy of the story which you have heard from the lips of others. Birth, Parentage, Infancy and Boyhood ===================================== [1:5] In the reign of Herod, king of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah, who belonged to the division called after Abijah. His wife, whose name was Elizabeth, was also a descendant of Aaron. [1:6] They were both righteous people, who lived blameless lives, guiding their steps by all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord. [1:7] But they had no child, Elizabeth being barren; and both of them were advanced in years. [1:8] One day, when Zechariah was officiating as priest before God, during the turn of his division, [1:9] it fell to him by lot, in accordance with the practice among the priests, to go into the Temple of the Lord and burn incense; [1:10] and, as it was the Hour of Incense, the people were all praying outside. [1:11] And an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right of the Altar of Incense. [1:12] Zechariah was startled at the sight and was awe-struck. [1:13] But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, whom you will call by the name John. [1:14] He will be to you a joy and a delight; and many will rejoice over his birth. [1:15] For he will be great in the sight of the Lord; he will not drink any wine or strong drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit from the very hour of his birth, [1:16] and will reconcile many of the Israelites to the Lord their God. [1:17] He will go before him in the spirit and with the power of Elijah, ‘to reconcile fathers to their children’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous, and so make ready for the Lord a people prepared for him.” [1:18] “How can I be sure of this?” Zechariah asked the angel. “For I am an old man and my wife is advanced in years.” [1:19] “I am Gabriel,” the angel answered, “who stand in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news. [1:20] And now you will be silent and unable to speak until the day when this takes place, because you did not believe what I said, though my words will be fulfilled in due course.” [1:21] Meanwhile the people were watching for Zechariah, wondering at his remaining so long in the Temple. [1:22] When he came out, he was unable to speak to them, and they perceived that he had seen a vision there. But Zechariah kept making signs to them, and remained dumb. [1:23] And, as soon as his term of service was finished, he returned home. [1:24] After this his wife, Elizabeth, became pregnant and lived in seclusion for five months. [1:25] “The Lord has done this for me,” she said, “he has shown me kindness and taken away the public disgrace of childlessness under which I have been living.” ---- [1:26] Six months later the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, [1:27] to a maiden there who was engaged to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. Her name was Mary. [1:28] Gabriel came into her presence and greeted her, saying: “You have been shown great favor - the Lord is with you..” [1:29] Mary was much disturbed at his words, and was wondering to herself what such a greeting could mean, [1:30] when the angel spoke again: “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. [1:31] And now, you will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will give him the name Jesus. [1:32] The child will be great and will be called ‘Son of the Most High,’ and the Lord God will give him the throne of his ancestor David, [1:33] and he will reign over the descendants of Jacob for ever; And to his kingdom there will be no end.” [1:34] “How can this be?” Mary asked the angel. “For I have no husband.” [1:35] “The Holy Spirit will descend on you,” answered the angel, “and the Power of the Most High will overshadow you; and therefore the child will be called ‘holy,’ and ‘Son of God.’ [1:36] And Elizabeth, your cousin, is herself also expecting a son in her old age; and it is now the sixth month with her, though she is called barren; [1:37] for no promise from God will fail to be fulfilled.” [1:38] “I am the servant of the Lord,” exclaimed Mary; “let it be with me as you have said.” Then the angel left her. [1:39] Soon after this Mary set out, and made her way quickly into the hill-country, to a town in Judah; [1:40] and there she went into Zechariah’s house and greeted Elizabeth. [1:41] When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child moved within her, and Elizabeth herself was filled with the Holy Spirit, [1:42] and cried aloud: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is your unborn child! [1:43] But how have I this honor, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? [1:44] For, as soon as your greeting reached my ears, the child moved within me with delight! [1:45] Happy indeed is she who believed that the promise which she received from the Lord would be fulfilled.” [1:46] And Mary said: “My soul exalts the Lord, [1:47] my spirit delights in God my Savior; [1:48] for he has remembered his humble servant girl; And from this hour all ages will count me happy! [1:49] Great things has the Almighty done for me; And holy is his name. [1:50] From age to age his mercy rests On those who honor him. [1:51] Mighty are the deeds of his arm; He scatters the proud with their own devices, [1:52] he casts down princes from their thrones, and the humble he uplifts, [1:53] the hungry he loads with gifts, and the rich he sends empty away. [1:54] He has stretched out his hand to his servant Israel, Ever mindful of his mercy [1:55] (As he promised to our forefathers) For Abraham and his race for ever.” [1:56] Mary stayed with Elizabeth about three months, and then returned to her home. [1:57] When Elizabeth’s time came, she gave birth to a son; [1:58] and her neighbors and relations, hearing of the great goodness of the Lord to her, came to share her joy. [1:59] A week later they met to circumcise the child, and were about to call him ‘Zechariah’ after his father, [1:60] when his mother spoke up: “No, he is to be called John.” [1:61] “You have no relation of that name!” they exclaimed; [1:62] and they made signs to the child’s father, to find out what he wished the child to be called. [1:63] Asking for a writing-tablet, he wrote the words — ‘His name is John.’ Everyone was surprised; [1:64] and immediately Zechariah recovered his voice and the use of his tongue, and began to bless God. [1:65] All their neighbors were awe-struck at this; and throughout the hill-country of Judea the whole story was much talked about; [1:66] and all who heard it kept it in mind, asking one another — “What can this child be destined to become?” For the Power of the Lord was with him. [1:67] Then his father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit, and, speaking under inspiration, said: [1:68] “Blessed is the Lord, the God of Israel, Who has visited his people and wrought their deliverance, [1:69] and has raised up for us the Strength of our salvation In the house of his servant David — [1:70] As he promised by the lips of his holy prophets of old — [1:71] salvation from our enemies and from the hands of all who hate us, [1:72] showing mercy to our forefathers, And mindful of his sacred covenant. [1:73] This was the oath which he swore to our forefather Abraham — [1:74] That we should be rescued from the hands of our enemies, [1:75] and should serve him without fear in holiness and righteousness, In his presence all our days. [1:76] And you, child, will be called prophet of the Most High, For you will go before the Lord to make ready his way, [1:77] to give his people the knowledge of salvation In the forgiveness of their sins, [1:78] through the tender mercy of our God, Whereby the Dawn will break on us from heaven, [1:79] to give light to those who live in darkness and the shadow of death, And guide our feet into the way of peace.” [1:80] The child grew and became strong in spirit; and he lived in the Wilds until the time came for his appearance before Israel. [Luke] [2:1] About that time an edict was issued by the Emperor Augustus that a census should be taken of the whole Empire. [2:2] (This was the first census taken while Quirinius was Governor of Syria). [2:3] And everyone went to his own town to be registered. [2:4] Among others Joseph went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Bethlehem, the town of David, in Judea — because he belonged to the family and house of David — [2:5] To be registered with Mary, his engaged wife, who was about to become a mother. [2:6] While they were there her time came, [2:7] and she gave birth to her first child, a son. And because there was no room for them in the inn, she swathed him around and laid him in a manger. [2:8] In that same country-side were shepherds out in the open fields, watching their flocks that night, [2:9] when an angel of the Lord suddenly stood by them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were seized with fear. [2:10] “Have no fear,” the angel said. “For I bring you good news of a great joy in store for all the nation. [2:11] This day there has been born to you, in the town of David, a Savior, who is Christ and Lord. [2:12] And this will be the sign for you. You will find the infant swathed, and lying in a manger.” [2:13] Then suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly Host, praising God, and singing — [2:14] “glory to God on high, And on earth peace among those in whom he finds pleasure.” [2:15] Now, when the angels had left them and gone back to heaven, the shepherds said to one another: “Let us go at once to Bethlehem, and see this thing that has happened, of which the Lord has told us.” [2:16] So they went quickly, and found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in a manger; [2:17] and, when they saw it, they told of all that had been said to them about this child. [2:18] All who heard the shepherds were astonished at their story, [2:19] while Mary treasured up all that they said, and thought about it often in her thoughts. [2:20] And the shepherds went back, giving glory and praise to God for all that they had heard and seen, as it had been told them. ---- [2:21] Eight days after the birth of the child, when it was time to circumcise him, he received the name Jesus — the name given him by the angel before his conception. ---- [2:22] When the period of purification of mother and child, required by the law of Moses, came to an end, his parents took the child up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord, [2:23] in compliance with the law of the Lord that ‘every first-born male will be dedicated to the Lord,’ [2:24] And also to offer the sacrifice required by the law of the Lord — ‘a pair of turtle-doves or two young pigeons.’ [2:25] There was at that time in Jerusalem a man named Simeon, a righteous and devout man, who lived in constant expectation of the Consolation of Israel, and under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. [2:26] It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not die until he had seen the Lord’s Christ. [2:27] Moved by the Spirit, Simeon came into the Temple Courts, and, when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him what was customary under the law, [2:28] Simeon himself took the child in his arms, and blessed God, and said: [2:29] “Now, Lord, you will let your servant go, According to your word, in peace, [2:30] for my eyes have seen the salvation [2:31] Which you have prepared in the sight of all nations — [2:32] A light to bring light to the Gentiles, And to be the glory of your people Israel.” [2:33] While the child’s father and mother were wondering at what was said about him, [2:34] Simeon gave them his blessing, and said to Mary, the child’s mother: “This child is appointed to be the cause of the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign much spoken against — [2:35] Yes, the sword will pierce your own heart — and so the thoughts in many minds will be disclosed.” [2:36] There was also a Prophetess named Hannah, a daughter of Phanuel and of the tribe of Asher. She was far advanced in years, having lived with her husband for seven years after marriage, [2:37] and then a widow, until she had reached the age of eighty-four. She never left the Temple Courts, but, fasting and praying, worshiped God night and day. [2:38] At that moment she came up, and began publicly to thank God and to speak about the child to all who were looking for the deliverance of Jerusalem. [2:39] When the child’s parents had done everything required by the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee to their own town of Nazareth. [2:40] The child grew and became strong and wise, and the blessing of God was on him. ---- [2:41] Every year the child’s parents used to go to Jerusalem at the Passover Festival. [2:42] When Jesus was twelve years old, they went according to custom to Jerusalem, [2:43] and had finished their visit; but, when they started to return, the boy Jesus remained behind in Jerusalem, without their knowing it. [2:44] Thinking that he was with their fellow travelers, they went one day’s journey before searching for him among their relations and acquaintances; [2:45] and then, as they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem, searching everywhere for him. [2:46] It was not until the third day that they found him in the Temple Courts, sitting among the teachers, now listening to them, now asking them questions. [2:47] All who listened to him marveled at his intelligence and his answers. [2:48] His parents were amazed when they saw him, and his mother said to him: “My child, why have you treated us like this? Your father and I have been searching for you in great distress.” [2:49] “What made you search for me?”he answered. “Didn’t you know that I must be in my Father’s house?” [2:50] His parents did not understand what he meant. [2:51] However he went down with them to Nazareth, and submitted himself to their control; and his mother treasured all that was said in her heart. [2:52] And Jesus grew in wisdom as he grew in years, and ‘gained the blessing of God and people.’[Luke] The Preparation =============== [3:1] In the fifteenth year of the reign of the Emperor Tiberius, when Pontius Pilate was Governor of Judea, Herod Ruler of Galilee, his brother Philip Ruler of the territory comprising Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias Ruler of Abilene, [3:2] and when Annas and Caiaphas were high priests, a command from God came to John, the son of Zechariah, while he was in the wilderness. [3:3] And John went through the whole district of the Jordan, proclaiming baptism on repentance, for the forgiveness of sins. [3:4] This was in fulfillment of what is said in the writings of the prophet Isaiah — ‘The voice of one crying aloud in the wilderness: “Make ready the way of the Lord, Make his paths straight. [3:5] Every chasm will be filled, Every mountain and hill will be leveled, The winding ways will be straightened, The rough roads made smooth, [3:6] and everyone will see the salvation of God.”’ [3:7] And John said to the crowds that went to be baptized by him: “You children of snakes! Who has prompted you to seek refuge from the coming judgment? [3:8] Let your lives, then, prove your repentance; and do not begin to say among yourselves ‘Abraham is our ancestor,’ for I tell you that out of these stones God is able to raise descendants for Abraham! [3:9] Already, indeed, the axe is lying at the root of the trees. Therefore every tree that fails to bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.” [3:10] “What are we to do then?” the people asked. [3:11] “Let anyone who has two coats,” answered John, “share with the person who has none; and anyone who has food do the same.” [3:12] Even tax-gatherers came to be baptized, and said to John: “Teacher, what are we to do?” [3:13] “Do not collect more than you have authority to demand,” John answered. [3:14] And when some soldiers on active service asked “And we — what are we to do?” he said: “Never use violence, or exact anything by false accusation; and be content with your pay.” [3:15] Then, while the people were in suspense, and were all debating with themselves whether John could be the Christ, [3:16] John, addressing them all, said: “I, indeed, baptize you with water; but there is coming one more powerful than I, and I am not fit even to unfasten his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. [3:17] His winnowing-fan is in his hand so that he may clear his threshing-floor, and store the grain in his barn, but the chaff he will burn with a fire that cannot be put out.” [3:18] And so with many different appeals John told his good news to the people. [3:19] But Prince Herod, being rebuked by John respecting Herodias, the wife of Herod’s brother, and for all the evil things that he had done, [3:20] crowned them all by shutting John up in prison. ---- [3:21] Now after the baptism of all the people, and when Jesus had been baptized and was still praying, the heavens opened, [3:22] and the Holy Spirit came down on him in the form of a dove, and from the heavens came a voice — “You are my dearly loved son; you bring me great joy.” [3:23] When beginning his work, Jesus was about thirty years old. He was regarded as the son of Joseph, whose ancestors were — Eli, [3:24] Mattith, Levi, Melchiah, Janna, Joseph, [3:25] Mattithiah, Amos, Nahum, Azaliah, Nogah, [3:26] Mattith, Mattithiah, Shimei, Joseph, Josheh, [3:27] Johanan, Rhesa, Zerubbabel, Shealtiel, Neriah, [3:28] Melchiah, Addi, Cosam, Elmodam, Er, [3:29] Joshua, Eliezer, Joram, Mattith, Levi, [3:30] Simeon, Judah, Joseph, Jonam, Eliakim, [3:31] Meleah, Menan, Mattithiah, Nathan, David, [3:32] Jesse, Obed, Boaz, Salah, Nahshon, [3:33] Amminadab, Arni, Hezron, Perez, Judah, [3:34] Jacob, Isaac, Abraham, Terah, Nahor, [3:35] Serug, Reu, Peleg, Eber, Shelah, [3:36] Kenan, Arpachshad, Shem, Noah, Lamech, [3:37] Methuselah, Enoch, Jared, Mahalalel, Kenan, [3:38] Enosh, Seth and Adam the son of God. [Luke] [4:1] On returning from the Jordan, full of the Holy Spirit, Jesus was led by the power of the Spirit through the wilderness for forty days, tempted by the devil. [4:2] All that time he ate nothing; and, when it was over, he became hungry. [4:3] So the devil said to him: “If you are God’s Son, tell this stone to become a loaf of bread.” [4:4] And Jesus answered him: “Scripture says — ‘It is not on bread alone that a person is to live.’” [4:5] And the devil led Jesus up, and showing him in a single moment all the kingdoms of the earth, said to him: [4:6] “I will give you all this power, and the splendor of them; for it has been given into my hands and I give it to whom I wish. [4:7] If you worship me, it will all be yours.” [4:8] And Jesus answered him: “Scripture says — ‘You should worship the Lord your God, and worship him only.’” [4:9] The devil next led him into Jerusalem, and, placing him on the parapet of the Temple, said: “If you are God’s Son throw yourself down from here, [4:10] for scripture says — ‘He will give his angels commands about you, to guard you safely,’ [4:11] And ‘On their hands they will lift you up, otherwise you might strike your foot against a stone.’” [4:12] But Jesus answered him: “It is said — ‘You must not tempt the Lord your God.’” [4:13] When he had tried every kind of temptation, the devil left Jesus, until another opportunity. The Work in Galilee =================== [4:14] Moved by the power of the Spirit, Jesus returned to Galilee. Reports about him spread through all that neighborhood; [4:15] and he began to teach in their Synagogues, and was honored by everyone. ---- [4:16] Coming to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, Jesus, as was his custom, went on the Sabbath into the synagogue, and stood up to read the scriptures. [4:17] He was given the book of the prophet Isaiah; and Jesus opened the book and found the place where it says — [4:18] ‘The Spirit of the Lord is on me, For he has consecrated me to bring good news to the poor, He has sent me to proclaim release to captives and restoration of sight to the blind, To set the oppressed at liberty, [4:19] to proclaim the accepted year of the Lord.’ [4:20] Then, closing the book and returning it to the attendant, he sat down. The eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him, [4:21] and Jesus began: “This very day this passage has been fulfilled in your hearing.” [4:22] All who were present spoke well of him, and were astonished at the beautiful words that fell from his lips. “Is not he Joseph’s son?” they asked. [4:23] “Doubtless,”said Jesus, “you will remind me of the saying — ‘Doctor, cure yourself;’ and you will say ‘Do here in your own country all that we have heard that has been done at Capernaum.’ [4:24] I tell you,”he continued, “that no prophet is acceptable in his own country. [4:25] There were, doubtless, many widows in Israel in Elijah’s days, when the heavens were closed for three years and six months, and a severe famine prevailed throughout the country; [4:26] and yet it was not to one of them that Elijah was sent, but to a widow at Zarephath in Sidonia. [4:27] And there were many lepers in Israel in the time of the prophet Elisha, yet it was not one of them who was made clean, but Naaman the Syrian.” [4:28] All the people in the synagogue, as they listened to this, became enraged. [4:29] Starting up, they drove Jesus out of the town, and led him to the brow of the hill on which their town stood, intending to hurl him down. [4:30] But he passed through the middle of the crowd and went on his way. ---- [4:31] Then Jesus went down to Capernaum, a city in Galilee. On the Sabbath he taught the people. [4:32] They were amazed at his teaching, because his words were spoken with authority. [4:33] In the synagogue there was a man with the spirit of a foul demon in him, who called out loudly: [4:34] “Stop! What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are — the Holy One of God!” [4:35] But Jesus rebuked the demon. “Be silent! Come out from him,”he said. The demon flung the man down in the middle of the people, and then came out from him, without causing him further harm. [4:36] And they were all lost in amazement, and kept saying to one another: “What words are these? For he gives his commands to the foul spirits with a marvelous authority, and they come out.” [4:37] And rumors about Jesus traveled through every place in the neighborhood. [4:38] On leaving the synagogue, Jesus went into Simon’s house. Now Simon’s mother-in-law was suffering from a severe attack of fever, and they asked Jesus to cure her. [4:39] Bending over her, he rebuked the fever; the fever left her, and she immediately got up and began to take care of them. [4:40] At sunset, all who had friends suffering from various diseases took them to Jesus; and he placed his hands on everyone of them and cured them. [4:41] And even demons came out from many people, screaming ‘You are the Son of God.’ Jesus rebuked them, and would not allow them to speak, because they knew that he was the Christ. [4:42] At daybreak, Jesus went out and walked to a lonely spot. But crowds of people began to look for him; and they came to where he was and tried to detain him and prevent his leaving them. [4:43] Jesus, however, said to them: “I must take the good news of the kingdom of God to the other town also, for that was why I was sent.” [4:44] And he continued to make his proclamation in the Synagogues of Judea.[Luke] ---- [5:1] Once, when the people were pressing around Jesus as they listened to God’s message, he happened to be standing by the shore of the Lake of Gennesaret, and saw two boats close to the shore. [5:2] The fishermen had gone away from them and were washing the nets. [5:3] So, getting into one of the boats, which belonged to Simon, Jesus asked him to push off a little way from the shore, and then sat down and taught the people from the boat. [5:4] When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon: “Push off into deep water, and throw out your nets for a haul.” [5:5] “We have been hard at work all night, Sir,” answered Simon, “and have not caught anything, but, at your bidding, I will throw out the nets.” [5:6] They did so, and enclosed such a great shoal of fish that their nets began to break. [5:7] So they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them; and they came and filled both the boats so full of fish that they were almost sinking. [5:8] When Simon Peter saw this, he threw himself down at Jesus’ knees, exclaiming: “Master, leave me, for I am a sinful man!” [5:9] For he and all who were with him were lost in amazement at the haul of fish which they had made; [5:10] and so, too, were James and John, Zebedee’s sons, who were Simon’s partners. “Do not be afraid,”Jesus said to Simon; “from today you will catch people.” [5:11] And, when they had brought their boats to shore, they left everything, and followed him. ---- [5:12] On one occasion Jesus was staying in a town, when he saw a man who was covered with leprosy. When the leper saw Jesus, he threw himself on his face and implored his help: “Master, if only you are willing, you are able to make me clean.” [5:13] Stretching out his hand, Jesus touched him, saying as he did so: “I am willing; become clean.” Instantly the leprosy left the man; [5:14] and then Jesus impressed on him that he was not to say a word to anyone, “but,”he added, “set out and show yourself to the priest, and make the offerings for your cleansing, in the manner directed by Moses, as evidence of your cure.” [5:15] However, the story about Jesus spread all the more, and great crowds came together to listen to him, and to be cured of their illnesses; [5:16] but Jesus used to withdraw to lonely places and pray. [5:17] On one of those days, when Jesus was teaching, some Pharisees and Doctors of the law were sitting near by. (They had come from all the villages in Galilee and Judea, and from Jerusalem; and the power of the Lord was on Jesus, so that he could work cures.) [5:18] And there some men brought on a bed a man who was paralyzed. They tried to get him in and lay him before Jesus; [5:19] but, finding no way of getting him in owing to the crowd, they went up on the roof and lowered him through the tiles, with his pallet, into the middle of the people and in front of Jesus. [5:20] When he saw their faith, Jesus said: “Friend, your sins have been forgiven you.” [5:21] The teachers of the law and the Pharisees began debating about this. “Who is this man who speaks so blasphemously?” they asked. “Who can forgive sins except God?” [5:22] When Jesus became aware of the way in which they were debating, he turned to them and exclaimed: “What are you debating with yourselves? [5:23] Which is the easier? — to say ‘Your sins have been forgiven you’? Or to say ‘Get up, and walk’? [5:24] But so that you may know that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins”— he spoke to the paralyzed man — “To you I say, Get up, and take up your pallet, and go to your home.” [5:25] Instantly the man stood up before their eyes, took up what he had been lying on, and went to his home, praising God. [5:26] The people, one and all, were lost in amazement, and praised God; and in great awe they said: “We have seen marvelous things today!” ---- [5:27] After this, Jesus went out; and he noticed a tax-gatherer, named Levi, sitting in the tax office, and said to him: “Follow me.” [5:28] Levi left everything and got up and followed him. [5:29] And Levi gave a great entertainment at his house, in honor of Jesus; and a large number of tax-gatherers and others were having dinner with them. [5:30] The Pharisees and the teachers of the law belonging to their party complained of this to the disciples of Jesus.” [5:31] In answer Jesus said: “It is not those who are well who need a doctor, but those who are ill. [5:32] I have not come to call the religious, but the outcast, to repent.” [5:33] “John’s disciples,” they said to Jesus, “Often fast and say prayers, and so do the disciples of the Pharisees, while yours are eating and drinking!” [5:34] But Jesus answered them: “Can you make the groom’s friends fast while the groom is with them? [5:35] But the days will come — a time when the groom will be taken away from them; and they will fast then, when those days come.” [5:36] Then, as an illustration, Jesus said to them: “No one ever tears a piece from a new garment and puts it on an old one; for, if they do, they will not only tear the new garment, but the piece from the new one will not match the old. [5:37] And no one puts new wine into old wine-skins; for, if they do, the new wine will burst the skins, and the wine itself will run out, and the skins be lost. [5:38] But new wine must be put into fresh skins. [5:39] No one after drinking old wine wishes for new. ‘No,’ they say, ‘the old is excellent.’”[Luke] ---- [6:1] One Sabbath Jesus was walking through cornfields, and his disciples were picking the ears of wheat, and rubbing them in their hands, and eating them. [6:2] “Why are you doing what it is not allowable to do on the Sabbath?” asked some of the Pharisees. [6:3] Jesus’ answer was: “Haven’t you read even of what David did, when he was hungry, he and his companions — [6:4] That he went into the house of God, and took the consecrated bread and ate it, and gave some to his companions, though only the priests are allowed to eat it?” [6:5] Then Jesus added: “The Son of Man is lord even of the Sabbath.” [6:6] On another Sabbath Jesus went into the synagogue and taught; and there was a man there whose right hand was withered. [6:7] The teachers of the law and the Pharisees watched Jesus closely, to see if he would work cures on the Sabbath, so that they might find a charge to bring against him. [6:8] Jesus, however, knew what was in the their minds, and said to the man whose hand was withered: “Stand up and come out into the middle.”The man stood up; [6:9] and Jesus said to them: “I ask you, is it allowable to do good on the Sabbath — or harm? To save a life, or let it perish?” [6:10] Then, looking around at them all, he said to the man: “Stretch out your hand.”The man did so; and his hand had become sound. [6:11] But the teachers of the law and the Pharisees were goaded to madness, and consulted together what they could do to Jesus. [6:12] Now about that time, Jesus went out, up the hill, to pray, and spent the whole night in prayer to God. [6:13] When day came, he summoned his disciples, and chose twelve of them, whom he also named ‘apostles.’ [6:14] They were Simon (whom Jesus also named Peter), and his brother Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, [6:15] Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Simon known as the Zealot, [6:16] Judas son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who proved a traitor. [6:17] Afterwards Jesus came down the hill with them and took his stand on a level place. With him were a large crowd of his disciples, and great numbers of people from the whole of Judea, Jerusalem, and the coast district of Tyre and Sidon, [6:18] who had come to hear him and to be restored to health. Those, too, who were troubled with foul spirits were cured; [6:19] and everyone in the crowd was trying to touch him, because a power went out from him which restored them all. [6:20] Then, raising his eyes and looking at his disciples, Jesus said: “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. [6:21] Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied. Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh. [6:22] Blessed are you when people hate you, and when they expel you from among them, and insult you, and reject your name as an evil thing — because of the Son of Man. [6:23] Then indeed you may be glad and dance for joy, for be sure that your reward in heaven will be great; for that is what their ancestors did to the prophets. [6:24] But ‘alas for you who are rich,’ for you have had your comforts in full. [6:25] Alas for you who are sated now, for you will hunger. Alas for you who laugh now, for you will mourn and weep. [6:26] Alas for you when everyone speaks well of you; for this is what their ancestors did to the false prophets. [6:27] But to you who hear I say — love your enemies, show kindness to those who hate you, [6:28] bless those who curse you, pray for those who insult you. [6:29] When someone gives one of you a blow on the cheek, offer the other cheek as well; and, when anyone takes away your cloak, do not keep back your coat either. [6:30] Give to everyone who asks of you; and, when anyone takes away what is yours, do not demand its return. [6:31] Do to others as you wish them to do to you. [6:32] If you love only those who love you, what thanks will be due to you? Why, even the outcast love those who love them! [6:33] For, if you show kindness only to those who show kindness to you, what thanks will be due to you? Even the outcast do that! [6:34] If you lend only to those from whom you expect to get something, what thanks will be due to you? Even the outcast lend to the outcast in the hope of getting as much in return! [6:35] But love your enemies, and show them kindness, and lend to them, never despairing. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the thankless and the bad. [6:36] Learn to be merciful — even as your Father is merciful. [6:37] Do not judge, and you will not be judged; do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. [6:38] Give, and others will give to you. A generous measure, pressed and shaken down, and running over, will they pour into your lap; For The standard you use will be the standard used for you.” [6:39] Then, speaking in parables, Jesus said: “Can one blind person guide another? Will they not both fall into a ditch? [6:40] A scholar is not above their teacher; yet every finished scholar will be like their teacher. [6:41] And why do you look at the speck of sawdust in someone’s eye, while you pay no attention at all to the plank of wood in your own? [6:42] How can you say to your friend ‘Friend, let me take out the speck in your eye,’ while you yourself do not see the plank in your own? Hypocrite! Take out the plank from your own eye first, and then you will see clearly how to take out the speck in your friend’s. [6:43] There is no such thing as a good tree bearing worthless fruit, or, on the other hand, a worthless tree bearing good fruit. [6:44] For every tree is known by its own fruit. People do not gather figs off thorn bushes, nor pick a bunch of grapes off a bramble. [6:45] A good person, from the good stores of their heart, brings out what is good; while a bad person, from their bad stores, brings out what is bad. For what fills someone’s heart will rise to their lips. [6:46] Why do you call me ‘Master! Master!’ and yet fail to do what I tell you? [6:47] Everyone who comes to me and listens to my teaching and acts on it — I will show you to whom they may be compared. [6:48] They may be compared to a person building a house, who dug, and went deep, and laid the foundation on the rock. Then, when a flood came, the river swept down on that house, but had no power to shake it, because it had been built well. [6:49] But those who have listened and not acted on what they have heard may be compared to a person who built a house on the ground without any foundation. The river swept down on it, and the house immediately collapsed; and great was the crash that followed.”[Luke] ---- [7:1] When Jesus had brought to a conclusion all that he had then had to say to the people, he entered Capernaum. [7:2] A captain in the Roman army had a slave whom he valued, and who was seriously ill — almost at the point of death. [7:3] And, hearing about Jesus, he sent some Jewish councillors to him, with the request that he would come and save his slave’s life. [7:4] When they found Jesus, they earnestly implored him to do so. “He deserves the favor from you,” they said, [7:5] “For he is devoted to our nation, and himself built our synagogue for us.” [7:6] So Jesus went with them. But, when he was no great distance from the house, the captain sent some friends with the message — “Do not trouble yourself, Sir; for I am unworthy to receive you under my roof. [7:7] That was why I did not even venture to come to you myself; but speak, and let my manservant be cured. [7:8] For I myself am a man under the orders of others, with soldiers under me; and if I say to one of them ‘Go,’ he goes, and to another ‘Come,’ he comes, and to my slave ‘Do this,’ he does it.” [7:9] Jesus was surprised to hear these words from him; and, turning to the crowd which was following him, he said: “I tell you, nowhere in Israel have I met with such faith as this!” [7:10] And, when the messengers returned to the house, they found the slave recovered. [7:11] Shortly after, Jesus went to a town called Nain, his disciples and a great crowd going with him. [7:12] Just as he approached the gate of the town, there was a dead man being carried out for burial — an only son, and his mother was a widow. A large number of the people of the town were with her. [7:13] When he saw her, the Master was moved with compassion for her, and he said to her: “Do not weep.” [7:14] Then he went up and touched the bier, and the bearers stopped; and Jesus said: “Young man, I am speaking to you — Rise!” [7:15] The dead man sat up and began to talk, and Jesus restored him to his mother. [7:16] Everyone was awe-struck and began praising God. “A great prophet has arisen among us,” they said; “and God has visited his people.” [7:17] And this story about Jesus spread all through Judea, and in the neighboring countries as well. ---- [7:18] All these events were reported to John by his disciples. [7:19] So he summoned two of them, and sent them to the Master to ask — “Are you ‘the coming one,’ or are we to look for some one else?” [7:20] When these men found Jesus, they said: “John the Baptist has sent us to you to ask — ‘Are you ‘the coming one,’ or are we to look for somebody else?’” [7:21] At that very time Jesus had cured many people of diseases, afflictions, and wicked spirits, and had given many blind people their sight. [7:22] So his answer to the question was: “Go and report to John what you have witnessed and heard — the blind recover their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are made clean, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised to life, the good news is told to the poor. [7:23] And blessed is the person who finds no hindrance in me.” [7:24] When John’s messengers had left, Jesus, speaking to the crowds, began to say with reference to John: [7:25] “What did you go out into the wilderness to look at? A reed waving in the wind? If not, what did you go out to see? A man dressed in rich clothing? Why, those who are accustomed to fine clothes and luxury live in royal palaces. [7:26] What then did you go to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and far more than a prophet. [7:27] This is the man of whom scripture says — ‘I am sending my messenger ahead of you, and he will prepare your way before you.’ [7:28] There is, I tell you, no one born of a woman who is greater than John; and yet the least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.” [7:29] (All the people, when they heard this, and even the tax-gatherers, having accepted John’s baptism, acknowledged the justice of God. [7:30] But the Pharisees and the students of the law, having rejected John’s baptism, frustrated God’s purpose in regard to them.) [7:31] “To what then,”Jesus continued, “should I compare the people of the present generation? What are they like? [7:32] They are like some little children who are sitting in the marketplace and calling out to one another — ‘We have played the flute for you, but you have not danced; We have wailed, but you have not wept!’ [7:33] For now that John the Baptist has come, not eating bread or drinking wine, you are saying ‘He has a demon in him’; [7:34] and now that the Son of Man has come, eating and drinking, you are saying ‘Here is a glutton and a wine-drinker, a friend of tax-gatherers and outcasts.’ [7:35] And yet wisdom is vindicated by all her children.” ---- [7:36] One of the Pharisees asked Jesus to dine with him, so Jesus went to his house and took his place at the table. [7:37] Just then a woman, who was an outcast in the town, having heard that Jesus was eating in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster jar of perfume, [7:38] and placed herself behind Jesus, near his feet, weeping. Then she began to make his feet wet with her tears, and she dried them with the hair of her head, repeatedly kissing his feet and anointing them with the perfume. [7:39] When the Pharisee who had invited Jesus saw this, he said to himself: “Had this man been ‘The prophet,’ he would have known who, and what sort of woman, this is who is touching him, and that she is an outcast.” [7:40] But, addressing him, Jesus said: “Simon, I have something to say to you.” “Pray do so, teacher,” Simon answered; and Jesus began: [7:41] “There were two people who were in debt to a moneylender; one owed five hundred silver coins, and the other fifty. [7:42] As they were unable to pay, he forgave them both. Which of them, do you think, will love him the more?” [7:43] “I suppose,” answered Simon, “it will be the man to whom he forgave the greater debt.” “You are right,”said Jesus, [7:44] and then, turning to the woman, he said to Simon: “Do you see this woman? I came into your house — you gave me no water for my feet, but she has made my feet wet with her tears and dried them with her hair. [7:45] You did not give me one kiss, but she, from the moment I came in, has not ceased to kiss my feet. [7:46] You did not anoint even my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with perfume. [7:47] And for this, I tell you, her sins, many as they are, have been pardoned, because she has loved greatly; but one who has little pardoned him, loves but little.” [7:48] Then he said to the woman: “Your sins have been pardoned.” [7:49] The other guests began to say to one another: “Who is this man who even pardons sins?” [7:50] But Jesus said to the woman: “Your faith has delivered you; go, and peace be with you.”[Luke] ---- [8:1] Shortly afterwards, Jesus went on a journey through the towns and villages, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. With him went the Twelve, [8:2] as well as some women who had been cured of wicked spirits and of infirmities. They were Mary, known as Mary of Magdala (from whom seven demons had been expelled), [8:3] and Joanna (the wife of Herod’s steward, Chuza), and Susannah, and many others — all of whom provided for Jesus and his apostles out of their own resources. [8:4] Once, when a great crowd was collecting, and, when the people of town after town were flocking to Jesus, he spoke to them in the form of a parable: [8:5] “The sower went out to sow his seed; and, as he was sowing, some of the seed fell along the path and was trodden on; and the wild birds ate it up. [8:6] Other seed fell on rock, and, as soon as it began to grow, because it had no moisture, it withered away. [8:7] Other seed fell in the middle of brambles, but the brambles grew up with it and choked it entirely. [8:8] Other seed fell into rich soil, and grew, and gave a hundredfold return.”After saying this, Jesus cried aloud: “Let those who have ears to hear with hear.” [8:9] His disciples asked Jesus the meaning of this parable. [8:10] “To you,”he said, “the knowledge of the hidden truths of the kingdom of God has been imparted, but to others in parables only, so that ‘though they have eyes they may not see, and though they have ears, they may not understand.’ [8:11] This is the parable — The seed is God’s message. [8:12] By the seed which fell along the path are meant those who hear the message; but then comes the devil and carries away the message from their minds, to prevent their believing it and being saved. [8:13] By the seed which fell on the rock are meant those who, as soon as they hear the message, welcome it joyfully; but they have no root, and believe it only for a time, and, when the time of temptation comes, they draw back. [8:14] By that which fell among the brambles are meant those who hear the message, but who, as they go on their way, are completely choked by this world’s cares and wealth and pleasures, and bring nothing to perfection. [8:15] But by that in the good ground are meant those who, having heard the message, keep it in the good, rich soil of their hearts, and patiently yield a return. [8:16] No one sets light to a lamp and then covers it with a bowl or puts it underneath a couch, but they put it on a lamp-stand, so that anyone who comes in may see the light. [8:17] Nothing is hidden which will not be brought into the light of day, not ever kept hidden which will not some day become known and come into the light of day. [8:18] Take care, then, how you listen. For, to all those who have, more will be given; while, from all those who have nothing, even what they seem to have will be taken away.” ---- [8:19] Presently Jesus’ mother and brothers came where he was, but they were not able to join him because of the crowd. [8:20] So word was brought to him — ‘Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, wanting to see you.’ [8:21] His reply, spoken to them all, was: “My mother and my brothers are those who listen to God’s teaching and do what it says.” [8:22] One day about that time, Jesus got into a boat with his disciples and said to them: “Let us go across the lake.” [8:23] So they put off. While they were sailing, Jesus fell asleep. A squall swept down on the lake, and their boat was filling and they were in danger. [8:24] So the disciples came and roused him. “Sir, Sir,” they cried, “we are lost!” Jesus rose and rebuked the wind and the rushing waves, and they fell, and a calm followed. [8:25] “Where is your faith?”he exclaimed. But in great awe and amazement they said to one another: “Who can this be, who commands even the winds and the waves, and they obey him?” [8:26] And they reached the country of the Gerasenes, which is on the opposite side to Galilee; [8:27] and, on getting ashore, Jesus met a man, who had demons in him, coming out of the town. For a long time this man had worn no clothing, and he had not lived in a house, but in the tombs. [8:28] Catching sight of Jesus, he shrieked out and threw himself down before him, and in a loud voice exclaimed: “What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg you not to torment me.” [8:29] For Jesus was commanding the foul spirit to come out of the man. On many occasions it had seized him, and, even when secured with chains and fetters, and watched, he would break through anything that bound him, and be driven by the demon into the Wilds. [8:30] “What is your name?”Jesus asked. “Legion,” he answered (for many demons had taken possession of him); [8:31] and the demons begged Jesus not to order them away into the bottomless pit. [8:32] There was a drove of many pigs close by feeding on the hill-side; and the demons begged Jesus to give them leave to enter into them. Jesus gave them leave. [8:33] They came out from the man and took possession of the pigs; and the drove rushed down the steep slope into the lake and were drowned. [8:34] When the men who tended them saw what had happened, they ran away, and carried the news to the town, and to the country around. [8:35] The people went out to see what had happened, and, when they came to Jesus, they found the man from whom the demons had gone out, sitting, clothed and in his right mind, at Jesus’ feet; and they were awe-struck. [8:36] Those who had seen it told them how the possessed man had been delivered. [8:37] Then all the people in the neighborhood of the Gerasenes asked Jesus to leave them, for they were terrified. Jesus got into a boat and returned. [8:38] The man from whom the demons had gone out begged Jesus to let him be with him; but Jesus sent him away. [8:39] “Go back to your home,”he said, “and relate the story of all that God has done for you.” So the man went through the whole town and proclaimed, as he went, all that Jesus had done for him. ---- [8:40] On his return, Jesus was welcomed by the people; for everyone was looking out for him. [8:41] And a man named Jaeirus, who was a synagogue leader, came to Jesus, and threw himself at Jesus’ feet, with entreaties that he would come to his house, [8:42] because his only daughter, who was about twelve years old, was dying. As Jesus was going, the people were pressing closely around him. [8:43] And a woman, who had suffered from hemorrhage for twelve years, and whom no one could cure, [8:44] came up behind and touched the tassel of his cloak. Instantly the hemorrhage ceased. [8:45] “Who touched me?”Jesus asked; and, while everyone was denying having done so, Peter exclaimed: “Why, Sir, the people are crowding around you and pressing against you!” [8:46] “Somebody touched me,”said Jesus; “for I felt that power had gone out from me.” [8:47] Then the woman, when she saw that she was discovered, came forward trembling, and threw herself down before him; and, in the presence of all the people, she told him her reason for touching him, and that she had been cured instantly. [8:48] “Daughter,”he said, “your faith has delivered you. Go, and peace be with you.” [8:49] Before he had finished speaking, some one came from the house of the synagogue leader and said: “Your daughter is dead! Do not trouble the teacher further.” [8:50] But Jesus, hearing this, spoke to the leader: “Do not be afraid; only have faith, and she will yet be delivered.” [8:51] When he reached the house, he did not allow anyone to go in with him, except Peter, John, and James, and the child’s father and mother. [8:52] And everyone was weeping and mourning for her. “Do not weep,”Jesus said, “she is not dead; she is asleep.” [8:53] They began to laugh at him, for they knew that she was dead. [8:54] But, taking her by the hand, Jesus said in a loud voice: “Child, rise!” [8:55] The child’s spirit returned to her, and she instantly stood up; and Jesus ordered them to give her something to eat. [8:56] Her parents were amazed, but Jesus impressed on them that they were not to tell anyone what had happened.[Luke] ---- [9:1] Jesus called the Twelve together, and gave them power and authority over all demons, as well as to cure diseases. [9:2] He sent them out as his messengers, to proclaim the kingdom of God, and to work cures. [9:3] “Do not,”he said to them, “take anything for your journey; not even a staff, or a bag, or bread, or any silver, or a change of clothes with you. [9:4] Whatever house you go to stay in, remain there, and leave from that place. [9:5] If people do not welcome you, as you leave that town, shake even the dust off your feet, as a protest against them.” [9:6] Then they set out and went from village to village, telling the good news and curing people everywhere. [9:7] Prince Herod heard of all that was happening, and was perplexed, because it was said by some that John must be risen from the dead. [9:8] Some again said that Elijah had appeared, and others that one of the old prophets had risen again. [9:9] But Herod himself said: “John I beheaded; but who is this of whom I hear such things?” And he endeavored to see him. [9:10] When the apostles returned, they related to Jesus all that they had done. Then Jesus went privately to a town called Bethsaida, taking the apostles with him. [9:11] But the people recognized him and followed him in crowds; and Jesus welcomed them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, while he cured those who were in need of help. [9:12] The day was drawing to a close, when the twelve came up to him, and said: “Send the crowd away, so that they may make their way to the villages and farms around about, and find themselves lodgings and provisions, for we are in a lonely spot here.” [9:13] But Jesus said: “It is for you to give them something to eat.” “We have not more than five loaves and two fishes,” they answered; “unless indeed we are to go and buy food for all these people.” [9:14] (For the men among them were about five thousand.) “Get them seated in companies,”was his reply, “about fifty in each.” [9:15] This they did, and got all the people seated. [9:16] Taking the five loaves and the two fishes, Jesus looked up to heaven and said the blessing over them. Then he broke them in pieces, and gave them to his disciples to set before the people. [9:17] Everyone had sufficient to eat, and what was left of the broken pieces was picked up — twelve baskets. [9:18] Afterwards, when Jesus was alone, praying, his disciples joined him, and he asked them this question — “Who do the people say that I am?” [9:19] “John the Baptist,” was their answer; “others, however, say that you are Elijah, while others say that one of the old prophets has risen again.” [9:20] “But you,”he went on, “who do you say that I am?”And to this Peter answered: “The Christ of God.” [9:21] Jesus, however, strictly charged them not to say this to anyone; [9:22] he told them that the Son of Man must undergo much suffering, and be rejected by the councillors, and chief priests, and teachers of the law, and be put to death, and rise on the third day. [9:23] And to all present he said: “If any one wishes to walk in my steps, let them renounce self, and take up their cross daily, and follow me. [9:24] For whoever wishes to save their life will lose it, and whoever, for my sake, loses his life — that person will save it. [9:25] What good does it do someone if, when they has gained the whole world, they has lost or forfeited themselves? [9:26] Whoever is ashamed of me and of my teaching, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them, when he comes in his glory and the glory of the father and of the holy angels. [9:27] Indeed, I tell you, some who are standing before me will not know death, until they have seen the kingdom of God.” ---- [9:28] About eight days after speaking these words, Jesus went up the mountain to pray, taking with him Peter, John, and James. [9:29] As he was praying, the aspect of his face was changed, and his clothing became of a glittering whiteness. [9:30] And all at once two men were talking with Jesus; they were Moses and Elijah, [9:31] who appeared in a glorified state, and spoke of his departure, which was destined to take place at Jerusalem. [9:32] Peter and his companions had been overpowered by sleep but, suddenly becoming wide awake, they saw Jesus glorified and the two men who were standing beside him. [9:33] And, as Moses and Elijah were passing away from Jesus, Peter exclaimed: “Sir, it is good to be here; let us make three tents, one for you, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” He did not know what he was saying; [9:34] and, while he was speaking, a cloud came down and enveloped them; and they were afraid, as they passed into the cloud; [9:35] and from the cloud came a voice which said — “This is my Son, the Chosen One; him you must hear.” [9:36] And, as the voice ceased, Jesus was found alone. The apostles kept silence, and told no one about any of the things that they had seen. ---- [9:37] The next day, when they had come down from the mountain, a great crowd met Jesus. [9:38] And just then a man in the crowd shouted out: “Teacher, I entreat you to look at my son, for he is my only child; [9:39] all at once a spirit will seize him, suddenly shriek out, and throw him into convulsions until he foams, and will leave him only when he is utterly exhausted. [9:40] I entreated your disciples to drive the spirit out, but they could not.” [9:41] “Faithless and perverse generation!”Jesus exclaimed; “how long must I be with you and have patience with you? Lead your son here.” [9:42] While the boy was coming up to Jesus, the demon dashed him down and threw him into convulsions. But Jesus rebuked the foul spirit, and cured the boy, and gave him back to his father. [9:43] And all present were struck with awe at the majesty of God. ---- [9:44] “Listen carefully to my words. For the Son of Man is destined to be betrayed into the hands of his fellow men.” [9:45] But the disciples did not understand the meaning of this; it had been concealed from them so that they did not see it, and they were afraid to question him as to what he meant. [9:46] A discussion arose among the disciples as to which of them was the greatest; [9:47] and Jesus, knowing of the discussion that was occupying their thoughts, took hold of a little child, and placed it beside him, [9:48] and then said to them: “Anyone who, for the sake of my name, welcomes even this little child is welcoming me; and anyone who welcomes me is welcoming him who sent me as his messenger. For whoever is least among you all — that person is great.” [9:49] John said: “Sir, we saw a man driving out demons by using your name, and we tried to prevent him, because he does not follow you with us.” [9:50] “None of you must prevent him,”Jesus said to John; “whoever’s not against you is for you.” The Journey to Jerusalem ======================== [9:51] As the days before his being taken up to heaven were growing few, Jesus set his face resolutely in the direction of Jerusalem; and he sent on messengers in advance. [9:52] On their way, they went into a Samaritan village to make preparations for him, [9:53] but the people there did not welcome him, because his face was set in the direction of Jerusalem. [9:54] When James and John saw this, they said: “Master, do you wish us to call for fire to come down from the heavens and consume them?” [9:55] But Jesus turned and rebuked them. [9:56] And they made their way to another village. ---- [9:57] And, while they were on their way, a man said to Jesus: “I will follow you wherever you go.” [9:58] “Foxes have holes,”he replied, “and wild birds their nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head.” [9:59] To another man Jesus said: “Follow me.” “Let me first go and bury my father,” said the man. [9:60] But Jesus said: “Leave the dead to bury their dead; but go yourself and carry far and wide the news of the kingdom of God.” [9:61] “Master,” said another, “I will follow you; but first let me say goodbye to my family.” [9:62] But Jesus answered: “No one who looks back, after putting their hand to the plow, is fitted for the kingdom of God.”[Luke] ---- [10:1] After this, the Master appointed seventy-two other disciples, and sent them on as his messengers, two and two, in advance, to every town and place that he was himself intending to visit. [10:2] “The harvest,”he said, “is abundant, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray to the owner of the harvest to send laborers to gather in his harvest. [10:3] Now, go. Remember, I am sending you out as my messengers like lambs among wolves. [10:4] Do not take a purse with you, or a bag, or sandals; and do not stop to greet anyone on your journey. [10:5] Whatever house you go to stay at, begin by praying for a blessing on it. [10:6] Then, if anyone there is deserving of a blessing, your blessing will rest on him; but if not, it will come back on yourselves. [10:7] Remain at that same house, and eat and drink whatever they offer you; for the worker is worth their wages. Do not keep changing from one house to another. [10:8] Whatever town you visit, if the people welcome you, eat what is set before you; [10:9] cure the sick there, and tell people ‘The kingdom of God is close at hand. [10:10] But, whatever town you go to visit, if the people do not welcome you, go out into its streets and say [10:11] ‘We wipe off the dust of your town which has clung to Our feet; still, be assured that the kingdom of God is close at Hand.’ [10:12] I tell you that the doom of Sodom will be more bearable on ‘that day’ than the doom of that town. [10:13] Alas for you, Chorazin! Alas for you, Bethsaida! For, if the Miracles which have been done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have sat in sackcloth and ashes and repented long ago. [10:14] Yet the doom of Tyre and Sidon will be more bearable at the judgment than yours. [10:15] And you, Capernaum! Will you ‘exalt yourself to heaven’? ‘You will go down to the place of death.’ [10:16] Anyone who listens to you is listening to me, and anyone who rejects you is rejecting me; while the person who rejects me is rejecting him who sent me as his messenger.” [10:17] When the seventy-two returned, they exclaimed joyfully: “Master, even the demons submit to us when we use your name.” [10:18] And Jesus replied: “I have had visions of Satan, fallen, like lightning from the heavens. [10:19] Remember, I have given you the power to ‘trample on snakes and scorpions,’ and to meet all the strength of the Enemy. Nothing will ever harm you in any way. [10:20] Yet do not rejoice in the fact that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names have been enrolled in heaven.” [10:21] At that same time, moved to exultation by the Holy Spirit, Jesus said: “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that, though you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, you have revealed them to the childlike! Yes, Father, I thank you that this has seemed good to you. [10:22] Everything has been committed to me by my Father; nor does anyone know who the Son is, except the Father, or who the Father is, except the Son and those to whom the Son may choose to reveal him.” [10:23] Then, turning to his disciples, Jesus said to them alone: “Blessed are the eyes that see what you are seeing; [10:24] for, I tell you, many prophets and kings wished for the sight of the things which you are seeing, yet never heard them.” ---- [10:25] Just then a Student of the law came forward to test Jesus further. “Teacher,” he said, “what must I do if I am to ‘gain eternal life’?” [10:26] “What is said in the law?”answered Jesus. “What do you read there?” [10:27] His reply was — “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as you love yourself.’” [10:28] “You have answered right,”said Jesus; “do that, and you will live.” [10:29] But the man, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus: “And who is my neighbor?” [10:30] To which Jesus replied:“A man was once going down from Jerusalem to Jericho when he fell into the hands of robbers, who stripped him of everything, and beat him, and went away leaving him half dead. [10:31] As it chanced, a priest was going down by that road. He saw the man, but passed by on the opposite side. [10:32] A Levite, too, did the same; he came up to the spot, but, when he saw the man, passed by on the opposite side. [10:33] But a Samaritan, traveling that way, came upon the man, and, when he saw him, he was moved with compassion. [10:34] He went to him and bound up his wounds, dressing them with oil and wine, and then put him on his own mule, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. [10:35] The next day he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Take care of him,’ he said, ‘and whatever more you may spend I will myself repay you on my way back.’ [10:36] Now which, do you think, of these three men,” asked Jesus, “proved himself a neighbor to the man who fell into the robbers’ hands?” [10:37] “The one that took pity on him,” was the answer; on which Jesus said: “Go and do the same yourself.” ---- [10:38] As they continued their journey, Jesus came to a village, where a woman named Martha welcomed him to her house. [10:39] She had a sister called Mary, who seated herself at the Master’s feet, and listened to his teaching; [10:40] but Martha was distracted by the many preparations that she was making. So she went up to Jesus and said: “Master, do you approve of my sister’s leaving me to make preparations alone? Tell her to help me.” [10:41] “Martha, Martha,”replied the Master, “you are anxious and trouble yourself about many things; [10:42] but only a few are necessary, or rather one. Mary has chosen the good part, and it will not be taken away from her.” [Luke] [11:1] One day Jesus was at a certain place praying, and, when he had finished, one of his disciples said to him: “Master, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.” [11:2] “When you pray,”Jesus answered, “say — ‘Father, May your name be held holy, your kingdom come. [11:3] Give us each day the bread that we will need; [11:4] and forgive us our sins, for we ourselves forgive everyone who wrongs us; and take us not into temptation.’” [11:5] Jesus also said to them: “Suppose that one of you who has a friend were to go to him in the middle of the night and say ‘Friend, lend me three loaves, [11:6] for a friend of mine has arrived at my house after a journey, and I have nothing to offer him;’ [11:7] And suppose that the other should answer from inside ‘Do not trouble me; the door is already fastened, and my children and I are in bed; I cannot get up and give you anything’; [11:8] I tell you that, even though he will not get up and give him anything because he is a friend, yet because of his persistence he will rouse himself and give him what he wants. [11:9] And so I say to you — Ask, and your prayer will be granted: search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you. [11:10] For the person who asks receives, everyone who searches finds, and to the person who knocks the door will be opened. [11:11] What father among you, if his son asks him for a fish, will give him a snake instead, [11:12] or, if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? [11:13] If you, then, naturally wicked though you are, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” ---- [11:14] Once Jesus was driving out a dumb demon, and, when the demon had gone out, the dumb man spoke. The people were amazed at this; [11:15] but some of them said: “He drives out demons by the help of Beelzebul, the chief of the demons”; [11:16] while others, to test him, asked him for some sign from the heavens. [11:17] Jesus himself, however, was aware of what they were thinking, and said to them: “Any kingdom wholly divided against itself becomes a desolation; and a divided house falls. [11:18] So, too, if Satan is wholly divided against himself, how can his kingdom last? Yet you say that I drive out demons by the help of Beelzebul. [11:19] But, if it is by Beelzebul’s help that I drive out demons, by whose help is it that your own sons drive them out? Therefore they will themselves be your judges. [11:20] But, if it is by the hand of God that I drive out demons, then the kingdom of God must already be upon you. [11:21] When a strong man is keeping guard, fully armed, over his own mansion, his property is in safety; [11:22] but, when one still stronger has attacked and overpowered him, he takes away all the weapons on which the other had relied, and divides his spoil. [11:23] Whoever who is not with me is against me, and the person who does not help me to gather is scattering. [11:24] No sooner does a foul spirit leave someone, than it passes through places where there is no water, in search of rest; and finding none, it says ‘I will go back to the home which I left’; [11:25] but, on coming there, it finds it unoccupied, swept, and put in order. [11:26] Then it goes and brings with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in, and make their home there; and the last state of that person proves to be worse than the first.” [11:27] As Jesus was saying this, a woman in the crowd, raising her voice, exclaimed: “Happy was the mother who bore you and nursed you!” [11:28] But Jesus replied: “Rather, happy are those who listen to God’s message and keep it.” ---- [11:29] As the crowds increased, Jesus began to speak: “This generation is a wicked generation. It is asking a sign, but no sign will be given it except the sign of Jonah. [11:30] For, as Jonah became a sign to the people of Nineveh, so will the Son of Man be to this generation. [11:31] At the judgment the Queen of the South will rise up with the people of this generation, and will condemn them, because she came from the ends of the earth to listen to the wisdom of Solomon; and here is more than a Solomon! [11:32] At the judgment the men of Nineveh will stand up with this generation, and will condemn it, because they repented at Jonah’s proclamation; and here is more than a Jonah! [11:33] No one sets light to a lamp, and then puts it in the cellar or under a basket, but he puts it on the lamp-stand, so that anyone who comes in may see the light. [11:34] The lamp of the body is your eye. When your eye is unclouded, your whole body, also, is lit up; but, as soon as your eye is diseased, your body, also, is darkened. [11:35] Take care, therefore, that the inner light is not darkness. [11:36] If, then, your whole body is lit up, and no corner of it darkened, the whole will be lit up, just as when a lamp gives you light by its brilliance.” ---- [11:37] As Jesus finished speaking, a Pharisee asked him to breakfast with him, and Jesus went in and took his place at the table. [11:38] The Pharisee noticed, to his astonishment, that Jesus omitted the ceremonial washing before breakfast. [11:39] But the Master said to him: “You Pharisees do, it is true, clean the outside of the cup and of the plate, but inside you yourselves are filled with greed and wickedness. [11:40] Fools! Did not the maker of the outside make the inside too? [11:41] Only give away what is in them in charity, and at once you have the whole clean. [11:42] But alas for you Pharisees! You pay tithes on mint, rue, and herbs of all kinds, and pass over justice and love to God. These last you ought to have put into practice without neglecting the first. [11:43] Alas for you Pharisees! You delight to have the front seat in the Synagogues, and to be greeted in the markets with respect. [11:44] Alas for you! You are like unsuspected graves, over which men walk unawares.” [11:45] Here one of the students of the law interrupted him by saying: “Teacher, when you say this, you are insulting us also.” [11:46] But Jesus went on: “Alas for you, too, you students of the law! You load people with loads that are too heavy to carry, but do not, yourselves, touch them with one of your fingers. [11:47] Alas for you! You build the monuments of the prophets whom your ancestors killed. [11:48] You are actually witnesses to your ancestors’ acts and show your approval of them, because, while they killed the prophets, you build tombs for them. [11:49] That is why the wisdom of God said — “I will send to them prophets and apostles, [11:50] some of whom they will persecute and kill, in order that the ‘blood’ of all the prophets ‘that has been spilt’ since the creation of the world may be exacted from this generation — [11:51] From the blood of Abel down to the blood of Zechariah, who was slain between the altar and the house of God.” Yes, I tell you, it will be exacted from this generation. [11:52] Alas for you students of the law! You have taken away the key of the door of knowledge. You have not gone in yourselves and you have hindered those who try to go in.” [11:53] When Jesus left the house, the teachers of the law and the Pharisees began to press him hard and question him closely on many subjects, [11:54] laying traps for him, so as to seize on anything that he might say.[Luke] ---- [12:1] Meanwhile the people had gathered in thousands, so that they trod on one another, when Jesus, addressing himself to his disciples, began by saying to them: “Be on your guard against the leaven — that is, the hypocrisy — of the Pharisees. [12:2] There is nothing, however covered up, which will not be uncovered, nor anything kept secret which will not become known. [12:3] So all that you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have spoken in the ear, within closed doors, will be proclaimed on the housetops. [12:4] To you who are my friends I say, Do not be afraid of those who kill the body, but after that can do no more. [12:5] I will show you of whom you should be afraid. Be afraid of him who, after killing you, has the power to fling you into Gehenna. Yes, I say, be afraid of him. [12:6] Are not five sparrows sold for two copper coins? Yet not one of them has escaped God’s notice. [12:7] No, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not be afraid; you are of more value than many sparrows. [12:8] Everyone, I tell you, who publicly acknowledges me, the Son of Man, also, will acknowledge before God’s angels; [12:9] but the person who publicly disowns me will be altogether disowned before God’s angels. [12:10] Everyone who will say anything against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but for the person who slanders the Holy Spirit there will be no forgiveness. [12:11] Whenever they take you before the synagogue Courts or the magistrates or other authorities, do not be anxious as to how you will defend yourselves, or what your defense will be, or what you will say; [12:12] for the Holy Spirit will show you at the moment what you ought to say.” [12:13] “Teacher,” a man in the crowd said to Jesus, “tell my brother to share the property with me.” [12:14] But Jesus said to him: “Man, who made me a judge or an arbiter between you?” [12:15] And then he added: “Take care to keep yourselves free from every form of covetousness; for even in the height of their prosperity a person’s true life does not depend on what they have.” [12:16] Then Jesus told them this parable — “There was once a rich man whose land was very fertile; [12:17] and he began to ask himself ‘What will I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops? [12:18] This is what I will do,’ he said; ‘I will pull down my barns and build larger ones, and store all my grain and my goods in them; [12:19] and I will say to myself, Now you have plenty of good things put by for many years; take your ease, eat, drink, and enjoy yourself.’ [12:20] But God said to the man ‘Fool! This very night your life is being demanded; and as for all you have prepared — who will have it?’ [12:21] So it is with those who lay by wealth for themselves and are not rich to the glory of God.” [12:22] And Jesus said to his disciples: “That is why I say to you, Do not be anxious about the life here — what you can get to eat; or about your body — what you can get to wear. [12:23] For life is more than food, and the body than its clothes. [12:24] Think of the ravens — they neither sow nor reap; they have neither storehouse nor barn; and yet God feeds them! And how much more precious are you than birds! [12:25] But which of you, by being anxious, can prolong your life a moment? [12:26] And, if you cannot do even the smallest thing, why be anxious about other things? [12:27] Think of the lilies, and how they grow. They neither toil nor spin; yet, I tell you, even Solomon in all his splendor was not robed like one of these. [12:28] If, even in the field, God so clothes the grass which is living today and tomorrow will be thrown into the oven, how much more will he clothe you, you of little faith! [12:29] And you — do not be always seeking what you can get to eat or what you can get to drink; and do not waver. [12:30] These are the things for which all the nations of the world are seeking, and your Father knows that you need them. [12:31] No, seek his kingdom, and these things will be added for you. [12:32] So do not be afraid, my little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. [12:33] Sell what belongs to you, and give in charity. Make yourselves purses that will not wear out — an inexhaustible treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near, or moth works ruin. [12:34] For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be. [12:35] Make yourselves ready, with your lamps alight; [12:36] and be like servants who are waiting for their Master’s return from his wedding, so that, when he comes and knocks, they may open the door for him at once. [12:37] Happy are those servants whom, on his return, the Master will find watching. I tell you that he will make himself ready, and have them take their places at the table, and will come and serve them. [12:38] Whether it is late at night, or in the early morning that he comes, if he finds all as it should be, then happy are they. [12:39] This you do know, that, had the owner of the house known at what time the thief was coming, he would have been on the watch, and would not have let his house be broken into. [12:40] You must also prepare, for when you are least expecting him the Son of Man will come.” [12:41] “Master,” said Peter, “are you telling this parable with reference to us or to everyone?” [12:42] “Who, then,”replied the Master, “is that trustworthy steward, the careful man, who will be placed by his master over his establishment, to give them their rations at the proper time? [12:43] Happy will that servant be whom his master, when he comes home, will find doing this. [12:44] His master, I tell you, will put him in charge of the whole of his property. [12:45] But should that servant say to himself ‘My master is a long time coming,’ and begin to beat the menservants and the maidservants, and to eat and drink and get drunk, [12:46] that servant’s master will come on a day when he does not expect him, and at an hour of which he is unaware, and will flog him severely and assign him his place among the untrustworthy. [12:47] The servant who knows his master’s wishes and yet does not prepare and act accordingly will receive many lashes; [12:48] while one who does not know his master’s wishes, but acts so as to deserve a flogging, will receive but few. From everyone to whom much has been given much will be expected, and from the man to whom much has been entrusted the more will be demanded. [12:49] I came to cast fire on the earth; and what more can I wish, if it is already kindled? [12:50] There is a baptism that I must undergo, and how great is my distress until it is over! [12:51] Do you think that I am here to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but to cause division. [12:52] For from this time, if there are five people in a house, they will be divided, three against two, and two against three. [12:53] ‘Father will be opposed to son and son to father, mother to daughter and daughter to mother, mother-in-law to her daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law to her mother-in-law.’” [12:54] And to the people Jesus said: “When you see a cloud rising in the west, you say at once ‘There is a storm coming,’ and come it does. [12:55] And when you see that the wind is in the south, you say ‘It will be burning hot,’ and so it proves. [12:56] Hypocrites! You know how to judge of the earth and the sky; how is it, then, that you cannot judge of this time? [12:57] Why don’t you yourselves decide what is right? [12:58] When, for instance, you are going with your opponent before a magistrate, on your way to the court do your best to be quit of him; otherwise he might drag you before the judge, then the judge will hand you over to the bailiff of the court, and the bailiff throw you into prison. [12:59] You will not, I tell you, come out until you have paid the very last cent.”[Luke] ---- [13:1] Just at that time some people had come to tell Jesus about the Galileans, whose blood Pilate had mingled with the blood of their sacrifices. [13:2] “Do you suppose,”replied Jesus, “that, because these Galileans have suffered in this way, they were worse sinners than any other Galileans? [13:3] No, I tell you; but, unless you repent, you will all perish as they did. [13:4] Or those eighteen men at Siloam on whom the tower fell, killing them all, do you suppose that they were worse offenders than any other inhabitants of Jerusalem? [13:5] No, I tell you; but, unless you repent, you will all perish in the same manner.” [13:6] And Jesus told them this parable — “A man, who had a fig tree growing in his vineyard, came to look for fruit on it, but could not find any. [13:7] So he said to his gardener ‘Three years now I have come to look for fruit on this fig tree, without finding any! Cut it down. Why should it rob the soil?’ [13:8] ‘Leave it this one year more, Sir,’ the man answered, ‘until I have dug around it and manured it. [13:9] Then, if it bears in future, well and good; but if not, you can have it cut down.’” ---- [13:10] Jesus was teaching on a Sabbath in one of the Synagogues, [13:11] and he saw before him a woman who for eighteen years had suffered from weakness owing to her having an evil spirit in her. She was bent double, and was wholly unable to raise herself. [13:12] When Jesus saw her, he called her to him, and said: “Woman, you are released from your weakness.” [13:13] He placed his hands on her, and she was instantly made straight, and began to praise God. [13:14] But the synagogue leader, indignant that Jesus had worked the cure on the Sabbath, intervened and said to the people: “There are six days on which work ought to be done; come to be cured on one of those, and not on the Sabbath.” [13:15] “You hypocrites!”the Master answered him. “Does not everyone of you let your ox or your ass loose from its manger, and take it out to drink, on the Sabbath? [13:16] But this woman, a daughter of Abraham, who has been kept in bondage by Satan for now eighteen years, ought not she to have been released from her bondage on the Sabbath?” [13:17] As he said this, his opponents all felt ashamed; but all the people rejoiced to see all the wonderful things that he was doing. [13:18] So Jesus said: “What is the kingdom of God like? And to what can I liken it? [13:19] It is like a mustard seed which a man took and put in his garden. The seed grew and became a tree, and ‘the wild birds roosted in its branches.’” [13:20] And again Jesus said: “To what can I liken the kingdom of God? [13:21] It is like some yeast which a woman took and covered in three pecks of flour, until the whole had risen.” [13:22] Jesus went through towns and villages, teaching as he went, and making his way towards Jerusalem. [13:23] “Master,” some one asked, “are there but few in the path of salvation?” And Jesus answered: [13:24] “Strive to go in by the small door. Many, I tell you, will seek to go in, but they will not be able, [13:25] when once the master of the house has got up and shut the door, while you begin to say, as you stand outside and knock, ‘Sir, open the door for us.’ His answer will be — ‘I do not know where you come from.’ [13:26] Then you will begin to say ‘We have eaten and drunk in your presence, and you have taught in our streets,’ and his reply will be — [13:27] ‘I do not know where you come from. Leave my presence, all you who are living in wickedness.’ [13:28] There, there will be weeping and grinding of teeth, when you see Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, while you yourselves are being driven outside. [13:29] People will come from East and West, and from North and South, and take their places at the banquet in the kingdom of God. [13:30] there are some who are last now who will then be first, and some who are first now who will then be last!” [13:31] Just then some Pharisees came up to Jesus and said: “Go away and leave this place, for Herod wants to kill you.” [13:32] But Jesus answered: “Go and say to that fox ‘Look you, I am driving out demons and will be completing cures today and tomorrow, and on the third day I will have done.’ [13:33] But today and tomorrow and the day after I must go on my way, because it cannot be that a prophet should meet his end outside Jerusalem. [13:34] Jerusalem! Jerusalem! You who slays the prophets and stones the messengers sent to you — Oh, how often have I wished to gather your children around me, as a hen takes her brood under her wings, and you would not come! [13:35] Verily your house is left to you desolate! And never, I tell you, will you see me, until you say — ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.’” [Luke] ---- [14:1] On one occasion, as Jesus was going, on a Sabbath into the house of one of the leading Pharisees to dine, they were watching him closely. [14:2] There he saw before him a man who was suffering from dropsy. [14:3] “Is it allowable,”said Jesus, addressing the students of the law and the Pharisees, “to work a cure on the Sabbath, or is it not?” [14:4] They remained silent. Jesus took hold of the man and cured him, and sent him away. [14:5] And he said to them: “Which of you, finding that your son or your ox has fallen into a well, will not immediately pull them out on the Sabbath day?” [14:6] And they could not make any answer to that. [14:7] Observing that the guests were choosing the best places for themselves, Jesus told them this parable — [14:8] “When you are invited by anyone to a wedding banquet, do not seat yourself in the best place. Someone of higher rank might have been invited by your host; [14:9] and the host who invited you both will come and say to you ‘Make room for this person,’ and then you will begin in confusion to take the lowest place. [14:10] No, when you are invited, go and take the lowest place, so that, when the host who has invited you comes, he may say to you ‘Friend, come higher up’; and then you will be honored in the eyes of all your fellow guests. [14:11] For everyone who exalts themselves will be humbled, and everyone who humbles themselves will be exalted.” [14:12] Then Jesus went on to say to the man who had invited him: “When you give a breakfast or a dinner, do not ask your friends, or your brothers or sisters, or your relations, or rich neighbors, because they might invite you in return, and so you should be repaid. [14:13] No, when you entertain, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind; [14:14] and then you will be happy indeed, since they cannot reward you; for you will be rewarded at the resurrection of the good.” [14:15] One of the guests heard what he said and exclaimed: “Happy will be the person who will eat bread in the kingdom of God!” [14:16] But Jesus said to him: “A man was once giving a great dinner. He invited many people, [14:17] and sent his servant, when it was time for the dinner, to say to those who had been invited ‘Come, for everything is now ready.’ [14:18] They all with one accord began to ask to be excused. The first said to the servant ‘I have bought a field and am obliged to go and look at it. I must ask you to consider me excused.’ [14:19] The next said ‘I have bought five pairs of bullocks, and I am on my way to try them. I must ask you to consider me excused’; [14:20] while the next said ‘I am just married, and for that reason I am unable to come.’ [14:21] On his return the servant told his master all these answers. Then in anger the owner of the house said to his servant ‘Go out at once into the streets and alleys of the town, and bring in here the poor, and the crippled, and the blind, and the lame.’ [14:22] Presently the servant said ‘Sir, your order has been carried out, and still there is room.’ [14:23] ‘Go out,’ the master said, ‘into the roads and hedgerows, and make people come in, so that my house may be filled; [14:24] for I tell you all that not one of those people who were invited will taste my dinner.’” [14:25] One day, when great crowds of people were walking with Jesus, he turned and said to them: [14:26] “If any one comes to me and does not hate their father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brothers, and sisters, yes and even their life, he can be no disciple of mine. [14:27] Whoever does not carry their own cross, and walk in my steps, can be no disciple of mine. [14:28] Why, which of you, when you want to build a tower, does not first sit down and reckon the cost, to see if you have enough to complete it? — [14:29] Otherwise, if you have laid the foundation and are not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will laugh at you, [14:30] and say ‘Here is a person who began to build and was not able to finish!’ [14:31] Or what king, when he is setting out to fight another king, does not first sit down and consider if with ten thousand men he is able to meet one who is coming against him with twenty thousand? [14:32] And if he cannot, then, while the other is still at a distance, he sends envoys and asks for terms of peace. [14:33] And so with everyone of you who does not bid farewell to all you have — you cannot be a disciple of mine. [14:34] Yes, salt is good; but, if the salt itself should lose its strength, what will be used to season it? [14:35] It is not fit either for the land or for the manure heap. People throw it away. Let those who have ears to hear with hear!”[Luke] ---- [15:1] The tax-gatherers and the outcasts were all drawing near to Jesus to listen to him; [15:2] but the Pharisees and the teachers of the law found fault. “This man always welcomes outcasts, and takes meals with them!” they complained. [15:3] So Jesus told them this parable — [15:4] “Who among you who has a hundred sheep, and has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine out in the open country, and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? [15:5] And, when he has found it, he puts in on his shoulders rejoicing; [15:6] and, on reaching home, he calls his friends and his neighbors together, and says ‘Come and rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost.’ [15:7] So, I tell you, there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one outcast who repents, than over ninety-nine religious people, who have no need to repent. [15:8] Or again, what woman who has ten silver coins, if she loses one of them, does not light a lamp, and sweep the house, and search carefully until she finds it? [15:9] And, when she has found it, she calls her friends and neighbors together, and says ‘Come and rejoice with me, for I have found the coin which I lost.’ [15:10] So, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of God’s angels over one outcast who repents.” [15:11] Then Jesus continued: “A man had two sons; [15:12] and the younger of them said to his father ‘Father, give me my share of the inheritance.’ So the father divided the property between them. [15:13] A few days later the younger son got together all that he had, and went away into a distant land; and there he squandered his inheritance by leading a dissolute life. [15:14] After he has spent all that he had, there was a severe famine through all that country, and he began to be in actual want. [15:15] So he went and engaged himself to one of the people of that country, who sent him into his fields to tend pigs. [15:16] He even longed to satisfy his hunger with the bean-pods on which the pigs were feeding; and no one gave him anything. [15:17] But, when he came to himself, he said ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have more bread than they can eat, while here am I starving to death! [15:18] I will get up and go to my father, and say to him “Father, I sinned against heaven and against you; [15:19] I am no longer fit to be called your son; make me one of your hired servants.”’ [15:20] And he got up and went to his father. But, while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was deeply moved; he ran and threw his arms around his neck and kissed him. [15:21] ‘Father,’ the son said, ‘I sinned against heaven and against you; I am no longer fit to be called your son; make me one of your hired servants.’ [15:22] But the father turned to his servants and said ‘Be quick and fetch a robe — the very best — and put it on him; give him a ring for his finger and sandals for his feet; [15:23] and bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and make merry; [15:24] for here is my son who was dead, and is alive again, was lost, and is found.’ So they began making merry. [15:25] Meanwhile the elder son was out in the fields; but, on coming home, when he got near the house, he heard music and dancing, [15:26] and he called one of the servants and asked what it all meant. [15:27] ‘Your brother has come back,’ the servant told him, ‘and your father has killed the fattened calf, because he has him back safe and sound.’ [15:28] This made him angry, and he would not go in. But his father came out and begged him to do so. [15:29] ‘No,’ he said to his father, ‘look at all the years I have been serving you, without ever once disobeying you, and yet you have never given me even a young goat, so that I might have a merrymaking with my friends. [15:30] But, no sooner has this son of yours come, who has eaten up your property in the company of prostitutes, than you have killed the fattened calf for him.’ [15:31] ‘Child,’ the father answered, ‘you are always with me, and everything that I have is yours. [15:32] We could but make merry and rejoice, for here is your brother who was dead, and is alive; who was lost, and is found.’” [Luke] [16:1] Jesus said to his disciples: “There was a rich man who had a steward; and this steward was maliciously accused to him of wasting his estate. [16:2] So the master called him and said ‘What is this that I hear about you? Give in your accounts, for you cannot act as steward any longer.’ [16:3] ‘What am I to do,’ the steward asked himself, ‘now that my master is taking the steward’s place away from me? I have not strength to dig, and I am ashamed to beg. [16:4] I know what I will do, so that, as soon as I am turned out of my stewardship, people may welcome me into their homes.’ [16:5] One by one he called up his master’s debtors. ‘How much do you owe my master?’ he asked of the first. [16:6] ‘Four hundred and forty gallons of oil,’ answered the man. ‘Here is your agreement,’ he said; ‘sit down at once and make it two hundred and twenty.’ [16:7] And you, the steward said to the next, ‘how much do you owe?’ ‘Seventy quarters of wheat,’ he replied. ‘Here is your agreement,’ the steward said; ‘make it fifty-six.’ [16:8] His master complimented this dishonest steward on the shrewdness of his action. And indeed men of the world are shrewder in dealing with their fellow men than those who have the light. [16:9] And I say to you ‘Win friends for yourselves with your dishonest money,’ so that, when it comes to an end, there may be a welcome for you into the Eternal Home. [16:10] The person who is trustworthy in the smallest matter is trustworthy in a great one also; and the person who is dishonest in the smallest matter is dishonest in a great one also. [16:11] So, if you have proved untrustworthy with the ‘dishonest money,’ who will trust you with the true? [16:12] And, if you have proved untrustworthy with what does not belong to us, who will give you what is really our own? [16:13] No servant can serve two masters, for, either they will hate one and love the other, or else they will attach themselves to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.” [16:14] All this was said within hearing of the Pharisees, who were lovers of money, and they began to sneer at Jesus. [16:15] “You,”said Jesus, “are the ones who justify themselves before the world, but God can read your hearts; and what is highly esteemed among people may be an abomination in the sight of God. [16:16] The law and the prophets sufficed until the time of John. Since then the good news of the kingdom of God has been told, and everybody has been forcing their way into it. [16:17] It would be easier for the heavens and the earth to disappear than for one stroke of a letter in the law to be lost. [16:18] Everyone who divorces his wife and marries another woman is an adulterer, and the man who marries a divorced woman is an adulterer. [16:19] There was once a rich man, who dressed in purple robes and fine linen, and feasted every day in great splendor. [16:20] Near his gateway there had been laid a beggar named Lazarus, who was covered with sores, [16:21] and who longed to satisfy his hunger with what fell from the rich man’s table. Even the dogs came and licked his sores. [16:22] After a time the beggar died, and was taken by the angels to be with Abraham. The rich man also died and was buried. [16:23] In the place of death he looked up in his torment, and saw Abraham at a distance and Lazarus at his side. [16:24] So he called out ‘Pity me, Father Abraham, and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am suffering agony in this flame.’ [16:25] ‘Child,’ answered Abraham, ‘remember that you in your lifetime received what you thought desirable, just as Lazarus received what was not desirable; but now he has his consolation here, while you are suffering agony. [16:26] And not only that, but between you and us there lies a great chasm, so that those who wish to pass from here to you cannot, nor can they cross from there to us.’ [16:27] ‘Then, Father,’ he said, ‘I beg you to send Lazarus to my father’s house — [16:28] For I have five brothers to warn them, so that they may not come to this place of torture also.’ [16:29] ‘They have the writings of Moses and the prophets,’ replied Abraham; ‘let them listen to them.’ [16:30] ‘But, Father Abraham,’ he urged, ‘if some one from the dead were to go to them, they would repent.’ [16:31] ‘If they do not listen to Moses and the prophets,’ answered Abraham, ‘they will not be persuaded, even if some one were to rise from the dead.’”[Luke] ---- [17:1] Jesus said to his disciples: “It is inevitable that there should be temptations but sorrow awaits the person who does the tempting! [17:2] It would be good for them if they had been flung into the sea with a millstone around their neck, rather than that they should prove a trap even one of these little ones. [17:3] Be on your guard! If your brother or sister does wrong, rebuke them; but if they repent, forgive them. [17:4] Even if they wrong you seven times a day, but turns to you every time and says ‘I am sorry,’ you must forgive them.” [17:5] “Give us more faith,” said the apostles to the Master; [17:6] but the Master said: “If your faith were only like a mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you. [17:7] Which of you, if he had a servant ploughing, or tending the sheep, would say to him, when he came in from the fields, ‘Come at once and take your place at the table,’ [17:8] Instead of saying ‘Prepare my dinner, and then make yourself ready and serve me while I am eating and drinking, and after that you will eat and drink yourself’? [17:9] Does he feel grateful to his servant for doing what he is told? [17:10] And so with you — when you have done all that you have been told, still say ‘We are but useless servants; we have done no more than we ought to have done.’” ---- [17:11] On the way to Jerusalem Jesus passed between Samaria and Galilee. [17:12] As he was entering a village, ten lepers met him. [17:13] Standing still, some distance off, they called out loudly: “Jesus! Sir! Pity us!” [17:14] When Jesus saw them, he said: “Go and show yourselves to the priest.”And, as they were on their way, they were made clean. [17:15] One of them, finding he was cured, came back, praising God loudly, [17:16] and threw himself on his face at Jesus’ feet, thanking him for what he had done; and this man was a Samaritan. [17:17] “Were not all the ten made clean?exclaimed Jesus. But the nine — where are they? [17:18] Were there none to come back and praise God except this foreigner? [17:19] Get up,”he said to him, “and go on your way. Your faith has delivered you.” ---- [17:20] Being once asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God was to come, Jesus answered: “The kingdom of God does not come in a way that can be seen, [17:21] nor will people say ‘Look, here it is!’ or ‘There it is!’; for the kingdom of God is within you! [17:22] The day will come,”he said to his disciples, “when you will long to see but one of the days of the Son of Man, and will not see it. [17:23] People will say to you ‘There he is! Or ‘Here he is!’ Do not go and follow them. [17:24] For, just as lightning will lighten and flare from one side of the heavens to the other, so will it be with the Son of Man. [17:25] But first he must undergo much suffering, and he must be rejected by the present generation. [17:26] As it was in the days of Noah, so will it be again in the days of the Son of Man. [17:27] They were eating and drinking and marrying and being married, up to the very day on which Noah entered the ark, and then the flood came and destroyed them all. [17:28] So, too, in the days of Lot. People were eating, drinking, buying, selling, planting, building; [17:29] but, on the very day on which Lot came out of Sodom, it rained fire and sulphur from the skies and destroyed them all. [17:30] It will be the same on the day on which the Son of Man reveals himself. [17:31] On that day, if a person is on their house-top and their goods in the house, they must not go down to get them; nor again must one who is on the farm turn back. [17:32] Remember Lot’s wife. [17:33] Whoever is eager to get the most out of their life will lose it; but whoever will lose it will preserve it. [17:34] On that night, I tell you, of two people on the same bed, one will be taken and the other left; [17:35] of two women grinding grain together, one will be taken and the other left.” [17:37] “Where will it be, Master?” asked the disciples. “Where there is a body,”said Jesus, “‘there will the vultures flock.’”[Luke] ---- [18:1] Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and never despair. [18:2] “There was,”he said, “in a certain town a judge, who had no fear of God nor regard for people. [18:3] In the same town there was a widow who went to him again and again, and said ‘Grant me justice against my opponent.’ [18:4] For a time the judge refused, but afterwards he said to himself ‘Although I am without fear of God or regard for people, [18:5] yet, as this widow is so troublesome, I will grant her justice, to stop her from plaguing me with her endless visits.’” [18:6] Then the Master added: “Listen to what this iniquitous judge says! [18:7] And God — will not he see that his own people, who cry to him night and day, have justice done them — though he holds his hand? [18:8] He will, I tell you, give them justice soon enough! Yet, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” ---- [18:9] Another time, speaking to people who were satisfied that they were religious, and who regarded everyone else with scorn, Jesus told this parable — [18:10] “Two men went up into the Temple Courts to pray. One was a Pharisee and the other a tax-gatherer. [18:11] The Pharisee stood forward and began praying to himself in this way — ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men — thieves, rogues, adulterers — or even like this tax-gatherer. [18:12] I fast twice a week, and give a tenth of everything I get to God.’ [18:13] Meanwhile the tax-gatherer stood at a distance, not venturing even ‘to raise his eyes to heaven’; but he kept striking his breast and saying ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’ [18:14] This man, I tell you, went home pardoned, rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, while everyone who humbles himself will be exalted.” ---- [18:15] Some of the people were bringing even their babies to Jesus, for him to touch them; but, when the disciples saw it, they began to find fault with those who had brought them. [18:16] Jesus, however, called the little children to him. “Let the little children come to me,”he said, “and do not hinder them; for it is to the childlike that the kingdom of God belongs. [18:17] I tell you, unless a man receives the kingdom of God like a child, he will not enter it at all.” ---- [18:18] And one of the Presidents asked Jesus this question — “Good teacher, what must I do if I am to gain eternal life?” [18:19] “Why do you call me good?”answered Jesus. “No one is good but God. [18:20] You know the commandments — ‘Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not say what is false about others, Honor your father and your mother.’” [18:21] “I have observed all these,” he replied, “from childhood.” [18:22] Hearing this, Jesus said to him: “There is one thing still lacking in you; sell everything that you have, and distribute to the poor, and you will have wealth in heaven; then come and follow me.” [18:23] But the man became greatly distressed on hearing this, for he was extremely rich. [18:24] Seeing this, Jesus said to his disciples: “How hard it is for the wealthy to enter the kingdom of God! [18:25] It is easier, indeed, for a camel to get through a needle’s eye than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God!” [18:26] “Then who can be saved?” asked those who heard this. [18:27] But Jesus said: “What is impossible with people is possible with God.” [18:28] “But we,” said Peter, “we left what belonged to us and followed you.” [18:29] “I tell you,”he answered, “that there is no one who has left house, or wife, or brothers, or parents, or children, for the sake of the kingdom of God, [18:30] who will not receive many times as much in the present, and in the age that is coming eternal life.” ---- [18:31] Gathering the Twelve around him, Jesus said to them: “Listen! We are going up to Jerusalem; and there everything that is written in the prophets will be done to the Son of Man. [18:32] For he will be given up to the Gentiles, mocked, insulted and spat on; [18:33] they will scourge him, and then put him to death; and on the third day he will rise again.” [18:34] The apostles did not comprehend any of this; his meaning was unintelligible to them, and they did not understand what he was saying. ---- [18:35] As Jesus was getting near Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside, begging. [18:36] Hearing a crowd going by, the man asked what was the matter; [18:37] and, when people told him that Jesus of Nazareth was passing, [18:38] he shouted out: “Jesus, Son of David, take pity on me!” [18:39] Those who were in front kept telling him to be quiet, but he continued to call out the louder: “Son of David, take pity on me!” [18:40] Then Jesus stopped and ordered the man to be brought to him. And, when he had come close up to him, Jesus asked him: [18:41] “What do you want me to do for you?” “Master,” he said, “I want to recover my sight.” [18:42] And Jesus said: “Recover your sight, your faith has delivered you.” [18:43] Instantly he recovered his sight, and began to follow Jesus, praising God. And all the people, on seeing it, gave glory to God.[Luke] ---- [19:1] Jesus entered Jericho and made his way through the town. [19:2] There was a man there, known by the name of Zacchaeus, who was a commissioner of taxes and a rich man. [19:3] He tried to see what Jesus was like; but, being short, he was unable to do so because of the crowd. [19:4] So he ran on ahead and climbed into a mulberry tree, to see Jesus, for he knew that he must pass that way. [19:5] When Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him: “Zacchaeus, be quick and come down, for I must stop at your house today.” [19:6] So Zacchaeus got down quickly, and joyfully welcomed him. [19:7] On seeing this, everyone began to complain: “He has gone to stay with a man who is an outcast.” [19:8] But Zacchaeus stood forward and said to the Master: “Listen, Master! I will give half my property to the poor, and, if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I will give him back four times as much.” [19:9] “salvation has come to this house today,”answered Jesus, “for even this man is a son of Abraham. [19:10] The Son of Man has come to ‘search for those who are lost’ and to save them.” [19:11] As the people were listening to this, Jesus went on to tell them a parable. He did so because he was near Jerusalem, and because they thought that the kingdom of God was going to be proclaimed at once. [19:12] He said: “A nobleman once went to a distant country to receive his appointment to a kingdom and then return. [19:13] He called ten of his servants and gave them ten pounds of silver each, and told them to trade with them during his absence. [19:14] But his subjects hated him and sent envoys after him to say ‘We will not have this man as our king.’ [19:15] On his return, after having been appointed king, he directed that the servants to whom he had given his money should be summoned, so that he might learn what amount of trade they had done. [19:16] The first came up, and said ‘Sir, your ten pounds have made a hundred.’ [19:17] ‘Well done, good servant!’ exclaimed the master. ‘As you have proved trustworthy in a very small matter, I appoint you governor over ten towns.’ [19:18] When the second came, he said ‘Your ten pounds, Sir, have produced fifty.’ [19:19] So the master said to him ‘And you I appoint over five towns.’ [19:20] Another servant also came and said ‘Sir, here are your ten pounds; I have kept them put away in a handkerchief. [19:21] For I was afraid of you, because you are a stern man. You take what you have not planted, and reap what you have not sown.’ [19:22] The master answered ‘Out of your own mouth I judge you, you worthless servant. You knew that I am a stern man, that I take what I have not planted, and reap what I have not sown? [19:23] Then why didn’t you put my money into a bank? And I, on my return, could have claimed it with interest. [19:24] Take away from him the ten pounds,’ he said to those standing by, ‘and give them to the one who has the hundred.’ [19:25] ‘But, Sir,’ they said, ‘he has a hundred pounds already!’ [19:26] ‘I tell you,’ he answered, ‘that, to him who has, more will be given, but, from him who has nothing, even what he has will be taken away. [19:27] But as for my enemies, these men who would not have me as their king, bring them here and put them to death in my presence.’” [19:28] After saying this, Jesus went on in front, going up to Jerusalem. The Last Days ============= [19:29] It was when Jesus had almost reached Bethphage and Bethany, near the Mount of Olives, that he sent on two of the disciples. [19:30] “Go to the village facing us,”he said, “and, when you get there, you will find a foal tethered, which no one has yet ridden; untie it and lead it here. [19:31] And, if anybody asks you ‘Why are you untying it?,’ you are to say this — ‘The Master wants it.’” [19:32] So the two who were sent went and found it as Jesus had told them. [19:33] While they were untying the foal, the owners asked them — “Why are you untying the foal?” [19:34] And the two disciples answered — “The Master wants it.” [19:35] Then they led it back to Jesus, and threw their cloaks on the foal and put Jesus on it. [19:36] As he went along, the people kept spreading their cloaks in the road. [19:37] When he had almost reached the place where the road led down the Mount of Olives, everyone of the many disciples began in their joy to praise God loudly for all the miracles that they had seen: [19:38] “Blessed is He who comes — Our king — in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven, And glory on high.” [19:39] Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to him: “Teacher, restrain your disciples.” [19:40] But Jesus answered: “I tell you that if they are silent, the stones will call out.” [19:41] When he drew near, on seeing the city, he wept over it, and said: [19:42] “If only you had known, while yet there was time — even you — the things that make for peace! But now they have been hidden from your sight. [19:43] For a time is coming when your enemies will surround you with earthworks, and encircle you, and hem you in on all sides; [19:44] they will trample you down and your children within you, and they will not leave in you one stone on another, because you did not know ‘the time of your visitation.’” [19:45] Jesus went into the Temple Courts and began to drive out those who were selling, [19:46] saying as he did so: “Scripture says — ‘My house will be a house of prayer’; but you have made it ‘a den of robbers.’” ---- [19:47] Jesus continued to teach each day in the Temple Courts; but the chief priests and teachers of the law were eager to take his life, and so also were the leaders of the people. [19:48] Yet they could not see what to do, for the people all hung on his words.[Luke] ---- [20:1] On one of these days, when Jesus was teaching the people in the Temple Courts and telling the good news, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, joined by the councillors, confronted him, [20:2] and addressing him, said: “Tell us what authority you have to do these things. Who is it who has given you this authority?” [20:3] “I, too,”said Jesus in reply, “will ask you one question. Give me an answer to it. [20:4] It is about John’s baptism — was it of divine or of human origin?” [20:5] But they began arguing together: “If we say ‘divine,’ he will say ‘Why didn’t you believe him?’ [20:6] But, if we say ‘human,’ the people will all stone us, for they are persuaded that John was a prophet.” [20:7] So they answered that they did not know its origin. [20:8] “Then I,”said Jesus, “refuse to tell you what authority I have to do these things.” [20:9] But Jesus began to tell the people this parable — “A man once planted a vineyard, and then let it out to tenants, and went abroad for a long while. [20:10] At the proper time he sent a servant to the tenants, so that they could give him a share of the produce of the vineyard. The tenants, however, beat him and sent him away empty-handed. [20:11] The owner afterwards sent another servant; but the tenants beat and insulted this man too, and sent him away empty-handed. [20:12] He sent a third; but they wounded this man also, and threw him outside. [20:13] ‘What should I do?’ said the owner of the vineyard. ‘I will send my son, who is very dear to me. Perhaps they will respect him.’ [20:14] But, on seeing him, the tenants consulted with one another. ‘Here is the heir!’ they said. ‘Let us kill him, and then the inheritance will become ours.’ [20:15] So they threw him outside the vineyard and killed him. Now what will the owner of the vineyard do to them? [20:16] He will come and put those tenants to death, and will let the vineyard to others.” “heaven forbid!” they exclaimed when they heard it. [20:17] But Jesus looked at them and said: “What then is the meaning of this passage? — ‘The stone which the builders despised has now itself become the corner-stone.’ [20:18] Everyone who falls on that stone will be dashed to pieces, while anyone on whom it falls — it will scatter him as dust.” [20:19] After this the teachers of the law and the chief priest were eager to lay hands on Jesus then and there, but they were afraid of the people; for they saw that it was at them that he had aimed this parable. [20:20] Having watched their opportunity, they afterwards sent some spies, who pretended to be good men, to catch Jesus in the course of conversation, and so enable them to give him up to the Governor’s jurisdiction and authority. [20:21] These spies asked Jesus a question. They said: “Teacher, we know that you are right in what you say and teach, and that you do not take any account of a person’s position, but teach the way of God honestly; [20:22] are we right in paying tribute to the Emperor or not?” [20:23] Seeing through their deceitfulness, Jesus said to them: [20:24] “Show me a coin. Whose head and title are on it?” [20:25] “The Emperor’s,” they said; and Jesus replied: “Well then, pay to the Emperor what belongs to the Emperor, and to God what belongs to God.” [20:26] They could not lay hold of this answer before the people; and, in their wonder at his reply, they held their tongues. ---- [20:27] Presently there came up some Sadducees, who maintain that there is no resurrection. Their question was this — [20:28] “Teacher, Moses laid down for us in his writings that — ‘Should a man’s married brother die, and should he be childless, the man should take the widow as his wife, and raise up a family for his brother.’ [20:29] Well, there were once seven brothers; of whom the eldest, after taking a wife, died childless. [20:30] The second and third brothers both took her as their wife; [20:31] and so, too, did all seven — dying without children. [20:32] The woman herself was the last to die. [20:33] About the woman, then — at the resurrection, whose wife is she to be, all seven brothers having had her as their wife?” [20:34] “The men and women of this world,”said Jesus, “marry and are given in marriage; [20:35] but, for those who are thought worthy to attain to that other world and the resurrection from the dead, there is no marrying or being married, [20:36] nor indeed can they die again, for they are like angels and, having shared in the resurrection, they are God’s children. [20:37] As to the fact that the dead rise, even Moses indicated that, in the passage about the Bush, when he calls the Lord — ‘The God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.’ [20:38] Now he is not God of dead people, but of living. For in his sight all are alive.” [20:39] “Well said, teacher!” exclaimed some of the teachers of the law, [20:40] for they did not venture to question him any further. [20:41] But Jesus said to them: “How is it that people say that the Christ is to be David’s son? [20:42] For David, in the book of Psalms, says himself — ‘The Lord said to my lord: “Sit at my right hand, [20:43] until I put your enemies as a stool for your feet.”’ [20:44] David, then, calls him ‘lord,’ so how is he David’s son?” [20:45] While all the people were listening, Jesus said to the disciples: [20:46] “Be on your guard against the teachers of the law, who delight to walk about in long robes, and like to be greeted in the streets with respect, and to have the best seats in the Synagogues, and places of honor at dinner. [20:47] These are the men who rob widows of their houses, and make a pretense of saying long prayers. Their sentence will be all the heavier.” [Luke] [21:1] Looking up, Jesus saw the rich people putting their gifts into the chests for the Temple offerings. [21:2] He saw, too, a widow in poor circumstances putting two small coins into them. [21:3] “I tell you”, he said “that this poor widow has put in more than all the others; [21:4] for everyone else here put in something from what he had to spare, while she, in her need, has put in all she had to live on.” ---- [21:5] When some of them spoke about the Temple being decorated with beautiful stones and offerings, Jesus said: [21:6] “As for these things that you are looking at, a time is coming when not one stone will be left on another here, which will not be thrown down.” [21:7] So the disciples questioned Jesus: “But, teacher, when will this be? And what sign will there be when this is near?” [21:8] And Jesus said: “See that you are not led astray; for many will take my name, and come saying ‘I am He,’ and ‘The time is close at hand.’ Do not follow them. [21:9] And, when you hear of wars and disturbances, do not be terrified, for these things must occur first; but the end will not be at once.” [21:10] Then he said to them: “‘Nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom,’ [21:11] And there will be great earthquakes, and plagues and famines in various places, and there will be terrible appearances and signs in the heavens. [21:12] Before all this, they will lay hands on you and persecute you, and they will betray you to Synagogues and put you in prison, when you will be brought before kings and governors for the sake of my name. [21:13] Then will be your opportunity of witnessing for me. [21:14] Make up your minds, therefore, not to prepare your defense; [21:15] for I will myself give you words, and a wisdom which all your opponents together will be unable to resist or defy. [21:16] You will be betrayed even by your parents and brothers and sisters and sisters and relations and friends, and they will cause some of you to be put to death, [21:17] and you will be hated by everyone because of me my name. [21:18] Yet not a single hair of your heads will be lost! [21:19] By your endurance you will win yourselves life. [21:20] As soon, however, as you see Jerusalem surrounded by armed camps, then you may know that the hour of her desecration is at hand. [21:21] Then those of you who are in Judea must take refuge in the mountains, those who are in Jerusalem must leave at once, and those who are in the country places must not go into it. [21:22] For these are to be the days of vengeance, when all that scripture says will be fulfilled. [21:23] Alas for pregnant women, and for those who are nursing infants in those days! For there will be great suffering in the land, and anger against this people. [21:24] They will fall by the edge of the sword, and will be taken prisoners to every land, and ‘Jerusalem will be under the heel of the Gentiles,’ until their day is over — as it will be. [21:25] There will be signs, too, in the sun and moon and stars, and on the earth despair among the nations, in their dismay at the roar of the sea and the surge. [21:26] People’s hearts will fail them through dread of what is coming upon the world; for ‘the forces of the heavens will be convulsed.’ [21:27] Then will be seen the ‘Son of Man coming in a cloud’ with power and great glory. [21:28] And, when these things begin to occur, look upwards and lift your heads, for your deliverance will be at hand.” [21:29] Then he taught them a lesson , saying — “Look at the fig tree and all the other trees. [21:30] As soon as they shoot, you know, as you look at them, without being told, that summer is near. [21:31] And so may you, as soon as you see these things happening, know that the kingdom of God is near. [21:32] I tell you that even the present generation will not pass away until all has taken place. [21:33] The heavens and the earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. [21:34] Be on your guard or your minds will become dulled by debauches or drunkenness or the anxieties of life, and 'that day' will close on you suddenly like a trap. [21:35] For come it will on all who are living upon the face of the whole earth. [21:36] Be on the watch at all times, and pray that you may have strength to escape all that is destined to happen, and to stand in the presence of the Son of Man.” ---- [21:37] During the days, Jesus continued to teach in the Temple Courts, but he went out and spent the nights on the hill called the ‘Mount of Olives.’ [21:38] And all the people would get up early in the morning and come to listen to him in the Temple Courts.[Luke] ---- [22:1] The feast of the unleavened bread, known as the Passover, was near. [22:2] The chief priest and the teachers of the law were looking for an opportunity of destroying Jesus, for they were afraid of the people. [22:3] Now Satan took possession of Judas, who was known as Iscariot, and who belonged to the Twelve; [22:4] and he went and discussed with the chief priests and officers in charge at the Temple the best way of betraying Jesus to them. [22:5] They were glad of this, and agreed to pay him. [22:6] So Judas assented, and looked for an opportunity to betray Jesus to them, in the absence of a crowd. [22:7] When the day of the Festival of the unleavened bread came, on which the Passover lambs had to be killed, [22:8] Jesus sent forward Peter and John, saying to them: “Go and make preparations for our eating the Passover.” [22:9] “Where do you wish us to make preparations?” they asked. [22:10] “Listen,”he answered, “when you have got into the city, a man carrying a pitcher of water will meet you; follow him into whatever house he enters; [22:11] and you will say to the owner of the house ‘The teacher says to you — Where is the room where I am to eat the Passover with my disciples?’ [22:12] The man will show you a large upstairs room, set out; there make preparations.” [22:13] So Peter and John went on, and found everything just as Jesus had told them, and they prepared the Passover. [22:14] When the time came, Jesus took his place at the table, and the apostles with him. [22:15] “I have most earnestly wished,”he said, “to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. [22:16] For I tell you that I will not eat it again, until it has had its fulfillment in the kingdom of God.” [22:17] Then, on receiving a cup, after saying the thanksgiving, he said: [22:18] “Take this and share it among you. For I tell you that I will not, after today, drink of the juice of the grape, until the kingdom of God has come.” [22:19] Then Jesus took some bread, and, after saying the thanksgiving, broke it and gave to them, with the words: “This is my body. [22:20] [22:21] Yet see! The hand of the man who is betraying me is beside me on the table! [22:22] True, the Son of Man is passing, by the way ordained for him, yet alas for that man by whom he is being betrayed!” [22:23] Then they began questioning one another which of them it could be who was going to do this. [22:24] And a dispute arose among them as to which of them was to be regarded as the greatest. [22:25] Jesus, however, said: “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their oppressors are styled ‘Benefactors.’ [22:26] But with you it must not be so. No, let the greatest among you become like the youngest, and him who leads like him who serves. [22:27] Which is the greater — the master at the table or his servant? Is not it the master at the table? Yet I myself am among you as one who serves. [22:28] You are the men who have stood by me in my trials; [22:29] and, just as my Father has assigned me a kingdom, I assign you places, [22:30] so that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and be seated on twelve thrones as judges of the twelve tribes of Israel. [22:31] Simon! Simon! listen. Satan demanded leave to sift you all like wheat, [22:32] but I prayed for you, Simon, that your faith should not fail. And you, when you have returned to me, are to strengthen the others.” [22:33] “Master,” said Peter, “with you I am ready to go both to prison and to death.” [22:34] “I tell you, Peter,”replied Jesus, “the cock will not crow today until you have disowned all knowledge of me three times.” [22:35] Then he said to them all: “When I sent you out as my messengers, without either purse, or bag, or sandals, were you in need of anything?” “No; nothing,” they answered. [22:36] “Now, however,”he said, “he who has a purse must take it and his bag as well; and he who has not must sell his cloak and buy a sword. [22:37] For, I tell you, that passage of scripture must be fulfilled in me, which says — ‘He was counted among the godless’; indeed all that refers to me is finding its fulfillment.” [22:38] “Master,” they exclaimed, “look, here are two swords!” “Enough!”said Jesus. ---- [22:39] Jesus then went out, and made his way as usual to the Mount of Olives, followed by his disciples. [22:40] And, when he reached the spot, he said to them: “Pray that you may not fall into temptation.” [22:41] Then he withdrew about a stone’s throw, and knelt down and began to pray. [22:42] “Father,”he said, “if it is your pleasure, spare me this cup; only, not my will but your be done.” [22:43] Presently there appeared to him an angel from heaven, who strengthened him. [22:44] And, as his anguish became intense, he prayed still more earnestly, while his sweat was like great drops of blood falling on the ground. [22:45] Then he rose from praying, and came to the disciples and found them sleeping for sorrow. [22:46] “Why are you asleep?”he asked them. “Rise and pray so that you don't fall into temptation.” [22:47] While he was still speaking, a crowd appeared in sight, led by the man called Judas, who was one of the Twelve. Judas approached Jesus, to kiss him; [22:48] on which Jesus said to him: “Judas, is it by a kiss that you betray the Son of Man?” [22:49] But when those who were around Jesus saw what was going to happen, they exclaimed: “Master, should we use our swords?” [22:50] And one of them struck the high priest’s servant and cut off his right ear; [22:51] on which Jesus said: “Let me at least do this”; and, touching his ear, he healed the wound. [22:52] Then, turning to the chief priests and officers in charge at the Temple and councillors, who had come for him, he said: “Have you come out, as if after a robber, with swords and clubs? [22:53] When I was with you day after day in the Temple Courts, you did not lay hands on me; but now your time has come, and the power of darkness.” ---- [22:54] Those who had taken Jesus prisoner took him away into the house of the high priest. Peter followed at a distance. [22:55] But, when they had lit a fire in the centre of the courtyard and had all sat down there, Peter seated himself in the middle of them. [22:56] Presently a maidservant saw him sitting near the blaze of the fire. She looked carefully at him and said: “Why, this man was one of his companions!” [22:57] But Peter denied it. “I do not know him,” he replied. [22:58] A little while afterwards some one else — a man — saw him and said: “Why, you are one of them!” “No,” Peter said, “I am not.” [22:59] About an hour later another man declared positively: “This man also was certainly with him. Why, he is a Galilean!” [22:60] But Peter said: “I do not know what you are speaking about.” Instantly, while he was still speaking, a cock crowed. [22:61] And the Master turned and looked at Peter; and Peter remembered the words that the Master had said to him — “Before a cock has crowed today, you will disown me three times”; [22:62] and he went outside and wept bitterly. ---- [22:63] The men who held Jesus kept making sport of him and beating him. [22:64] They blindfolded him and then questioned him. “Now play the prophet,” they said; “who was it that struck you?” [22:65] And they heaped many other insults on him. ---- [22:66] At daybreak the National Council met — both the chief priests and the teachers of the law — and took Jesus before their High Council. [22:67] “If you are the Christ,” they said, “tell us so.” “If I tell you,”replied Jesus, “you will not believe me; [22:68] and, if I question you, you will not answer. [22:69] But from this hour ‘the Son of Man will be seated on the right hand of God Almighty.’” [22:70] “Are you, then, the Son of God?” they all asked. “It is true,”answered Jesus, “I am.” [22:71] At this they exclaimed: “Why do we want any more evidence? We have heard it ourselves from his own lips!” [Luke] [23:1] Then they all rose in a body and led Jesus before Pilate. [23:2] And they began to accuse him: “This is a man whom we found misleading our people, preventing them from paying taxes to the Emperor, and giving out that he himself is ‘Christ, a king.’” [23:3] “Are you the king of the Jews?” Pilate asked him. “It is true,”replied Jesus. [23:4] But Pilate, turning to the chief priests and the people, said: “I do not see anything to find fault with in this man.” [23:5] But they insisted: “He is stirring up the people by his teaching all through Judea; he began with Galilee and has now come here.” [23:6] Hearing this, Pilate asked if the man was a Galilean; [23:7] and, having satisfied himself that Jesus came under Herod’s jurisdiction, he sent him to Herod, who also was at Jerusalem at the time. [23:8] When Herod saw Jesus, he was exceedingly pleased, for he had been wanting to see him for a long time, having heard a great deal about him; and he was hoping to see some sign given by him. [23:9] So he questioned him at some length, but Jesus made no reply. [23:10] Meanwhile the chief priests and the teachers of the law stood by and vehemently accused him. [23:11] And Herod, with his soldiers, treated Jesus with scorn; he mocked him by throwing a gorgeous robe around him, and then sent him back to Pilate. [23:12] And Herod and Pilate became friends that very day, for before that there had been ill-will between them. [23:13] So Pilate summoned the chief priests, and the leading men, and the people, [23:14] and said to them: “You brought this man before me charged with misleading the people; and yet, for my part, though I examined him before you, I did not find this man to blame for any of the things of which you accuse him; [23:15] nor did Herod either; for he has sent him back to us. And, as a fact, he has not done anything deserving death; [23:16] so I will have him scourged, and then release him.” [23:18] But they began to shout as one man: “Kill this fellow, but release Barabbas for us.” [23:19] (Barabbas was a man who had been put in prison for a riot that had broken out in the city and for murder.) [23:20] Pilate, however, wanting to release Jesus, called to them again; [23:21] but they kept calling out: “Crucify, crucify him!” [23:22] “Why, what harm has this man done?” Pilate said to them for the third time. “I have found nothing in him for which he could be condemned to death. So I will have him scourged, and then release him.” [23:23] But they persisted in loudly demanding his crucifixion; and their clamor gained the day. [23:24] Pilate decided that their demand should be granted. [23:25] He released the man who had been put in prison for riot and murder, as they demanded, and gave Jesus up to be dealt with as they pleased. ---- [23:26] And, as they were leading Jesus away, they laid hold of Simon from Cyrene, who was on his way in from the country, and they put the cross on his shoulders, for him to carry it behind Jesus. [23:27] There was a great crowd of people following him, many being women who were beating their breasts and wailing for him. [23:28] So Jesus turned and said to them: “Women of Jerusalem, do not weep for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. [23:29] A time, I tell you, is coming, when it will be said — ‘Happy are the women who are barren, and those who have never borne children or nursed them!’ [23:30] At that time people will begin to say to the mountains ‘Fall on us,’ and to the hills ‘Cover us.’ [23:31] If what you see is done while the tree is green, what will happen when it is dry?” [23:32] There were two others also, criminals, led out to be executed with Jesus. [23:33] When they had reached the place called ‘The Skull,’ there they crucified Jesus and the criminals, one on the right, and one on the left. [23:34] Then Jesus said: “Father, forgive them; they do not know what they are doing.”His clothes they divided among them by casting lots. [23:35] Meanwhile the people stood looking on. Even the leading men said with a sneer: “He saved others, let him save himself, if he is God’s Christ, his chosen one.” [23:36] The soldiers, too, came up in mockery, bringing him common wine, [23:37] and saying as they did so: “If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself.” [23:38] Above him were the words — ‘THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.’ [23:39] One of the criminals who were hanging beside Jesus railed at him. “Aren’t you the Christ? Save yourself and us,” he said. [23:40] But the other rebuked him. “Haven’t you,” he said, “any fear of God, now that you are under the same sentence? [23:41] And we justly so, for we are only reaping our deserts, but this man has not done anything wrong. [23:42] Jesus,” he went on, “do not forget me when you have come to your kingdom.” [23:43] And Jesus answered: “I tell you, this very day you will be with me in Paradise.” [23:44] It was nearly midday, when a darkness came over the whole country, lasting until three in the afternoon, [23:45] the sun being eclipsed; and the Temple curtain was torn down the middle. [23:46] Then Jesus, with a loud cry, said: “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.”And with these words he expired. [23:47] The Roman captain, on seeing what had happened, praised God, exclaiming: “This must have been a good man!” [23:48] All the people who had collected to see the sight watched what occurred, and then went home beating their breasts. [23:49] All the friends of Jesus had been standing at a distance, with the women who accompanied him from Galilee, watching all this. ---- [23:50] Now there was a man of the name of Joseph, who was a member of the Council, and who bore a good and upright character. [23:51] (This man had not assented to the decision and action of the Council.) He belonged to Ramah, a town in Judea, and lived in expectation of the kingdom of God. [23:52] He now went to see Pilate, and asked for the body of Jesus; [23:53] and, when he had taken it down, he wrapped it in a linen sheet, and laid him in a tomb cut out of stone, in which no one had yet been buried. [23:54] It was the Preparation day, and just before the Sabbath began. [23:55] The women who had accompanied Jesus from Galilee followed, and saw the tomb and how the body of Jesus was laid, [23:56] and then went home, and prepared spices and perfumes. The Risen Life ============== During the Sabbath they rested, as directed by the commandment.[Luke] [24:1] But very early on the first day of the week they went to the tomb, taking with them the spices that they had prepared. [24:2] They found that the stone had been rolled away from the tomb; [24:3] and, on going into it, they could not find the body . [24:4] While they were at a loss to account for this, all at once two men stood beside them, in dazzling clothing. [24:5] But, when in their fear the women bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them: “Why are you looking among the dead for him who is living? [24:6] Remember how he spoke to you before he left Galilee — [24:7] How he said that the Son of Man must be betrayed into the hands of wicked men, and be crucified, and rise again on the third day.” [24:8] Then they remembered the words of Jesus, [24:9] and, on returning from the tomb, they told all this to the Eleven and to all the rest. [24:10] There were Mary of Magdala, and Joanna, and Mary, the mother of James. The other women, too, spoke about this to the apostles. [24:11] What they said seemed to the apostles mere nonsense, and they did not believe them. [24:12] ---- [24:13] It happened that very day that two of the disciples were going to a village called Emmaus, which was about seven miles from Jerusalem, [24:14] talking together, as they went, about all that had just taken place. [24:15] While they were talking about these things and discussing them, Jesus himself came up and went on their way with them; [24:16] but their eyes were blinded so that they could not recognize him. [24:17] “What is this that you are saying to each other as you walk along?”Jesus asked. They stopped, with sad looks on their faces, [24:18] and then one of them, whose name was Cleopas, said to Jesus: “Are you staying by yourself at Jerusalem, that you have not heard of the things that have happened there within the last few days?” [24:19] “What things do you mean?”asked Jesus. “Why, about Jesus of Nazareth,” they answered, “who, in the eyes of God and all the people, was a prophet, whose power was felt in both his words and actions; [24:20] and how the chief priests and our leading men gave him up to be sentenced to death, and afterwards crucified him. [24:21] But we were hoping that he was the Destined Deliverer of Israel; yes, and besides all this, it is now three days since these things occurred. [24:22] And what is more, some of the women among us have greatly astonished us. They went to the tomb at daybreak [24:23] And, not finding the body of Jesus there, came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels who told them that he was alive. [24:24] So some of our number went to the tomb and found everything just as the women had said; but they did not see Jesus.” [24:25] Then Jesus said to them: “Foolish men, slow to accept all that the prophets have said! [24:26] Was not the Christ bound to undergo this suffering before entering into his glory?” [24:27] Then, beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he explained to them all through the scriptures the passages that referred to himself. [24:28] When they got near the village to which they were walking, Jesus appeared to be going further; [24:29] but they pressed him not to do so. “Stay with us,” they said, “for it is getting towards evening, and the sun in already low.” So Jesus went in to stay with them. [24:30] After he had taken his place at the table with them, he took the bread and said the blessing, and broke it, and gave it to them. [24:31] Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him; but he disappeared from their sight. [24:32] “How our hearts glowed,” the disciples said to each other, “while he was talking to us on the road, and when he explained the scriptures to us!” [24:33] Then they immediately got up and returned to Jerusalem, where they found the Eleven and their companions all together, [24:34] who told them that the Master had really risen, and had appeared to Simon. [24:35] So they also related what had happened during their walk, and how they had recognized Jesus at the breaking of the bread. [24:36] While they were still talking about these things, Jesus himself stood among them. [24:37] In their terror and alarm they thought they saw a spirit, [24:38] but Jesus said to them: “Why are you so startled? And why do doubts arise in your minds? [24:39] Look at my hands and my feet, and you will know that it is I. Feel me, and look at me, for a spirit has not flesh and bones, as you see that I have.” [24:40] [24:41] While they were still unable to believe it all, overcome with joy, and were wondering if it were true, Jesus said to them: “Have you anything here to eat?” [24:42] They handed him a piece of broiled fish, [24:43] and he took it and ate it before their eyes. [24:44] “This is what I told you,”he said, “when I was still with you — that everything that had been written about me in the law of Moses, the prophets, and the Psalms, must be fulfilled.” [24:45] Then he enabled them to understand the meaning of the scriptures, saying to them: [24:46] “Scripture says that the Christ should suffer, and that he should rise again from the dead on the third day, [24:47] and that repentance for forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed on his authority to all the nations — beginning at Jerusalem. [24:48] You yourselves are to be witnesses to all this. [24:49] And now I am myself about to send you that which my Father has promised. But you must remain in the city until you have been invested with power from above.” ---- [24:50] After this, Jesus led them out as far as Bethany, and there raised his hands and blessed them. [24:51] As he was in the act of blessing them, he left them. [24:52] They returned to Jerusalem full of joy; [24:53] and they were constantly in the Temple Courts, blessing God. ==== John ==== --- The --- ---------------------- Good News According to ---------------------- ---- John ---- [John] Introduction ============ [1:1] In the beginning the Word was; and the Word was with God; and the Word was God. [1:2] He was in the beginning with God; [1:3] through him all things came into being, and nothing came into being apart from him. [1:4] That which came into being in him was life; and the life was the light of humanity; [1:5] and the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness never overpowered it. [1:6] There appeared a man sent from God, whose name was John; [1:7] he came as a witness — to bear witness to the light so that through him everyone might believe. [1:8] He was not the light, but he came to bear witness to the light. [1:9] That was the true light which enlightens everyone coming into the world. [1:10] He was in the world; and through him the world came into being — yet the world did not know him. [1:11] He came to his own — yet his own did not receive him. [1:12] But to all who did receive him he gave power to become children of God — to those who believe in his name. [1:13] For not to natural conception, nor to human instincts, nor to human will did they owe the new life, but to God. [1:14] And the Word became human, and lived among us, (We saw his glory — the glory of the Only Son sent from the Father), full of love and truth. [1:15] (John bears witness to him; he cried aloud — for it was he who spoke — “‘He who is coming’ after me is now before me, for he was ever first”); [1:16] out of his fullness we have all received some gift, gift after gift of love; [1:17] for the law was given through Moses, love and truth came through Jesus Christ. [1:18] No one has ever yet seen God; God the Only Son, who is ever with the Father — He has revealed him. The Preparation =============== [1:19] When the religious authorities in Jerusalem sent some Priests and Levites to ask John — “Who are you?”, [1:20] he told them clearly and simply: “I am not the Christ.” [1:21] “What then?” they asked. “Are you Elijah?” “No,” he said, “I am not.” “Are you ‘the prophet’?” He answered, “No.” [1:22] “Who then are you?” they continued; “tell us so that we have an answer to give to those who have sent us. What do you say about yourself?” [1:23] “I,” he answered, “am — ‘The voice of one crying aloud in the wilderness — “make a straight road for the Lord”’, as the prophet Isaiah said.” [1:24] These men had been sent from the Pharisees; [1:25] and their next question was: “Why then do you baptize, if you are not the Christ or Elijah or ‘the prophet’?” [1:26] John’s answer was — “I baptize with water, but among you stands one whom you do not know; [1:27] he is coming after me, yet I am not worthy even to unfasten his sandal.” [1:28] This happened at Bethany, across the Jordan, where John was baptizing. [1:29] The next day John saw Jesus coming towards him, and exclaimed: “Here is the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! [1:30] I was taking about him when I said ‘After me there is coming a man who ranks ahead of me, because before I was born he already was.’ [1:31] I did not know who he was, but I have come baptizing with water to make him known to Israel.” [1:32] John also said: “I saw the Spirit come down from heaven like a dove and rest on him. [1:33] I myself did not know him, but he who sent me to baptize with water, he said to me ‘He on whom you see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him — he it is who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’ [1:34] This I have seen myself, and I have declared my belief that he is the Son of God.” ---- [1:35] The next day, when John was standing with two of his disciples, [1:36] he looked at Jesus as he passed and exclaimed: “There is the Lamb of God!” [1:37] The two disciples heard him say this, and followed Jesus. [1:38] But Jesus turned around, and saw them following. “What are you looking for?”he asked. “Rabbi,” they answered (or, as we should say, ‘teacher’), “where are you staying?” [1:39] “Come, and you will see,”he replied. So they went, and saw where he was staying, and spent that day with him. It was then about four in the afternoon. [1:40] One of the two, who heard what John said and followed Jesus, was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. [1:41] He first found his own brother Simon, and said to him: “We have found the Messiah!” (a word which means ‘Christ,’ or ‘Consecrated’.) [1:42] Then he brought him to Jesus. Looking straight at him, Jesus said: “You are Simon, the son of John; you will be called Cephas”(which means ‘Peter,’ or ‘Rock’). [1:43] The following day Jesus decided to leave for Galilee. He found Philip, and said to him: “Follow me.” [1:44] Philip was from Bethsaida, the same town as Andrew and Peter. [1:45] He found Nathanael and said to him: “We have found him of whom Moses wrote in the law, and of whom the prophets also wrote — Jesus of Nazareth, Joseph’s son!” [1:46] “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” asked Nathanael. “Come and see,” replied Philip. [1:47] When Jesus saw Nathanael coming towards him, he said: “Here is a true Israelite, in whom there is no deceit!” [1:48] “How do you know me?” asked Nathanael. “Even before Philip called you,”replied Jesus, “when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” [1:49] “Rabbi,” Nathanael exclaimed, “you are the Son of God, you are king of Israel!” [1:50] “Do you believe in me,”asked Jesus, “because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than those! [1:51] In truth I tell you,”he added, “you will all see heaven open, and ‘the angels of God ascending and descending’ on the Son of Man.”[John] The Work in Judaea, Galilee and Samaria ======================================= [2:1] Two days after this there was a wedding at Cana in Galilee, and Jesus’ mother was there. [2:2] Jesus himself, too, with his disciples, was invited to the wedding. [2:3] And, when the wine ran short, his mother said to him: “They have no wine left.” [2:4] “What do you want with me?”answered Jesus. “My time has not come yet.” [2:5] His mother said to the servants: “Do whatever he tells you.” [2:6] There were standing there six stone water-jars, in accordance with the Jewish rule of ‘purification,’ each holding twenty or thirty gallons. [2:7] Jesus said to the servants: “Fill the water-jars with water.” [2:8] And, when they had filled them to the brim, he added: “Now take some out, and carry it to the Master of the feast.”The servants did so. [2:9] And, when the Master of the feast had tasted the water which had now become wine, not knowing where it had come from — although the servants who had taken out the water knew — [2:10] He called the groom and said to him: “Everyone puts good wine on the table first, and inferior wine afterwards, when his guests have drunk freely; but you have kept back the good wine till now!” [2:11] This, the first sign of his mission, Jesus gave at Cana in Galilee, and by it revealed his glory; and his disciples believed in him. ---- [2:12] After this, Jesus went down to Capernaum — he, his mother, his brothers, and his disciples; but they stayed there only a few days. ---- [2:13] Then, as the Jewish Passover was near, Jesus went up to Jerusalem. [2:14] In the Temple Courts he found people who were selling bullocks, sheep, and pigeons, and the money changers at their counters. [2:15] So he made a whip of cords, and drove them all out of the Temple Courts, and the sheep and bullocks as well; he scattered the money of the money changers, and overturned their tables, [2:16] and said to the pigeon-dealers: “Take these things away. Do not turn my Father’s house into a market house.” [2:17] His disciples remembered that scripture said — ‘Passion for your house will consume me.’ [2:18] Then some of the religious authorities asked Jesus: “What sign are you going to show us, since you act in this way?” [2:19] “Destroy this temple,”was his answer, “and I will raise it in three days.” [2:20] “This Temple,” the authorities replied, “has been forty-six years in building, and are you going to ‘raise it in three days’?” [2:21] But Jesus was speaking of his body as a temple. [2:22] Afterwards, when he had risen from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this; and they believed the passage of scripture, and the words which Jesus had spoken. ---- [2:23] While Jesus was in Jerusalem, during the Passover Festival, many came to trust in him, when they saw the signs of his mission that he was giving. [2:24] But Jesus did not put himself in their power because he knew what was in their hearts. [2:25] He did not need anyone to tell him about people because he could read what was in them..[John] ---- [3:1] Now there was a Pharisee named Nicodemus, who was a leading man among his people. [3:2] This man came to Jesus by night, and said to him: “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God; for no one could give such signs as you are giving, unless God were with him.” [3:3] “In truth I tell you,”exclaimed Jesus, “unless a person is reborn, they cannot see the kingdom of God.” [3:4] “How can a person,” asked Nicodemus, “be born when they are old? Can they be born a second time?” [3:5] “In truth I tell you,”answered Jesus, “unless a person owes their birth to water and Spirit, they cannot enter the kingdom of God. [3:6] All that owes its birth to human nature is human, and all that owes its birth to the Spirit is spiritual. [3:7] Do not wonder at my telling you that you all need to be reborn. [3:8] The wind blows wherever it wants, and you can hear the sound it makes, but you do not know where it comes from, or where it goes; it is the same with everyone who owes his birth to the Spirit.” [3:9] “How can that be?” asked Nicodemus. [3:10] “What! You a teacher of Israel,”exclaimed Jesus, “and yet do not understand this! [3:11] In truth I tell you that we speak of what we know, and state what we have seen; and yet you do not accept our statements. [3:12] If, when I tell you earthly things, you do not believe me, how will you believe me when I tell you of heavenly things? [3:13] No one has ascended to heaven, except him who descended from heaven — the Son of Man himself. [3:14] And, as Moses lifted up the snake[ footnote: A bronze snake on a pole, see Num 21:9]. in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up; [3:15] so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.” [3:16] For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not be lost, but have eternal life. [3:17] For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but so that the world might be saved through him. [3:18] The person who believes in him escapes condemnation, while the person who does not believe in him is already condemned, because they have not believed in the only Son of God. [3:19] The ground of their condemnation is this, that though the light has come into the world, people preferred the darkness to the light, because their actions were wicked. [3:20] For the person who lives an evil life hates the light, and will not come to it, fearing that their actions will be exposed; [3:21] but the person who lives by the truth comes into the light, so it can be clearly seen that God is in all they do. ---- [3:22] After this, Jesus went with his disciples into the country parts of Judea; and there he stayed with them, and baptized. [3:23] John, also, was baptizing at Aenon near Salim, because there were many streams there; and people were constantly coming and being baptized. [3:24] (For John had not yet been imprisoned). [3:25] Now a discussion arose between some of John’s disciples and a fellow Jew on the subject of ‘purification;’ [3:26] and the disciples came to John and said: “Rabbi, the man who was with you on the other side of the Jordan, and to whom you have yourself borne testimony — he, also, is baptizing, and everybody is going to him.” [3:27] John’s answer was — “A person can gain nothing but what is given them from heaven. [3:28] You are yourselves witnesses that I said ‘I am not the Christ,’ but ‘I have been sent before him as a messenger.’ [3:29] It is the groom who has the bride; but the groom’s friend, who stands by and listens to him, is filled with joy when he hears the groom’s voice. This joy I have felt to the full. [3:30] He must become greater, and I less.” [3:31] He who comes from above is above all others; but a child of earth is earthly, and his teaching is earthly, too. He who comes from heaven is above all others. [3:32] He states what he has seen and what he heard, and yet no one accepts his statement. [3:33] They who did accept his statement confirm the fact that God is true. [3:34] For he whom God sent as his messenger gives us God’s own teaching, for God does not limit the gift of the Spirit. [3:35] The Father loves his Son, and has put everything in his hands. [3:36] The person who believes in the Son has eternal life, while a person who rejects the Son will not even see that life, but remains under ‘God’s displeasure.’[John] ---- [4:1] Now, when the Master heard that the Pharisees had been told that he was making and baptizing more disciples than John [4:2] (Though it was not Jesus himself, but his disciples, who baptized), [4:3] he left Judea, and set out again for Galilee. [4:4] He had to pass through Samaria, [4:5] and, on his way, he came to a Samaritan town called Shechem, near the plot of land that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. [4:6] Jacob’s Spring was there, and Jesus, being tired after his journey, sat down beside the spring, just as he was. It was then about midday. [4:7] A woman of Samaria came to draw water; and Jesus said to her — “Give me some to drink,” [4:8] For his disciples had gone into the town to buy food. [4:9] “How is it,” replied the Samaritan woman, “that you who are a Jew ask for water from a Samaritan woman like me?” (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans). [4:10] “If you knew of the gift of God,”replied Jesus, “and who it is that is saying to you ‘Give me some water,’ you would have asked him, and he would have given you ‘living water’.” [4:11] “You have no bucket, Sir, and the well is deep,” she said; “where did you get that ‘living water?’ [4:12] Surely you are not greater than our ancestor Jacob who gave us the well, and used to drink from it himself, and his sons, and his cattle!” [4:13] “All who drink of this water,”replied Jesus, “will be thirsty again; [4:14] but whoever once drinks of the water that I will give him will never thirst any more; but the water that I will give him will become a spring welling up within him — a source of eternal life.” [4:15] “Give me this water, Sir,” said the woman, “so that I may not be thirsty, nor have to come all the way here to draw water.” [4:16] “Go and call your husband,”said Jesus, “and then come back.” [4:17] “I have no husband,” answered the woman. “You are right in saying ‘I have no husband,’”replied Jesus, [4:18] “For you have had five husbands, and the man with whom you are now living is not your husband; in saying that, you have spoken the truth.” [4:19] “I see, Sir, that you are a prophet!” exclaimed the woman. [4:20] “It was on this mountain that our ancestors worshiped; and yet you Jews say that the proper place for worship is in Jerusalem.” [4:21] “Believe me,”replied Jesus, “a time is coming when it will be neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem that you will worship the Father. [4:22] You Samaritans do not know what you worship; we know what we worship, for salvation comes from the Jews. [4:23] But a time is coming, indeed it is already here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father spiritually and truly; for such are the worshipers that the Father desires. [4:24] God is Spirit; and those who worship him must worship spiritually and truly.” [4:25] “I know,” answered the woman, “that the Messiah, who is called the Christ, is coming; when once he has come, he will tell us everything.” [4:26] “I am he,”Jesus said to her, “I who am speaking to you.” [4:27] At this moment his disciples came up, and were surprised to find him talking with a woman; but none of them asked ‘What do you want?’ or ‘Why are you talking with her?’ [4:28] So the woman, leaving her pitcher, went back to the town, and said to the people: [4:29] “Come and see someone who has told me everything that I have done. Can he be the Christ?” [4:30] And the people left the town and went to see Jesus. [4:31] Meanwhile the disciples kept saying to him: “Take something to eat, Rabbi.” [4:32] “I have food to eat,”he answered, “of which you know nothing.” [4:33] “Can anyone have brought him anything to eat?” the disciples said to one another. [4:34] “My food,”replied Jesus, “is to do the will of him who sent me, and to complete his work. [4:35] Don’t you say that it still wants four months to harvest? Why, look up, and see how white the fields are for harvest! [4:36] Already the reaper is receiving wages and gathering in sheaves for eternal life, so that sower and reaper rejoice together. [4:37] For here the proverb holds good — ‘One sows, another reaps.’ [4:38] I have sent you to reap that on which you have spent no labor; others have labored, and you have reaped the results of their labor.” [4:39] Many from that town came to believe in Jesus — Samaritans though they were — because the woman had said: ‘He has told me everything that I have done.’ [4:40] And, when these Samaritans had come to Jesus, they begged him to stay with them, and he stayed there two days. [4:41] But far more came to believe in him because of what he said himself, [4:42] and they said to the woman: “It is no longer because of what you say that we believe in him, for we have heard him ourselves and know that he really is the Savior of the world.” ---- [4:43] After these two days Jesus went on to Galilee; [4:44] for he himself declared that ‘a prophet is not honored in his own country.’ [4:45] When he entered Galilee, the Galileans welcomed him, for they had seen all that he did at Jerusalem during the Festival, at which they also had been present. [4:46] So Jesus came again to Cana in Galilee, where he had turned the water into wine. Now there was one of the king’s officers whose son was lying ill at Capernaum. [4:47] When this man heard that Jesus had returned from Judea to Galilee, he went to him, and begged him to come down and cure his son; for he was at the point of death. [4:48] Jesus answered: “Unless you all see signs and wonders, you will not believe.” [4:49] “Sir,” said the officer, “come down before my child dies.” And Jesus answered: “Go, your son is living.” [4:50] The man believed what Jesus said to him, and went; [4:51] and, while he was on his way down, his servants met him, and told him that his child was living. [4:52] So he asked them at what time the boy began to get better. “It was yesterday, about one o’clock,” they said, “that the fever left him.” [4:53] By this the father knew that it was at the very time when Jesus had said to him ‘Your son is living’; and he himself, with all his household, believed in Jesus. [4:54] This was the second occasion on which Jesus gave a sign of his mission on coming from Judea to Galilee.[John] ---- [5:1] Sometime after this there was a Jewish Festival; and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. [5:2] There is in Jerusalem, near the sheep-gate, a bath with five colonnades around it. It is called in Hebrew ‘Bethesda.’ [5:3] In these colonnades a large number of sick people were lying — blind, lame, and crippled. [5:5] One man who was there had been crippled for thirty-eight years. [5:6] Jesus saw the man lying there, and, finding that he had been in this state a long time, said to him: “Do you wish to be cured?” [5:7] “I have no one, Sir,” the sick man answered, “to put me into the bath when there is a troubling of the water, and, while I am getting to it, some one else steps down before me.” [5:8] “Stand up,”said Jesus, “take up your mat, and walk.” [5:9] The man was cured immediately, and took up his mat and began walking. [5:10] Now it was the Sabbath. So the religious authorities said to the man who had been cured: “This is the Sabbath; you must not carry your mat.” [5:11] “The man who cured me,” he answered, “said to me ‘Take up your mat and walk.’” [5:12] “Who was it,” they asked, “that said to you ‘Take up your mat and walk’?” [5:13] But the man who had been restored did not know who it was; for Jesus had moved away, because there was a crowd there. [5:14] Afterwards Jesus found the man in the Temple Courts, and said to him: “You are cured now; do not sin again, or something worse may happen to you.” [5:15] The man went away, and told the authorities that it was Jesus who had cured him. [5:16] And that was why they began to persecute Jesus — because he did things of this kind on the Sabbath. [5:17] But Jesus replied: “My Father works to this very hour, and I work also.” [5:18] This made the authorities all the more eager to kill him, because not only was he doing away with the Sabbath, but he actually called God his own Father — putting himself on an equality with God. [5:19] So Jesus made this further reply: “In truth I tell you, the Son can do nothing of himself; he does only what he sees the Father doing; whatever the Father does, the Son does also. [5:20] For the Father loves his Son, and shows him everything that he is doing; and he will show him still greater things — so that you will be filled with wonder. [5:21] For, just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so also the Son gives life to whom he pleases. [5:22] The Father himself does not judge any one, but has ‘entrusted the work of judging entirely to his Son,’ [5:23] So that everyone may honor the Son, just as they honor the Father. The person who does not honor the Son fails to honor the Father who sent him. [5:24] In truth I tell you that the person who listens to my message and believes him who sent me, has eternal life, and does not come under condemnation, but has already passed out of death into life. [5:25] In truth I tell you that a time is coming, indeed it is already here, when the dead will listen to the voice of the Son of God, and when those who listen will live. [5:26] For, just as the Father has inherent life within him, so also he has granted to the Son to have inherent life within him; [5:27] and, because he is Son of Man, he has also given him authority to act as judge. [5:28] Do not wonder at this; for the time is coming when all who are in their graves will hear his voice, [5:29] and will come out — those who have done good rising to life, and those who have lived evil lives rising for condemnation. [5:30] I can do nothing of myself; I judge as I am taught; and the judgment that I give is just, because my aim is not to do my own will, but the will of him who sent me. [5:31] If I bear testimony to myself, my testimony is not trustworthy; [5:32] it is another who bears testimony to me, and I know that the testimony which he bears to me is trustworthy. [5:33] You have yourselves sent to John, and he as testified to the truth. [5:34] But the testimony which I receive is not from people; I am saying this for your salvation. [5:35] He was the ‘Lamp that was burning’ and shining, and you were ready to rejoice, for a time, in his light. [5:36] But the testimony which I have is of greater weight than John’s; for the work that the Father has given me to carry out — the work that I am doing — is in itself proof that the Father has sent me as his messenger. [5:37] The Father who has sent me has himself borne testimony to me. You have neither listened to his voice, not seen his form; [5:38] and you have not taken his message home to your hearts, because you do not believe him whom he sent as his messenger. [5:39] You search the scriptures, because you think that you find in them immortal life;and, though it is those scriptures that bear testimony to me, [5:40] you refuse to come to me to have life. [5:41] I do not receive honor from people, [5:42] but I know this of you, that you have not the love of God in your hearts. [5:43] I have come in my Father’s name, and you do not receive me; if another comes in his own name, you will receive him. [5:44] How can you believe in me, when you receive honor from one another and do not desire the honor which comes from the only God? [5:45] Do not think that I will accuse you to the Father; your accuser is Moses, on whom you have been resting your hopes. [5:46] For, had you believed Moses, you would have believed me, for it was of me that Moses wrote; [5:47] but, if you do not believe his writings, how will you believe my teaching?”[John] ---- [6:1] After this, Jesus crossed the Sea of Galilee — otherwise called the Lake of Tiberias. [6:2] A great crowd of people, however, followed him, because they saw the signs of his mission in his work among those who were sick. [6:3] Jesus went up the hill, and sat down there with his disciples. [6:4] It was near the time of the Jewish Festival of the Passover. [6:5] Looking up, and noticing that a great crowd was coming towards him, Jesus said to Philip: “Where are we to buy bread for these people to eat?” [6:6] He said this to test him, for he himself knew what he meant to do. [6:7] “Even if we spent a years' wages on bread,” answered Philip, “it would not be enough for each of them to have a little.” [6:8] “There is a boy here,” said Andrew, another of his disciples, Simon Peter’s brother, [6:9] “Who has five barley loaves and two fishes; but what is that for so many?” [6:10] “Make the people sit down,”said Jesus. It was a grassy spot; so the people, who numbered about five thousand, sat down, [6:11] and then Jesus took the loaves, and, after saying the thanksgiving, distributed them to those who were sitting down; and the same with the fish, giving the people as much as they wanted. [6:12] When they were satisfied, Jesus said to his disciples: “Collect the broken pieces that are left, so that nothing may be wasted.” [6:13] The disciples did so, and filled twelve baskets with the pieces of the five barley loaves, which were left after all had eaten. [6:14] When the people saw the signs which Jesus gave, they said: “This is certainly ‘the prophet who was to come’ into the world.” [6:15] But Jesus, having discovered that they were intending to come and carry him off to make him king, went again up the hill, quite alone. [6:16] When evening fell, his disciples went down to the Sea, [6:17] and, getting into a boat, began to cross to Capernaum. By this time darkness had set in, and Jesus had not yet come back to them; [6:18] the Sea, too, was getting rough, for a strong wind was blowing. [6:19] When they had rowed three or four miles, they caught sight of him walking on the water and approaching the boat, and they were frightened. [6:20] But Jesus said to them: “It is I; do not be afraid!” [6:21] And after this they were glad to take him into the boat; and the boat at once arrived off the shore, for which they had been making. ---- [6:22] The people who remained on the further side of the Sea had seen that only one boat had been there, and that Jesus had not gone into it with his disciples, but that they had left without him. [6:23] Some boats, however, had come from Tiberias, from near the spot where they had eaten the bread after the Master had said the thanksgiving. [6:24] So, on the next day, when the people saw that Jesus was not there, or his disciples either, they themselves got into the boats, and went to Capernaum to look for him. [6:25] And, when they found him on the other side of the Sea, they said: “When did you get here, Rabbi?” [6:26] “In truth I tell you,”answered Jesus, “it is not because of the signs which you saw that you are looking for me, but because you had the bread to eat and were satisfied. [6:27] Work, not for the food that perishes, but for the food that lasts for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you; for on him the Father — God himself — has set the seal of his approval.” [6:28] “How,” they asked, “are we to do the work that God wants us to do?” [6:29] “The work that God wants you to do,”answered Jesus, “is to believe in him whom God sent as his messenger.” [6:30] “What sign, then,” they asked, “are you giving, which we may see, and so believe you? What is the work that you are doing? [6:31] Our ancestors had the manna to eat in the desert; as scripture says — ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’” [6:32] “In truth I tell you,”replied Jesus, “Moses did not give you the bread from heaven, but my Father does give you the true bread from heaven; [6:33] for the bread that God gives is that which comes down from heaven, and gives life to the world.” [6:34] “Master,” they exclaimed, “give us that bread always!” [6:35] “I am the life-giving bread,”Jesus said to them; “whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never thirst again. [6:36] But, as I have said already, you have seen me, and yet you do not believe in me. [6:37] All those whom the Father gives me will come to me; and no one who comes to me will I ever turn away. [6:38] For I have come down from heaven, to do, not my own will, but the will of him who sent me; [6:39] and his will is this — that I should not lose one of all those whom he has given me, but should raise them up at the Last day. [6:40] For it is the will of my Father that everyone who sees the Son, and believes in him, should have immortal life; and I myself will raise him up at the Last day.” [6:41] The people began murmuring against Jesus for saying — ‘I am the bread which came down from heaven.’ [6:42] “Is not this Jesus, Joseph’s son,” they asked, “whose father and mother we know? How is it that he now says that he has come down from heaven?” [6:43] “Do not murmur among yourselves,”said Jesus in reply. [6:44] “No one can come to me, unless the Father who sent me draws him to me; and I will raise him up at the Last day. [6:45] It is said in the prophets — ‘And they will all be taught by God.’ Everyone who is taught by the Father and learns from him comes to me. [6:46] Not that anyone has seen the Father, except him who is from God — he has seen the Father. [6:47] In truth I tell you, the person who believes in me has eternal life. [6:48] I am the life-giving bread. [6:49] Your ancestors ate the manna in the desert, and yet died. [6:50] The bread that comes down from heaven is such that whoever eats of it will never die. [6:51] I am the living bread that has come down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, they will live for ever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.” [6:52] They began disputing with one another: “How is it possible for this man to give us his flesh to eat?” [6:53] “In truth I tell you,”answered Jesus, “unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man, and drink his blood, you have not life within you. [6:54] Everyone who takes my flesh for their food, and drinks my blood, has eternal life; and I will raise them up at the Last day. [6:55] For my flesh is true food, and my blood true drink. [6:56] Everyone who takes my flesh for their food, and drinks my blood, remains united to me, and I to them. [6:57] As the living Father sent me as his messenger, and as I live because the Father lives, so the person who takes me for their food will live because I live. [6:58] That is the bread which has come down from heaven — not such as your ancestors ate, and yet died; the person who takes this bread for their food will live for ever.” [6:59] All this Jesus said in a synagogue, when he was teaching in Capernaum. [6:60] On hearing it, many of his disciples said: “This is harsh doctrine! Who can bear to listen to it?” [6:61] But Jesus, aware that his disciples were murmuring about it, said to them: [6:62] “Is this a hindrance to you? What, then, if you should see the Son of Man ascending where he was before? [6:63] It is the Spirit that gives life; human strength achieves nothing. In the teaching that I have been giving you there is Spirit and there is life. [6:64] Yet there are some of you who do not believe in me.”For Jesus knew from the first who they were that did not believe in him, and who it was that would betray him; [6:65] and he added: “This is why I told you that no one can come to me, unless enabled by the Father.” [6:66] After this many of his disciples drew back, and did not go about with him any longer. [6:67] So Jesus said to the Twelve: “Do you also wish to leave me?” [6:68] But Simon Peter answered: “Master, to whom would we go? Eternal life is in your teaching; [6:69] and we have learned to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God.” [6:70] “Did not I myself choose you to be the Twelve?”replied Jesus; “and yet, even of you, one is playing the ‘devil’s’ part.” [6:71] He meant Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, who was about to betray him, though he was one of the Twelve.[John] ---- [7:1] After this, Jesus went about in Galilee, for he would not do so in Judea, because the religious authorities (in Jerusalem) were eager to put him to death. [7:2] When the Jewish Festival of Tabernacles was near, [7:3] his brothers said to him: “Leave this part of the country, and go into Judea, so that your disciples, as well as we, may see the work that you are doing. [7:4] For no one does a thing privately, if they are seeking to be widely known. Since you do these things, you should show yourself publicly to the world.” [7:5] For even his brothers did not believe in him. [7:6] “My time,”answered Jesus, “is not come yet, but your time is always here. [7:7] The world cannot hate you, but it does hate me, because I testify that its ways are evil. [7:8] Go yourselves up to the Festival; I am not going to this Festival yet, because my time has not yet come.” [7:9] After telling them this, he stayed on in Galilee. [7:10] But, when his brothers had gone up to the Festival, Jesus also went up — not publicly, but privately. [7:11] The authorities were looking for him at the Festival and asking ‘Where is he?’; [7:12] and there were many whispers about him among the people, some saying ‘He is a good man;’ others: ‘No! He is leading the people astray.’ [7:13] No one, however, spoke freely about him, because they were afraid of the authoritites. ---- [7:14] About the middle of the Festival week, Jesus went up into the Temple Courts, and began teaching. [7:15] The authorities were astonished. “How has this man got his learning,” they asked, “when he has never studied?” [7:16] So, in reply, Jesus said: “My teaching is not my own; it is his who sent me. [7:17] If anyone has the will to do God’s will, they will find out whether my teaching is from God, or whether I speak on my own authority. [7:18] The person who speaks on their own authority seeks honor for themselves; but the person who seeks the honor of him that sent him is sincere, and there is nothing false in him. [7:19] Was not it Moses who gave you the law? Yet not one of you obeys it! Why are you seeking to put me to death?” [7:20] “You must be possessed by a demon!” the people exclaimed. “Who is seeking to put you to death?” [7:21] “There was one thing I did,”replied Jesus, “at which you are all still wondering. [7:22] “Is he going to kill himself,” they exclaimed, “that he says — ‘You cannot go where I am going’?” [7:23] When a man receives circumcision on a Sabbath to prevent the law of Moses from being broken, how can you be angry with me for making a man sound and well on a Sabbath? [7:24] Do not judge by appearances; judge justly.” [7:25] At this some of the people of Jerusalem exclaimed: “Is not this the man who they are seeking to put to death? [7:26] Yet here he is, speaking out boldly, and they say nothing to him! Is it possible that our leading men have really discovered that he is the Christ? [7:27] Yet we know where this man is from; but, when the Christ comes, no one will be able to tell where he is from.” [7:28] Therefore, Jesus, as he was teaching in the Temple Courts, raised his voice and said: “Yes; you know me and you know where I am from. Yet I have not come on my own authority, but he who sent me may be trusted; and him you do not know. [7:29] I do know him, for it is from him that I have come, and he sent me as his messenger.” [7:30] So they sought to arrest him; but no one touched him, for his time was not come yet. [7:31] Many of the people, however, believed in him. “When the Christ comes,” they said, “will he give more signs of his mission than this man has given?” [7:32] The Pharisees heard the people whispering about him in this way, and so the chief priests and the Pharisees sent officers to arrest him; [7:33] on which Jesus said: “I will be with you but a little longer, and then I am going to him who sent me. [7:34] You will look for me, and you will not find me; and you will not be able to come where I will be.” [7:35] “Where is this man going,” the people asked one another, “that we would not find him? Will he go to our countrymen abroad, and teach foreigners? [7:36] What does he mean by saying ‘You will look for me, and you will not find me; and you will not be able to come where I will be’?” ---- [7:37] On the last and greatest day of the Festival, Jesus, who was standing by, exclaimed: “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me, and drink. [7:38] I tell you what I have myself seen in the presence of my Father; and you, in the same way, do what you have learned from your father.” [7:39] (By this he meant the Spirit, which those who had believed in him were to receive; for the Spirit had not yet come, because Jesus had not yet been exalted.) [7:40] But, as it is, you are seeking to put me to death — a man who has told you the truth as he heard it from God. Abraham did not act in that way. [7:41] You are doing what your own father does.” “We are not bastards,” they said, “we have one Father — God himself.” [7:42] Is not it said in scripture that it is of the race of David, and from Bethlehem, the village to which David belonged, that the Christ is to come?” [7:43] So there was a sharp division among the people because of Jesus. [7:44] Some of them wanted to arrest him, and yet no one touched him. [7:45] When the officers returned to the chief priests and Pharisees, they were asked: “Why have you not brought him?” [7:46] “No one ever spoke as he speaks!” they answered. [7:47] “What! Have you been led astray too?” the Pharisees replied. [7:48] “Have any of our leading men believed in him, or any of the Pharisees? [7:49] As for these people who do not know the Law — they are cursed! [7:50] But one of their number, Nicodemus, who before this had been to see Jesus, said to them: [7:51] “Does our law pass judgment on a person without first giving them a hearing, and finding out what they have been doing?” [7:52] “Are you also from Galilee?” they retorted. “Search, and you will find that no prophet is to arise in Galilee!” ---- [7:53] And everyone went home[John] [8:1] except Jesus, who went to the Mount of Olives[ footnote: This passage is inserted in some manuscripts from an ancient source, and found either after John 7:53 or after Luke 21.38 or elsewhere.]. [8:2] But he went again into the Temple Courts early in the morning, and all the people came to him; and he sat down and taught them. [8:3] Presently, however, the Teachers of the Law and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery, and placed her in the middle of the Court, [8:4] and said to Jesus: “Teacher, this woman was found in the act of adultery. Now Moses,in the Law, commanded us to stone such women to death; what do you say?” [8:6] They said this to test him, in order to have a charge to bring against him. But Jesus stooped down, and wrote on the ground with his finger. [8:7] However, as they continued asking him, he raised himself, and said: “Let the person among you who has never done wrong throw the first stone at her.” [8:8] And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground. [8:9] When they heard that, they went out one by one, beginning with the eldest; and Jesus was left alone with the woman in the middle of the Court. [8:10] Raising himself, Jesus said to her: “Woman, where are they? Did no one condemn you?” [8:11] “No one, Sir,” she answered. “Neither do I condemn you,” said Jesus “go, and do not sin again.” ---- [8:12] Jesus again addressed the people. “I am the light of the world,”he said. “The person who follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” [8:13] “You are bearing testimony to yourself!” exclaimed the Pharisees, “your testimony is not trustworthy.” [8:14] “Even if I bear testimony to myself,”answered Jesus, “my testimony is trustworthy; for I know where I came from, and where I am going; but you do not know where I come from, nor where I am going. [8:15] You judge by appearances; I judge no one. [8:16] Yet, even if I were to judge, my judgment would be trustworthy; because I am not alone, but the Father who sent me is with me. [8:17] Why, in your own law it is said that the testimony of two persons is trustworthy. [8:18] I, who bear testimony to myself, am one, and the Father who sent me also bears testimony to me.” [8:19] “Where is your father, then?”they asked. “You know neither me nor my Father,”replied Jesus. “If you had known me, you would have also known my Father.” [8:20] These statements Jesus made in the Treasury, while teaching in the Temple Courts. Yet no one arrested him, for his time had not then come. ---- [8:21] Jesus again spoke to the people. “I am going away,”he said, “and you will look for me, but you will die in your sin; you cannot come where I am going.” [8:22] “Is he going to kill himself,” the people exclaimed, “that he says — ‘You cannot go where I am going’?” [8:23] “You,”added Jesus, “are from below, I am from above; you are of this present world, I am not; [8:24] and so I told you that you would die in your sins, for, unless you believe that I am what I am, you will die in your sins.” [8:25] “Who are you?” they asked. “Why ask exactly what I have been telling you?”said Jesus. [8:26] “I have still much that concerns you to speak of and to pass judgment on; yet he who sent me may be trusted, and I speak to the world only of the things which I have heard from him.” [8:27] They did not understand that he meant the Father. [8:28] So Jesus added: “When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will understand that I am what I am, and that I do nothing of myself, but that I say just what the Father has taught me. [8:29] Moreover, he who sent me is with me; he has not left me alone; for I always do what pleases him.” [8:30] While he was speaking in this way, many came to believe in him. [8:31] So Jesus went on to say to those who had believed him: “If you remain constant to my message, you are truly my disciples; [8:32] and you find out the truth, and the truth will set you free.” [8:33] “We are descendants of Abraham,” was their answer, “and have never yet been in slavery to anyone. What do you mean by saying ‘you will be set free’?” [8:34] “In truth I tell you,”replied Jesus, “everyone who sins is a slave to sin. [8:35] And a slave does not remain in the home always; but a son remains always. [8:36] If, then, the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed! [8:37] I know that you are descendants of Abraham; yet you are seeking to put me to death, because my message finds no place in your hearts. [8:38] I tell you what I have myself seen in the presence of my Father; and you, in the same way, do what you have learned from your father.” [8:39] “Our father is Abraham,” was their answer. “If you are Abraham’s children,”replied Jesus, “do what Abraham did. [8:40] But, as it is, you are seeking to put me to death — a man who has told you the truth as he heard it from God. Abraham did not act in that way. [8:41] You are doing what your own father does.” “We are not bastards,” they said, “we have one Father — God himself.” [8:42] “If God were your Father,”Jesus replied, “you would have loved me, for I came out from God, and now am here; and I have not come of myself, but he sent me as his messenger. [8:43] How is it that you do not understand what I say? It is because you cannot bear to listen to my message. [8:44] As for you, you are children of your Father the devil, and you are determined to do what your father loves to do. He was a murderer from the first, and did not stand by the truth, because there is no truth in him. Whenever he lies, he does what is natural to him; because he is a liar, and the father of lying. [8:45] But, as for me, it is because I speak the truth to you that you do not believe me. [8:46] Which of you can convict me of sin? Why then don’t you believe me, if I am speaking truth? [8:47] The person who comes from God listens to God’s teaching; the reason why you do not listen is because you do not come from God.” [8:48] “Are not we right, after all,” replied the people, “in saying that you are a Samaritan, and are possessed by a demon?” [8:49] “I am not possessed by a demon,”Jesus answered, “but I am honoring my Father; and yet you dishonor me. [8:50] Not that I am seeking honor for myself; there is one who is seeking my honor, and he decides. [8:51] In truth I tell you, if anyone lays my message to heart, he will never really die.” [8:52] “Now we are sure that you are possessed by a demon,” the people replied. “Abraham died, and so did the prophets; and yet you say ‘If anyone lays my message to heart, they will never know death.’ [8:53] Are you greater than our ancestor Abraham, who died? And the prophets died too. Whom do you make yourself out to be?” [8:54] “If I do honor to myself,”answered Jesus, “such honor counts for nothing. It is my Father who does me honor — and you say that he is your God; [8:55] and yet you have not learned to know him; but I know him; and, if I were to say that I do not know him, I should be a liar like you; but I do know him, and I lay his message to heart. [8:56] Your ancestor Abraham rejoiced that he would see my day; and he did see it, and was glad.” [8:57] “You are not fifty years old yet,” the people exclaimed, “and have you seen Abraham?” [8:58] “In truth I tell you,”replied Jesus, “before Abraham existed I was.” [8:59] At this they took up stones to throw at him; but Jesus hid himself, and left the Temple Courts.[John] ---- [9:1] As Jesus passed by, he saw a man who had been blind from his birth. [9:2] “Rabbi,” asked his disciples, “who was it that sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” [9:3] “Neither the man nor the parents,”replied Jesus; “but he was born blind so that the work of God should be made plain in him. [9:4] We must do the work of him who sent me, while it is day; night is coming, when no one can work. [9:5] As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” [9:6] Saying this, Jesus spat on the ground, made clay with the saliva, and put it on the man’s eyes. [9:7] “Go,”he said, “and wash your eyes in the Bath of Siloam”(a word which means ‘messenger’). So the man went and washed his eyes, and returned able to see. [9:8] His neighbors, and those who had formerly known him by sight as a beggar, exclaimed: “Is not this the man who used to sit and beg?” [9:9] “Yes,” some said, “it is”; while others said: “No, but he is like him.” The man himself said: “I am he.” [9:10] “How did you get your sight, then?” they asked. [9:11] “The man whom they call Jesus,” he answered, “made clay, and anointed my eyes, and said to me ‘Go to Siloam and wash your eyes.’So I went and washed my eyes, and gained my sight.” [9:12] “Where is he?” they asked. I do not know,” he answered. [9:13] They took the man, who had been blind, to the Pharisees. [9:14] Now it was a Sabbath when Jesus made the clay and gave him his sight. [9:15] So the Pharisees also questioned the man as to how he had gained his sight. “He put clay on my eyes,” he answered, “and I washed them, and I can see.” [9:16] “The man cannot be from God,” said some of the Pharisees, “for he does not keep the Sabbath.” “How is it possible,” retorted others, “for a bad man to give signs like this?” [9:17] So there was a difference of opinion among them, and they again questioned the man; “What do you yourself say about him, for it is to you that he has given sight?” [9:18] The religious authorities, however, refused to believe that he had been blind and had gained his sight, until they had called his parents and questioned them. [9:19] “Is this your son,” they asked, “who you say was born blind? If so, how is it that he can see now?” [9:20] “We know that this is our son,” answered the parents, “and that he was born blind; [9:21] but how it is that he can see now we do not know; nor do we know who it was that gave him his sight. Ask him — he is old enough — he will tell you about himself.” [9:22] His parents spoke in this way because they were afraid of the authorities; for the authorities had already agreed that, if anyone should acknowledge Jesus as the Christ, he should be expelled from their synagogues. [9:23] This was why his parents said ‘He is old enough; ask him.’ [9:24] So the authorities again called the man who had been blind, and said to him: “Give God the praise; we know that this is a bad man.” [9:25] “I know nothing about his being a bad man,” he replied; “one thing I do know, that although I was blind, now I can see.” [9:26] “What did he do to you?” they asked. “How did he give you your sight?” [9:27] “I told you just now,” he answered, “and you did not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Surely you also do not want to become his disciples?” [9:28] “You are his disciple,” they retorted scornfully; “but we are disciples of Moses. [9:29] We know that God spoke to Moses; but, as for this man, we do not know where he comes from.” [9:30] “Well,” the man replied, “this is very strange; you do not know where he comes from, and yet he has given me my sight! [9:31] We know that God never listens to bad people, but, when a person is god-fearing and does God’s will, God listens to them. [9:32] Since the world began, such a thing was never heard of as anyone’s giving sight to a person born blind. [9:33] If this man had not been from God, he could not have done anything at all.” [9:34] “You,” they retorted, “were born totally depraved; and are you trying to teach us?” So they expelled him. [9:35] Jesus heard of their having put him out; and, when he had found the man, he asked: “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” [9:36] “Tell me who he is, Sir,” he replied, “so that I may believe in him.” [9:37] “Not only have you seen him,”said Jesus; “but it is he who is now speaking to you.” [9:38] “Then, Sir, I do believe,” said the man, bowing to the ground before him; [9:39] and Jesus added: “It was to put people to the test that I came into this world, in order that those that cannot see should see, and that those that can see should become blind.” [9:40] Hearing this, some of the Pharisees who were with him said: “Then are we blind too?” [9:41] “If you had been blind,”replied Jesus, “you would have had no sin to answer for; but, as it is, you say ‘We can see,’ and so your sin remains.[John] [10:1] In truth I tell you, whoever does not go into the sheepfold through the door, but climbs up at some other place, that person is a thief and a robber; [10:2] but the person who goes in through the door is shepherd to the sheep. [10:3] For him the watchman opens the door; and the sheep listen to his voice; and he calls his own sheep by name, and leads them out. [10:4] When he has brought them all out, he walks in front of them, and his sheep follow him, because they know his voice. [10:5] They will not follow a stranger, but will run away from him; because they do not know a stranger’s voice.” [10:6] This was the allegory that Jesus told them, but they did not understand of what he was speaking. [10:7] So he continued: “In truth I tell you, I am the door for the sheep. [10:8] All who came before me were thieves and robbers; but the sheep did not listen to them. [10:9] I am the door; he who goes in through me will be safe, and he will go in and out and find pasture. [10:10] The thief comes only to steal, to kill, and to destroy; I have come so that they may have life, and may have it in greater fullness. [10:11] I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for his sheep. [10:12] The hired man who is not a shepherd, and who does not own the sheep, when he sees a wolf coming, leaves them and runs away; then the wolf seizes them, and scatters the flock. [10:13] He does this because he is only a hired man and does not care about the sheep. [10:14] I am the good shepherd; and I know my sheep, and my sheep know me — [10:15] Just as the Father knows me and I know the Father — and I lay down my life for the sheep. [10:16] I have other sheep besides, which do not belong to this fold; I must lead them also, and they will listen to my voice; and they will become one flock under ‘one shepherd.’ [10:17] This is why the Father loves me, because I lay down my life — to receive it again. [10:18] No one took it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to receive it again. This is the command which I received from my Father.” [10:19] In consequence of these words a difference of opinion again arose among the people. [10:20] Many of them said: “He is possessed by a demon and is mad; why do you listen to him?” [10:21] Others said: “This is not the teaching of one who is possessed by a demon. Can a demon give sight to the blind?” ---- [10:22] Soon after this the Festival of the Rededication was held at Jerusalem. [10:23] It was winter; and Jesus was walking in the Temple Courts, in the Colonnade of Solomon, [10:24] when the people gathered around him, and said: “How long are you going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us so frankly.” [10:25] “I have told you so,”replied Jesus, “and you do not believe me. The work that I am doing in my Father’s name bears testimony to me. [10:26] But you do not believe me, because you are not of my flock. [10:27] My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me; [10:28] and I give them eternal life, and they will not be lost; nor will anyone snatch them out of my hands. [10:29] What my Father has entrusted to me is more than all else; and no one can snatch anything out of the Father’s hands. [10:30] The Father and I are one.” [10:31] Some of the people again brought stones to throw at him; [10:32] and seeing this, Jesus said: “I have done before your eyes many good actions, inspired by the Father; for which of them would you stone me?” [10:33] “It is not for any good action that we would stone you,” they answered, “but for blasphemy; and because you, who are only a man, make yourself out to be God.” [10:34] “Are there not,”replied Jesus, “these words in your law — ‘I said “You are gods”’? [10:35] If those to whom God’s word were addressed were said to be ‘gods’ — and scripture cannot be set aside — [10:36] Do you say of one whom the Father has consecrated and sent as his messenger to the world ‘You are blaspheming,’ because I said ‘I am God’s Son’? [10:37] If I am not doing the work that my Father is doing, do not believe me; [10:38] if I am doing it, even though you do not believe me, believe what that work shows; so that you may understand, and understand more and more clearly, that the Father is in union with me, and I with the Father.” [10:39] The authorities again sought to arrest him; but he escaped their hands. ---- [10:40] Then Jesus again crossed the Jordan to the place where John used to baptize at first, and stayed there some time, during which many people came to see him. [10:41] “John gave no sign of his mission,” they said; “but everything that he said about this man was true.” [10:42] And many learned to believe in Jesus there.[John] ---- [11:1] Now a man named Lazarus, of Bethany, was lying ill; he belonged to the same village as Mary and her sister Martha. [11:2] This Mary, whose brother Lazarus was ill, was the Mary who anointed the Master with perfume, and wiped his feet with her hair. [11:3] The sisters, therefore, sent this message to Jesus — ‘Master, your friend is ill’; [11:4] and, when Jesus heard it, he said: “This illness is not to end in death, but is to redound to the honor of God, in order that the Son of God may be honored through it.” [11:5] Jesus loved Martha and her sister, and Lazarus. [11:6] Yet, when he heard of the illness of Lazarus, he still stayed two days in the place where he was. [11:7] Then, after that, he said to his disciples: “Let us go to Judea again.” [11:8] “Rabbi,” they replied, “the authorities there were but just now seeking to stone you; and are you going there again?” [11:9] “Are not there twelve hours in the day?”answered Jesus. “If someone walks about in the daytime, they do not stumble, because they can see the light of the sun; [11:10] but, if they walk about at night, they stumble, because they have not the light.” [11:11] And, when he had said this, he added: “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I am going so that I may wake him.” [11:12] “If he has fallen asleep, Master, he will get well,” said the disciples. [11:13] But Jesus meant that he was dead; they, however, supposed that he was speaking of natural sleep. [11:14] Then he said to them plainly: “Lazarus is dead; [11:15] and I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, so that you may learn to believe in me. But let us go to him.” [11:16] At this, Thomas, who was called ‘The Twin,’ said to his fellow disciples: “Let us go too, so that we may die with him.” [11:17] When Jesus reached the place, he found that Lazarus had been four days in the tomb already. [11:18] Bethany being only about two miles from Jerusalem, [11:19] a number of the people had come there to comfort Martha and Mary because of brother’s death. [11:20] When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went to meet him; but Mary sat quietly at home. [11:21] “Master,” Martha said to Jesus, “if you had been here, my brother would not have died. [11:22] Even now, I know that God will grant you whatever you ask him.” [11:23] “Your brother will rise to life,”said Jesus. [11:24] “I know that he will,” replied Martha, “in the resurrection at the Last day.” [11:25] “I am the resurrection and the life,”said Jesus. “He who believes in me will live, though he die; [11:26] and he who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?” [11:27] “Yes Master,” she answered; “I have learned to believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, ‘who was to come’ into the world.” [11:28] After saying this, Martha went and called her sister Mary, and whispered: “The teacher is here, and is asking for you.” [11:29] As soon as Mary heard that, she got up quickly, and went to meet him. [11:30] Jesus had not then come into the village, but was still at the place where Martha had met him. [11:31] So the people, who were in the house with Mary, comforting her, when they saw her get up quickly and go out, followed her, thinking that she was going to the tomb to weep there. [11:32] When Mary came where Jesus was and saw him, she threw herself at his feet. “Master,” she exclaimed, “if you had been here, my brother would not have died!” [11:33] When Jesus saw her weeping, and the people who had come with her weeping also, he groaned deeply, and was greatly distressed. [11:34] “Where have you buried him?”he asked. “Come and see, Master,” they answered. [11:35] Jesus burst into tears. [11:36] “How he must have loved him!” the people exclaimed; [11:37] but some of them said: “Could not this man, who gave sight to the blind man, have also prevented Lazarus from dying?” [11:38] Again groaning inwardly, Jesus came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone lay against the mouth of it. [11:39] “Move the stone away,”said Jesus. “Master,” said Martha, the sister of the dead man, “by this time the smell must be offensive, for this is the fourth day since his death.” [11:40] “Did not I tell you,”replied Jesus, “that, if you would believe in me, you should see the glory of God?” [11:41] So they moved the stone away; and Jesus, with uplifted eyes, said: “Father, I thank you that you have heard my prayer; [11:42] I know that you always hear me; but I say this for the sake of the people standing near, so that they may believe that you has sent me as your messenger.” [11:43] Then, after saying this, Jesus called in a loud voice: “Lazarus! Come out!” [11:44] The dead man came out, wrapped hand and foot in a winding-sheet; his face, too, had been wrapped in a cloth. “Set him free,”said Jesus, “and let him go.” ---- [11:45] In consequence of this, many of the people, who had come to visit Mary and had seen what Jesus did, learned to believe in him. [11:46] Some of them, however, went to the Pharisees, and told them what he had done. [11:47] The chief priests and the Pharisees called a meeting of the High Council, and said: “What are we to do, now that this man is giving so many signs? [11:48] If we let him alone as we are doing, everyone will believe in him; and the Romans will come and will take from us both our city and our Nationality.” [11:49] One of them, however, Caiaphas, who was high priest that year, said to them: [11:50] “You are utterly mistaken. You do not consider that it is better for you that one person should die for the people, rather than the whole nation should be destroyed.” [11:51] Now he did not say this of his own accord; but, as high priest that year, he prophesied that Jesus was to die for the nation — [11:52] And not for the nation only, but also that he might unite in one body the children of God now scattered far and wide. [11:53] So from that day they plotted to put Jesus to death. ---- [11:54] In consequence of this, Jesus did not go about publicly among the people any more, but left that neighborhood, and went into the country bordering on the wilderness, to a town called Ephraim, where he stayed with his disciples. [11:55] But the Jewish Festival of the Passover was near; and many people had gone up from the country to Jerusalem, for their ‘purification,’ before the Festival began. [11:56] So they looked for Jesus there, and said to one another, as they stood in the Temple Courts: “What do you think? Do you think he will come to the Festival?” [11:57] The chief priests and the Pharisees had already issued orders that, if anyone learned where Jesus was, he should give information, so that they might arrest him.[John] The Last Days ============= [12:1] Six days before the Passover Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead, was living. [12:2] There a supper was given in honor at which Martha waited, while Lazarus was one of those present at the table. [12:3] So Mary took a pound of choice spikenard perfume of great value, and anointed the feet of Jesus with it, and then wiped them with her hair. The whole house was filled with the scent of the perfume. [12:4] One of the disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was about to betray Jesus, asked: [12:5] “Why was not this perfume sold for a year's wages, and the money given to poor people?” [12:6] He said this, not because he cared for the poor, but because he was a thief, and, being in charge of the purse, used to take what was put in it. [12:7] “Leave her alone,”said Jesus, “so that she may keep it until the day when my body is being prepared for burial. [12:8] The poor you always have with you, but you will not always have me.” [12:9] Now great numbers of people found out that Jesus was at Bethany; and they came there, not only because of him, but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. [12:10] The chief priests, however, plotted to put Lazarus, as well as Jesus, to death, [12:11] because it was owing to him that many of the people had left them, and were becoming believers in Jesus. [12:12] On the following day great numbers of people who had come to the Festival, hearing that Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem, took palm branches, [12:13] and went out to meet him, shouting as they went: “‘God save Him! Blessed is He who Comes in the name of the Lord’ — The king of Israel!” [12:14] Having found a young ass, Jesus seated himself on it, in accordance with the passage of scripture — [12:15] ‘Fear not, people of Zion; Your king is coming to you, Sitting on the foal of an ass.’ [12:16] His disciples did not understand all this at first; but, when Jesus had been exalted, then they remembered that these things had been said of him in scripture, and that they had done these things for him. [12:17] Meanwhile the people who were with him, when he called Lazarus out of the tomb and raised him from the dead, were telling what they had seen. [12:18] This, indeed, was why the crowd met him — because people had heard that he had given this sign of his mission. [12:19] So the Pharisees said to one another: “You see that you are gaining nothing! Why, all the world has run after him!” ---- [12:20] Among those who were going up to worship at the Festival were some Greeks, [12:21] who went to Philip of Bethsaida in Galilee, and said: “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” [12:22] Philip went and told Andrew, and then together they went and told Jesus. [12:23] This was his reply — “The time has come for the Son of Man to be exalted. [12:24] In truth I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains solitary; but, if it dies, it becomes fruitful. [12:25] A person who loves their life loses it; while someone who hates their life in the present world will preserve it for eternal life. [12:26] If someone is ready to serve me, let them follow me; and where I am, there my servant will be also. If a person is ready to serve me, my Father will honor them. [12:27] Now I am distressed at heart and what can I say? Father, bring me safe through this hour — yet it was for this reason that I came to this hour — [12:28] Father, honor your own name.”At this there came a voice from heaven, which said: “I have already honored it, and I will honor it again.” [12:29] The crowd of bystanders, who heard the sound, said that it was thundering. Others said: “An angel has been speaking to him.” [12:30] “It was not for my sake that the voice came,”said Jesus, “but for yours. [12:31] Now this world is on its trial. Now the Spirit that is ruling this world will be driven out; [12:32] and I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” [12:33] By these words he indicated what death he was destined to die. [12:34] “We,” replied the people, “have learned from the law that the ‘Christ is to remain for ever’; how is it, then, that you say that the Son of Man must be ‘lifted up’Who is this ‘Son of Man’?” [12:35] “Only a little while longer,”answered Jesus, “will you have the light among you. Travel on while you have the light, so that darkness may not overtake you; he who travels in the darkness does not know where he is going. [12:36] While you still have the light, believe in the light, so that you may be ‘children of light.’”After he had said this, Jesus went away, and hid himself from them. [12:37] But, though Jesus had given so many signs of his mission before their eyes, they still did not believe in him, [12:38] in fulfillment of the words of the prophet Isaiah, where he says — ‘Lord, who has believed our teaching? And to whom has the might of the Lord been revealed?’ [12:39] The reason why they were unable to believe is given by Isaiah elsewhere, in these words — [12:40] ‘He has blinded their eyes, and blunted their mind, so that they should not see with their eyes, and perceive with their mind, and turn — And I should heal them.’ [12:41] Isaiah said this, because he saw Christ’s glory; and it was of him that he spoke. [12:42] Yet for all this, even among the leading men there were many who came to believe in Jesus; but, because of the Pharisees, they did not acknowledge it, because they were afraid that they should be expelled from their Synagogues; [12:43] for they valued honor from people more than honor from God. [12:44] But Jesus had proclaimed: “He who believes in me believes, not in me, but in him who sent me; [12:45] and he who sees me sees him who sent me. [12:46] I have come as a light into the world, so that no one who believes in me should remain in the darkness. [12:47] When anyone hears my teaching and pays no heed to it, I am not his judge; for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world. [12:48] He who rejects me, and disregards my teaching, has a judge already — the message which I have delivered will itself be his judge at the Last day. [12:49] For I have not delivered it on my own authority; but the Father, who sent me, has himself given me his command as to what I should say, and what message I should deliver. [12:50] And I know that eternal life lies in keeping his command. Therefore, whatever I say, I say only what the Father has taught me.”[John] ---- [13:1] Before the Passover Festival began, Jesus knew that the time had come for him to leave the world and go to the Father. He had loved those who were his own in the world, and he loved them to the last. [13:2] The devil had already put the thought of betraying Jesus into the mind of Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon; [13:3] and at supper, Jesus — although knowing that the Father had put everything into his hands, and that he had come from God, and was to return to God — [13:4] Rose from his place, and, taking off his upper garments, tied a towel around his waist. [13:5] He then poured some water into the basin, and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel which was tied around him. [13:6] When he came to Simon Peter, Peter said: “You, Master! Are you going to wash my feet?” [13:7] “You do not understand now what I am doing,”replied Jesus, “but you will learn by and by.” [13:8] “You will never wash my feet!” exclaimed Peter. “Unless I wash you,”answered Jesus, “you have nothing in common with me.” [13:9] “Then, Master, not my feet only,” exclaimed Simon Peter, “but also my hands and my head.” [13:10] “He who has bathed,”replied Jesus, “has no need to wash, unless it be his feet, but is altogether clean; and you,”he said to the disciples, “are clean, yet not all of you.” [13:11] For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said ‘You are not all clean.’ [13:12] When he had washed their feet, and had put on his upper garments and taken his place, he spoke to them again. “Do you understand what I have been doing to you?”he asked. [13:13] “You yourselves call me ‘the teacher’ and ‘the Master’, and you are right, for I am both. [13:14] If I, then — ‘the Master’ and ‘the teacher’ — have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet; [13:15] for I have given you an example, so that you may do just as I have done to you. [13:16] In truth I tell you, a servant is not greater than their master, neither is a messenger greater than the one who sends them. [13:17] Now that you know these things, happy are you if you do them. [13:18] I am not speaking about all of you. I know whom I have chosen; but this is in fulfillment of the words of scripture — ‘He that is eating my bread has lifted his heel against me.’ [13:19] For the future I will tell you of things before they take place, so that, when they take place, you may believe that I am what I am. [13:20] In truth I tell you, the one who receives anyone that I send receives me; and the person who receives me receives him who sent me.” [13:21] After saying this, Jesus was much troubled, and said solemnly: “In truth I tell you that it is one of you who will betray me.” [13:22] The disciples looked at one another, wondering whom he meant. [13:23] Next to Jesus, in the place on his right hand, was one of his disciples, whom he loved. [13:24] So Simon Peter made signs to that disciple, and whispered: “Tell me who it is that he means.” [13:25] Being in this position, that disciple leant back on Jesus’ shoulder, and asked him: “Who is it, Master?” [13:26] “It is the one,”answered Jesus, “to whom I will give a piece of bread after dipping it in the dish.”And, when Jesus had dipped the bread, he took it and gave it to Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot; [13:27] and it was then, after he had received it, that Satan took possession of him. So Jesus said to him: “Do at once what you are going to do.” [13:28] But no one at the table understood why he said this to Judas. [13:29] Some thought that, as Judas kept the purse, Jesus meant that he was to buy some things needed for the Festival, or to give something to the poor. [13:30] After taking the piece of bread, Judas went out immediately; and it was night. ---- [13:31] When Judas had gone out, Jesus said: “Now the Son of Man has been exalted, and God has been exalted through him; [13:32] and God will exalt him with himself — yes, he will exalt him forthwith. [13:33] My children, I am to be with you but a little while longer. You will look for me; and what I said to the people — ‘You cannot come where I am going’ — I now say to you. [13:34] I give you a new commandment — love one another; love one another as I have loved you. [13:35] It is by this that everyone will recognize you as my disciples — by your loving one another.” [13:36] “Where are you going, Master?” asked Peter. “I am going where you cannot now follow me,”answered Jesus, “but you will follow me later.” [13:37] “Why cannot I follow you now, Master?” asked Peter. “I will lay down my life for you.” [13:38] “Will you lay down your life for me?”replied Jesus. “In truth I tell you, the cock will not crow until you have disowned me three times.[John] [14:1] Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. [14:2] In my Father’s Home there are many dwellings. If it had not been so, I should have told you, for I am going to prepare a place for you. [14:3] And, since I go and prepare a place for you, I will return and take you to be with me, so that you may be where I am; [14:4] and you know the way to the place where I am going.” [14:5] “We do not know where you are going, Master,” said Thomas; “so how can we know the way?” [14:6] Jesus answered: “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one ever comes to the Father except through me. [14:7] If you had recognized me, you would have known my Father also; for the future you will recognize him, indeed you have already seen him.” [14:8] “Master, show us the Father,” said Philip, “and we will be satisfied.” [14:9] “Have I been all this time among you,”said Jesus, “and yet you, Philip, have not recognized me? The person who has seen me has seen the Father, how can you say, then, ‘Show us the Father’? [14:10] Don’t you believe that I am in union with the Father, and the Father with me? In giving you my teaching I am not speaking on my own authority; but the Father himself, always in union with me, does his own work. [14:11] Believe me,” he said to them all, “when I say that I am in union with the Father and the Father with me, or else believe me because of the work itself. [14:12] In truth I tell you, the person who believes in me will themselves do the work that I am doing; and they will do greater work still, because I am going to the Father. [14:13] Whatever you ask, in my name, I will do, so that the Father may be honored in the Son. [14:14] If you ask anything, in my name, I will do it. [14:15] If you love me, you will lay my commands to heart, [14:16] and I will ask the Father, and he will give you another helper, to be with you always — the Spirit of truth. [14:17] The world cannot receive this Spirit, because it does not see him or recognize him, but you recognize him, because he is always with you, and is within you. [14:18] I will not leave you bereaved; I will come to you. [14:19] In a little while the world will see me no more, but you will still see me; because I am living, you will be living also. [14:20] At that time you will recognize that I am in union with the Father, and you with me, and I with you. [14:21] It is they who have my commands and lays them to heart that loves me; and the person who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love them, and will reveal myself to them.” [14:22] “What has happened, Master,” said Judas (not Judas Iscariot), “that you are going to reveal yourself to us, and not to the world?” [14:23] “Whoever loves me,”Jesus answered,“will lay my message to heart; and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. [14:24] The person who does not love me will not lay my message to heart; and the message to which you are listening is not my own, but comes from the Father who sent me. [14:25] I have told you all this while still with you, [14:26] but the helper — the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my name — will teach you all things, and will recall to your minds all that I have said to you. [14:27] Peace be with you! My own peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, or dismayed. [14:28] You heard me say that I was going away and would return to you. Had you loved me, you would have been glad that I was going to the Father, because the Father is greater than I. [14:29] And this I have told you now before it happens, so that, when it does happen, you may still believe in me. [14:30] I will not talk with you much more, for the Spirit that is ruling the world is coming. He has nothing in common with me; [14:31] but he is coming so that the world may see that I love the Father, and that I do as the Father commanded me. Come, let us be going.[John] ---- [15:1] I am the True Vine, and my Father is the Vine-grower. [15:2] Any unfruitful branch in me he takes away, and he cleanses every fruitful branch, so that it may bear more fruit. [15:3] You are already clean because of the message that I have given you. [15:4] Remain united to me, and I will remain united to you. As a branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it remains united to the vine; no more can you, unless you remain united to me. [15:5] I am the Vine, you are the branches. If you remains united to me, while I remain united to you — you bear fruit plentifully; for you can do nothing apart from me. [15:6] If anyone does not remain united to me, they are thrown away, as a branch would be, and withers up. Such branches are collected and thrown into the fire, and are burnt. [15:7] If you remain united to me, and my teaching remains in your hearts, ask whatever you wish, and it will be yours. [15:8] It is by your bearing fruit plentifully, and so showing yourselves my disciples, that my Father is honored. [15:9] As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you; remain in my love. [15:10] If you lay my commands to heart, you will remain in my love; just as I have laid the Father’s commands to heart and remain in his love. [15:11] I have told you all this so that my own joy may be yours, and that your joy may be complete. [15:12] This is my command — love one another, as I have loved you. [15:13] No one can give greater proof of love than by laying down their life for their friends. [15:14] And you are my friends, if you do what I command you. [15:15] I no longer call you ‘servants,’ because a servant does not know what their master is doing; but I have given you the name of ‘friends,’ because I made known to you everything that I learned from my Father. [15:16] It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you, and I appointed you to go and bear fruit — fruit that should remain, so that the Father might grant you whatever you ask in my name. [15:17] I am giving you these commands that you may love one another. [15:18] If the world hates you, you know that it has first hated me. [15:19] If you belonged to the world, the world would love its own. Because you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world — that is why the world hates you. [15:20] Remember what I said to you — ‘A servant is not greater than their master.’ If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have laid my message to heart, they will lay yours to heart also. [15:21] But they will do all this to you, because you believe in my name, for they do not know him who sent me. [15:22] If I had not come and spoken to them, they would have had no sin to answer for; but as it is, they have no excuse for their sin. [15:23] The person who hates me hates my Father also. [15:24] If I had not done among them such work as no one else ever did, they would have had no sin to answer for; but, as it is, they have both seen and hated both me and my Father. [15:25] And so is fulfilled what is said in their law — ‘They hated me without cause.’ [15:26] But, when the helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father — the Spirit of truth, who comes from the Father — will bear testimony to me; [15:27] yes, and you also are to bear testimony, because you have been with me from the first.[John] [16:1] I have spoken to you in this way so that you may not falter. [16:2] They will expel you from their Synagogues; indeed the time is coming when anyone who kills you will think that they are making an offering to God. [16:3] They will do this, because they have not learned to know the Father, or even me. [16:4] But I have spoken to you of these things so that, when the time for them comes, you may remember that I told you about them myself. [16:5] I did not tell you all this at first, because I was with you. But now I am to return to him who sent me; and yet not one of you asks me — ‘Where are you going?’ [16:6] Although your hearts are full of sorrow at all that I have been saying to you. [16:7] Yet I am only telling you the truth; it is for your good that I should go away. For otherwise the helper will never come to you, but, if I leave you, I will send him to you. [16:8] And he, when he comes, will bring conviction to the world as to sin, and as to righteousness, and as to judgment; [16:9] as to sin, for people do not believe in me; [16:10] as to righteousness, for I am going to the Father, and you will see me no longer; [16:11] as to judgment, for the Spirit that is ruling this world has been condemned. [16:12] I have still much to say to you, but you cannot bear it now. [16:13] Yet when he — The Spirit of truth — comes, he will guide you into all truth; for he will not speak on his own authority, but he will speak of all that he hears; and he will tell you of the things that are to come. [16:14] He will honor me; because he will take of what is mine, and will tell it to you. [16:15] Everything that the Father has is mine; that is why I said that he takes of what is mine, and will tell it to you. [16:16] In a little while you will no longer see me; and then in a little while you will see me indeed.” [16:17] At this some of his disciples said to one another: “What does he mean by saying to us ‘In a little while you will not see me, and then in a little while you will see me indeed’;and by saying ‘Because I am going to the Father’? [16:18] What does he mean by ‘In a little while’?”they said; “we do not know what he is speaking about.” [16:19] Jesus saw that they were wanting to ask him a question, and said: “Are you trying to find out from one another what I meant by saying ‘In a little while you will not see me; and then in a little while you will see me indeed’? [16:20] In truth I tell you that you will weep and mourn, but the world will rejoice; you will suffer pain, but your pain will turn to joy. [16:21] A woman in labor is in pain because her time has come; but no sooner is the child born, than she forgets her trouble in her joy that a child has been born into the world. [16:22] You, in the same way, are sorry now; but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will rob you of your joy. [16:23] And at that time you will not ask me anything; in truth I tell you, if you ask the Father for anything, he will grant it to you in my name. [16:24] So far you have not asked for anything, in my name; ask, and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete. [16:25] I have spoken to you of all this in figures; a time is coming, however, when I will not speak any longer to you in figures, but will tell you about the Father plainly. [16:26] You will ask, at that time, in my name; and I do not say that I will intercede with the Father for you; [16:27] for the Father himself loves you, because you have loved me, and have believed that I came from the Father. [16:28] I came out from the Father, and have come into the world; and now I am to leave the world, and go to the Father.” [16:29] “At last,” exclaimed the disciples, “you are using plain words and not speaking in figures at all. [16:30] Now we are sure that you know everything, and need not wait for anyone to question you. This makes us believe that you did come from God.” [16:31] “Do you believe that already?”Jesus answered. [16:32] “Listen! A time is coming — indeed it has already come — when you are to be scattered, each going his own way, and to leave me alone; and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me. [16:33] I have spoken to you in this way, so that in me you may find peace. In the world you will find trouble; yet, take courage! I have conquered the world.”[John] ---- [17:1] After saying this, Jesus raised his eyes heaven-wards, and said: “Father, the hour has come; honor your Son, so that your Son may honor you; [17:2] even as you gave him power over all humanity, so that he should give eternal life to all those whom you has given him. [17:3] And the eternal life is this — to know you the one true God, and Jesus Christ whom you has sent as your messenger. [17:4] I have honored you on earth by completing the work which you has given me to do; [17:5] and now do you honor me, Father, at your own side, with the honor which I had at your side before the world began. [17:6] I have revealed you to those whom you gave me from the world; they were your own, and you gave them to me; and they have laid your message to heart. [17:7] They recognize now that everything that you gave me was from you; [17:8] for I have given them the teaching which you gave me, and they received it, and clearly understood that I came from you, and they believed that you has sent me as your messenger. [17:9] I intercede for them; I am not interceding for the world, but for those whom you has given me, for they are your own — [17:10] All that is mine is yours, and all that is yours is mine — and I am honored in them. [17:11] Now I am to be in this world no longer, but they are still to be in the world, and I am to come to you. Holy Father, keep them by that revelation of your name which you has given me, so that they may be one, as we are. [17:12] Whilst I was with them, I kept them by that revelation, and I have guarded them; and not one of them has been lost, except that lost soul — in fulfillment of scripture. [17:13] But now I am to come to you; and I am speaking like this, while still in the world, so that they may have my own joy, in all its fullness, in their hearts. [17:14] I have given them your message; and the world hated them, because they do not belong to the world, even as I do not belong to the world. [17:15] I do not ask you to take them out of the world, but to keep them from evil. [17:16] They do not belong to the world, even as I do not belong to the world. [17:17] Consecrate them by the truth; your message is truth. [17:18] Just as you has sent me as your messenger to the world, so I send them as my messengers to the world. [17:19] And it is for their sakes that I am consecrating myself, so that they also may be truly consecrated. [17:20] But it is not only for them that I am interceding, but also for those who believe in me through their message, [17:21] that they all may be one — that as you, Father, are in union with us — and so the world may believe that you have sent me as your messenger. [17:22] I have given them the honor which you has given me, so that they may be one as we are one — [17:23] I in union with them and you with me — that so they may be perfected in their union, and so that the world may know that you have sent me as your messenger, and that you have loved them as you have loved me. [17:24] Father, my desire for all those whom you have given me is that they may be with me where I am, so that they may see the honor which you have given me; for thou did love me before the beginning of the world. [17:25] Righteous Father, though the world did not know you, I knew you; and these people knew that you have sent me as your messenger. [17:26] I have made you known to them, and will do so still; that the love that you have had for me may be in their hearts, and that I may be in them also.” [John] ---- [18:1] When Jesus had said this, he went out with his disciples and crossed the brook Kedron to a place where there was a garden, into which he and his disciples went. [18:2] The place was well known to Judas, the betrayer, for Jesus and his disciples had often met there. [18:3] So Judas, who had obtained the soldiers of the Roman garrison, and some police officers from the chief priests and the Pharisees, came there with lanterns, torches, and weapons. [18:4] Jesus, aware of all that was coming upon him, went to meet them, and said to them: “For whom are you looking?” [18:5] “Jesus of Nazareth,” was their answer. “I am he,”said Jesus. (Judas, the betrayer, was also standing with them.) [18:6] When Jesus said ‘I am he,’they drew back and fell to the ground. [18:7] So he again asked for whom they were looking, and they answered: “Jesus of Nazareth.” [18:8] “I have already told you that I am he,”replied Jesus, “so, if it is for me that you are looking, let these people go.” [18:9] This was in fulfillment of his words — ‘Of those whom you have given me I have not lost one.’ [18:10] At this, Simon Peter, who had a sword with him, drew it, and struck the high priest’s servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant’s name was Malchus. [18:11] But Jesus said to Peter: “Sheathe your sword. Should I not drink the cup which the Father has given me?” ---- [18:12] So the soldiers of the garrison, with their commanding officer and the Jewish police, arrested Jesus and bound him, [18:13] and took him first of all to Annas. Annas was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, who was high priest that year. [18:14] It was Caiaphas who had counseled the religious authorities, that it was best that one person should die for the people. [18:15] Meanwhile Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple. That disciple, being well-known to the high priest, went with Jesus into the high priest’s courtyard, [18:16] while Peter stood outside by the door. Presently the other disciple — the one well-known to the high priest — went out and spoke to the portress, and brought Peter in. [18:17] So the maidservant said to Peter: “Aren’t you also one of this man’s disciples?” “No, I am not,” he said. [18:18] The servants and police officers were standing around a charcoal fire (which they had made because it was cold), and were warming themselves. Peter, too, was with them, standing and warming himself. [18:19] The high priest questioned Jesus about his disciples and about his teaching. [18:20] “For my part,”answered Jesus, “I have spoken to all the world openly. I always taught in some synagogue, or in the Temple Courts, places where everyone assembles, and I never spoke of anything in secret. [18:21] Why question me? Question those who have listened to me as to what I have spoken about to them. They must know what I said.” [18:22] When Jesus said this, one of the police officers, who was standing near, gave him a blow with his hand. “Do you answer the high priest like that?” he exclaimed. [18:23] “If I said anything wrong, give evidence about it,”replied Jesus; “but if not, why do you strike me?” [18:24] Annas sent him bound to Caiaphas the high priest. [18:25] Meanwhile Simon Peter was standing there, warming himself; so they said to him: “Aren’t you also one of his disciples?” Peter denied it. “No, I am not,” he said. [18:26] One of the high priest’s servants, a relation of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, exclaimed: “Did not I myself see you with him in the garden?” [18:27] Peter again denied it; and at that moment a cock crowed. ---- [18:28] From Caiaphas they took Jesus to the Government house. It was early in the morning. But they did not enter the Government house themselves, otherwise they might become ‘defiled,’ and so be unable to eat the Passover. [18:29] Therefore Pilate came outside to speak to them. “What charge do you bring against this man?” he asked. [18:30] “If he had not been a criminal, we should not have given him up to you,” they answered. [18:31] “Take him yourselves,” said Pilate, “and try him by your own law.” “We have no power to put anyone to death,” the authorities replied — [18:32] In fulfillment of what Jesus had said when indicating the death that he was destined to die. [18:33] After that, Pilate went into the Government house again, and calling Jesus up, asked him: “Are you the king of the Jews?” [18:34] “Do you ask me that yourself?”replied Jesus, “or did others say it to you about me?” [18:35] “Do you take me for a Jew?” was Pilate’s answer. “It is your own nation and the chief priests who have given you up to me. What have you done?” [18:36] “My kingly power,”replied Jesus, “is not due to this world. If it had been so, my servants would be doing their utmost to prevent my being given up to the authorities; but my kingly power is not from the world.” [18:37] “So you are a king after all!” exclaimed Pilate. “Yes, it is true I am a king,”answered Jesus. “I was born for this, I have come into the world for this — to bear testimony to the truth. Everyone who is on the side of truth listens to my voice.” [18:38] “What is truth?” exclaimed Pilate. After saying this, he went out to the crowd again, and said: “For my part, I find nothing with which he can be charged. [18:39] It is, however, the custom for me to grant you the release of one man at the Passover Festival. Do you wish for the release of the king of the Jews?” [18:40] “No, not this man,” they shouted again, “but Barabbas!” This Barabbas was a robber.[John] ---- [19:1] After that, Pilate had Jesus scourged. [19:2] The soldiers made a crown with some thorns and put it on his head and threw a purple robe around him. [19:3] They kept coming up to him and saying: “Long live the king of the Jews!” and they gave him blow after blow with their hands. [19:4] Pilate again came outside, and said to the people: “Look! I am bringing him out to you, so that you may know that I find nothing with which he can be charged.” [19:5] Then Jesus came outside, wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe; and Pilate said to them: “Here is the man!” [19:6] When the chief priests and the police officers saw him, they shouted: “Crucify him! Crucify him!” “Take him yourselves and crucify him,” said Pilate. “For my part, I find nothing with which he can be charged.” [19:7] “But we,” replied the crowd, “have a law, under which he deserves death for making himself out to be the Son of God.” [19:8] When Pilate heard what they said, he became still more alarmed; [19:9] and, going into the Government house again, he said to Jesus: “Where do you come from?” [19:10] But Jesus made no reply. So Pilate said to him: “Do you refuse to speak to me? Don’t you know that I have power to release you, and have power to crucify you?” [19:11] “You would have no power over me at all,”answered Jesus, “if it had not been given you from above; and, therefore, the man who betrayed me to you is guilty of the greater sin.” [19:12] This made Pilate anxious to release him; but the crowd shouted: “If you release that man, you are no friend of the Emperor! Anyone who makes himself out to be a king is setting himself against the Emperor!” [19:13] On hearing what they said, Pilate brought Jesus out, and took his seat on the Bench at a place called ‘The Stone Pavement’ — in Hebrew ‘Gabbatha.’ [19:14] It was the Passover Preparation day, and about noon. Then he said to the crowd: “Here is your king!” [19:15] At that the people shouted: “Kill him! Kill him! Crucify him!” “What! Should I crucify your king?” exclaimed Pilate. “We have no king but the Emperor,” replied the chief priests; [19:16] so Pilate gave Jesus up to them to be crucified. ---- [19:17] and he went out, carrying his cross himself, to the place which is named from a scull, or, in Hebrew, Golgotha. [19:18] There they crucified him, and two others with him — one on each side, and Jesus between them. [19:19] Pilate also had these words written and put up over the cross — ‘JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS.’ [19:20] These words were read by many people, because the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city; and they were written in Hebrew, Latin and Greek. [19:21] The chief priests said to Pilate: “Do not write ‘The king of the Jews’, but write what the man said — ‘I am the king of the Jews.’” [19:22] But Pilate answered: “What I have written, I have written.” ---- [19:23] When the soldiers had crucified Jesus, they took his clothes and divided them into four shares — a share for each soldier — and they took the coat also. The coat had no seam, being woven in one piece from top to bottom. [19:24] So they said to one another: “Do not let us tear it, but let us cast lots for it, to see who will have it.” This was in fulfillment of the words of scripture — ‘They shared my clothes among them, And over my clothing they cast lots.’ That was what the soldiers did. [19:25] Meanwhile near the cross of Jesus were standing his mother and his mother’s sister, as well as Mary the wife of Clopas and Mary of Magdala. [19:26] When Jesus saw his mother, and the disciple whom he loved, standing near, he said to his mother: “There is your son.” [19:27] Then he said to that disciple: “There is your mother.”And from that very hour the disciple took her to live in his house. ---- [19:28] Afterwards, knowing that everything was now finished, Jesus said, in fulfillment of the words of scripture: “I am thirsty.” [19:29] There was a bowl standing there full of common wine; so they put a sponge soaked in the wine on the end of a hyssop-stalk, and held it up to his mouth. [19:30] When Jesus had received the wine, he exclaimed: “All is finished!”Then, bowing his head, he resigned his spirit to God. [19:31] It was the Preparation day, and so, to prevent the bodies from remaining on the crosses during the Sabbath (for that Sabbath was a great day), the Jews asked Pilate to have the legs broken and the bodies removed. [19:32] Accordingly the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first man, and then those of the other who had been crucified with Jesus; [19:33] but, on coming to him, when they saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs. [19:34] One of the soldiers, however, pierced his side with a spear, and blood and water immediately flowed from it. [19:35] This is the statement of one who actually saw it — and his statement may be relied on, and he knows that he is speaking the truth — and it is given in order that you also may be convinced. [19:36] For all this happened in fulfillment of the words of scripture — ‘Not one of its bones will be broken.’ [19:37] And there is another passage which says — ‘They will look on him whom they pierced.’ [19:38] After this, Joseph of Ramah, a disciple of Jesus — but a secret one, owing to his fear of the religious authorities — begged Pilate’s permission to remove the body of Jesus. Pilate gave him leave; so Joseph went and removed the body. [19:39] Nicodemus, too — the man who had formerly visited Jesus by night — came with a roll of myrrh and aloes, weighing nearly a hundred pounds. [19:40] They took the body of Jesus, and wound it in linen with the spices, according to the Jewish mode of burial. [19:41] At the place where Jesus had been crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a newly made tomb in which no one had ever been laid. [19:42] And so, because of its being the Preparation day, and as the tomb was close at hand, they laid Jesus there.[John] The Risen Life ============== [20:1] On the first day of the week, early in the morning, while it was still dark, Mary of Magdala went to the tomb, and saw that the stone had been removed. [20:2] So she came running to Simon Peter, and to that other disciple who was Jesus’ friend, and said to them: “They have taken away the Master out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him!” [20:3] So, Peter started off with that other disciple, and they went to the tomb. [20:4] The two began running together; but the other disciple ran faster than Peter, and reached the tomb first. [20:5] Stooping down, he saw the linen wrappings lying there, but did not go in. [20:6] Presently Simon Peter came following behind him, and went into the tomb; and he looked at the linen wrappings lying there, [20:7] and the cloth which had been on Jesus’ head, not lying with the wrappings, but rolled up on one side, separately. [20:8] Then the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, went inside too, and he saw for himself and was convinced. [20:9] For they did not then understand the passage of scripture which says that Jesus must rise again from the dead. [20:10] The disciples then returned to their companions. [20:11] Meanwhile Mary was standing close outside the tomb, weeping. Still weeping, she leant forward into the tomb, [20:12] and perceived two angels clothed in white sitting there, where the body of Jesus had been lying, one where the head and the other where the feet had been. [20:13] “Why are you weeping?” asked the angels. “They have taken my Master away,” she answered, “and I do not know where they have laid him.” [20:14] After saying this, she turned around, and looked at Jesus standing there, but she did not know that it was Jesus. [20:15] “Why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?”he asked. Supposing him to be the gardener, Mary answered: “If it was you, Sir, who carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away myself.” [20:16] “Mary!”said Jesus. She turned around, and exclaimed in Hebrew: “Rabboni!” (or, as we should say, ‘teacher’). [20:17] “Do not hold me,”Jesus said; “for I have not yet ascended to the Father. But go to my brothers, and tell them that I am ascending to him who is my Father and their Father, my God and their God.” [20:18] Mary of Magdala went and told the disciples that she had seen the Master, and that he had said this to her. ---- [20:19] In the evening of the same day — the first day of the week — after the doors of the room, in which the disciples were, had been shut because they were afraid of the religious authorities, Jesus came and stood among them and said: “Peace be with you”; [20:20] after which he showed them his hands and his side. The disciples were filled with joy when they saw the Master. [20:21] Again Jesus said to them: “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me as his messenger, so I am sending you.” [20:22] After saying this, he breathed on them, and said: “Receive the Holy Spirit; [20:23] if you remit anyone’s sins, they have been remitted; and, if you retain them, they have been retained.” ---- [20:24] But Thomas, one of the Twelve, called ‘The Twin,’ was not with them when Jesus came; [20:25] so the rest of the disciples said to him: “We have seen the Master!” “Unless I see the marks of the nails in his hands,” he exclaimed, “and put my finger into the marks, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it.” [20:26] A week later the disciples were again in the house, and Thomas with them. After the doors had been shut, Jesus came and stood among them, and said: “Peace be with you.” [20:27] Then he said to Thomas: “Place your finger here, and look at my hands; and place your hand here, and put it into my side; and do not refuse to believe, but believe.” [20:28] And Thomas exclaimed: “My Master, and my God!” [20:29] “Is it because you have seen me that you have believed?”said Jesus. “Blessed are they who have not seen, and yet have believed!” ---- [20:30] There were many other signs of his mission that Jesus gave in presence of the disciples, which are not recorded in this book; [20:31] but these have been recorded so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God — and that, through your belief in his name, you may have life.[John] ---- [21:1] Later on, Jesus showed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias. [21:2] It was in this way: — Simon Peter, Thomas, who was called ‘The Twin,’ Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, Zebedee’s sons, and two other disciples of Jesus, were together, when Simon Peter said: [21:3] “I am going fishing.” “We will come with you,” said the others. They went out and got into the boat, but caught nothing that night. [21:4] Just as day was breaking, Jesus came and stood on the beach; but the disciples did not know that it was he. [21:5] “My children,”he said, “have you anything to eat?” “No,” they answered. [21:6] “Cast your net to the right of the boat,”he said, “and you will find fish.”So they cast the net, and now they could not haul it in because of the quantity of fish. [21:7] The disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter: “It is the Master!” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Master, he fastened his coat around him (for he had taken it off), and threw himself into the Sea. [21:8] But the rest of the disciples came in the boat (for they were only about a hundred yards from shore), dragging the net full of fish. [21:9] When they had come ashore, they found a charcoal fire ready, with some fish already on it, and some bread as well. [21:10] “Bring some of the fish which you have just caught,”said Jesus. [21:11] So Simon Peter got into the boat and hauled the net ashore full of large fish, a hundred and fifty-three of them; and yet, although there were so many, the net had not been torn. [21:12] And Jesus said to them: “Come and breakfast.”Not one of the disciples ventured to ask him who he was, knowing that it was the Master. [21:13] Jesus went and took the bread and gave it to them, and the fish too. [21:14] This was the third time that Jesus showed himself to the disciples after he had risen from the dead. ---- [21:15] When breakfast was over, Jesus said to Simon Peter: “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than the others?” “Yes, Master,” he answered, “you know that I am your friend.” “Feed my lambs,”said Jesus. [21:16] Then, a second time, Jesus asked: “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” “Yes, Master,” he answered, “you know that I am your friend.” “Tend my sheep,”said Jesus. [21:17] The third time, Jesus said to him: “Simon, son of John, are you my friend?”Peter was hurt at his third question being ‘Are you my friend?’; and exclaimed: “Master, you know everything! You can tell that I am your friend.” “Feed my sheep,”said Jesus. [21:18] “In truth I tell you,” he continued, “when you were young, you used to put on your own clothes, and walk wherever you wished; but, when you have grown old, you will have to stretch out your hands, while some one else puts on your clothes, and takes you where you do not wish.” [21:19] Jesus said this to show the death by which Peter was to honor God, and then he added: “Follow me.” [21:20] Peter turned around, and saw the disciple whom Jesus loved following — the one who at the supper leant back on the Master’s shoulder, and asked him who it was who would betray him. [21:21] Seeing him, Peter said to Jesus: “Master, what about this man?” [21:22] “If it is my will that he should wait until I come,”answered Jesus, “what has that to do with you? Follow me yourself.” [21:23] So the report spread among his followers that that disciple was not to die; yet Jesus did not say that he was not to die, but said “If it is my will that he should wait until I come, what has that to do with you?” ---- [21:24] It is this disciple who states these things, and who recorded them; and we know that his statement is true. ---- [21:25] There are many other things which Jesus did; but, if every one of them were to be recorded in detail, I suppose that even the world itself would not hold the books that would be written. ==== Acts ==== --- The --- ---- Acts ---- --------------- of the Apostles --------------- [Acts] The Church and the Jews ======================= The Doings of the Apostles Peter and John ----------------------------------------- [1:1] The first account which I drew up, Theophilus, dealt with all that Jesus did and taught from the very first, [1:2] down to that day on which he was taken up to heaven, after he had, by the help of the Holy Spirit, given instructions to the apostles whom he had chosen. [1:3] With abundant proofs, he showed himself to them, still living, after his death; appearing to them from time to time during forty days, and speaking of all that related to the kingdom of God. [1:4] And once, when he had gathered them together, he charged them not to leave Jerusalem, but to wait there for the fulfillment of the Father’s promise — “that promise,”he said, “of which you have heard me speak; [1:5] for, while John baptized with water, you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit before many days have passed.” [1:6] So, when the apostles had met together, they asked Jesus this question — “Master, is this the time when you intend to re-establish the kingdom for Israel?” [1:7] His answer was: “It is not for you to know times or hours, for the Father has reserved these for his own decision; [1:8] but you will receive power, when the Holy Spirit will have descended on you, and will be witnesses for me not only in Jerusalem, but throughout Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” [1:9] No sooner had Jesus said this than he was caught up before their eyes, and a cloud received him from their sight. [1:10] While they were still gazing up into the heavens, as he went, suddenly two men, clothed in white, stood beside them, [1:11] and said: “People of Galilee, why are you standing here looking up into the heavens? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into the heavens, will come in the same way in which you have seen him go into the heavens.” [1:12] Then the apostles returned to Jerusalem from the hill called Olivet, which is about three quarters of a mile from the city. [1:13] When they reached Jerusalem, they went to the upstairs room, where they were staying. There were there Peter, John, James, and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas the son of James. [1:14] They all united in devoting themselves to prayer, and so did some women, and Mary, the mother of Jesus, and his brothers. ---- [1:15] About this time, at a meeting of the Lord's followers, when there were about a hundred and twenty present, Peter rose to speak. [1:16] “Friends,” he said, “it was necessary who the prediction of scripture should be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit made by the lips of David about Judas, who acted as guide to the men that arrested Jesus, [1:17] for he was one of our number and had his part allotted him in this work of ours.” [1:18] (This man had bought a piece of land with the price of his treachery; and, falling heavily, his body had burst open, and all his bowels protruded. [1:19] This became known to everyone living in Jerusalem, so that the field came to be called, in their language, ‘Akeldama,’ which means the ‘Field of Blood.’) [1:20] “For in the book of Psalms,” Peter continued, “it is said — ‘Let his home, And let no one live in it’; and also — ‘His office let another take.’ [1:21] Therefore, from among the men who have been with us all the time that Jesus, our Master, went in and out among us — [1:22] From his baptism by John down to that day on which he was taken from us — some one must be found to join us as a witness of his resurrection.” [1:23] So they put forward two men, Joseph called Barsabas, whose other name was Justus, and Matthias; [1:24] and they offered this prayer — “Lord, who reads all hearts, show which of these two men you have chosen [1:25] To take the place in this apostolic work, which Judas has abandoned, to go to his proper place.” [1:26] Then they drew lots between them; and, the lot having fallen on Matthias, he was added to the number of the eleven apostles.[Acts] ---- [2:1] In the course of the Festival at the close of the Harvest the disciples had all met together, [2:2] when suddenly there came from the heavens a noise like a strong wind rushing by; it filled the whole house in which they were sitting. [2:3] Then there appeared tongues of what seemed to be flame, separating, so that one settled on each of them; [2:4] and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and began to speak with strange ‘tongues’ as the Spirit prompted their utterances. [2:5] Now there were then staying in Jerusalem religious Jews from every country in the world; [2:6] and, when this sound was heard, numbers of people collected, in the greatest excitement, because each of them heard the disciples speaking in his own language. [2:7] They were utterly amazed, and kept asking in astonishment: “What! Are not all these people who are speaking Galileans? [2:8] Then how is it that we each of us hear them in our own language? [2:9] Some of us are Parthians, some Medes, some Elamites; and some of us live in Mesopotamia, in Judea and Cappadocia, in Pontus and Roman Asia, [2:10] in Phrygia and Pamphylia, in Egypt and the districts of Libya adjoining Cyrene; some of us are visitors from Rome, [2:11] either Jews by birth or converts, and some are Cretans and Arabians — yet we all alike hear them speaking in our own tongues of the great things that God has done.” [2:12] They were all utterly amazed and bewildered. “What does it mean?” they asked one another. [2:13] But there were some who said with a sneer: “They have had too much new wine.” [2:14] Then Peter, surrounded by the eleven other apostles, stood up, and, raising his voice, addressed the crowd. “People of Judea,” he began, “and all you who are staying in Jerusalem, let me tell you what this means. Mark well my words. [2:15] These people are not drunk, as you suppose; for it is only now nine in the morning! No! [2:16] This is what is spoken of in the prophet Joel — [2:17] ‘It will come about in the last days,’ God says, ‘That I will pour out my Spirit on all humanity; Your sons and your daughters will become prophets, Your young men will see visions, And your old men dream dreams; [2:18] Yes, even on the slaves — for they are mine — both men and women, I will in those days pour out my Spirit, And they will become prophets; [2:19] And I will show wonders in the heavens above, And signs on the earth below — Blood and fire and mist of smoke; [2:20] The sun will become darkness, And the moon blood-red, Before the day of the Lord comes — that great and awful day. [2:21] Then will everyone who invokes the name of the Lord be saved.’ [2:22] People of Israel, listen to what I am saying. Jesus of Nazareth, a man whose mission from God to you was proved by miracles, wonders, and signs, which God showed among you through him, as you know full well — [2:23] He, I say, in accordance with God’s definite plan and with his previous knowledge, was betrayed, and you, by the hands of lawless men, nailed him to a cross and put him to death. [2:24] But God released him from the pangs of death and raised him to life, it being impossible for death to retain its hold on him. [2:25] Indeed he was the one David was referring to when he said — ‘I have had the Lord ever before my eyes, For he stands at my right hand, so that I should not be disquieted. [2:26] Therefore my heart was cheered, and my tongue told its delight; Yes, even my body, too, will rest in hope; [2:27] For you will not abandon my soul to the place of death, Nor surrender me, your holy one, to undergo corruption. [2:28] You have shown me the path to life, You will fill me with gladness in your presence.’ [2:29] Friends, I can speak to you the more confidently about the patriarch David, because he is dead and buried, and his tomb is here among us to this very day. [2:30] David, then, prophet as he was, knowing that God ‘had solemnly sworn to him to set one of his descendants on his throne,’ looked into the future, [2:31] and referred to the resurrection of the Christ when he said that ‘he had not been abandoned to the place of death, nor had his body undergone corruption.’ [2:32] It was this Jesus, whom God raised to life; and of that we are ourselves all witnesses. [2:33] And now that he has been exalted to the right hand of God, and has received from the Father the promised gift of the Holy Spirit, he has begun to pour out that gift, as you yourselves now see and hear. [2:34] It was not David who went up into heaven; for he himself says — ‘The Lord said to my master: “Sit on my right hand, [2:35] Until I put your enemies as a footstool under your feet.”’ [2:36] So let the whole nation of Israel know beyond all doubt, that God has made him both Lord and Christ — this Jesus whom you crucified.” [2:37] When the people heard this, they were conscience-smitten, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles: “Friends, what can we do?” [2:38] “Repent,” answered Peter, “and be baptized every one of you in the faith of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. [2:39] For the promise is for you and for your children, and also for all those now far away, who may be called by the Lord our God.” [2:40] Peter spoke to them for a long time using many other arguments and pleaded with them — “Save yourselves from the perverse spirit of this age.” [2:41] So those who accepted his teaching were baptized, and about three thousand people joined the disciples on that day alone. [2:42] They devoted themselves to the teaching of the apostles and to the Common life of the church, to the breaking of the bread and to the Prayers. [2:43] A deep impression was made on everyone, and many wonders and signs were done at the hands of the apostles. [2:44] All who became believers in Christ held everything for the common use; [2:45] they sold their property and their goods, and shared the proceeds among them all, according to their individual needs. [2:46] Every day they devoted themselves to meeting together in the Temple Courts, and to the breaking of bread at their homes, while they partook of their food in simple-hearted gladness, praising God, and winning the goodwill of all the people. [2:47] And the Lord daily added to their company those who were in the path of salvation.[Acts] ---- [3:1] One day, as Peter and John were going up into the Temple Courts for the three o’clock Prayers, a man, who had been lame from his birth, was being carried by. [3:2] This man used to be set down every day at the gate of the Temple called ‘the Beautiful Gate,’ to beg of those who went in. [3:3] Seeing Peter and John on the point of entering, he asked them to give him something. [3:4] Peter fixed his eyes on him, and so did John, and then Peter said: “Look at us.” [3:5] The man was all attention, expecting to get something from them; [3:6] but Peter added: “I have no gold or silver, but I give you what I have. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk.” [3:7] Grasping the lame man by the right hand, Peter lifted him up. Instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong, [3:8] and, leaping up, he stood and began to walk about, and then went with them into the Temple Courts, walking, and leaping, and praising God. [3:9] All the people saw him walking about and praising God; [3:10] and, when they recognized him as the man who used to sit begging at the Beautiful Gate of the Temple, they were utterly astonished and amazed at what had happened to him. [3:11] While the man still clung to Peter and John, the people all quickly gathered around them in the Colonnade named after Solomon, in the greatest astonishment. [3:12] On seeing this, Peter said to the people: “People of Israel, why are you surprised at this? And why do you stare at us, as though we, by any power or piety of our own, had enabled this man to walk? [3:13] The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the God of our ancestors, has done honor to his servant Jesus — him whom you gave up and disowned before Pilate, when he had decided to set him free. [3:14] You, I say, disowned the holy and righteous one, and asked for the release of a murderer! [3:15] The guide to life you put to death! But God raised him from the dead — and of that we are ourselves witnesses. [3:16] And it is by faith in the name of Jesus, that this man, whom you all see and know, has — by his name — been made strong. Yes, it is the faith inspired by Jesus that has made this complete cure of the man, before the eyes of you all. [3:17] And yet, my friends, I know that you acted as you did from ignorance, and your rulers also. [3:18] But it was in this way that God fulfilled all that he had long ago foretold, as to the sufferings of his Christ, by the lips of all the prophets. [3:19] Therefore, repent and turn so that your sins may be wiped away; so that happier times may come from the Lord himself, [3:20] and so that he may send you, in Jesus, your long-appointed Christ. [3:21] But heaven must be his home, until the days of the Universal Restoration, of which God has spoken by the lips of his holy prophets from the very first. [3:22] Moses himself said — ‘The Lord your God will raise up from among yourselves a prophet, as he raised me. To him you will listen whenever he speaks to you. [3:23] And it will be that should anyone among the people not listen to that prophet, he will be utterly destroyed.’ [3:24] Yes, and all the prophets from Samuel onwards, and all their successors who had a message to deliver, told of these days. [3:25] You yourselves are the heirs of the prophets, and heirs, too, of the covenant which God made with your ancestors, when he said to Abraham — ‘In your descendants will all the nations of the earth be blessed.’ [3:26] For you, first, God raised up his servant, and sent him to bless you, by turning each one of you from his wicked ways.”[Acts] [4:1] While Peter and John were still speaking to the people, the chief priest, with the officer in charge at the Temple and the Sadducees, came up to them, [4:2] much annoyed because they were teaching the people, and because, through Jesus, they were preaching the resurrection from the dead. [4:3] They arrested the apostles and, as it was already evening, had them placed in custody until the next day. [4:4] Many, however, of those who had heard the apostles’ message became believers in Christ, the number of the men alone amounting to about five thousand. ---- [4:5] The next day, a meeting of the leaders of the people, the councillors, and the teachers of the law was held in Jerusalem. [4:6] There were present Annas the high priest, Caiaphas, John, Alexander, and all who were of High-Priestly rank. [4:7] They had Peter and John brought before them, and questioned them. “By what power,” they asked, “Or in whose name have men like you done this thing?” [4:8] Then, Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said: “Leaders of the people and councillors, [4:9] since we are on our trial today for a kind act done to a helpless man, and are asked in what way the man here before you has been cured, [4:10] let me tell you all and all the people of Israel, that it is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified and whom God raised from the dead — it is, I say, by his name that this man stands here before you lame no longer. [4:11] Jesus is ‘the stone which, scorned by you the builders, has yet become the corner stone.’ [4:12] And salvation is in him alone; for there is no other name in the whole world, given to people, to which we must look for our salvation.” [4:13] When the Council saw how boldly Peter and John spoke, and found that they were uneducated men of humble station, they were surprised, and realized that they had been companions of Jesus. [4:14] But, when they looked at the man who had been healed, standing there with them, they had nothing to say. [4:15] So they ordered them out of court, and then began consulting together. [4:16] “What are we to do to these men?” they asked one another. “That a remarkable sign has been given through them is obvious to everyone living in Jerusalem, and we cannot deny it. [4:17] But, to prevent this thing from spreading further among the people, let us warn them not to speak in this name any more to anyone whatever.” [4:18] So they called the apostles in, and ordered them not to speak or teach in the name of Jesus. [4:19] But Peter and John replied: “Whether it is right, in the sight of God, to listen to you rather than to him — [4:20] judge for yourselves, for we cannot help speaking of what we have seen and heard.” [4:21] However, after further warnings, the Council set them at liberty, not seeing any safe way of punishing them, because of the people, for they were all praising God for what had occurred; [4:22] for the man who was the subject of this miraculous cure was more than forty years old. ---- [4:23] After they had been set at liberty, the apostles went to their friends and told them what the chief priests and the councillors had said to them. [4:24] All who heard their story, moved by a common impulse, raised their voices to God in prayer: “Sovereign Lord, it is you who has ‘made the heavens, the earth, the sea, and everything that is in them,’ [4:25] And who, by the lips of our ancestor, your servant David, who spoke under the influence of the Holy Spirit, have said — ‘Why did the nations rage, And the peoples form vain designs? [4:26] The kings of the earth set their array, And its rulers gathered together, Against the Lord and against his Christ.’ [4:27] There have indeed gathered together in this city against your holy servant Jesus, whom you has consecrated the Christ, not Herod and Pontius Pilate only, but the nations and the people of Israel besides — [4:28] Yet only to do what you, by your power and of your own will, did long ago destine to be done. [4:29] Now, therefore, Lord, mark their threats, and enable your servants, with all fearlessness, to tell your message, [4:30] while you stretch out your hand to heal, and cause signs and wonders to take place through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” [4:31] When their prayer was ended, the place in which they were assembled was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and began to tell God’s message fearlessly. ---- [4:32] The whole body of those who had become believers in Christ were of one heart and mind. Not one of them claimed any of his goods as his own, but everything was held for the common use. [4:33] The apostles continued with great power to bear their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and God’s blessing rested on them all abundantly. [4:34] Nor was there anyone in need among them, for all who were owners of land or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the sales [4:35] And laid them at the apostles’ feet; and then everyone received a share in proportion to his wants. [4:36] A Levite of Cyprian birth, named Joseph, (who had received from the apostles the additional name of ‘Barnabas’ — which means ‘The Consoler,’) [4:37] Sold a farm that belonged to him, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet.[Acts] ---- [5:1] There was, however, a man named Ananias, who, with his wife Sapphira, sold some property, [5:2] and, with her connivance, kept back some of the proceeds. He brought only a part and laid it at the apostles’ feet. [5:3] “Ananias,” Peter exclaimed, “how is it that Satan has so taken possession of your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit, and kept back a part of the money paid for the land? [5:4] While it was unsold, was not it your own? And after it was sold, was not the money at your own disposal? How did you come to think of such a thing? You have lied, not to people, but to God!” [5:5] As Ananias heard these words, he fell down and expired; and everyone who heard of it was appalled. [5:6] The young men got up, and, winding the body in a sheet, carried it out and buried it. [5:7] After an interval of about three hours his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. [5:8] “Is it true,” Peter asked, addressing her, “that you sold your land for such a sum?” “Yes,” she answered, “we did.” [5:9] Then Peter said: “How did you come to agree to provoke the Spirit of the Lord? Listen! The footsteps of those who have buried your husband are at the door; and they will carry you out too.” [5:10] Instantly Sapphira fell down at Peter’s feet and expired. On coming in, the young men found her dead; so they carried her out and buried her by her husband’s side. [5:11] The whole church and all who heard of these events were appalled. ---- [5:12] Many signs and wonders continued to occur among the people, through the instrumentality of the apostles, whose custom it was to meet all together in the Colonnade of Solomon; [5:13] but of the rest no one ventured to join them. On the other hand, the people were full of their praise, [5:14] and still larger numbers, both of men and women, as they became believers in the Lord, were added to their number. [5:15] The consequence was that people would bring out their sick even into the streets, and lay them on mattresses and mats, in the hope that, as Peter came by, at least his shadow might fall on some one of them. [5:16] Besides this, the inhabitants of the towns around Jerusalem flocked into the city, bringing with them their sick and those who were troubled by foul spirits; and they were cured everyone. ---- [5:17] At this the high priest was roused to action, and he and all his supporters (who formed the party of the Sadducees), moved by jealousy, [5:18] arrested the apostles, and had them placed in custody. [5:19] An angel of the Lord, however, opened the prison doors at night and led them out. [5:20] “Go,” he said, “and stand in the Temple Courts, and tell the people the whole message of this new life.” [5:21] When they heard this, they went at daybreak into the Temple Courts, and began to teach. The high priest and his party, on their arrival, summoned the High Council, including all the leaders of the people among the Israelites, and sent to the jail to fetch the apostles. [5:22] But, when the officers got there, they did not find them in the prison; so they returned and reported that, [5:23] while they had found the goal barred securely and the guards posted at the doors, yet, on opening them, they had not found anyone inside. [5:24] When the officer in charge at the Temple and the chief priests heard their story, they were perplexed about the apostles and as to what all this would lead to. [5:25] Presently, however, some one came and told them, that the men whom they had put in prison were actually standing in the Temple Courts, teaching the people. [5:26] Then, the officer went with his men and fetched the apostles — without using violence, for they were afraid of being stoned by the people — [5:27] And then brought them before the Council. The high priest demanded an explanation from them. [5:28] “We gave you strict orders,” he said, “not to teach in this name. Yet you have actually flooded Jerusalem with your teaching, and you want to make us responsible for the death of this man.” [5:29] To this Peter and the apostles replied: “We must obey God rather than people. [5:30] The God of our ancestors raised Jesus, whom you put to death by hanging him on a cross. [5:31] It is this Jesus whom God has exalted to his right hand, to be a guide and a Savior, to give Israel repentance and forgiveness of sins. [5:32] And we are witness to the truth of this, and so is the Holy Spirit — the gift of God to those who obey him.” [5:33] The members of the Council became frantic with rage on hearing this, and were for putting the apostles to death. [5:34] But Gamaliel, a Pharisee, who was a Doctor of the law and who was held in universal respect, rose in the Council, and directed that the men should be taken out of court for a little while. [5:35] He then said: “People of Israel, take care as to what you intend to do with these men. [5:36] For not long ago Theudas appeared, professing to be somebody, and was joined by a body of some four hundred men. But he was killed; and all his followers scattered and dwindled away. [5:37] After him, Judas the Galilean appeared at the time of the census, and induced people to follow him; Yet he, too, perished and all his followers were dispersed. [5:38] And, in this present case, my advice to you is not to interfere with these men, but to let them alone, for, if their designs and their work are merely of human origin, they will come to an end; [5:39] but, if they are of divine origin, you will be powerless to put an end to them — or else you may find yourselves fighting against God!” [5:40] The Council followed his advice, and, calling the apostles in, had them flogged, and then, after cautioning them not to speak in the name of Jesus, set them free. [5:41] But the apostles left the Council, rejoicing that they had been thought worthy to suffer disgrace for that name; [5:42] and never for a single day, either in the Temple Courts or in private houses, did they cease to teach, or to tell the good news of Jesus, the Christ.[Acts] ---- [6:1] About this time, when the number of the disciples was constantly increasing, complaints were made by the Greek speaking Jews against the Aramaic speaking Jews, that their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution. [6:2] The Twelve, therefore, called together the general body of the disciples and said to them: “It is not well for us to see to the distribution at the tables and neglect God’s message. [6:3] Therefore, friends, look for seven men of reputation among yourselves, wise and spiritually-minded men, and we will appoint them to attend to this matter; [6:4] while we, for our part, will devote ourselves to prayer, and to the delivery of the message.” [6:5] This proposal was unanimously agreed to; and the disciples chose Stephen — a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit — and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicholas of Antioch, a former convert to Judaism; [6:6] and they brought these men to the apostles, who, after praying, placed their hands on them. ---- [6:7] So God’s message spread, and the number of the disciples continued to increase rapidly in Jerusalem, and a large body of the priests accepted the faith. ---- [6:8] Meanwhile Stephen, divinely helped and strengthened, was showing great wonders and signs among the people. [6:9] But some members of the Synagogue of the Freed Slaves (as it was called), Cyrenians, Alexandrians, and Visitors from Cilicia and Roman Asia, were roused to action and began disputing with Stephen; [6:10] yet they were quite unable to withstand the wisdom and the inspiration with which he spoke. [6:11] Then they induced some men to assert that they had heard Stephen saying blasphemous things against Moses, and against God; [6:12] and they stirred up the people, as well as the councillors and the teachers of the law, and set on Stephen, and arrested him, and brought him before the High Council. [6:13] There they produced witnesses who gave false evidence. “This man,” they said, “is incessantly saying things against this Holy place and the law; [6:14] indeed, we have heard him declare that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place, and change the customs handed down to us by Moses.” [6:15] The eyes of all the members of the Council were riveted on Stephen, and they saw his face looking like the face of an angel. [Acts] [7:1] Then the high priest asked: “Is this true?” [7:2] Stephen replied: “Brothers and fathers, hear what I have to say. God, who manifests himself in the glory, appeared to our ancestor Abraham when he was in Mesopotamia, and before he settled in Haran, and said to him — [7:3] ‘Leave your country and your kindred, and come into the country that I will show you.’ [7:4] And so Abraham left the country of the Chaldaeans and settled in Haran; and from there, after his father’s death, God caused him to migrate into this country, in which you are now living. [7:5] God did not at that time give him any part of it, not even a foot of ground. But he promised to ‘give him possession of it and his descendants after him, though at that time he had no child. [7:6] God’s words were these — ‘Abraham’s descendants will live in a foreign country, where they will be enslaved and ill-treated for four hundred years. [7:7] But I myself will judge the nation, to which they will be enslaved,’ God said, ‘and after that they will leave the country and worship me in this place.’ [7:8] Then God made with Abraham the covenant of circumcision; and under it Abraham became the father of Isaac, and circumcised him when he was eight days old; and Isaac became the father of Jacob; and Jacob of the Twelve Patriarchs. [7:9] The Patriarchs, out of jealousy, sold Joseph into slavery in Egypt; but God was with him, [7:10] and delivered him out of all his troubles, and enabled him to win favor and show wisdom before Pharaoh, king of Egypt, who appointed him Governor of Egypt and of his whole household. [7:11] Then a famine spread over the whole of Egypt and Canaan, causing great distress, and our ancestors could find no food. [7:12] Hearing, however, that there was corn in Egypt, Jacob sent our ancestors there on their first visit. [7:13] In the course of their second visit, Joseph revealed himself to his brothers, and his family became known to Pharaoh. [7:14] Then Joseph sent an urgent invitation to his father Jacob and to his relations, seventy-five persons in all; [7:15] and so Jacob went down into Egypt. There he died, and our ancestors also, [7:16] and their bodies were removed to Shechem, and laid in the tomb which Abraham had bought for a sum of money from the sons of Hamor in Shechem. [7:17] As the time drew near for the fulfillment of the promise which God had made to Abraham, the people increased largely in numbers in Egypt, [7:18] until a new king, who knew nothing of Joseph, came to the throne. [7:19] This king acted deceitfully towards our race and ill-treated our ancestors, making them abandon their own infants, so that they should not be reared. [7:20] It was just at this time that Moses was born. He was an exceedingly beautiful child, and for three months was brought up in his own father’s house; [7:21] and, when he was abandoned, the daughter of Pharaoh found him and brought him up as her own son. [7:22] So Moses was educated in all the learning of the Egyptians, and proved his ability both by his words and actions. [7:23] When he was in his fortieth year, he resolved to visit his fellow Israelites; [7:24] and, seeing an Israelite ill-treated, he defended him, and avenged the man, who was being wronged, by striking down the Egyptian. [7:25] He thought his own people would understand that God was using him to save them; but they failed to do so. [7:26] The next day he again appeared on the scene, when some of them were fighting, and tried to make peace between them. ‘Men,’ he said, ‘you are brothers; how is it that you are ill-treating one another?’ [7:27] But the man who was ill-treating his fellow workman pushed Moses aside saying — ‘Who made you a ruler and judge over us? [7:28] Do you mean to make away with me as you did yesterday with that Egyptian?’ [7:29] At these words Moses took to flight, and became an exile in Midian; and there he had two sons born to him. [7:30] Forty years had passed when there appeared to him, in the desert of Mount Sinai, an angel in a flame of fire in a bush. [7:31] When Moses saw it, he was astonished at the vision; but on his going nearer to look at it more closely, the voice of the Lord was heard to say — [7:32] ‘I am the God of your ancestors, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.’ Moses trembled, and did not dare to look. [7:33] Then the Lord said to him — ‘Take your sandals off your feet, for the spot where you are standing is holy ground. [7:34] I have seen the oppression of my people who are in Egypt, and heard their groans, and I have come down to deliver them. Come now and I will send you into Egypt.’ [7:35] This same Moses, whom they had disowned with the words — ‘Who made you a ruler and a judge?’ was the man whom God sent to be both a ruler and a deliverer, under the guidance of the angel that had appeared to him in the bush. [7:36] He it was who led them out, after he had shown wonders and signs in Egypt, in the Red Sea, and in the desert during forty years. [7:37] This was the Moses who said to the people of Israel — ‘God will raise up for you, from among yourselves, a prophet, as he raised up me.’ [7:38] He, too, it was who was present at the assembly in the desert, with the angel who talked to him on Mount Sinai, and with our ancestors, and who received living truths to impart to you. [7:39] Yet our ancestors refused him obedience; more than that, they rejected him, and in their hearts turned back to Egypt, [7:40] while they said to Aaron — ‘Make us Gods who will lead the way for us, since, as for this Moses who has brought us out of Egypt, we do not know what has become of him.’ [7:41] That was the time when they made the calf and offered sacrifice to their idol, and held festivities in honor of their own handiwork! [7:42] So God turned from them and left them to the worship of the Starry Host, as is written in the book of the prophets — ‘Did you offer victims and sacrifices to me, house of Israel, All those forty years in the desert? [7:43] You took with you the tent where Moloch is worshipped And the star of the god Rephan — The images which you had made to worship. Therefore I will exile you beyond Babylon.’ [7:44] Our ancestors had the tent where they worshipped God in the desert, constructed, just as he who spoke to Moses had directed him to make it, after the model which he had seen. [7:45] This tent, which was handed down to them, was brought into this country by our ancestors who accompanied Joshua (at the conquest of the nations that God drove out before their advance), and remained here until the time of David. [7:46] David found favor with God, and prayed that he might provide the God of Jacob with a place to reside. [7:47] But it was Solomon who built a house for God. [7:48] Yet it is not in buildings made by hands that the Most High dwells. As the prophet says — [7:49] ‘The heavens are a throne for me, And the earth a stool for my feet. What manner of house will you build me, saith the Lord, Or what place is there where I may rest? [7:50] Was it not my hand that made all these things?’ [7:51] Stubborn race, heathen in heart and ears, you are for ever resisting the Holy Spirit; your ancestors did it, and you are doing it still. [7:52] Which of the prophets escaped persecution at their hands? They killed those who foretold the coming of the righteous one; of whom you, in your turn, have now become the betrayers and murderers — [7:53] You who received the law as transmitted by angels and yet failed to keep it.” [7:54] As they listened to this, the Council grew frantic with rage, and gnashed their teeth at Stephen. [7:55] He, filled as he was with the Holy Spirit, fixed his eyes intently on the heavens, and saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at God’s right hand. [7:56] “Look,” he exclaimed, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at God’s right hand!” [7:57] At this, with a loud shout, they stopped their ears and all rushed on him, forced him outside the city, [7:58] and began to stone him, the witnesses laying their clothes at the feet of a young man named Saul. [7:59] And they stoned Stephen, while he cried to the Lord: “Lord Jesus! Receive my spirit!” [7:60] Falling on his knees, he called out loudly: “Lord! Do not charge them with this sin;” and with these words he fell asleep. [Acts] [8:1] Saul approved of his being put to death. On that very day a great persecution broke out against the church which was in Jerusalem; and its members, with the exception of the apostles, were all scattered over the districts of Judea and Samaria. [8:2] Some religious men buried Stephen, with loud lamentations for him. [8:3] But Saul began to devastate the church; he entered house after house, dragged out men and women alike, and threw them into prison. [8:4] Now those who were scattered in different directions went from place to place proclaiming the good news. [8:5] Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and there began to preach the Christ. [8:6] The people, one and all, listened attentively to what Philip told them, when they heard of, and saw, the miracles which he was working. [8:7] For there were many instances of people with foul spirits, where the spirits, with loud screams, came out of them; [8:8] and many who were paralyzed or lame were cured, so that there was great rejoicing throughout that city. [8:9] There was staying in the city a man named Simon, who had been practicing magic there and mystifying the Samaritan people, giving himself out to be some great being. [8:10] Everyone, high and low, paid attention to him. ‘This man,’ they used to say, ‘must be that power of God which people call “The Great Power.”’ [8:11] And they paid attention to him because they had for a long time been mystified by his magic arts. [8:12] However, when they came to believe Philip, as he told them the good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. [8:13] Even Simon believed, and after his baptism attached himself to Philip, and was in his turn mystified at seeing signs and great miracles constantly occurring. [8:14] When the apostles at Jerusalem heard that the Samaritans had welcomed God’s message, they sent Peter and John to them; [8:15] and they, on their arrival, prayed that the Samaritans might receive the Holy Spirit. [8:16] (As yet the Spirit had not descended on any of them; they had only been baptized into the faith of the Lord Jesus). [8:17] Then Peter and John placed their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. [8:18] When Simon saw that it was through the placing of the apostles’ hands on them that the Spirit was given, he brought them a sum of money and said: [8:19] “Give me also this power of yours, so that, if I place my hands on anyone, he may receive the Holy Spirit.” [8:20] “A curse on you and on your money,” Peter exclaimed, “for thinking that God’s free gift can be bought with gold! [8:21] You have no share or part in our message, for your ‘heart is not right with God.’ [8:22] Therefore repent of this wickedness of yours, and pray to the Lord, that, if possible, you may be forgiven for such a thought; [8:23] for I see that you have fallen into the ‘bitterness of envy’ and the ‘fetters of sin.’” [8:24] “Pray to the Lord for me, all of you,” Simon answered, “so that none of the things you have spoken of may happen to me.” [8:25] Peter and John, having borne their testimony and delivered the Lord’s message, returned to Jerusalem, telling the good news, as they went, in many Samaritan villages. [8:26] Meanwhile an angel of the Lord had said to Philip: “Set out on a journey southwards, along the road that runs down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” (It is now deserted). [8:27] So Philip set out on a journey; and on his way he came on an official of high rank, in the service of Candace, Queen of the Abyssinians. He was her treasurer, and had been to Jerusalem to worship, [8:28] and was now on his way home, sitting in his carriage and reading the prophet Isaiah. [8:29] The Spirit said to Philip: “Go up to the carriage over there and keep close to it.” [8:30] So Philip ran up, and he heard the Abyssinian reading the prophet Isaiah. “Do you understand what you are reading?” he asked. [8:31] “How can I,” the other answered, “unless some one will explain it to me?” and he invited Philip to get up and sit by his side. [8:32] The passage of scripture which he was reading was this — ‘Like a sheep, he was led away to slaughter, And as a lamb is dumb in the hands of its shearer, So he refrains from opening his lips. [8:33] He was humiliated and justice was denied him. Who will tell the story of his generation? For his life is cut off from earth.’ [8:34] “Now,” said the Treasurer, addressing Philip, “tell me, of whom is the prophet speaking? Of himself, or of some one else?” [8:35] Then Philip began, and, taking this passage as his text, told him the good news about Jesus. [8:36] Presently, as they were going along the road, they came to some water, and the Treasurer exclaimed: “Look! Here is water; what is to prevent my being baptized?” [8:38] So he ordered the carriage to stop, and they went down into the water — both Philip and the Treasurer — and Philip baptized him. [8:39] But, when they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught Philip away, and the Treasurer saw no more of him; for he continued his journey with a joyful heart. [8:40] But Philip was found at Ashdod, and, as he went on his way, he told the good news in all the towns through which he passed, until he came to Caesarea.[Acts] ---- [9:1] Meanwhile Saul, still breathing murderous threats against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest, [9:2] and asked him to give him letters to the Jewish congregations at Damascus, authorizing him, if he found there any supporters of the cause, whether men or women, to have them put in chains and brought to Jerusalem. [9:3] While on his journey, as he was nearing Damascus, suddenly a light from the heavens flashed around him. [9:4] He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him — “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” [9:5] “Who are you, Lord?” he asked. “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,”the voice answered; [9:6] “Yet stand up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” [9:7] The men traveling with Saul were meanwhile standing speechless; they heard the sound of the voice, but saw no one. [9:8] When Saul got up from the ground, though his eyes were open, he could see nothing. So his men led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus; [9:9] and for three days he was unable to see, and took nothing either to eat or to drink. ---- [9:10] Now there was at Damascus a disciple named Ananias, to whom, in a vision, the Lord said: “Ananias.” “Yes, Lord,” he answered. [9:11] “Go at once,”said the Lord, “to the ‘Straight Street’, and ask at Judas’s house for a man named Saul, from Tarsus. He is at this moment praying, [9:12] and he has seen, in a vision, a man named Ananias coming in and placing his hands on him, so that he may recover his sight.” [9:13] “Lord,” exclaimed Ananias, “I have heard from many people about this man — how much harm he has done at Jerusalem to your people there. [9:14] And, here, too, he holds authority from the chief priests to put in chains all those who invoke your name.” [9:15] But the Lord said to him: “Go, for this man is my chosen instrument to uphold my name before the Gentiles and their kings, and the people of Israel. [9:16] I will myself show him all that he has to suffer for my name.” [9:17] So Ananias went, entered the house, and, placing his hands on Saul, said: “Saul, my brother, I have been sent by the Lord — by Jesus, who appeared to you on your way here — so that you may recover your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” [9:18] Instantly it seemed as if a film fell from Saul’s eyes, and his sight was restored. Then he got up and was baptized, [9:19] and, after he had taken food, he felt his strength return. ---- Saul stayed for some days with the disciples who were at Damascus, [9:20] and at once began in the Synagogues to proclaim Jesus as the Son of God. [9:21] All who heard him were amazed. “Is not this,” they asked, “the man who worked havoc in Jerusalem among those that invoke this name, and who had also come here for the express purpose of having such persons put in chains and taken before the chief priests?” [9:22] Saul’s influence, however, kept steadily increasing, and he confounded the Jewish people who lived in Damascus by the proofs that he gave that Jesus was the Christ. [9:23] After some time some of them laid a plot to kill Saul, [9:24] but it became known to him. They even watched the gates day and night, to kill him; [9:25] but his disciples let him down by night through an opening in the wall, lowering him in a basket. [9:26] On his arrival in Jerusalem, Saul attempted to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, as they did not believe that he was really a disciple. [9:27] Barnabas, however, taking him by the hand, brought him to the apostles, and told them the whole story of how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord, and how the Lord had talked to him, and how in Damascus he had spoken out fearlessly in the name of Jesus. [9:28] After that, Saul remained in Jerusalem, in close intercourse with the apostles; and he spoke fearlessly in the name of the Lord, [9:29] talking and arguing with the Jews of foreign birth, who, however, made attempts to kill him. [9:30] But, when the followers found this out, they took him down to Caesarea, and sent him on his way to Tarsus. ---- [9:31] And so it came about that the church, throughout Judea, Galilee, and Samaria, enjoyed peace and became firmly established; and, ordering its life by respect for the Lord and the help of the Holy Spirit, it increased in numbers. ---- [9:32] Peter, while traveling from place to place throughout the country, went down to visit the people of Christ living at Lydda. [9:33] There he found a man named Aeneas, who had been bedridden for eight years with paralysis. [9:34] “Aeneas,” Peter said to him, “Jesus Christ cures you. Get up, and make your bed.” Aeneas got up at once; [9:35] and all the inhabitants of Lydda and of the Plain of Sharon saw him, and came over to the Lord’s side. ---- [9:36] At Jaffa there lived a disciple whose name was Tabitha, which is in Greek ‘Dorcas’ — a Gazelle. Her life was spent in doing kind and charitable actions. [9:37] Just at that time she was taken ill, and died; and they had washed her body and laid it out in an upstairs room. [9:38] Jaffa was near Lydda, and the disciples, having heard that Peter was at Lydda, sent two men with the request that he come to them without delay. [9:39] Peter returned with them at once. On his arrival, he was taken upstairs, and all the widows came around him in tears, showing the coats and other clothing which Dorcas had made while she was among them. [9:40] But Peter sent everybody out of the room, and knelt down and prayed. Then, turning to the body, he said: “Tabitha! Stand up.” She opened her eyes, and, seeing Peter, sat up. [9:41] Giving her his hand, Peter raised her up, and, calling in the widows and others of Christ’s people, presented her to them alive. [9:42] This became known all through Jaffa, and numbers of people came to believe in the Lord. [9:43] And Peter stayed some days at Jaffa with a tanner named Simon.[Acts] ---- [10:1] At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a captain in the regiment known as the ‘Italian Regiment,’ [10:2] A religious man and one who reverenced God, with all his household. He was liberal in his charities to the people, and prayed to God constantly. [10:3] One afternoon, about three o’clock, he distinctly saw in a vision an angel from God come to him, and call him by name. [10:4] Cornelius fixed his eyes on him and, in great alarm, said: “What is it, Lord?” “Your prayers and your charities,” the angel answered, “have been an acceptable offering to God. [10:5] And now, send messengers to Jaffa and fetch a man called Simon, who is also known as Peter. [10:6] He is lodging with a tanner named Simon, who has a house near the sea.” [10:7] When the angel, who had spoken to him, had gone, Cornelius called two servants and a religious soldier, who was one of his constant attendants, [10:8] and, after telling them the whole story, sent them to Jaffa. [10:9] On the next day, while these men were on their way, just as they were nearing the town, Peter went up on the housetop about midday to pray. [10:10] He became hungry and wanted something to eat; but while it was being prepared, he fell into a trance, [10:11] and saw that the heavens were open, and that something like a great sail was descending, let down by its four corners towards the earth. [10:12] In it were all kinds of quadrupeds, reptiles, and birds. [10:13] Then he was aware of a voice which said — “Stand up, Peter, kill something, and eat.” [10:14] “No, Lord, I cannot,” answered Peter, “for I have never eaten anything ‘defiled’ and ‘unclean’.” [10:15] Again he was aware of a voice which said — “What God has pronounced ‘clean’, do not regard as ‘defiled’.” [10:16] This happened three times, and then suddenly it was all taken up into the heavens. [10:17] While Peter was still perplexed as to the meaning of the vision that he had seen, the men sent by Cornelius, having enquired the way to Simon’s house, came up to the gate, [10:18] and called out and asked if the Simon, who was also known as Peter, was lodging there. [10:19] Peter was still pondering over the vision, when the Spirit said to him: “There are two men looking for you at this moment. [10:20] Go down at once and do not hesitate to go with them, for I have sent them.” [10:21] Peter went down to the men and said: “I am the person you are looking for. What is your reason for coming?” [10:22] The men replied: “Our captain, Cornelius, a pious man who reverences God and is well spoken of by the whole Jewish nation, has been instructed by a holy angel to send for you to his house, and to listen to what you have to say.” [10:23] So Peter invited them in and entertained them. The next day he lost no time in setting out with them, accompanied by some of the Lord's followers from Jaffa; [10:24] and the day following he entered Caesarea. Cornelius was expecting them, and had invited his relations and intimate friends to meet them. [10:25] So, when Peter entered the city, Cornelius met him, and, throwing himself at Peter’s feet, bowed to the ground. [10:26] Peter, however, lifted him up, saying as he did so: “Stand up, I am only human like yourself.” [10:27] Talking with him as he went, Peter entered the house, where he found a large gathering of people, to whom he said: [10:28] “You are doubtless aware that it is forbidden for a Jew to be intimate with a foreigner, or even to enter his house; and yet God has shown me that I ought not to call anyone ‘defiled’ or ‘unclean.’ [10:29] That was why I came, when I was sent for, without raising any objection. And now I ask your reason for sending for me.” [10:30] “Just three days ago this very hour,” Cornelius said, “I was in my house, saying the Afternoon Prayers, when a man in dazzling clothing suddenly stood before me. [10:31] ‘Cornelius,’ he said, ‘your prayer has been heard, and your charities have been accepted, by God. [10:32] Therefore send to Jaffa, and invite the Simon, who is also known as Peter, to come here. He is lodging in the house of Simon the tanner, near the sea.’ [10:33] Accordingly I sent to you at once, and you have been so good as to come. And now we are all here in the presence of God, to listen to all that you have been instructed by the Lord to say.” [10:34] Then Peter began. “I see, beyond all doubt,” he said, “that ‘God does not show partiality,’ [10:35] But that in every nation he who reverences him and does what is right is acceptable to him. [10:36] God has sent his message to the Israelites and told them, through Jesus Christ, the good news of peace — and Jesus is Lord of all! [10:37] You yourselves know the story which spread through all Judea, how, beginning form Galilee, after the baptism which John proclaimed — [10:38] The story, I mean, of Jesus of Nazareth, and how God consecrated him his Christ by enduing him with the Holy Spirit and with power; and how he went about doing good and curing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him. [10:39] We are ourselves, too, witnesses to all that he did in Judea and in Jerusalem; yet they put him to death by hanging him on a cross! [10:40] This Jesus God raised on the third day, and enabled him to appear, [10:41] not indeed to everyone, but to witnesses chosen beforehand by God — to us, who ate and drank with him after his resurrection from the dead. [10:42] Further, God charged us to proclaim to the people, and solemnly affirm, that it is Jesus who has been appointed by God judge of the living and the dead. [10:43] To him it is that all the prophets bear witness, when they say that everyone who believes in him receives through his name forgiveness of sins.” [10:44] Before Peter had finished saying these words, the Holy Spirit fell on all who were listening to the message. [10:45] Those converts from Judaism, who had come with Peter, were amazed that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been bestowed even on the Gentiles; [10:46] for they heard them speaking with ‘tongues’ and extolling God. At this Peter asked: [10:47] “Can anyone refuse the water for the baptism of these people, now that they have received the Holy Spirit as we did ourselves?” [10:48] And he directed that they should be baptized in the faith of Jesus Christ; after which they asked him to stay there a few days longer.[Acts] ---- [11:1] The apostles and the followers throughout Judea heard that even the Gentiles had welcomed God’s message. [11:2] But, when Peter went up to Jerusalem, those who were converts from Judaism began to attack him, [11:3] on the ground that he had visited people who were not circumcised, and had taken meals with them. [11:4] So Peter began to relate the facts to them as they had occurred. [11:5] “I was in the town of Jaffa,” he said, “and was praying; and, while in a trance, I saw a vision. There was something like a great sail descending, let down by its four corners out of the heavens; and it came right down to me. [11:6] Looking intently at it, I began to distinguish quadrupeds, wild beasts, reptiles, and birds; [11:7] and I also heard a voice saying to me — ‘Stand up, Peter, kill something and eat.’ [11:8] ‘No, Lord, I cannot,’ I answered, ‘for nothing ‘defiled’ or ‘unclean’ has ever passed my lips.’ [11:9] Then a second time there came a voice from the heavens. “What God has pronounced ‘clean’,”it said, “you must not call ‘defiled’.” [11:10] This happened three times, and then all was drawn up again into the heavens. [11:11] At that moment three men, who had been sent from Caesarea to see me, came up to the house in which we were. [11:12] The Spirit told me to go with them without hesitation. These six companions also went with me. And, when we came into the man’s house, [11:13] he told us how he had seen the angel standing in his house, and how the angel had said to him — ‘Send to Jaffa and fetch the Simon, who is also known as Peter; [11:14] for he will tell you truths, which will prove the means of salvation to you and all your household.’ [11:15] I had but just begun to speak,” continued Peter, “when the Holy Spirit fell on them, exactly as on us at the first; [11:16] and I recalled the saying of the Master — ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ [11:17] Since then, God had given them the very same gift as he gave us when we became believers in Jesus Christ the Master — who was I that I could thwart God?” [11:18] On hearing this statement, they said no more, but broke out into praise of God. “So even to the Gentiles,” they exclaimed, “God has granted the repentance which leads to life!” ---- [11:19] Now those who had been scattered in different directions, in consequence of the persecution that followed the death of Stephen, went as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, telling the message — but only to Jews. [11:20] Some of them, however, who were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, on coming to Antioch, addressed themselves also to the Jews of foreign birth, telling them the good news about that Lord Jesus. [11:21] The power of the Lord was with them, so that a great number who had learned to believe came over to the Lord’s side. [11:22] The news about them reached the ears of the church at Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. [11:23] On coming there he saw to his great joy these tokens of the loving kindness of God, and encouraged them all to make up their minds to be faithful to the Lord — [11:24] For Barnabas was a good man and full of the Holy Spirit and of faith — and a large number of people took their stand on the Lord’s side. [11:25] Afterwards Barnabas left for Tarsus to look for Saul; [11:26] and, when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. And so it came about that, for a whole year, they attended the meetings of the church there, and taught a large number of people; and it was in Antioch that the disciples were first called ‘Christians.’ ---- [11:27] During this time, some prophets came to Antioch from Jerusalem. [11:28] One of them, named Agabus, came forward and, under the influence of the Spirit, foretold a great famine that was to spread over all the world — a famine which occurred in the reign of Claudius. [11:29] So the disciples, without exception, determined, in proportion to their means, to send something to help the followers living in Judea. [11:30] And this they did, sending it to the officers of the church by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.[Acts] ---- [12:1] It was at that time that King Herod began to ill-treat some of the members of the church. [12:2] He had James, the brother of John, beheaded; [12:3] and, when he saw that the Jews were pleased with this, he proceeded to arrest Peter also. (This was during the Festival of the unleavened bread.) [12:4] After seizing Peter, Herod put him in prison, and entrusted him to the keeping of four Guards of four soldiers each, intending, after the Passover, to bring him up before the people. [12:5] So Peter was kept in prison, but meanwhile the prayers of the church were being earnestly offered to God on his behalf. [12:6] Just when Herod was intending to bring him before the people, on that very night Peter was asleep between two soldiers, chained to them both, while there were sentries in front of the door, guarding the prison. [12:7] Suddenly an angel of the Lord stood by him, and a light shone in the cell. The angel struck Peter on the side, and roused him with the words: “Get up quickly.” [12:8] The chains dropped from his wrists, and then the angel said: “Put on your belt and sandals.” When Peter had done so, the angel added: “Throw your cloak around you and follow me.” [12:9] Peter followed him out, not knowing that what was happening under the angel’s guidance was real, but thinking that he was seeing a vision. [12:10] Passing the first Guard, and then the second, they came to the iron gate leading into the city, which opened to them of itself; and, when they had passed through that, and had walked along one street, all at once the angel left him. [12:11] Then Peter came to himself and said: “Now I know beyond all doubt that the Lord has sent his angel, and has rescued me from Herod’s hands and from all that the Jewish people have been expecting.” [12:12] As soon as he realized what had happened, he went to the house of Mary, the mother of John who was also known as Mark, where a number of people were gathered together, praying. [12:13] On his knocking at the door in the gate, a maidservant, named Rhoda, came to answer it. [12:14] She recognized Peter’s voice, but in her joy left the gate unopened, and ran in, and told them that Peter was standing outside. [12:15] “You are mad!” they exclaimed. But, when she persisted that it was so, they said: “It must be his spirit!” [12:16] Meanwhile Peter went on knocking, and, when they opened the gate and saw him, they were amazed. [12:17] Peter signed to them with his hand to be silent, and then told them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison, adding: “Tell James and the others all this.” Then he left the house, and went away to another place. [12:18] In the morning there was a great stir among the soldiers — what could have become of Peter! [12:19] And, when Herod had made further search for him and failed to find him, he closely questioned the Guard, and ordered them away to execution. Then he went down from Judea to stay at Caesarea. [12:20] It happened that Herod was deeply offended with the people of Tyre and Sidon, but they went in a body to him, and, having succeeded in winning over Blastus, the Chamberlain, they begged Herod for a reconciliation, because their country was dependent on the king’s for its food supply. [12:21] On an appointed day Herod, wearing his state robes, seated himself on his throne, and delivered an oration. [12:22] The people kept shouting: “It is the voice of God, and not of a person!” [12:23] Instantly an angel of the Lord struck him, because he did not give God the glory; and he was attacked with worms, and died. [12:24] Meanwhile the Lord’s message kept extending, and spreading far and wide. ---- [12:25] When Barnabas and Saul had carried out their mission, they returned to Jerusalem, and took with them John, who was also known as Mark.[Acts] The Church and the Gentiles =========================== Doings of the Apostle Paul -------------------------- [13:1] Among the members of the church at Antioch there were several prophets and teachers — Barnabas, Simeon who was known by the name of ‘Black’, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen, foster-brother of Prince Herod, and Saul. [13:2] While they were engaged in the worship of the Lord and were fasting, the Holy Spirit said: “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul, for the work to which I have called them.” [13:3] Accordingly, after fasting and prayer, they placed their hands on them and dismissed them. ---- [13:4] Barnabas and Saul, sent on this mission, as they were, by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia, and from there sailed to Cyprus. [13:5] On reaching Salamis, they began to tell the message of God in the Jewish Synagogues; and they had John with them as an assistant. [13:6] After passing through the whole island, they reached Paphos, where they found an astrologer who pretended to be a prophet — a Jew by birth, whose name was Barjoshua. [13:7] He was at the court of the Governor, Sergius Paulus, a man of intelligence, who sent for Barnabas and Saul and asked to be told God’s message. [13:8] But Elymas, the astrologer (for that is the meaning of the word), opposed them, eager to divert the Governor’s attention from the faith. [13:9] However, Saul (who is the same as Paul), full of the Holy Spirit, fixed his eyes on him and said: [13:10] “You incarnation of deceit and all fraud! You son of the devil! You opponent of all that is good! Will you never cease to divert ‘the straight paths of the Lord’? Listen! [13:11] The hand of the Lord is on you even now, and you will be blind for a time and unable to see the sun.” Immediately a mist and darkness fell on him, and he went feeling about for some one to guide him. [13:12] When the Governor saw what had happened, he became a believer in Christ, being greatly impressed by the teaching about the Lord. ---- [13:13] After this, Paul and his companions set sail from Paphos and went to Perga in Pamphylia, where John left them and returned to Jerusalem. [13:14] The others went on from Perga and arrived at Antioch in Pisidia. There they went into the synagogue on the Sabbath and took their seats. [13:15] After the reading of the law and the prophets, the synagogue leader sent them this message — “Friends, if you have any helpful words to address to the people, now is the time to speak.” [13:16] So Paul rose and, motioning with his hand, said: “People of Israel and all here who worship God, hear what I have to say. [13:17] The God of this people Israel chose our ancestors, and during their stay in Egypt increased the prosperity of the people, and then ‘with uplifted arm brought them out from that land.’ [13:18] For about forty years ‘he bore with them in the desert’; [13:19] then, after destroying seven heathen nations in Canaan, he allotted their land to this people — [13:20] For about four hundred and fifty years. In later times he gave them Judges, of whom the prophet Samuel was the last. [13:21] And, when they demanded a king, God gave them Saul the son of Kish, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, who reigned for forty years. [13:22] After removing him, he raised David to the throne, and bore this testimony to him — ‘In David, the son of Jesse, I have found a man after my own heart, who will carry out all my purposes.’ [13:23] It was from this man’s descendants that God, in accordance with his promise, gave Israel a Savior — Jesus; [13:24] John having first proclaimed, before the appearance of Jesus, a baptism on repentance for all the people of Israel. [13:25] As John was drawing towards the end of his career, he said what do you suppose that I am? I am not the Christ. But there is “one coming” after me, whose sandal I am not worthy to untie.’ [13:26] Brothers and sisters, descendants of Abraham, and all those among you who worship God, it was to us that the message of this salvation was sent. [13:27] The people of Jerusalem and their leaders, failing to recognize Jesus, and not understanding the utterances of the prophets that are read every Sabbath, fulfilled them by condemning him. [13:28] They found no ground at all for putting him to death, and yet demanded his execution from Pilate; [13:29] and, after carrying out everything written about him, they took Jesus down from the cross, and laid him in a tomb. [13:30] But God raised him from the dead; [13:31] and he appeared for many days to those who had gone up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem, and who are now witnesses for him to the people. [13:32] We also have good news to tell you, about the promise made to our ancestors — [13:33] That our children have had this promise completely fulfilled to them by God, by his raising Jesus. That is just what is said in the second Psalm — ‘You are my Son; this day I have become your Father.’ [13:34] As to his raising Jesus from the dead, never again to return to corruption, this is what is said — ‘I will give to you the sacred promises made to David;’ [13:35] And, therefore, in another Psalm it is said — ‘You will not give up the Holy One to undergo corruption.’ [13:36] David, after obediently doing God’s will in his own time, ‘fell asleep and was laid by the side of his ancestors, and did undergo corruption; [13:37] but Jesus, whom God raised from the dead, did not undergo corruption. [13:38] I would, therefore, like you to know, friends, that through Jesus forgiveness of sins is being proclaimed to you, [13:39] and that, in union with him, everyone who believes in him is absolved from every sin from which under the law of Moses you could not be absolved. [13:40] Beware, therefore, that what is said in the prophets does not come true of you — [13:41] ‘Look, you despisers, and wonder, and perish; For I am doing a deed in your days — A deed which, though told you in full, you will never believe’.” [13:42] As Paul and Barnabas were leaving the synagogue, the people begged for a repetition of this teaching on the next Sabbath. [13:43] After the congregation had dispersed, many of the Jews, and of the converts who joined in their worship, followed Paul and Barnabas, who talked with them and urged them to continue to rely on the loving kindness of God. [13:44] On the following Sabbath, almost all the city gathered to hear God’s message. [13:45] But the sight of the crowds of people filled the minds of the Jews with jealousy, and they kept contradicting Paul’s statements in violent language. [13:46] Then Paul and Barnabas spoke out fearlessly, and said: “It was necessary that the message of God should be told to you first; but, since you reject it and reckon yourselves not worthy of the eternal life — we turn to the Gentiles! [13:47] For this is the Lord’s command to us — ‘I have destined you for a light to the Gentiles, A means of salvation to the ends of the earth’.” [13:48] On hearing this, the Gentiles were glad and extolled God’s message; and all those who had been enrolled for eternal life became believers in Christ; [13:49] and the Lord’s message was carried throughout that district. [13:50] But the Jews incited the women of high social standing who worshiped with them, and the leading men of the town, and started a persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and drove them out of their neighborhood. [13:51] They, however, shook the dust off their feet in protest, [13:52] and went to Iconium, leaving the disciples full of joy and of the Holy Spirit.[Acts] ---- [14:1] The same thing occurred in Iconium, where Paul and Barnabas went into the Jewish synagogue, and spoke in such a way that a great number of both Jews and Greeks believed in Christ. [14:2] But the Jews who refused to believe stirred up the Gentiles, and poisoned their minds against the Lord's followers. [14:3] Therefore Paul and Barnabas spent a long time there, and spoke out fearlessly, relying on the Lord, who confirmed the message of his love by permitting signs and wonders to take place at their hands. [14:4] But the townspeople were divided, some siding with the Jews, some with the apostles; [14:5] and, when there was an attempt on the part of both Gentiles and Jews, with their leaders, to resort to violence and to stone them, [14:6] the apostles heard of it, and took refuge in Lystra and Derbe, towns in Lycaonia, and in the district around, [14:7] and there they continued to tell the good news. [14:8] In the streets of Lystra there used to sit a man who had no power in his feet; he had been lame from his birth, and had never walked. [14:9] This man was listening to Paul speaking, when Paul, looking intently at him, and seeing that he had the faith to be healed, [14:10] said loudly: “Stand upright on your feet.” The man leaped up, and began walking about, [14:11] and the crowd, seeing what Paul had done, called out in the Lycaonian language: “The Gods have come down to us in human form.” [14:12] So they called Barnabas ‘Zeus,’ and Paul ‘Hermes,’ because he took the lead in speaking; [14:13] and the priest of Zeus-beyond-the-Walls, accompanied by the crowd, brought bullocks and garlands to the gates, with the intention of offering sacrifices. [14:14] But, when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard of it, they tore their clothes and rushed out into the crowd. “Friends, why are you doing this?” they shouted. [14:15] “We are only people like yourselves, and we have come with the good news that you should turn away from these follies to a living God, ‘who made the heavens, the earth, the sea, and everything that is in them.’ [14:16] In bygone times he permitted all the nations to go their own ways. [14:17] Yet he has not failed to give you, in the good he does, some revelation of himself — sending you from heaven rain and fruitful seasons, and gladdening your hearts with plenty and good cheer.” [14:18] Even with this appeal they could hardly restrain the people from offering sacrifice to them. [14:19] Presently, however, there came some Jews from Antioch, and Iconium who, after they had won over the people, stoned Paul, and dragged him out of the town, thinking him to be dead. [14:20] But, when the disciples had gathered around him, he got up and went back into the town; the next day he went with Barnabas to Derbe. [14:21] After telling the good news throughout that town, and making a number of converts, they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, [14:22] reassuring the minds of the disciples, urging them to remain true to the faith, and showing that it is only through many troubles that we can enter the kingdom of God. [14:23] They also appointed officers for them in every church, and, after prayer and fasting, commended them to the Lord in whom they had learned to believe. [14:24] Paul and Barnabas then went through Pisidia, and came into Pamphylia, [14:25] and, after telling the message at Perga, went down to Attaleia. [14:26] From there they sailed to Antioch — the place where they had been committed to the gracious care of God for the work which they had now finished. [14:27] After their arrival, they gathered the church together, and gave an account of all that God had helped them to do, and especially how he had opened to the Gentiles the door of faith; [14:28] and at Antioch they stayed with the disciples for a considerable time.[Acts] ---- [15:1] But certain persons came down from Judea, and began to teach the Lord's followers that, unless they were circumcised, in accordance with the custom required by Moses, they could not be saved. [15:2] This gave rise to a serious dispute, and much discussion, between Paul and Barnabas and these people, and it was therefore settled that Paul and Barnabas and others of their number should go up to Jerusalem, to consult the apostles and officers of the church about the matter under discussion. [15:3] The church, therefore, sent them on their journey, and they made their way through Phoenicia and Samaria, telling the story of the conversion of the Gentiles, to the great joy of all the followers. [15:4] On their arrival at Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church, as well as by the apostles and the officers, and gave an account of all that God had helped them to do. [15:5] Some of the Pharisees’ party, however, who had become believers in Christ, came forward and declared that they were bound to circumcise converts and to direct them to observe the law of Moses. [15:6] The apostles and the officers of the church held a meeting to consider this question. [15:7] After much discussion, Peter rose and said: “You, my friends, know well that long ago God singled me out — that through my lips the Gentiles should hear the message of the good news, and become believers in Christ. [15:8] Now God, who reads all hearts, declared his acceptance of the Gentiles, by giving them the Holy Spirit, just as he did to us. [15:9] He made no distinction between them and us, when he purified their hearts by their faith. [15:10] Why, then, do you now provoke God, by putting on the necks of these disciples a yoke which neither our ancestors nor we were able to bear? [15:11] No, it is through the loving kindness of the Lord Jesus that we, just as they do, believe that we have been saved.” [15:12] Every voice in the assembly was hushed, as they listened to Barnabas and Paul, while they gave an account of all the signs and wonders which God had shown among the Gentiles through them. [15:13] After they had finished speaking, James addressed the Council. “Friends,” he began, “hear what I have to say. [15:14] Simon has described the manner in which God first visited the Gentiles, in order to take from among them a people to bear his name. [15:15] And that is in harmony with the words of the prophets, where they say — [15:16] ‘“After this I will return; And I will rebuild the house of David which has fallen — Its ruins I will rebuild, And will set it up once more; [15:17] That so the rest of mankind may earnestly seek the Lord — Even all the Gentiles on whom my name has been bestowed.” [15:18] Says the Lord, as he does these things, foreknown from of old.’ [15:19] In my judgment, therefore, we should not add to the difficulties of those Gentiles who are turning to God, [15:20] but we should write to them to abstain from food that has been polluted by being sacrificed to idols, from impurity, from eating the flesh of strangled animals, and from blood. [15:21] For in every town, for generations past, there have been those who preach Moses, read as he is in the Synagogues every Sabbath.” [15:22] It was then decided by the apostles and the officers, with the assent of the whole church, to choose some of their number, and send them to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas. Those chosen were Judas (called Barsabas) and Silas, who were leaders among the community. [15:23] They were bearers of the following letter — ‘The apostles, and the followers who are the officers of the church, send their greetings to the followers of the Lord of Gentile birth in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia. [15:24] As we had heard that some of our number had upset you by their assertions, and unsettled your minds — without instructions from us — [15:25] We met and decided to choose certain men and send them to you with our dear friends Barnabas and Paul, [15:26] who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord, Jesus Christ. [15:27] We are accordingly sending Judas and Silas, and they will tell you by word of mouth what we are now writing. [15:28] We have, therefore, decided, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, to lay no further burden on you beyond these necessary conditions — [15:29] That you abstain from food offered to idols, from blood, from eating the flesh of strangled animals, and from impurity. If you guard yourselves against such things, it will be well with you. Farewell.’ [15:30] So the bearers of this letter were sent on their way, and went down to Antioch. There they called a meeting of all the followers, [15:31] and delivered the letter, the reading of which caused great rejoicing by its encouraging contents. [15:32] Judas and Silas, who were themselves prophets, further encouraged the them by many an address, and strengthened their faith. [15:33] After some stay, they were dismissed with kind farewells from the followers, and returned to those who had sent them. [15:35] Paul and Barnabas, however, remained in Antioch, where they taught and, with the help of many others, told the good news of the Lord’s message. [15:36] Some time after this, Paul said to Barnabas: “Let us go back and visit the Lord's followers in every town in which we have told the Lord’s message, and see how they are prospering.” [15:37] Barnabas wished to take with them John, whose other name was Mark; [15:38] but Paul felt that they ought not to take with them the man who had deserted them in Pamphylia, and had not gone on with them to their work. [15:39] This caused such unpleasant feeling between them that they parted ways, Barnabas taking Mark and sailing for Cyprus, [15:40] while Paul chose Silas for his companion and, after he had been committed by the followers to the gracious care of the Lord, [15:41] started on his journey and went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches in the faith. [Acts] [16:1] Among other places Paul went to Derbe and Lystra. At the latter place they found a disciple, named Timothy, whose mother was a Jewess who had become a believer in Christ, while his father was a Greek, [16:2] and who was well spoken of by the followers of the Lord in Lystra and Iconium. [16:3] Wishing to take this man with him on his journey, Paul caused him to be circumcised out of consideration for the Jews in that neighborhood, for they all knew that his father had been a Greek. [16:4] As they traveled from town to town, they gave the followers the decisions which had been reached by the apostles and officers of the church at Jerusalem, for them to observe. [16:5] So the churches grew stronger in the faith, and increased in numbers from day to day. [16:6] They next went through the Phrygian district of Galatia, but were restrained by the Holy Spirit from delivering the message in Roman Asia. [16:7] When they reached the borders of Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus did not permit them. [16:8] Passing through Mysia, they went down to Troas; [16:9] and there one night Paul saw a vision. A Macedonian was standing and appealing to him — ‘Come over to Macedonia and help us.’ [16:10] So, immediately after Paul had seen the vision, we looked for an opportunity to cross over to Macedonia, concluding that God had summoned us to tell the good news to the people there. ---- [16:11] Accordingly we set sail from Troas, and ran before the wind to Samothrace, reaching Neapolis the next day. [16:12] From there we made our way to Philippi, which is the principal city of that part of Macedonia, and also a Roman Settlement. In that city we spent several days. [16:13] On the Sabbath we went outside the gate to the riverside, where we supposed there would be a place of prayer; and we sat down and talked to the women who were gathered there. [16:14] Among them was a woman, named Lydia, belonging to Thyatira, a dealer in purple cloth, who was accustomed to join in the worship of God. The Lord touched this woman’s heart, so that she gave attention to the message delivered by Paul, [16:15] and, when she and her household had been baptized, she urged us to become her guests. “Since you have shown your conviction,” she said, “that I really am a believer in the Lord, come and stay in my house.” And she insisted on our doing so. [16:16] One day, as we were on our way to the place of prayer, we were met by a girl possessed by a divining spirit, who made large profits for her masters by fortune-telling. [16:17] This girl followed Paul and the rest of us, calling: “These men are servants of the most high God, and they are bringing you news of a way to salvation.” [16:18] She had been doing this for several days, when Paul, much vexed, turned and said to the spirit within her: “In the name of Jesus Christ I command you to leave her.” That very moment the spirit left her. [16:19] When her masters saw that there was no hope of further profit from her, they seized Paul and Silas, dragged them into the public square to the authorities, [16:20] and took them before the Magistrates. “These men are causing a great disturbance in our town,” they complained; [16:21] “They are Jews, and they are teaching customs which it is not right for us, as Romans, to sanction or adopt.” [16:22] The mob rose as one person against them, and the Magistrates stripped them of their clothing and ordered them to be beaten with rods. [16:23] After beating them severely, the Magistrates put them in prison, with orders to the jailer to keep them in safe custody. [16:24] On receiving so strict an order, the Governor put them into the inner cell, and secured their feet in the stocks. [16:25] About midnight, while Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and while the prisoners were listening to them, [16:26] suddenly there was an earthquake of such violence that the jail was shaken to its foundations; all the doors flew open, and all the prisoners’ chains were loosened. [16:27] Roused from his sleep, and seeing the prison doors open, the Governor drew his sword intending to kill himself, in the belief that the prisoners had escaped. [16:28] But Paul called our loudly: “Do not harm yourself; we are all here.” [16:29] Calling for a light, the Governor rushed in, and flung himself trembling at the feet of Paul and Silas. [16:30] Then he led them out, and said: “What must I do to be saved?” [16:31] “Believe in Jesus, our Lord,” they replied, “and you will be saved, you and your household too.” [16:32] Then they spoke to him of God’s message, and to all his household as well. [16:33] And that very hour of the night he took them and washed their wounds, and he himself and everyone belonging to him were baptized without delay. [16:34] Afterwards he took them up to his house and set before them something to eat, rejoicing that he, with all his household, had come to believe in God. [16:35] In the morning the Magistrates sent the police with an order for the men to be discharged. [16:36] The jailer told Paul of his instructions. “The Magistrates have sent an order for your discharge,” he said, “so you had better leave the place at once and go quietly away.” [16:37] But Paul’s answer to them was: “They have flogged us in public without trial, though we are Roman citizens, and they have put us in prison, and now they are for sending us out secretly! No, indeed! Let them come and take us out themselves.” [16:38] The police reported his words to the Magistrates, who, on hearing that Paul and Silas were Roman citizens, were alarmed, [16:39] and went to the prison, and did their best to conciliate them. Then they took them out, and begged them to leave the city. [16:40] When Paul and Silas left the prison, they went to Lydia’s house, and, after they had seen the Lord's followers, and encouraged them, they left the place.[Acts] ---- [17:1] After passing through Amphipolis and Apollonia, Paul and Silas came to Thessalonica. Here the Jews had a synagogue; [17:2] and, following his usual custom, Paul joined them, and for three Sabbaths addressed them, drawing his arguments from the scriptures. [17:3] He laid before them and explained that the Christ must undergo suffering and rise from the dead; and “It is this man,” he declared, “who is the Christ — this Jesus about whom I am telling you.” [17:4] Some of the people were convinced, and threw in their lot with Paul and Silas, as did also a large body of Greeks who were accustomed to join in the Jewish services, and a great number of leading women. [17:5] But the Jewish leaders, becoming jealous, engaged some worthless fellows from the streets, and, getting a mob together, kept the city in an uproar. They attacked Jason’s house, with the intention of bringing Paul and Silas before the Popular Assembly; [17:6] and, not finding them there, they proceeded to drag Jason and some of the Lord's followers before the city magistrates, shouting out: “These men, who have turned the world upside down, have now come here, [17:7] and have been harbored by Jason! They say that some one else is king — a man called Jesus!” [17:8] On hearing this, the people and the city magistrates were much concerned; [17:9] and, before letting them go, they took bail from Jason and the others. [17:10] That very night the followers sent Paul and Silas off to Beroea; and on reachin