1
55:1 But, to bring forward examples from the Gentiles, also many kings and
leaders, when a time of pestilence had arisen, being warned by oracles, gave
themselves unto death, that they might deliver their citizens by their blood. Many went out from their own cities, that there might be no more sedition
therein.
55:2 We know that many among us gave themselves up unto bonds, that they
might deliver others.
2
Many have given themselves up unto slavery, and, having
received their own price, have therewith fed others.
55:3 Many women, waxing strong through the grace of God, have performed many
manly deeds.
55:4 The blessed Judith, when the city was besieged, asked of the elders that
she should be permitted to go forth into the camp of the aliens.
55:5 She therefore delivered herself unto danger, and went out through love
of her country and of her people, who were besieged. And the Lord delivered
Olophernes into the hands of a woman.
55:6 To no smaller danger did Esther, being perfect in faith, expose herself,
that she might deliver the twelve tribes of Israel, who were about to perish.
3
For by fasting and humiliation she besought the Master, who overlooketh all
things, the God of Ages, who, seeing the humiliation of her soul, delivered the
people for whose sake she put herself in jeopardy.