Books Jesus Read

Chapter 4: Uncompromising Standards – Judith

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What God is there beside Nebuchadnezzar? He will send his power to destroy them from the face of the earth. We, his servants, will utterly destroy them. 6 And you, Achior, shall not see my face again until I take vengeance on this nation that came out of Egypt. For you shall fall along with them.” Then Holofernes commanded his servants to bind up Achior and to leave him at the springs near the hills leading up to Bethulia. When Achior was discovered by some Israelites, he was freed and led to Bethulia, where he was presented to its rulers, Uzziah son of Micah from the tribe of Simeon, Chabris son of Gothoniel, and Charmis son of Melchiel. When the elders, youth, and women of Bethulia were assembled, they set Achior before them and Uzziah asked him to explain all that had taken place. So, Achior reported the words of Holofernes, those spoken in his council and to the princes of Assyria, including his proud boasting against the house of Israel. On hearing this, the people worshiped God and cried out in prayer, “O, Lord God of heaven! Look down on their pride. Have mercy on the humiliation of your people, and look favorably on those who are set apart to you.” Then they comforted Achior and encouraged him greatly. From the assembly, Uzziah brought Achior to his home and prepared a banquet for him and the elders. All that night they called on the God of Israel for help. The next day Holofernes ordered his entire army to break camp to prepare to move against Bethulia in order to

6 Jdt 6:4–6:21 is omitted.