Judith

Judith 1

King Nabuchodonosor of Assyria makes war with King Arphaxad in the great plain. He sends out ambassadors to various nations, but they mock him and refuse to join the battle. In the end, Nabuchodonosor prevails over Arphaxad and takes control of his cities.

Judith 2

Nabuchodonosor king of the Assyrians orders Holofernes to lead a massive army against the west country, which has disobeyed his commandment. The army is described as being without number, with 120,000 footmen and 12,000 horsemen. They destroy several cities and countries, spreading fear throughout the region.

Judith 3

The ambassadors of Nabuchodonosor's servants approach Holofernes to propose peace terms, offering their cities, fields, and livestock for his use. Holofernes responds by marching toward the sea coast, setting up garrisons in high cities and gathering troops for aid. He then pitches camp between Geba and Scythopolis, preparing to gather all his army's carriages.

Judith 4

The children of Israel in Judea hear about Holofernes' destruction of neighboring nations and are afraid for Jerusalem. They send out messengers to prepare defenses and fortify strategic locations. The people, including priests and their families, fast and pray for God's protection.

Judith 5

Achior, the captain of the Ammonites, tells Holofernes about the Israelites' history, including their origins in Mesopotamia, their sojourn in Egypt, and their eventual return to Canaan. He warns Holofernes that if he attacks the Israelites without cause, it will be a sign of God's displeasure. The people around Holofernes are skeptical of Achior's words and urge Holofernes to attack the Israelites.

Judith 6

Holofernes, the chief captain of the army of Assur, interrogates Achior, a Moabite who had prophesied against them. Holofernes threatens to destroy Achior if he does not retract his words. Meanwhile, Holofernes orders his servants to bring Achior to Bethulia and deliver him into the hands of the Israelites.

Judith 7

The Assyrian army, led by Holofernes, surrounds Bethulia, a city inhabited by the Israelites. The people are greatly troubled by the enemy's vast numbers and begin to lose hope. In desperation, they consider surrendering to the Assyrians.

Judith 8

Judith, a widow of great beauty and wealth, speaks out against the governor Ozias and his advisors who have sworn to deliver Bethulia to the Assyrians unless God intervenes within five days. She argues that God is not bound by human oaths or threats, and that they should wait for His salvation. Judith offers to take matters into her own hands and promises a miraculous outcome.

Judith 9

Judith prays for God's help against the Assyrian invaders, recalling His past victories over enemies who defiled His sanctuary. She asks God to use her as an instrument of judgment and to break down the strength of their armies through her deceitful words. Judith appeals to God's power and might, which she believes is not in numbers or strong men but in helping the afflicted and oppressed.

Judith 10

Judith disguises herself as a widow to gain entrance into the Assyrian camp. She is taken before Holofernes, where she charms him with her beauty and pretends to be a traitor who can lead him to victory over the Israelites.

Judith 11

Judith pleads with Holofernes to spare her people, telling him that they are about to sin against their God by consuming forbidden foods. She offers to go out at night and pray for guidance on when to attack, promising a decisive victory for the Assyrians. Holofernes is impressed by Judith's words and beauty.

Judith 12

Judith is invited to a banquet by Holofernes, where she feigns interest in drinking with him. She eats and drinks with him, but secretly plans her escape. Meanwhile, Holofernes becomes infatuated with Judith and loses his guard.

Judith 13

Judith kills Holofernes while he is drunk and asleep in his tent. She takes his head as proof of her victory and returns to Bethulia, where she is greeted as a hero. The chapter concludes with the people praising God for their deliverance.

Judith 14

Judith recounts her story to the Israelites, telling them how she beheaded Holofernes while he slept. The people are amazed and rejoice at the news of their enemy's defeat. Meanwhile, Achior, who was sent by Holofernes to spy on the Israelites, is convinced of God's power and joins the Israelite community.

Judith 15

The Israelites, emboldened by Judith's victory over Holofernes, launch a surprise attack on the enemy camp. They slaughter the Assyrian forces, and the people of Bethulia join in the spoils. The high priest Joacim and other leaders from Jerusalem come to congratulate Judith and praise her bravery.

Judith 16

Judith sings a thanksgiving song in all Israel, praising God for delivering her from Holofernes and his army. She recounts how she defeated the enemy general with her beauty and cunning, and how the Lord Almighty punished them. The chapter concludes with Judith's dedication of the spoils to the Lord and her subsequent honor and respect among the people.