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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of Heroes of Israel, by Theodore Gerald Soares
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: Heroes of Israel
+ Text of the Hero Stories with Notes and Questions for Young Students
+
+Author: Theodore Gerald Soares
+
+Editor: Ernest D. Burton
+
+Release Date: August 3, 2011 [EBook #36956]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK HEROES OF ISRAEL ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Heiko Evermann, Hazel Batey, and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net;
+scanned by Fox in the Stars from the collection of Brays
+Advent Christian Church in Iberia, Missouri
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+ CONSTRUCTIVE BIBLE STUDIES
+
+ EDITED BY
+
+ ERNEST D. BURTON
+
+
+
+
+ HEROES OF ISRAEL
+
+
+
+
+ THE UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO PRESS
+ CHICAGO, ILLINOIS
+
+ Agents
+ THE BAKER & TAYLOR COMPANY
+ NEW YORK
+
+ THE CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY PRESS
+ LONDON AND EDINBURGH
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration: THE SEMITIC WORLD]
+
+
+
+
+ HEROES OF ISRAEL
+
+ TEXT OF THE HERO STORIES WITH NOTES AND QUESTIONS FOR YOUNG STUDENTS
+
+ _By_
+
+ THEODORE GERALD SOARES
+ _Professor of Homiletics and Religious Education in the_
+ _University of Chicago_
+
+
+
+
+ THE UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO PRESS CHICAGO, ILLINOIS
+
+
+
+
+ COPYRIGHT 1908 BY THE UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO
+
+ All Rights Reserved
+
+ Published January 1909
+ Second Impression September 1909
+ Third Impression December 1909
+ Second Edition October 1911
+
+
+
+
+
+ Composed and Printed By The University of Chicago Press
+ Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A.
+
+
+
+
+ TO MY FATHER MY FIRST HERO
+
+
+
+
+PREFACE
+
+
+It is the purpose to present these Hero Studies in two books, one being
+the present volume which is intended as a textbook for the students, the
+other being the teacher's manual with fuller explanations and
+suggestions. The necessary prefatory statements will be found in the
+respective books under the titles "Foreword to the Student" and
+"Foreword to the Teacher".
+
+This volume contains the text of the stories, with explanatory notes and
+questions intended to stimulate study. Each lesson consists of a
+complete story arranged in such a way as to impress the main features of
+the narrative clearly upon the student's mind. The explanatory material
+is reduced to the minimum, since the main desire is to let the stories
+speak for themselves and not to burden the student with wearisome
+details. The three reviews divide the course into the three natural
+parts, the first extending to Christmas, the second to the end of March,
+the third, which is shorter, to the middle of June, when it is usually
+wise for the regular courses to end.
+
+The text of the British Revisers is used in the reprint of the stories
+with the consent and approval of the Oxford and Cambridge University
+presses. As the plan of simplifying the narratives involved certain
+verbal changes, it has seemed wise to go a step farther and to use the
+spellings which would be more familiar to American students.
+
+For constant suggestions as to form and method I am greatly indebted to
+my wife, who has taught the lessons from advance sheets to a class of
+boys. It is a pleasure to acknowledge the valuable counsel of Professor
+E. D. Burton, the editor of the series, and especially that of Professor
+J. M. P. Smith, who at Professor Burton's request, and to my own great
+satisfaction, assumed the editorial responsibility of reading the
+manuscript, and gave me the benefit of his ripe scholarship and
+judgment.
+
+ T. G. S.
+
+ July 29, 1908
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS
+
+ Page
+
+ FOREWORD TO THE STUDENT xv
+
+ CHAPTER
+
+ I. ABRAHAM, THE FATHER OF THE FAITHFUL 1
+
+ II. ABRAHAM, THE MAGNANIMOUS 9
+
+ III. ABRAHAM AND ISAAC 16
+
+ IV. JACOB, THE CLEVER 29
+
+ V. ISRAEL, THE GODLY 41
+
+ VI. JOSEPH, THE SLAVE 51
+
+ VII. JOSEPH, THE RULER 60
+
+ VIII. JOSEPH, THE GENEROUS 70
+
+ IX. MOSES' EARLY LIFE 85
+
+ X. MOSES' COMMISSION 94
+
+ XI. MOSES, THE DELIVERER 104
+
+ XII. MOSES, THE LAWGIVER 117
+
+ XIII. REVIEW: THE HEROES OF ISRAEL'S WANDERINGS 129
+
+ XIV. JOSHUA AND CALEB 135
+
+ XV. GIDEON, THE WARRIOR 147
+
+ XVI. SAMSON, THE STRONG MAN 158
+
+ XVII. RUTH, THE FOREIGNER 171
+
+ XVIII. SAMUEL AND ELI 187
+
+ XIX. SAMUEL AND SAUL 200
+
+ XX. JONATHAN'S VICTORY 211
+
+ XXI. DAVID AND THE GIANT 223
+
+ XXII. THE HERO FRIENDS, DAVID AND JONATHAN 237
+
+ XXIII. DAVID, THE OUTLAW 247
+
+ XXIV. DAVID, THE KING 260
+
+ XXV. DAVID AND HIS REBEL SON 270
+
+ XXVI. REVIEW: TEN HEROES OF ISRAEL 283
+
+ XXVII. SOLOMON, THE WISE KING 289
+
+ XXVIII. ELIJAH, THE CHAMPION OF PURE RELIGION 303
+
+ XXIX. ELIJAH, THE CHAMPION OF JUSTICE 317
+
+ XXX. ELISHA, THE HEALER AND COUNSELOR 328
+
+ XXXI. NEHEMIAH, THE BUILDER 339
+
+ XXXII. ESTHER, THE PATRIOT QUEEN 351
+
+ XXXIII. JUDAS, THE HAMMERER 364
+
+ XXXIV. DANIEL AND HIS FRIENDS 373
+
+ XXXV. REVIEW: SEVEN HEROIC NAMES 385
+
+
+
+
+
+MAPS AND ILLUSTRATIONS
+
+ Page
+
+ MAP OF THE SEMITIC WORLD Frontispiece
+
+ A CARAVAN IN PALESTINE 5
+
+ MAP OF CANAAN opposite 47
+
+ THE SEAL OF THE GRAND VIZIER OF RAMSES II 66
+
+ PORTRAIT STATUES OF RAMSES II 88
+
+ ORIENTAL SANDALS 95
+
+ BRICK-MAKING IN EGYPT 102
+
+ MOSES 118
+
+ WINNOWING GRAIN 179
+
+ A PHILISTINE 212
+
+ DAVID 226
+
+ CEDARS OF LEBANON 294
+
+ ESTHER'S PALACE 357
+
+
+
+
+FOREWORD TO THE STUDENT
+
+
+1. We are to study the heroes of Israel. What is a hero? We use this
+word of the chief character in a book or of one who does a very noble
+deed. It is also applied to the great men of the past, who have done
+deeds that have made their names famous in story and who have been the
+makers of nations. Call to mind some American heroes.
+
+2. Why should we study the heroes of Israel? For three reasons: (1) The
+stories are very interesting and full of adventure. (2) Israel played a
+most important part in the world's history. The Jews, who now represent
+Israel, are no longer a nation, and unhappily they are often very badly
+treated, but they have many noble qualities. We owe some of the best
+things in our modern civilization to the men of old Israel. We shall
+find a great value in reading their story. (3) The questions of duty and
+religion that often puzzle us are very old questions. They came to these
+men thousands of years ago. We shall find them clearer to us as we read
+how the old heroes struggled with their difficulties.
+
+3. How shall we study? The stories of the heroes are in the Old
+Testament, but in order to bring them together, and to separate them
+from other matter which is less profitable for young people to study
+they have been reprinted in this book. Most of the more difficult names
+have been omitted, together with everything that would take from the
+interest in the story. Each chapter is divided into three parts: The
+Story, The Meaning of the Story, and the Written Review. In preparing
+the lesson, the story should be read through first. It would be a very
+good plan to read it aloud to someone. Then take up the suggestions in
+the second part of the lesson, one at a time, and look up the sections
+of the story to find answers to the questions. When special Scripture
+references are given look them up, and use the maps whenever directions
+are given to that effect. When you have finished the study read the
+whole story through again and be sure that you understand it.
+
+The Written Review is very important. Have a notebook in which you will
+write the review stories every week. The best time to write the review
+story is soon after the meeting of the class, while the lesson is still
+fresh in memory. Always read the story of the hero again before you
+write the review. Keep the notebook neat. It is a good plan to write the
+exercise in pencil first and then copy it into the book in ink. At the
+end of the year you will have a good-sized book full of your own hero
+stories.
+
+A careful study of these lessons will make you acquainted with a score
+of the mighty men of the past. Many of them you will wish to keep as
+life-long friends.
+
+
+
+
+ABRAHAM
+
+
+ I. ABRAHAM, THE FATHER OF THE FAITHFUL
+
+ II. ABRAHAM, THE MAGNANIMOUS
+
+ III. ABRAHAM AND ISAAC
+
+
+
+
+
+ABRAHAM, THE FATHER OF THE FAITHFUL
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§1. The Old Home of Abraham= (Gen. 11:31)
+
+Terah took Abraham his son, and Lot the son of Haran, his son's son, and
+Sarah his daughter-in-law, his son Abraham's wife; and they went forth
+with them from Ur of the Chaldees, to go into the land of Canaan; and
+they came unto Haran, and dwelt there, and Terah died in Haran.
+
+
+=§2. The Journey Westward= (Gen. 12:1-5)
+
+Now the Lord said unto Abraham, "Get thee out of thy country, and from
+thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto the land that I will show
+thee: and I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and
+make thy name great; and be thou a blessing: and I will bless them that
+bless thee, and him that curseth thee will I curse: and in thee shall
+all the families of the earth be blessed."
+
+So Abraham went, as the Lord had spoken unto him; and Lot went with him:
+and Abraham was seventy and five years old when he departed out of
+Haran. And Abraham took Sarah his wife, and Lot his brother's son, and
+all their substance that they had gathered, and the souls that they had
+gotten in Haran; and they went forth to go into the land of Canaan:
+and into the land of Canaan they came.
+
+
+=§3. Abraham's Altars= (Gen. 12:6-9)
+
+And Abraham passed through the land unto the place of Shechem, unto the
+oak of Moreh. And the Canaanite was then in the land.
+
+And the Lord appeared unto Abraham and said, "Unto thy seed will I give
+this land." And there built he an altar unto the Lord, who appeared unto
+him.
+
+And he removed from thence unto the mountain on the east of Beth-el, and
+pitched his tent, having Beth-el on the west, and Ai on the east: and
+there he built an altar unto the Lord, and called upon the name of the
+Lord. And Abraham journeyed, going on still toward the South.
+
+
+=§4. A Test of Courage= (Gen. 12:10-20)
+
+And there was a famine in the land: and Abraham went down into Egypt to
+sojourn there; for the famine was sore in the land. And it came to pass,
+when he was come near to enter into Egypt, that he said unto Sarah his
+wife, "Behold now, I know that thou art a fair woman to look upon: and
+it shall come to pass, when the Egyptians shall see thee, that they
+shall say, 'This is his wife': and they will kill me, but they will save
+thee alive. Say, I pray thee, thou art my sister: that it may be well
+with me for thy sake, and that my soul may live because of thee."
+
+And it came to pass, that, when Abraham was come into Egypt, the
+Egyptians beheld the woman that she was very fair. And the princes of
+Pharaoh saw her, and praised her to Pharaoh; and the woman was taken
+into Pharaoh's house. And he treated Abraham well for her sake: and he
+had sheep, and oxen, and he-asses, and menservants, and maidservants,
+and she-asses, and camels. And the Lord plagued Pharaoh and his house
+with great plagues because of Sarah Abraham's wife.
+
+[Illustration: A CARAVAN IN PALESTINE]
+
+And Pharaoh called Abraham, and said, "What is this that thou hast done
+unto me? why didst thou not tell me that she was thy wife? Why saidst
+thou, She is my sister? so that I took her to be my wife: now therefore
+behold thy wife, take her, and go thy way."
+
+And Pharaoh gave men charge concerning him: and they brought him on the
+way, and his wife, and all that he had.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+1 (§1). We begin with the man to whom Israel looked back as their first
+great hero. What was his name? What was his father's name?
+
+2 (§1). Where did he come from? Look at the map of the Semitic world.
+You will see two great rivers which join and then flow into the Persian
+Gulf. It is not always possible to know where ancient cities were
+located, but it is supposed that Ur may have been on the Euphrates near
+the point where the rivers join. It is called Ur of the Chaldees,
+because people of that name lived there. Terah therefore came from the
+very old country of Babylonia, which was rich and fertile because it was
+in the valley of the two rivers. What American river has a rich country
+in all its wide valley?
+
+3 (§1). What route would be taken to go from Ur to Canaan? If you lay a
+ruler on the map you will see that Jerusalem is almost directly west of
+Ur. They lay about six hundred miles apart. But there was a very good
+reason why they could not travel right across that way. What kind of
+country would they have had to pass through? They had to follow the
+river for nearly the same distance in a northwesterly direction. This
+would bring them to a very rich country where it seems they stopped for
+some time and where Terah died. What was its name?
+
+4 (§2). Evidently most of Terah's tribe were satisfied to stay in Haran,
+but Abraham felt a great stir in him to continue the journey to the West
+land. He believed that God wanted him to go there and to become the
+founder of a great nation that should serve Jehovah. This feeling became
+so strong that at last it was clear to him that the Lord was calling
+him. Learn the beautiful passage of the Call of Abraham (Gen. 12:1-3)
+so that you can recite it.
+
+5(§2). What route would Abraham take from Haran to Canaan? Let us look
+at the map again. There was a caravan road that ran from Haran west
+across the river, then it turned south and came down through the country
+of Syria to a very ancient city. Abraham's chief servant came from this
+city (Gen. 15:2). The road still runs south and then crosses the river
+Jordan into Palestine.
+
+6(§2). How long would such a journey take? There were no railroads and
+there are still very few in that country. Travel was very slow. We have
+an account in Ezra 7:9 of how long it took a company to make the journey
+from Babylon long afterward. But Abraham's company would move more
+slowly, for we must think of him as traveling with a great many animals
+and servants and children. It was very much as the Arab tribes move
+about to-day.
+
+7(§2). Think of what Abraham left behind when he obeyed God's voice and
+came into the strange land. What company of people in American history
+felt that God called them to leave their own country and come into the
+new land? Is it always safe to obey God? Look up Gal. 3:9 and Heb.
+11:8-10 and see why Abraham is called "The Father of the Faithful."
+
+8(§3). What promise did God give Abraham after he came to Canaan? What
+places did Abraham visit? Locate them on the map of Canaan. What
+religious act did he perform wherever he went? What act is the same in
+our lives?
+
+9(§4). Abraham's numerous sheep and cattle required him to journey from
+place to place. Why was this? Why would dry weather cause him trouble?
+Notice on the map that when the famine came he was in the south of
+Palestine. It was only a short journey west to reach a very rich
+country, which lay in the valley of a great river. Name the country
+and its river and explain why there was no drought there.
+
+10 (§4). We shall often notice that the old heroes did wrong. Tell the
+story of Abraham's visit to Egypt. What do you think of his conduct? If
+we knew only this part of Abraham's story we should not call him a hero.
+Ought we then to judge anyone by a single act?
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+This story deals with several journeys. Let us get them all before our
+eyes. Turn to the map of the Semitic world at the beginning of the book
+and make a very simple copy of it, according to the following
+directions: Mark the two great rivers in the east. Make the coast line
+of the Mediterranean Sea. Draw the River Nile. Make the coast line of
+the Red Sea. Locate Ur, Haran, Damascus, Canaan, Egypt. Make this map
+first in pencil and then ink it.
+
+
+
+
+II. ABRAHAM, THE MAGNANIMOUS
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§5. Abraham's Treatment of Lot= (Gen. 13)
+
+And Abraham went out of Egypt, he, and his wife, and all that he had,
+and Lot with him, into the South. And Abraham was very rich in cattle,
+in silver, and in gold. And he went on his journeys from the South even
+to Beth-el, unto the place where his tent had been at the beginning,
+between Beth-el and Ai; unto the place of the altar, which he had made
+there at the first: and there Abraham called on the name of the Lord.
+
+And Lot also, who went with Abraham, had flocks, and herds, and tents.
+And the land was not able to bear them, that they might dwell together:
+for their substance was great, so that they could not dwell together.
+And there was a strife between the herdmen of Abraham's cattle and the
+herdmen of Lot's cattle.
+
+And Abraham said unto Lot, "Let there be no strife, I pray thee, between
+me and thee, and between my herdmen and thy herdmen; for we are
+brethren. Is not the whole land before thee? separate thyself, I pray
+thee, from me: if thou wilt take the left hand, then I will go to the
+right; or if thou take the right hand, then I will go to the left."
+
+And Lot lifted up his eyes, and beheld all the Plain of Jordan, that it
+was well watered everywhere, before the Lord destroyed Sodom and
+Gomorrah, like the garden of the Lord, like the land of Egypt, as thou
+goest unto Zoar. So Lot chose him all the Plain of Jordan; and Lot
+journeyed east: and they separated themselves the one from the other.
+Abraham dwelt in the land of Canaan, and Lot dwelt in the cities of the
+Plain, and moved his tent as far as Sodom. Now the men of Sodom were
+wicked and sinners against the Lord exceedingly.
+
+And the Lord said unto Abraham, after that Lot was separated from him,
+"Lift up now thine eyes, and look from the place where thou art,
+northward and southward and eastward and westward: for all the land
+which thou seest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed for ever. And
+I will make thy seed as the dust of the earth: so that if a man can
+number the dust of the earth, then shall thy seed also be numbered.
+Arise, walk through the land in the length of it and in the breadth of
+it; for unto thee will I give it."
+
+And Abraham moved his tent, and came and dwelt by the oaks of Mamre,
+which are in Hebron, and built there an altar unto the Lord.
+
+
+=§6. Abraham's Deliverance of Lot= (Gen. 14:10-24)
+
+And there came five kings from the East and made war against the kings
+of Sodom and Gomorrah. And the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah fled, and
+they fell there, and they that remained fled to the mountain. And they
+took all the goods of Sodom and Gomorrah, and all their victuals, and
+went their way. And they took Lot, Abraham's brother's son, who dwelt in
+Sodom, and his goods, and departed.
+
+And there came one that had escaped, and told Abraham the Hebrew: now he
+dwelt by the oaks of Mamre the Amorite, brother of Eshcol, and brother
+of Aner; and these were confederate with Abraham. And when Abraham heard
+that his brother was taken captive, he led forth his trained men, born
+in his house, three hundred and eighteen, and pursued as far as Dan. And
+he divided himself against them by night, he and his servants, and smote
+them, and pursued them unto Hobah, which is on the left hand of
+Damascus. And he brought back all the goods, and also brought again his
+brother Lot, and his goods, and the women also, and the people.
+
+And the king of Sodom went out to meet him, after his return from the
+slaughter of the kings. And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth
+bread and wine: and he was priest of God Most High. And he blessed him
+and said, "Blessed be Abraham of God Most High, possessor of heaven and
+earth: and blessed be God Most High, which hath delivered thine enemies
+into thy hand." And he gave him a tenth of all.
+
+And the king of Sodom said unto Abraham, "Give me the persons, and take
+the goods to thyself."
+
+And Abraham said to the king of Sodom, "I have lifted up mine hand unto
+the Lord, God Most High, possessor of heaven and earth, that I will not
+take a thread nor a shoelatchet nor aught that is thine, lest thou
+shouldst say, I have made Abraham rich: save only that which the young
+men have eaten, and the portion of the men which went with me; Aner,
+Eshcol, and Mamre, let them take their portion."
+
+
+=§7. Abraham's Prayer for Sodom= (Gen. 18:17-32; 19:29)
+
+And the Lord said, "Shall I hide from Abraham that which I do; seeing
+that Abraham shall surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the
+nations of the earth shall be blessed in him? For I have known him, to
+the end that he may command his children and his household after him,
+that they may keep the way of the Lord, to do righteousness and justice;
+to the end that the Lord may bring upon Abraham that which he hath
+spoken of him."
+
+And the Lord said, "Because the cry of Sodom and Gomorrah is great, and
+because their sin is very grievous; I will go down now, and see whether
+they have done altogether according to the cry of it, which is come unto
+me; and if not, I will know."
+
+And Abraham drew near, and said, "Wilt thou consume the righteous with
+the wicked? Peradventure there be fifty righteous within the city:
+wilt thou consume and not spare the place for the fifty righteous that
+are therein? That be far from thee to do after this manner, to slay the
+righteous with the wicked, that so the righteous should be as the
+wicked; that be far from thee: shall not the Judge of all the earth do
+right?"
+
+And the Lord said, "If I find in Sodom fifty righteous within the city,
+then I will spare all the place for their sake."
+
+And Abraham answered and said, "Behold now, I have taken upon me to
+speak unto the Lord, which am but dust and ashes: peradventure there
+shall lack five of the fifty righteous: wilt thou destroy all the city
+for lack of five?"
+
+And he said, "I will not destroy it, if I find there forty and five."
+
+And he spake unto him yet again, and said, "Peradventure there shall be
+forty found there."
+
+And he said, "I will not do it for the forty's sake."
+
+And he said, "Oh let not the Lord be angry, and I will speak:
+peradventure there shall thirty be found there."
+
+And he said, "I will not do it if I find thirty there."
+
+And he said, "Behold now, I have taken upon me to speak unto the Lord:
+peradventure there shall be twenty found there."
+
+And he said, "I will not destroy it for the twenty's sake."
+
+And he said, "Oh let not the Lord be angry, and I will speak yet but
+this once: peradventure ten shall be found there."
+
+And he said, "I will not destroy it for the ten's sake."
+
+And it came to pass, when God destroyed the cities of the Plain, that
+God remembered Abraham, and sent Lot out of the midst of the overthrow,
+when he overthrew the cities in which Lot dwelt.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+11 (§5). Follow Abraham's journey back from Egypt along the coast road.
+He reached the district in Southern Canaan that was called "the South."
+What wealth did he have? What would he need for his cattle? Notice how
+this caused him to journey from place to place.
+
+12 (§5). On the western plains of America there have been disputes
+between the cattle men over the rights of grazing. The big men have
+driven the little men away. Tell the story of this old dispute in
+Canaan. What plan of settlement did Abraham suggest? How did Lot behave
+in the matter? What good result came to Abraham?
+
+13 (§5). Look up the word "magnanimous." Could it be applied to Abraham?
+Have you ever known an act that was magnanimous?
+
+14 (§6). Kings in old times used to make war on their neighbors just for
+the purpose of stealing their goods. This is the story of one of those
+plundering expeditions that was made against the country near the Dead
+Sea. Who had chosen that country for his residence? What was the result
+of the invasion? How did Abraham hear of it? How many young men did he
+have in his service? What does this show of the size of his camp? What
+did Abraham do?
+
+15 (§6). What did Abraham do with the spoil that he captured? Was this
+magnanimous?
+
+16 (§6). Compare Abraham's conduct with that of the United States in
+Cuba.
+
+17 (§6). Abraham gave back the property that he had rescued: what should
+we do with property that we find?
+
+18 (§7). Men of old loved to think of God appearing to them and talking
+to them. It is a beautiful picture of the silent message that comes to
+our hearts. What does Abraham learn is to happen to the wicked city of
+Sodom?
+
+19 (§7). Is Abraham magnanimous in pleading for Sodom? What do the
+Lord's replies to Abraham's prayers teach us?
+
+20 (§7). What happened to Sodom? Was Abraham's prayer answered?
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Think over and write out the three ways in which Abraham was
+_magnanimous_. If you watch carefully the conduct of the best people you
+know you will be sure to see somebody do a magnanimous act before the
+next lesson. When you see it write it down in your notebook as your
+review work.
+
+
+
+
+III. ABRAHAM AND ISAAC
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§8. Abraham's Devotion= (Gen. 21:2, 3; 22:1-19)
+
+A. THE SACRIFICE OF THE FIRSTBORN
+
+And Sarah bare Abraham a son in his old age, at the set time of which
+God had spoken unto him. And Abraham called the name of his son Isaac.
+And the child grew. And it came to pass, that God did prove Abraham and
+said unto him, "Abraham."
+
+And he said, "Here am I."
+
+And he said, "Take now thy son, thine only son, whom thou lovest, even
+Isaac, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a
+burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of."
+
+And Abraham rose early in the morning, and saddled his ass, and took two
+of his young men with him, and Isaac his son; and he clave the wood for
+the burnt offering, and rose up, and went into the place of which God
+had told him. On the third day Abraham lifted up his eyes, and saw the
+place afar off.
+
+And Abraham said unto his young men, "Abide ye here with the ass, and I
+and the lad will go yonder; and we will worship, and come again to you."
+
+And Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering and laid it upon Isaac
+his son; and he took in his hand the fire and the knife; and they went
+both of them together.
+
+And Isaac spake unto Abraham his father, and said, "My father."
+
+And he said, "Here am I, my son."
+
+And he said, "Behold, the fire and the wood: but where is the lamb for a
+burnt offering?"
+
+And Abraham said, "God will provide himself the lamb for a burnt
+offering, my son."
+
+So they went both of them together. And they came to the place which God
+had told him of; and Abraham built the altar there, and laid the wood in
+order, and bound Isaac his son, and laid him on the altar, upon the
+wood. And Abraham stretched forth his hand, and took the knife to slay
+his son.
+
+
+B. THE DIVINE INTERFERENCE
+
+And the angel of the Lord called unto him out of heaven, and said,
+"Abraham."
+
+And he said, "Here am I."
+
+And he said, "Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou anything
+unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not
+withheld thy son, thine only son, from me."
+
+And Abraham lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold, behind him a ram
+caught in the thicket by his horns: and Abraham went and took the ram,
+and offered him up for a burnt offering in the stead of his son. And
+Abraham called the name of that place Jehovah-jireh: as it is said to
+this day, "In the mount of the Lord it shall be provided."
+
+And the angel of the Lord called unto Abraham a second time out of
+heaven, and said, "By myself have I sworn, saith the Lord, because thou
+hast done this thing, and hast not withheld thy son, thine only son:
+that in blessing I will bless thee, and in multiplying I will multiply
+thy seed as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which is upon the
+sea shore; and thy seed shall possess the gate of his enemies; and in
+thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou
+hast obeyed my voice."
+
+So Abraham returned unto his young men, and they rose up and went
+together to Beer-sheba; and Abraham dwelt at Beer-sheba.
+
+
+=§9. The Selection of Isaac's Wife= (Gen. 24)
+
+A. THE COMMISSION OF THE SERVANT
+
+And Abraham was old, and well stricken in age: and the Lord had blessed
+Abraham in all things. And Abraham said unto his servant, the elder of
+his house, that ruled over all that he had, "Swear by the Lord, the God
+of heaven and the God of the earth, that thou shalt not take a wife for
+my son of the daughters of the Canaanites, among whom I dwell: but thou
+shalt go unto my country, and to my kindred, and take a wife for my son
+Isaac."
+
+And the servant said unto him, "Peradventure the woman will not be
+willing to follow me unto this land: must I needs bring thy son again
+unto the land from whence thou camest?"
+
+And Abraham said unto him, "Beware thou that thou bring not my son
+thither again. The Lord, the God of heaven, that took me from my
+father's house, and from the land of my nativity, and that spake unto me
+and that sware unto me, saying, 'Unto thy seed will I give this land,'
+he shall send his angel before thee, and thou shalt take a wife for my
+son from thence. And if the woman be not willing to follow thee, thou
+shalt be clear from this my oath; only thou shalt not bring my son
+thither again."
+
+And the servant sware to Abraham his master concerning this matter.
+
+
+B. THE MEETING WITH REBEKAH
+
+And the servant took ten camels, of the camels of his master, and
+departed; having all goodly things of his master's in his hand: and he
+arose, and went to Mesopotamia, unto the city of Nahor. And he made the
+camels to kneel down without the city by the well of water at the time
+of evening, the time that women go out to draw water.
+
+And he said, "O Lord, the God of my master Abraham, send me, I pray
+thee, good speed this day, and show kindness unto my master Abraham.
+Behold, I stand by the fountain of water; and the daughters of the men
+of the city come out to draw water: and let it come to pass, that the
+damsel to whom I shall say, 'Let down thy pitcher, I pray thee, that I
+may drink;' and she shall say, 'Drink, and I will give thy camels drink
+also': let the same be she that thou hast appointed for thy servant
+Isaac; and thereby shall I know that thou hast showed kindness unto my
+master."
+
+And it came to pass, before he had done speaking, that, behold, Rebekah
+came out, who was born to Bethuel the son of Milcah, the wife of Nahor,
+Abraham's brother, with her pitcher upon her shoulder. And the damsel
+was very fair to look upon; and she went down to the fountain, and
+filled her pitcher, and came up.
+
+And the servant ran to meet her, and said, "Give me to drink, I pray
+thee, a little water of thy pitcher."
+
+And she said, "Drink, my lord": and she hasted, and let down her pitcher
+upon her hand, and gave him drink. And when she had done giving him
+drink, she said, "I will draw for thy camels also, until they have done
+drinking." And she hasted, and emptied her pitcher into the trough, and
+ran again unto the well to draw, and drew for all his camels.
+
+And the man looked stedfastly on her; holding his peace, to know whether
+the Lord had made his journey prosperous or not. And it came to pass, as
+the camels had done drinking, that the man took a golden ring of half a
+shekel weight, and two bracelets for her hands of ten shekels weight of
+gold, and said, "Whose daughter art thou? tell me, I pray thee. Is
+there room in thy father's house for us to lodge in?"
+
+And she said unto him, "I am the daughter of Bethuel the son of Milcah,
+which she bare unto Nahor." She said moreover unto him, "We have both
+straw and provender enough, and room to lodge in."
+
+And the man bowed his head, and worshipped the Lord. And he said,
+"Blessed be the Lord, the God of my master Abraham, who hath not
+forsaken his mercy and his truth toward my master: as for me, the Lord
+hath led me in the way to the house of my master's brethren."
+
+
+C. THE BETROTHAL OF ISAAC AND REBEKAH
+
+And the damsel ran, and told her mother's house according to these
+words. And Rebekah had a brother, and his name was Laban: and Laban ran
+out unto the man, unto the fountain. And it came to pass, when he saw
+the ring, and the bracelets upon his sister's hands, and when he heard
+the words of Rebekah his sister, saying, "Thus spake the man unto me;"
+that he came unto the man; and, behold, he stood by the camels at the
+fountain.
+
+And he said, "Come in, thou blessed of the Lord; wherefore standest thou
+without? for I have prepared the house, and room for the camels."
+
+And the man came into the house, and he ungirded the camels; and he gave
+straw and provender for the camels, and water to wash his feet and the
+men's feet that were with him. And there was set meat before him to
+eat.
+
+But he said, "I will not eat, until I have told mine errand."
+
+And Laban said, "Speak on."
+
+And he said, "I am Abraham's servant. And the Lord hath blessed my
+master greatly; and he is become great: and he hath given him flocks and
+herds, and silver and gold, and menservants and maidservants, and
+camels, and asses. And Sarah my master's wife bare a son to my master
+when she was old: and unto him hath he given all that he hath. And my
+master made me swear, saying, 'Thou shalt not take a wife for my son of
+the daughters of the Canaanites, in whose land I dwell: but thou shalt
+go unto my father's house, and to my kindred, and take a wife for my
+son.' And I said unto my master, 'Peradventure the woman will not follow
+me.' And he said unto me, 'The Lord, before whom I walk, will send his
+angel with thee, and prosper thy way; and thou shalt take a wife for my
+son of my kindred, and of my father's house: then shalt thou be clear
+from my oath, when thou comest to my kindred; and if they give her not
+to thee, thou shalt be clear from my oath.'
+
+"And I came this day unto the fountain, and said, 'O Lord, the God of my
+master Abraham, if now thou do prosper my way which I go: behold, I
+stand by the fountain of water; and let it come to pass, that the
+maiden which cometh forth to draw, to whom I shall say, Give me, I pray
+thee a little water of thy pitcher to drink; and she shall say to me,
+Both drink thou, and I will also draw for thy camels: let the same be
+the woman whom the Lord hath appointed for my master's son.' And before
+I had done speaking in mine heart, behold, Rebekah came forth with her
+pitcher on her shoulder; and she went down unto the fountain, and drew:
+and I said unto her, 'Let me drink, I pray thee.' And she made haste,
+and let down her pitcher from her shoulder, and said, 'Drink, and I will
+give thy camels drink also.' So I drank, and she made the camels drink
+also. And I asked her and said, 'Whose daughter art thou?' And she said,
+'The daughter of Bethuel, Nahor's son, whom Milcah bare unto him.' And I
+put the ring upon her nose, and the bracelets upon her hands. And I
+bowed my head, and worshipped the Lord, and blessed the Lord, the God of
+my master Abraham, which had led me in the right way to take my master's
+brother's daughter for his son. And now if ye will deal kindly and truly
+with my master, tell me: and if not, tell me; that I may turn to the
+right hand, or to the left."
+
+Then Laban and Bethuel answered and said, "The thing proceedeth from the
+Lord: we cannot speak unto thee bad or good. Behold, Rebekah is before
+thee, take her, and go, and let her be thy master's son's wife, as the
+Lord hath spoken."
+
+And it came to pass, that, when Abraham's servant heard their words, he
+bowed himself down to the earth unto the Lord. And the servant brought
+forth jewels of silver and jewels of gold, and raiment, and gave them to
+Rebekah: he gave also to her brother and to her mother precious things.
+And they did eat and drink, he and the men that were with him, and
+tarried all night; and they rose up in the morning, and he said, "Send
+me away unto my master."
+
+And her brother and her mother said, "Let the damsel abide with us a few
+days, at the least ten; after that she shall go."
+
+And he said unto them, "Hinder me not, seeing the Lord hath prospered my
+way; send me away that I may go to my master."
+
+And they said, "We will call the damsel, and inquire at her mouth."
+
+And they called Rebekah, and said unto her, "Wilt thou go with this
+man?"
+
+And she said, "I will go."
+
+And they sent away Rebekah their sister, and her nurse, and Abraham's
+servant, and his men. And they blessed Rebekah, and said unto her, "Our
+sister, be thou the mother of thousands of ten thousands, and let thy
+seed possess the gate of those which hate them."
+
+And Rebekah arose, and her damsels, and they rode upon the camels, and
+followed the man: and the servant took Rebekah, and went his way.
+
+
+D. THE MARRIAGE
+
+And Isaac went out to meditate in the field at the eventide: and he
+lifted up his eyes, and saw, and, behold, there were camels coming.
+
+And Rebekah lifted up her eyes, and when she saw Isaac, she lighted off
+the camel. And she said unto the servant, "What man is this that walketh
+in the field to meet us?"
+
+And the servant said, "It is my master." And she took her veil, and
+covered herself.
+
+And the servant told Isaac all the things that he had done. And Isaac
+brought her into his mother Sarah's tent, and took Rebekah, and she
+became his wife; and he loved her: and Isaac was comforted after his
+mother's death.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+21. What promise had been made repeatedly to Abraham? But he had grown
+old and was still without a son. Yet the Lord repeated the promise and
+Abraham believed. At last to his great joy the son was born. It makes a
+man's life strong to believe that God will fulfil his promise. Faith and
+goodness are very near together (Gen. 15:6). A good boy believes his
+parents: surely he can believe God.
+
+22 (§8A). In order to understand this story we must consider a strange
+and fearful custom of the old times. Read II Kings 3:26, 27, and note
+the awful sacrifice that a king, who was seeking help, made to his
+heathen god. The ancients felt that God ought to have the best that man
+has. They had not learned that he is loving and good, wishing our best
+to be given to him in loving service and not killed in sacrifice.
+
+23 (§8A). Abraham knew that it was the custom of his neighbors to show
+their loyalty to their gods by killing their oldest sons. He was most
+anxious to do what God would wish, so what would he naturally think that
+he ought to do? Is a man wicked if he does what he thinks is right? But
+if he is pure in his motive and is very anxious to know what is right,
+he will often come to the truth. This story shows how God led Abraham to
+know what he really wanted of him.
+
+24 (§8). It is a very striking story. Picture the scenes: (1) The long
+journey: who went? (2) Abraham and Isaac alone: what did Isaac ask? What
+was Abraham's confidence in God? (3) The preparation for the sacrifice.
+(4) The wonderful interference: what did this teach Abraham? What was
+the promise that was repeated?
+
+25 (§8). Men have often used wrong methods, thinking to please God. What
+did the Puritans do to the witches? But the Puritans were good men,
+anxious to do right, and they soon learned that they had been wrong. It
+is not enough for us to be willing to do right. We must try hard to find
+out what is right.
+
+26 (§9A). This section is a long one, but is full of interest and need
+not detain us for special study. It is the charming story of an old-time
+wooing. Parents often arranged the marriages of their children in those
+days as they do in many countries to-day. Abraham had a trusted servant
+who managed his business for him. What did he ask the servant to
+promise?
+
+27 (§9B). Mesopotamia means "between the rivers." Locate it between the
+two rivers of Abraham's old country. Recall Abraham's journey (5, 6, §2)
+and trace the servant's journey.
+
+28 (§9B). Tell the story of the meeting with Rebekah.
+
+29 (§9C). Tell the story of the betrothal. Notice that the betrothal
+took place although Isaac was not there.
+
+30 (§9D). Tell the story of the marriage.
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+We have finished the study of the "Father of the Faithful." He was a man
+who trusted God. Think over all that you have learned about him and
+write down in your notebook two or three ways in which you think that he
+showed his trust in God. Think whether there is any way in which you
+would be willing to trust God.
+
+
+
+
+JACOB-ISRAEL
+
+
+ IV. JACOB, THE CLEVER
+
+ V. ISRAEL, THE GODLY
+
+
+
+
+IV. JACOB, THE CLEVER
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§10. The Purchase of the Birthright= (Gen. 25:25-34)
+
+Isaac and Rebekah had two sons who were twins. The first was red, all
+over like a hairy garment; and they called his name Esau, and the name
+of his brother was called Jacob.
+
+And the boys grew: and Esau was a cunning hunter, a man of the field;
+and Jacob was a plain man, dwelling in tents. Now Isaac loved Esau,
+because he did eat of his venison: and Rebekah loved Jacob.
+
+And Jacob boiled pottage: and Esau came in from the field, and he was
+faint: and Esau said to Jacob, "Feed me, I pray thee, with that same red
+pottage; for I am faint."
+
+And Jacob said, "Sell me this day thy birthright."
+
+And Esau said, "Behold, I am at the point to die: and what profit shall
+the birthright do to me?"
+
+And Jacob said, "Swear to me this day."
+
+And he sware unto him: and he sold his birthright unto Jacob. And Jacob
+gave Esau bread and pottage of lentils; and he did eat and drink, and
+rose up, and went his way: so Esau despised his birthright.
+
+
+=§11. The Deception of Isaac= (Gen. 27:1-45)
+
+A. ISAAC'S COMMISSION TO ESAU
+
+And it came to pass, that when Isaac was old, and his eyes were dim, so
+that he could not see, he called Esau his elder son, and said unto him,
+"My son."
+
+And he said unto him, "Here am I."
+
+And he said, "Behold now, I am old, I know not the day of my death. Now
+therefore take, I pray thee, thy weapons, thy quiver and thy bow, and go
+out to the field, and take me venison; and make me savory meat, such as
+I love, and bring it to me, that I may eat; that my soul may bless thee
+before I die."
+
+And Rebekah heard when Isaac spake to Esau his son. And Esau went to the
+field to hunt for venison, and to bring it.
+
+
+B. REBEKAH'S SCHEME
+
+And Rebekah spake unto Jacob her son, saying, "Behold, I heard thy
+father speak unto Esau thy brother, saying, 'Bring me venison, and make
+me savory meat, that I may eat, and bless thee before the Lord before my
+death.' Now therefore, my son, obey my voice according to that which I
+command thee. Go now to the flock, and fetch me from thence two good
+kids of the goats; and I will make them savory meat for thy father, such
+as he loveth: and thou shalt bring it to thy father, that he may eat, so
+that he may bless thee before his death."
+
+And Jacob said to Rebekah his mother, "Behold, Esau my brother is a
+hairy man, and I am a smooth man. My father peradventure will feel me,
+and I shall seem to him as a deceiver; and I shall bring a curse upon
+me, and not a blessing."
+
+And his mother said unto him, "Upon me be thy curse, my son: only obey
+my voice, and go fetch me them."
+
+And he went, and fetched, and brought them to his mother: and his mother
+made savory meat, such as his father loved. And Rebekah took the goodly
+garments of Esau her elder son, which were with her in the house, and
+put them upon Jacob her younger son: and she put the skins of the kids
+of the goats upon his hands, and upon the smooth of his neck: and she
+gave the savory meat and the bread, which she had prepared, into the
+hand of her son Jacob.
+
+
+C. Jacob's Deception
+
+And he came unto his father, and said, "My father."
+
+And he said, "Here am I; who art thou, my son?"
+
+And Jacob said unto his father, "I am Esau thy firstborn; I have done
+according as thou badest me: arise, I pray thee, sit and eat of my
+venison, that thy soul may bless me."
+
+And Isaac said unto his son, "How is it that thou hast found it so
+quickly, my son?"
+
+And he said, "Because the Lord thy God sent me good speed."
+
+And Isaac said unto Jacob, "Come near, I pray thee, that I may feel
+thee, my son, whether thou be my very son Esau or not."
+
+And Jacob went near unto Isaac his father; and he felt him, and said,
+"The voice is Jacob's voice, but the hands are the hands of Esau." And
+he discerned him not, because his hands were hairy, as his brother
+Esau's hands: so he blessed him. And he said, "Art thou my very son
+Esau?"
+
+And he said, "I am."
+
+And he said, "Bring it near to me, and I will eat of my son's venison,
+that my soul may bless thee."
+
+And he brought it near to him, and he did eat: and he brought him wine,
+and he drank. And his father Isaac said unto him, "Come near now, and
+kiss me, my son." And he came near, and kissed him: and he smelled the
+smell of his raiment, and blessed him, and said,
+
+ See, the smell of my son
+ Is as the smell of a field which the Lord hath blessed:
+ And God give thee of the dew of heaven,
+ And of the fatness of the earth,
+ And plenty of corn and wine:
+ Let peoples serve thee,
+ And nations bow down to thee:
+ Be lord over thy brethren,
+ And let thy mother's sons bow down to thee:
+ Cursed be every one that curseth thee.
+ And blessed be every one that blesseth thee.
+
+
+D. ESAU'S DISAPPOINTMENT
+
+And it came to pass, as soon as Isaac had made an end of blessing Jacob,
+and Jacob was yet scarce gone out from the presence of Isaac his father,
+that Esau his brother came in from his hunting. And he also made savory
+meat, and brought it unto his father; and he said unto his father, "Let
+my father arise, and eat of his son's venison, that thy soul may bless
+me."
+
+And Isaac his father said unto him, "Who art thou?"
+
+And he said, "I am thy son, thy firstborn, Esau."
+
+And Isaac trembled very exceedingly, and said, "Who then is he that hath
+taken venison, and brought it me, and I have eaten of all before thou
+camest, and have blessed him? yea, and he shall be blessed."
+
+When Esau heard the words of his father, he cried with an exceeding
+great and bitter cry, and said unto his father, "Bless me, even me also,
+O my father."
+
+And he said, "Thy brother came with guile, and hath taken away thy
+blessing."
+
+And he said, "Is not he rightly named Jacob? for he hath supplanted me
+these two times: he took away my birthright; and, behold, now he hath
+taken away my blessing. Hast thou not reserved a blessing for me?"
+
+And Isaac answered and said unto Esau, "Behold, I have made him thy
+lord, and all his brethren have I given to him for servants; and with
+corn and wine have I sustained him: and what then shall I do for thee,
+my son?"
+
+And Esau said unto his father, "Hast thou but one blessing, my father?
+bless me, even me also, O my father."
+
+And Esau lifted up his voice, and wept. And Isaac his father answered
+and said unto him,
+
+ Behold of the fatness of the earth shall be thy dwelling,
+ And of the dew of heaven from above;
+ And by thy sword shalt thou live, and thou shalt serve thy brother;
+ And it shall come to pass when thou shalt break loose,
+ That thou shalt shake his yoke from off thy neck.
+
+
+E. ESAU'S HATRED
+
+And Esau hated Jacob because of the blessing wherewith his father
+blessed him: and Esau said in his heart, "The days of mourning for my
+father are at hand; then will I slay my brother Jacob."
+
+And the words of Esau her elder son were told to Rebekah; and she sent
+and called Jacob her younger son, and said unto him, "Behold, thy
+brother Esau, as touching thee, doth comfort himself, purposing to kill
+thee. Now, therefore, my son, obey my voice; and arise, flee thou to
+Laban my brother to Haran; and tarry with him a few days, until thy
+brother's fury turn away; until thy brother's anger turn away from thee,
+and he forget that which thou hast done to him: then I will send, and
+fetch thee from thence: why should I be bereaved of you both in one
+day?"
+
+
+=§12. The Dream of the Heavenly Ladder= (Gen. 28:10-22)
+
+And Jacob went out from Beer-sheba, and went toward Haran. And he
+lighted upon a certain place, and tarried there all night, because the
+sun was set; and he took one of the stones of the place, and put it
+under his head, and lay down in that place to sleep. And he dreamed, and
+behold a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to
+heaven: and behold the angels of God ascending and descending on it.
+And, behold, the Lord stood above it, and said, "I am the Lord, the God
+of Abraham thy father, and the God of Isaac: the land whereon thou
+liest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed; and thy seed shall be as
+the dust of the earth, and thou shalt spread abroad to the west, and to
+the east, and to the north, and to the south: and in thee and in thy
+seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed. And, behold, I am
+with thee, and will keep thee whithersoever thou goest, and will bring
+thee again into this land; for I will not leave thee, until I have done
+that which I have spoken to thee of."
+
+And Jacob awaked out of his sleep, and he said, "Surely the Lord is in
+this place; and I knew it not." And he was afraid, and said, "How
+dreadful is this place! this is none other but the house of God, and
+this is the gate of heaven."
+
+And Jacob rose up early in the morning, and took the stone that he had
+put under his head, and set it up for a pillar, and poured oil upon the
+top of it. And he called the name of that place Beth-el. And Jacob vowed
+a vow, saying, "If God will be with me, and will keep me in this way
+that I go, and will give me bread to eat, and raiment to put on, so that
+I come again to my father's house in peace, then shall the Lord be my
+God, and this stone, which I have set up for a pillar, shall be God's
+house: and of all that thou shalt give me I will surely give the tenth
+unto thee."
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+31. No man is altogether good and no one is wholly bad. Good and evil
+struggle for the mastery in us. Jacob is a man in whom this is very
+clearly seen. He was the twin brother of Esau, but Esau had the right of
+the oldest son. This was called the birthright. It was very important in
+that day. It meant that after the father's death Esau would become the
+head of the tribe, and would have twice as much of the property as his
+brother. Jacob did not like this and began to scheme to get the better
+of his brother.
+
+32 (§10). What was the difference between the two men?
+
+33 (§10). Tell the story of the hunting day and how Jacob sold the food
+to his brother.
+
+34 (§10). What do you think of Esau in this affair? He gave up a great
+future for a little satisfaction.
+
+35 (§10). Jacob was "smart" or "clever" in his bargain. Was he
+brotherly? Is it honest to charge all that you can get for something
+that people must have?
+
+36 (§11A). The last solemn blessing of the head of the tribe was
+considered very important. How did Isaac arrange that it should be given
+to Esau?
+
+37 (§11B). There was a wretched favoritism in this family. What was
+Rebekah's scheme to get the blessing for her favorite? Tell the story.
+
+38 (§11C). Picture the blind old father and the crafty son coming to
+him. How did he secure the blessing? Notice how one wrong leads to
+another.
+
+39 (§11D). Tell the story of Esau's bitter disappointment.
+
+40 (§11E). What revenge did Esau plan? Rebekah was afraid: what advice
+did she give to Jacob? When the man had to flee for his life, how much
+had he gained by his deception? Do the "smart" men always win? If they
+do is it worth while?
+
+41 (§12). The Lord is wonderfully forgiving, and he still wanted to lead
+Jacob to a noble life. Follow the journey on the map. What did Jacob do
+when night overtook him? There are great rocks at Beth-el that look
+something like a huge staircase. How did these form themselves in
+Jacob's dream? This is a simple, beautiful story of the old time when
+men thought they saw God in dreams. Tell the whole story in your own
+words.
+
+42 (§12). What promise did the Lord give him? What vow did Jacob make?
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Call to mind the meaning of _magnanimous_. Taking advantage of another's
+need as Jacob took advantage of Esau is the opposite of magnanimous.
+When the earthquake occurred in San Francisco some stores that had bread
+put up the price so high that very few could buy it. Soldiers compelled
+them to sell it for the regular price. How were those storekeepers like
+Jacob? Why was their conduct wrong? Write the answers to these two
+questions in your notebook.
+
+
+
+
+V. ISRAEL, THE GODLY
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§13. Jacob's Return after Twenty Years= (Gen. 29:1, 16, 23, 28; 30:43;
+31:17, 18)
+
+And Jacob came to the land of the children of the East. And he served
+Laban, his mother's brother. And Laban had two daughters: the name of
+the elder was Leah, and the name of the younger was Rachel. And Laban
+gave his two daughters to Jacob to be his wives.
+
+And Jacob increased exceedingly, and had large flocks, and maidservants
+and menservants, and camels and asses.
+
+And after twenty years Jacob rose up, and set his sons and his wives
+upon the camels; and he carried away all his cattle, and all his
+substance which he had gathered to go unto the land of Canaan.
+
+
+=§14. Jacob's Fear of Esau= (Gen. 32:1-21)
+
+A. THE MESSAGE TO ESAU
+
+And Jacob sent messengers before him to Esau his brother unto the land
+of Seir. And he commanded them, saying, "Thus shall ye say unto my lord
+Esau, 'Thus saith thy servant Jacob, I have sojourned with Laban, and
+stayed until now: and I have oxen, and asses and flocks, and
+menservants and maidservants: and I have sent to tell my lord, that I
+may find grace in thy sight.'"
+
+And the messengers returned to Jacob, saying, "We came to thy brother
+Esau, and moreover he cometh to meet thee, and four hundred men with
+him."
+
+Then Jacob was greatly afraid and was distressed: and he divided the
+people that was with him, and the flocks, and the herds, and the camels,
+into two companies; and he said, "If Esau come to the one company, and
+smite it, then the company which is left shall escape."
+
+
+B. JACOB'S PRAYER
+
+And Jacob said, "O God of my father Abraham, and God of my father Isaac,
+O Lord, which saidst unto me, 'Return unto thy country, and to thy
+kindred, and I will do thee good': I am not worthy of the least of all
+the mercies, and of all the truth, which thou hast showed unto thy
+servant; for with my staff I passed over this Jordan; and now I am
+become two companies. Deliver me, I pray thee, from the hand of my
+brother, from the hand of Esau: for I fear him, lest he come and smite
+me, the mother with the children. And thou saidst, 'I will surely do
+thee good, and make thy seed as the sand of the sea, which cannot be
+numbered for multitude.'"
+
+
+C. THE PRESENT TO ESAU
+
+And he lodged there that night; and took of that which he had with him a
+present for Esau his brother; two hundred she-goats and twenty
+he-goats, two hundred ewes and twenty rams, thirty milch camels and
+their colts, forty kine and ten bulls, twenty she-asses and ten foals.
+And he delivered them into the hand of his servants, every drove by
+itself; and said unto his servants, "Pass over before me, and put a
+space betwixt drove and drove."
+
+And he commanded the foremost, saying, "When Esau my brother meeteth
+thee, and asketh thee, saying, 'Whose art thou? and whither goest thou?
+and whose are these before thee?' then thou shalt say, 'They be thy
+servant Jacob's; it is a present sent unto my lord Esau: and, behold, he
+also is behind us.'"
+
+And he commanded also the second, and the third, and all that followed
+the droves, saying, "On this manner shall ye speak unto Esau, when ye
+find him; and ye shall say, 'Moreover, behold, thy servant Jacob is
+behind us.'" For he said, "I will appease him with the present that
+goeth before me, and afterward I will see his face; peradventure he will
+accept me."
+
+So the present passed over before him: and he himself lodged that night
+in the company.
+
+
+=§15. The Wrestle and the New Name= (Gen. 32:22-31)
+
+And he rose up that night, and took his two wives, and his two
+handmaids, and his eleven children, and passed over the ford of Jabbok.
+And he took them, and sent them over the stream, and sent over that he
+had.
+
+And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man with him until the
+breaking of the day. And when he saw that he prevailed not against him,
+he touched the hollow of his thigh; and the hollow of Jacob's thigh was
+strained, as he wrestled with him.
+
+And he said, "Let me go, for the day breaketh."
+
+And he said, "I will not let thee go, except thou bless me."
+
+And he said unto him, "What is thy name?"
+
+And he said, "Jacob."
+
+And he said, "Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel: for
+thou hast striven with God and with men, and hast prevailed."
+
+And Jacob asked him, and said, "Tell me, I pray thee, thy name."
+
+And he said, "Wherefore is it that thou dost ask after my name?" And he
+blessed him there.
+
+And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel: for, said he, "I have
+seen God face to face, and my life is preserved." And the sun rose upon
+him as he passed over Peniel, and he halted upon his thigh.
+
+
+=§16. The Meeting With Esau= (Gen. 33:1-16)
+
+And Jacob lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold, Esau came, and
+with him four hundred men. And he divided the children unto Leah, and
+unto Rachel, and unto the two handmaids. And he put the handmaids and
+their children foremost, and Leah and her children after, and Rachel and
+Joseph hindermost. And he himself passed over before them, and bowed
+himself to the ground seven times, until he came near to his brother.
+And Esau ran to meet him, and embraced him, and fell on his neck, and
+kissed him: and they wept. And he lifted up his eyes, and saw the women
+and the children; and said, "Who are these with thee?"
+
+And he said, "The children which God has graciously given thy servant."
+
+Then the handmaidens came near, they and their children, and they bowed
+themselves. And Leah also and her children came near, and bowed
+themselves: and after came Joseph near and Rachel, and they bowed
+themselves.
+
+And he said, "What meanest thou by all this company which I met?"
+
+And he said, "To find grace in the sight of my lord."
+
+And Esau said, "I have enough; my brother, let that thou hast be thine."
+
+And Jacob said, "Nay, I pray thee, if now I have found grace in thy
+sight, then receive my present at my hand: forasmuch as I have seen thy
+face, as one seeth the face of God, and thou wast pleased with me. Take,
+I pray thee, my gift that is brought to thee; because God hath dealt
+graciously with me, and because I have enough." And he urged him, and
+he took it.
+
+And he said, "Let us take our journey, and let us go, and I will go
+before thee."
+
+And he said unto him, "My lord knoweth that the children are tender, and
+that the flocks and herds with me have young: and if they overdrive them
+one day, all the flocks will die. Let my lord, I pray thee, pass over
+before his servant: and I will lead on softly, according to the pace of
+the cattle that is before me and according to the pace of the children,
+until I come unto my lord unto Seir."
+
+And Esau said, "Let me now leave with thee some of the folk that are
+with me."
+
+And he said, "What needeth it? let me find grace in the sight of my
+lord."
+
+So Esau returned that day on his way unto Seir.
+
+
+=§17. The Altar of Beth-el= (Gen. 35:1-7)
+
+And God said unto Jacob, "Arise, go up to Beth-el, and dwell there: and
+make there an altar unto God, who appeared unto thee when thou fleddest
+from the face of Esau thy brother."
+
+Then Jacob said unto his household, and to all that were with them, "Put
+away the strange gods that are among you, and purify yourselves, and
+change your garments: and let us arise, and go up to Beth-el; and I will
+make there an altar unto God, who answered me in the day of my
+distress, and was with me in the way which I went."
+
+[Illustration]
+
+And they gave unto Jacob all the strange gods which were in their hand,
+and the rings which were in their ears; and Jacob hid them under the oak
+which was by Shechem. And they journeyed: and a great terror was upon
+the cities that were round about them, and they did not pursue after the
+sons of Jacob. So Jacob came to Beth-el, he and all the people that were
+with him. And he built there an altar, because there God was revealed
+unto him when he fled from the face of his brother.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+43 (§13). There is a long and interesting story of Jacob's marriage and
+of his twenty years' service with Laban. It was a hard service, for
+Laban was a hard master and was very jealous of the prosperity of his
+son-in-law. But in spite of difficulty Jacob was successful, though in
+the game of wits he was not always very scrupulous. At last he
+determined to return to his own land, but was obliged to go secretly for
+fear of Laban. Even so, Laban pursued him and there was a hot dispute.
+But at last they made a covenant of peace, and parted. Jacob journeyed
+as far as the brook Jabbok, a stream which flows westward into the
+Jordan, about twenty-five miles north of the Dead Sea. Locate it on the
+map.
+
+44 (§14A). As Jacob returned home, what might he have to fear? The old
+sin comes up after twenty years. Note Jacob's plan. He is very courteous
+to Esau and yet he wants him to know what a great man he has become.
+What would the reply of the messengers indicate about Esau's life for
+the twenty years? How did Jacob feel when he heard of Esau, and what
+did he do?
+
+45 (§14B). Jacob was very shrewd, but there is a better defense than
+cunning. Read the beautiful prayer. How does he think of God? How does
+he think of himself? What does he pray for? What promise does he plead?
+
+46 (§14C). How many animals were there in each of the five droves? How
+many were there altogether? What was Jacob's plan to pacify Esau? Do you
+think this was a shrewd scheme?
+
+47 (§15). In the old days the experiences and feelings of the heart were
+often told as if they were physical events. So we must understand the
+wonderful story of the wrestle. Jacob had been a clever man living by
+his wits. God had in many ways been seeking to bring him to obedience to
+his will. Now when the danger of Esau is upon him, Jacob has the fight
+of his life--but it is within his own heart.
+
+48 (§15). Picture the loneliness of Jacob and describe how you think he
+felt that night? Did you ever have a great heart struggle about some
+duty, or over some temptation?
+
+49 (§15). Jacob was defeated and yet he was victorious. When we give in
+to God, we are really victors. What was his new name? How are all his
+people called by it? The old name belongs to the clever man: the new
+name belongs to the godly man, who has received God's blessing.
+
+50 (§16). This story may be passed rapidly, though it is full of
+interest. Tell in your own words: (1) what happened when the brothers
+met; (2) how Jacob wisely separated from Esau.
+
+51 (§17). There was one place in Canaan that was very sacred to Jacob.
+What had happened at Beth-el? Why did God tell him to go there? How did
+he prepare his people for the visit? What thoughts do you think came to
+him when he returned to the spot where he had slept as a lonely young
+man twenty years before?
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Tell your parents what you have learned about Jacob, and ask them if
+they ever knew a person who had done wrong and was in danger from it
+years afterward, and who was sorry for the wrong, and was helped by
+God's goodness. Write what they tell you in your notebook.
+
+
+
+
+JOSEPH
+
+
+ VI. JOSEPH, THE SLAVE
+
+ VII. JOSEPH, THE RULER
+
+ VIII. JOSEPH, THE GENEROUS
+
+
+
+
+VI. JOSEPH, THE SLAVE
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§18. Joseph and His Dreams= (Gen. 37:3-11)
+
+Now Israel loved Joseph more than all his children, because he was the
+son of his old age: and he made him a long garment with sleeves. And his
+brethren saw that their father loved him more than all his brethren; and
+they hated him, and could not speak peaceably unto him. And Joseph
+dreamed a dream, and he told it to his brethren: and they hated him yet
+the more.
+
+And he said unto them, "Hear, I pray you, this dream which I have
+dreamed: for, behold, we were binding sheaves in the field, and lo, my
+sheaf arose, and also stood upright; and, behold, your sheaves came
+round about, and made obeisance to my sheaf."
+
+And his brethren said to him, "Shalt thou indeed reign over us? or shalt
+thou indeed have dominion over us?" And they hated him yet the more for
+his dreams, and for his words.
+
+And he dreamed yet another dream, and told it to his brethren, and said,
+"Behold, I have dreamed yet a dream; and, behold, the sun and the moon
+and eleven stars made obeisance to me."
+
+And he told it to his father, and to his brethren; and his father
+rebuked him, and said unto him, "What is this dream that thou hast
+dreamed? Shall I and thy mother and thy brethren indeed come to bow down
+ourselves to thee to the earth?"
+
+And his brethren envied him; and his father kept the saying in mind.
+
+
+=§19. Joseph Sold as a Slave= (Gen. 37:12-35)
+
+And his brethren went to feed their father's flock in Shechem. And
+Israel said unto Joseph, "Do not thy brethren feed the flock in Shechem?
+come, and I will send thee unto them."
+
+And he said to him, "Here am I."
+
+And he said to him, "Go now, see whether it be well with thy brethren,
+and well with the flock; and bring me word again."
+
+So he sent him out of the vale of Hebron, and he came to Shechem. And a
+certain man found him, and, behold, he was wandering in the field: and
+the man asked him, saying, "What seekest thou?"
+
+And he said, "I seek my brethren: tell me, I pray thee, where they are
+feeding the flock."
+
+And the man said, "They are departed hence: for I heard them say, 'Let
+us go to Dothan.'"
+
+And Joseph went after his brethren, and found them in Dothan. And they
+saw him afar off, and before he came near unto them, they conspired
+against him to slay him. And they said one to another, "Behold, this
+dreamer cometh. Come now therefore, and let us slay him, and cast him
+into one of the pits, and we will say, 'An evil beast hath devoured
+him': and we shall see what will become of his dreams."
+
+And it came to pass, when Joseph was come unto his brethren, that they
+stript Joseph of his coat, the long garment with sleeves that was on
+him; and they took him, and cast him into the pit: and the pit was
+empty, there was no water in it. And they sat down to eat bread: and
+they lifted up their eyes and looked, and, behold, a traveling company
+of Ishmaelites came from Gilead, with their camels bearing spicery and
+balm and myrrh, going to carry it down to Egypt. And Judah said unto his
+brethren, "What profit is it if we slay our brother and conceal his
+blood? Come, and let us sell him to the Ishmaelites, and let not our
+hand be upon him; for he is our brother, our flesh."
+
+And his brethren hearkened unto him. And they drew and lifted Joseph out
+of the pit, and sold Joseph to the Ishmaelites for twenty pieces of
+silver. And they brought Joseph into Egypt. And they took Joseph's coat,
+and killed a he-goat, and dipped the coat in the blood; and they brought
+it to their father; and said, "This have we found; know now whether it
+be thy son's coat or not."
+
+And he knew it, and said, "It is my son's coat; an evil beast hath
+devoured him; Joseph is without doubt torn in pieces." And Jacob rent
+his garments, and put sackcloth upon his loins, and mourned for his son
+many days. And all his sons and all his daughters rose up to comfort
+him; but he refused to be comforted; and he said, "For I will go down to
+the grave to my son mourning." And his father wept for him.
+
+
+=§20. Joseph's Faithfulness= (Gen. 39:1-6)
+
+And Joseph was brought down to Egypt; and Potiphar, an officer of
+Pharaoh's, the captain of the guard, an Egyptian, bought him of the hand
+of the Ishmaelites, which had brought him down thither.
+
+And the Lord was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man; and he was in
+the house of his master the Egyptian. And his master saw that the Lord
+was with him, and that the Lord made all that he did to prosper in his
+hand. And Joseph found grace in his sight, and he ministered unto him:
+and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he had he put into
+his hand. And it came to pass from the time that he made him overseer in
+his house, and over all that he had, that the Lord blessed the
+Egyptian's house for Joseph's sake; and the blessing of the Lord was
+upon all that he had, in the house and in the field. And he left all
+that he had in Joseph's hand; and he knew not aught that was with him
+save the bread which he did eat.
+
+
+=§21. Joseph in Prison= (Gen. 39:17-23)
+
+But Potiphar's wife spoke false words concerning Joseph, and she said
+unto her husband, "The Hebrew servant, which thou hast brought unto us,
+came in unto me to mock me: and it came to pass, as I lifted up my voice
+and cried, that he fled out."
+
+And it came to pass, when his master heard the words of his wife, which
+she spake unto him, saying, "After this manner did thy servant to me,"
+that his wrath was kindled. And Joseph's master took him, and put him
+into the prison, the place where the king's prisoners were bound: and he
+was there in the prison.
+
+But the Lord was with Joseph, and showed kindness unto him, and gave him
+favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison. And the keeper of the
+prison committed to Joseph's hand all the prisoners that were in the
+prison; and whatsoever they did there, he was the doer of it. The keeper
+of the prison looked not to any thing that was under his hand, because
+the Lord was with him; and that which he did, the Lord made it to
+prosper.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+52. The story of Joseph is remarkably beautiful and interesting. It is
+more fully told than many of the other stories, and we seem to know
+Joseph better than almost any of the older Bible characters. His life
+was full of startling adventure and shows how a strong, noble young hero
+can meet danger.
+
+53 (§18). Joseph was the youngest but one of Jacob's sons. The others
+were grown up, and many statements show that they were not very good
+men. How did Jacob feel toward Joseph? He gave him a long garment with
+sleeves, which was a mark of distinction. The ordinary working garments
+were short and had no sleeves. How did Joseph's brothers feel toward
+him? What do you think of favoritism in families? Can a father feel the
+same toward good sons and bad sons?
+
+54 (§18). In old times they thought much of dreams and believed they had
+important meanings. Tell Joseph's two dreams. What were they supposed to
+mean? Do boys often dream of their future?
+
+55 (§19). Why do men with large flocks need to move from place to place?
+Locate Hebron on the map. Then note how far the shepherds had wandered
+to Shechem, which is a very rich pasturage. Then notice Dothan, 15 miles
+farther north, where the pasturage is still richer. About how far was
+Dothan from Hebron? (Use the scale on the map to measure.) Tell how
+Joseph found his brothers.
+
+56 (§19). Tell the story of the plot. What had prepared these men for
+the crime they committed? (See I John 3:15.) It is a fearful thing to
+keep hatred in the heart. Shut the book and think for a moment whether
+you really hate anyone. Tell what they did with Joseph. How does one sin
+lead to another? What did they tell Jacob? Notice how sorry the old man
+was and how they showed their sorrow in those days.
+
+57 (§20). What happened to Joseph when he reached Egypt? What is the
+position of a slave?
+
+58 (§20). Notice how Joseph, although he was sold into slavery,
+determined to do his duty to his master. Some people will only do their
+best when they are well paid. How was faithfulness rewarded in this
+case?
+
+59 (§21). This story is full of strange surprises. Just as Joseph was
+enjoying his place as overseer, a new enemy arose. His master's wife
+made false charges against him. She was a wicked woman and wanted Joseph
+to be put out of the way. Her husband believed her. What did he do with
+Joseph?
+
+60 (§21). Joseph might well be discouraged, but even in prison he was
+determined to do his best. Whose favor did he gain? In our prisons they
+call the good prisoners "trusties." The jailer soon found that Joseph
+was a "trusty," and gave him charge of all the other prisoners.
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Bear in mind Joseph's trouble in slavery and in prison, and try to find
+out about someone who has had a very hard time, but who is patiently and
+cheerfully doing his work, trusting in God. Write the account of it.
+
+
+
+
+VII. JOSEPH, THE RULER
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§22. Joseph's Interpretation of the Dreams= (Gen. 40)
+
+A. JOSEPH AND THE STATE PRISONERS
+
+And it came to pass after these things, that the butler of the king of
+Egypt and his baker offended their lord the king of Egypt. And Pharaoh
+was wroth against his two officers, against the chief of the butlers,
+and against the chief of the bakers. And he put them in the house of the
+captain of the guard, into the prison, the place where Joseph was bound.
+And the captain of the guard charged Joseph with them, and he ministered
+unto them: and they continued a season in prison.
+
+And they dreamed a dream both of them, each man his dream, in one night,
+each man according to the interpretation of his dream, the butler and
+the baker of the king of Egypt, which were bound in the prison.
+
+And Joseph came in unto them in the morning, and saw them, and, behold,
+they were sad. And he asked them, saying, "Wherefore look ye so sadly
+to-day?"
+
+And they said unto him, "We have dreamed a dream, and there is none that
+can interpret it."
+
+And Joseph said unto them, "Do not interpretations belong to God? tell
+it me, I pray you."
+
+
+B. THE CHIEF BUTLER'S DREAM
+
+And the chief butler told his dream to Joseph, and said to him, "In my
+dream, behold, a vine was before me; and in the vine were three
+branches: and it was as though it budded, and its blossoms shot forth;
+and the clusters thereof brought forth ripe grapes: and Pharaoh's cup
+was in my hand; and I took the grapes, and pressed them into Pharaoh's
+cup, and I gave the cup into Pharaoh's hand."
+
+And Joseph said unto him, "This is the interpretation of it: the three
+branches are three days; within yet three days shall Pharaoh lift up
+thine head, and restore thee unto thine office: and thou shalt give
+Pharaoh's cup into his hand, after the former manner when thou wast his
+butler. But have me in thy remembrance when it shall be well with thee,
+and show kindness, I pray thee, unto me, and make mention of me unto
+Pharaoh, and bring me out of this house: for indeed I was stolen away
+out of the land of the Hebrews: and here also have I done nothing that
+they should put me into the dungeon."
+
+
+C. THE CHIEF BAKER'S DREAM
+
+When the chief baker saw that the interpretation was good, he said unto
+Joseph, "I also was in my dream, and, behold, three baskets of white
+bread were on my head: and in the uppermost basket there was of all
+manner of baked food for Pharaoh; and the birds did eat it out of the
+basket upon my head."
+
+And Joseph answered and said, "This is the interpretation thereof: the
+three baskets are three days; within yet three days shall Pharaoh lift
+up thy head from off thee, and shall hang thee on a tree; and the birds
+shall eat thy flesh from off thee."
+
+
+D. THE INTERPRETATION COMES TRUE
+
+And it came to pass the third day, which was Pharaoh's birthday, that he
+made a feast unto all his servants: and he lifted up the head of the
+chief butler and the head of the chief baker among his servants. And he
+restored the chief butler unto his butlership again; and he gave the cup
+into Pharaoh's hand: but he hanged the chief baker: as Joseph had
+interpreted to them. Yet did not the chief butler remember Joseph, but
+forgot him.
+
+
+=§23. Joseph's Interpretation of Pharaoh's Dreams= (Gen. 41:1-16, 25-36)
+
+A. THE KING'S DREAM
+
+And it came to pass at the end of two full years, that Pharaoh dreamed:
+and, behold, he stood by the river. And, behold, there came up out of
+the river seven kine, well favored and fatfleshed; and they fed in the
+reed-grass. And, behold, seven other kine came up after them out of the
+river, ill favored and leanfleshed; and stood by the other kine upon
+the brink of the river. And the ill favored and leanfleshed kine did
+eat up the seven well favored and fat kine. So Pharaoh awoke. And he
+slept and dreamed a second time: and, behold, seven ears of corn came up
+on one stalk, rank and good. And, behold, seven ears, thin and blasted
+with the east wind, sprung up after them. And the thin ears swallowed up
+the seven rank and full ears. And Pharaoh awoke, and, behold, it was a
+dream. And it came to pass in the morning that his spirit was troubled;
+and he sent and called for all the magicians of Egypt, and all the wise
+men thereof: and Pharaoh told them his dream: but there was none that
+could interpret them unto Pharaoh.
+
+
+B. THE BUTLER'S RECOMMENDATION OF JOSEPH
+
+Then spake the chief butler unto Pharaoh, saying, "I do remember my
+faults this day: Pharaoh was wroth with his servants, and put me in
+prison in the house of the captain of the guard, me and the chief baker:
+and we dreamed a dream in one night, I and he; we dreamed each man
+according to the interpretation of his dream. And there was with us
+there a young man, an Hebrew, servant to the captain of the guards; and
+we told him, and he interpreted to us our dreams; to each man according
+to his dream he did interpret. And it came to pass, as he interpreted to
+us, so it was; I was restored unto mine office, and he was hanged."
+
+
+C. JOSEPH INTERPRETS PHARAOH'S DREAM
+
+Then Pharaoh sent and called Joseph, and they brought him hastily out of
+the dungeon: and he shaved himself, and changed his raiment, and came in
+unto Pharaoh.
+
+And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, "I have dreamed a dream, and there is none
+that can interpret it: and I have heard say of thee, that when thou
+hearest a dream thou canst interpret it."
+
+And Joseph answered Pharaoh, saying, "It is not in me: God shall give
+Pharaoh an answer of peace."
+
+And Pharaoh told Joseph his dreams.
+
+And Joseph said unto Pharaoh, "The dream of Pharaoh is one: what God is
+about to do he hath declared unto Pharaoh. The seven good kine are seven
+years; and the seven good ears are seven years: the dream is one. And
+the seven lean and ill favored kine that came up after them are seven
+years, and also the seven empty ears blasted with the east wind; they
+shall be seven years of famine. That is the thing which I spake unto
+Pharaoh: what God is about to do he hath showed unto Pharaoh. Behold,
+there come seven years of great plenty throughout all the land of Egypt:
+and there shall arise after them seven years of famine; and all the
+plenty shall be forgotten in the land of Egypt; and the famine shall
+consume the land; and the plenty shall not be known in the land by
+reason of that famine which followeth; for it shall be very grievous.
+And for that the dream was doubled unto Pharaoh twice, it is because the
+thing is established by God, and God will shortly bring it to pass. Now
+therefore let Pharaoh look out a man discreet and wise, and set him over
+the land of Egypt. Let Pharaoh do this, and let him appoint overseers
+over the land, and take up the fifth part of the land of Egypt in the
+seven plenteous years. And let them gather all the food of these good
+years that come, and lay up grain under the hand of Pharaoh for food in
+the cities, and let them keep it. And the food shall be for a store to
+the land against the seven years of famine, which shall be in the land
+of Egypt; that the land perish not through the famine."
+
+
+=§24. Joseph Made Ruler of Egypt= (Gen. 41:37-45, 47-57)
+
+A. JOSEPH HONORED BY PHARAOH
+
+And the thing was good in the eyes of Pharaoh, and in the eyes of all
+his servants. And Pharaoh said unto his servants, "Can we find such a
+one as this, a man in whom the spirit of God is?" And Pharaoh said unto
+Joseph, "Forasmuch as God hath showed thee all this, there is none so
+discreet and wise as thou: thou shalt be over my house, and according
+unto thy word shall all my people be ruled: only in the throne will I be
+greater than thou." And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, "See, I have set thee
+over all the land of Egypt."
+
+And Pharaoh took off his signet ring from his hand, and put it upon
+Joseph's hand, and arrayed him in vestures of fine linen, and put a gold
+chain about his neck; and he made him to ride in the second chariot
+which he had; and they cried before him, "Bow the knee," and he set him
+over all the land of Egypt. And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, "I am Pharaoh,
+and without thee shall no man lift up his hand or his foot in all the
+land of Egypt."
+
+[Illustration: THE SEAL OF THE GRAND VIZIER OF RAMSES II]
+
+And he gave him to wife Asenath the daughter of Poti-phera priest of On.
+And Joseph went out over the land of Egypt.
+
+
+B. JOSEPH'S PROSPERITY
+
+And in the seven plenteous years the earth brought forth by handfuls.
+And he gathered up all the food of the seven years which were in the
+land of Egypt, and laid up the food in the cities: the food of the
+field, which was round about every city, laid he up in the same. And
+Joseph laid up grain as the sand of the sea, very much, until he left
+numbering; for it was without number.
+
+And unto Joseph were born two sons before the year of famine came. And
+Joseph called the name of the firstborn Manasseh: "For God hath made me
+forget all my toil, and all my father's house." And the name of the
+second called he Ephraim: "For God hath made me fruitful in the land of
+my affliction."
+
+And the seven years of plenty, that was in the land of Egypt, came to an
+end. And the seven years of famine began to come, according as Joseph
+had said: and there was famine in all lands; but in all the land of
+Egypt there was bread. And when all the land of Egypt was famished, the
+people cried to Pharaoh for bread: and Pharaoh said unto all the
+Egyptians, "Go unto Joseph; what he saith to you, do."
+
+And the famine was over all the face of the earth: and Joseph opened all
+the storehouses, and sold unto the Egyptians; and the famine was sore in
+the land of Egypt. And all countries came into Egypt to Joseph to buy
+grain; because the famine was sore in all the earth.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+61. Recall rapidly the story of Joseph as far as we have studied it.
+Read §21 and consider the situation of the young prisoner.
+
+62 (§22A). Who were these two great men that were sent to prison? It was
+a high office to be cupbearer to the king. The butler's speech later
+shows that it was his duty to squeeze the grapes into a goblet of water,
+making the refreshing drink for his royal master. The officer who had
+charge of the kitchen in a great palace would also be an important man.
+In our time a French "chef" sometimes has a salary of $25,000. Why were
+these men in prison? What did Joseph have to do with them?
+
+63 (§22A). This was three days before the king's birthday and on that
+day it was customary to decide the fate of state prisoners. How would
+the two men feel as the day drew near? Would they be likely to dream
+about their former occupations? Tell the conversation that took place
+between them and Joseph in the morning.
+
+64 (§22B). Tell the story. Note how natural it was for the butler to
+dream that he was again preparing the king's grape juice. What do you
+think of Joseph's request? Was it a reasonable request?
+
+65 (§22C, D). Tell the story of the baker's dream and the
+interpretation. What happened on the king's birthday? How was it that
+the chief butler was so ungrateful?
+
+66 (§23A). Pharaoh was the title given to all the kings of Egypt, as
+Czar is given to the Russian emperors, Sultan to the rulers of Turkey,
+and President to our own chief executive. The most important thing in
+Egypt is its famous river. (What is its name?) It was natural for the
+king to dream of it. Tell the story of his dream.
+
+67 (§23B). We have already noted how much significance was attached to
+dreams. A king would have a company of learned men who were supposed to
+be able to interpret his dreams. How was it in this case? What did the
+chief butler do? How long had he forgotten Joseph?
+
+68 (§23C). How did they get Joseph ready to appear before the king? If
+you look at Egyptian pictures you will see that the great men never wore
+beards. The Egyptians were also very cleanly and particular about white
+garments. What did Pharaoh say to Joseph? Note Joseph's modesty.
+
+69 (§23C). Tell Joseph's interpretation of the dreams. Of course we
+naturally ask how Joseph could know these things. But we can only say
+that it is part of the story, and our interest is in finding just what
+these beautiful old tales of the heroes have to say to us. What advice
+did Joseph give to the king? Famines were rare in Egypt, because the
+country is not dependent upon rainfall but upon the overflow of the
+Nile. Occasionally, though very seldom, the water does not come from the
+upper river in sufficient quantity; then there is no inundation and the
+crops fail.
+
+70 (§24A). What did Pharaoh think of Joseph's interpretation? What did
+he think of his advice? What did he decide to do with him. Note the six
+distinctions he gave him and explain what they meant? In England one of
+the highest officers is the Keeper of the Great Seal. And there the
+aldermen wear gold chains round their necks. It was a notable honor to
+be married to the daughter of the high priest, who was a great
+dignitary.
+
+71 (§24B). What did Joseph do during the seven prosperous years? How
+many sons were born to him? What did he do when the famine came?
+
+72. When Joseph was in the pit in slavery, and in the prison, whom did
+he trust? Did he ever think the happy dreams of youth were hopeless?
+What is the best way to meet bad fortune? Now note how he meets good
+fortune. Read Rom. 8:28.
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Like Joseph, you doubtless have some tasks put upon you that are
+unpleasant. Note one of those tasks this week. Do it as Joseph would
+have done. You will feel after you have done your best that it was worth
+while. Then think again how Joseph behaved. Write out in your notebook
+why Joseph always did his duty.
+
+
+
+
+
+VIII. JOSEPH, THE GENEROUS
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§25. Joseph and the Guilty Brothers= (Gen. 42)
+
+A. THE FIRST JOURNEY OF THE BROTHERS
+
+Now Jacob saw that there was grain in Egypt, and Jacob said unto his
+sons, "Why do ye look one upon another? Behold, I have heard that there
+is grain in Egypt: get you down thither, and buy for us from thence;
+that we may live, and not die."
+
+And Joseph's ten brethren went down to buy grain from Egypt. But
+Benjamin, Joseph's brother, Jacob sent not with his brethren; for he
+said, "Lest peradventure mischief befall him."
+
+
+B. JOSEPH'S TREATMENT OF HIS BROTHERS
+
+And Joseph was the governor over the land; he it was that sold to all
+the people of the land: and Joseph's brethren came, and bowed down
+themselves to him with their faces to the earth. And Joseph saw his
+brethren, and he knew them, but made himself strange unto them, and
+spake roughly with them; and he said unto them, "Whence come ye?" And
+they said, "From the land of Canaan to buy food."
+
+And Joseph remembered the dreams which he dreamed of them, and said unto
+them, "Ye are spies; to see the nakedness of the land ye are come."
+
+And they said unto him, "Nay, my lord, but to buy food are thy servants
+come. We are all one man's sons; we are true men, thy servants are no
+spies."
+
+And he said unto them, "Nay, but to see the nakedness of the land ye are
+come."
+
+And they said, "We thy servants are twelve brethren, the sons of one man
+in the land of Canaan; and, behold, the youngest is this day with our
+father, and one is not."
+
+And Joseph said unto them, "Ye are spies." And he put them all together
+into prison three days. And Joseph said unto them the third day, "This
+do, and live; for I fear God: if ye be true men, let one of your
+brethren be bound in your prison house; but go ye, carry grain for the
+famine of your houses: and bring your youngest brother unto me; so shall
+your words be verified, and ye shall not die."
+
+And they said one to another, "We are verily guilty concerning our
+brother, in that we saw the distress of his soul, when he besought us,
+and we would not hear; therefore is this distress come upon us."
+
+And they knew not that Joseph understood them; for there was an
+interpreter between them. And he turned himself about from them, and
+wept; and he returned to them, and spake to them, and took Simeon from
+among them, and bound him before their eyes.
+
+
+C. THE RETURN TO JACOB
+
+Then Joseph commanded to fill their vessels with grain, and to restore
+every man's money into his sack, and to give them provision for the way:
+and thus was it done unto them.
+
+And they laded their asses with their grain and departed thence. And as
+one of them opened his sack to give his ass provender in the lodging
+place, he espied his money; and, behold, it was in the mouth of his
+sack. And he said unto his brethren, "My money is restored; and, lo, it
+is even in my sack." And their heart failed them, and they turned
+trembling one to another, saying, "What is this that God hath done unto
+us?"
+
+And they came unto Jacob their father unto the land of Canaan, and told
+him all that had befallen them. And it came to pass as they emptied
+their sacks, that, behold, every man's bundle of money was in his sack;
+and when they and their father saw their bundles of money, they were
+afraid.
+
+And Jacob their father said unto them, "Me have ye bereaved of my
+children: Joseph is not, and Simeon is not, and ye will take Benjamin
+away: all these things are against me."
+
+And Reuben spake unto his father, saying, "Slay my two sons, if I bring
+him not to thee: deliver him into my hand, and I will bring him to thee
+again."
+
+And he said, "My son shall not go down with you; for his brother is
+dead, and he only is left: if mischief befall him by the way in the
+which ye go, then shall ye bring down my gray hairs with sorrow to the
+grave."
+
+
+=§26. Joseph and Benjamin= (Gen. 43)
+
+A. THE SECOND JOURNEY TO EGYPT
+
+And the famine was sore in the land. And it came to pass, when they had
+eaten up the grain which they had brought out of Egypt, their father
+said unto them, "Go again, buy us a little food."
+
+And Judah spake unto him, saying, "The man did solemnly protest unto us,
+saying, 'Ye shall not see my face, except your brother be with you.' If
+thou wilt send our brother with us, we will go down and buy thee food:
+but if thou wilt not send him, we will not go down."
+
+And Israel said, "Wherefore dealt ye so ill with me, as to tell the man
+whether ye had yet a brother?"
+
+And they said, "The man asked straitly concerning ourselves, and
+concerning our kindred, saying, 'Is your father yet alive? have ye
+another brother?' and we told him according to the tenor of these words:
+could we in any wise know that he would say, 'Bring your brother down'?"
+And Judah said unto Israel his father, "Send the lad with me, and we
+will arise and go; that we may live, and not die, both we, and thou, and
+also our little ones. I will be surety for him; of my hand shalt thou
+require him: if I bring him not unto thee, and set him before thee, then
+let me bear the blame for ever: for except we had lingered, surely we
+had now returned a second time."
+
+And their father Israel said unto them, "If it be so now, do this; take
+of the choice fruits of the land in your vessels, and carry down the man
+a present, a little balm, and a little honey, spicery and myrrh, nuts,
+and almonds: and take double money in your hand; and the money that was
+returned in the mouth of your sacks carry again in your hand;
+peradventure it was an oversight: take also your brother, and arise, go
+again unto the man: and God Almighty give you mercy before the man, that
+he may release unto you your other brother and Benjamin. And if I be
+bereaved of my children, I am bereaved."
+
+
+B. THE KIND RECEPTION
+
+And the men took that present, and they took double money in their hand,
+and Benjamin; and rose up, and went down to Egypt, and stood before
+Joseph. And when Joseph saw Benjamin with them, he said to the steward
+of his house, "Bring the men into the house, and slay, and make ready;
+for the men shall dine with me at noon."
+
+And the man did as Joseph bade; and the man brought the men into
+Joseph's house. And the men were afraid because they were brought into
+Joseph's house; and they said, "Because of the money that was returned
+in our sacks at the first time are we brought in; that he may seek
+occasion against us, and fall upon us, and take us for bondmen, and our
+asses."
+
+And they came near to the steward of Joseph's house; and they spake unto
+him at the door of the house, and said, "Oh my lord, we came indeed down
+at the first time to buy food: and it came to pass, when we came to the
+lodging place, that we opened our sacks, and, behold, every man's money
+was in the mouth of his sack, our money in full weight: and we have
+brought it again in our hand. And other money have we brought down in
+our hand to buy food: we know not who put our money in our sacks."
+
+And he said, "Peace be to you, fear not: your God, and the God of your
+father, hath given you treasure in your sacks: I had your money."
+
+And he brought Simeon out unto them. And the man brought the men into
+Joseph's house, and gave them water, and they washed their feet; and he
+gave their asses provender. And they made ready the present against
+Joseph came at noon: for they heard that they should eat bread there.
+
+
+C. THE FEAST
+
+And when Joseph came home, they brought him the present which was in
+their hand into the house, and bowed down themselves to him to the
+earth. And he asked them of their welfare, and said, "Is your father
+well, the old man of whom ye spake? Is he yet alive?" And they said,
+"Thy servant our father is well, he is yet alive." And they bowed the
+head, and made obeisance.
+
+And he lifted up his eyes, and saw Benjamin his brother, his mother's
+son, and said, "Is this your youngest brother, of whom ye spake unto
+me?" And he said, "God be gracious unto thee, my son."
+
+And Joseph made haste; for his heart yearned over his brother: and he
+sought where to weep; and he entered into his chamber, and wept there.
+And he washed his face, and came out; and he refrained himself, and
+said, "Set on bread."
+
+And they set on for him by himself, and for them by themselves, and for
+the Egyptians, which did eat with him, by themselves: because the
+Egyptians might not eat bread with the Hebrews; for that is an
+abomination unto the Egyptians. And they sat before him, the firstborn
+according to his birthright, and the youngest according to his youth:
+and the men marvelled one with another. And he took and sent messes unto
+them from before him: but Benjamin's mess was five times so much as any
+of theirs. And they drank, and were merry with him.
+
+
+=§27. Joseph's Forgiveness= (Gen. 44; 45:1-15)
+
+A. THE HARD TEST
+
+And he commanded the steward of his house, saying, "Fill the men's sacks
+with food, as much as they can carry, and put every man's money in his
+sack's mouth. And put my cup, the silver cup, in the sack's mouth of
+the youngest, and his grain money."
+
+And he did according to the word that Joseph had spoken. As soon as the
+morning was light, the men were sent away, they and their asses. And
+when they were gone out of the city, and were not yet far off, Joseph
+said unto his steward, "Up, follow after the men; and when thou dost
+overtake them, say unto them, 'Wherefore have ye rewarded evil for good?
+Is not this it in which my lord drinketh, and whereby he indeed
+divineth? ye have done evil in so doing.'"
+
+And he overtook them, and he spake unto them these words. And they said
+unto him, "Wherefore speaketh my lord such words as these? God forbid
+that thy servants should do such a thing. Behold, the money, which we
+found in our sacks' mouths, we brought again unto thee out of the land
+of Canaan: how then should we steal out of thy lord's house silver or
+gold? With whomsoever of thy servants it be found, let him die, and we
+also will be my lord's bondmen."
+
+And he said, "Now also let it be according unto your words: he with whom
+it is found shall be my bondman; and ye shall be blameless."
+
+Then they hasted, and took down every man his sack to the ground, and
+opened every man his sack. And he searched, and began at the eldest, and
+left at the youngest: and the cup was found in Benjamin's sack. Then
+they rent their clothes, and laded every man his ass, and returned to
+the city. And Judah and his brethren came to Joseph's house; and he was
+yet there: and they fell before him on the ground.
+
+And Joseph said unto them, "What deed is this that ye have done? know ye
+not that such a man as I can indeed divine?"
+
+And Judah said, "What shall we say unto my lord? what shall we speak? or
+how shall we clear ourselves? God hath found out the iniquity of thy
+servants: behold, we are my lord's bondmen, both we, and he also in
+whose hand the cup is found."
+
+And he said, "God forbid that I should do so: the man in whose hand the
+cup is found, he shall be my bondman; but as for you, get you up in
+peace unto your father."
+
+
+B. JUDAH'S NOBLE OFFER
+
+Then Judah came near unto him, and said, "Oh my lord, let thy servant, I
+pray thee, speak a word in my lord's ears, and let not thine anger burn
+against thy servant: for thou art even as Pharaoh. My lord asked his
+servants, saying, 'Have ye a father, or a brother?' And we said unto my
+lord, 'We have a father, an old man, and a child of his old age, a
+little one; and his brother is dead, and he alone is left of his mother,
+and his father loveth him.' And thou saidst unto thy servants, 'Bring
+him down unto me, that I may set mine eyes upon him.' And we said unto
+my lord, 'The lad cannot leave his father: for if he should leave his
+father, his father would die.' And thou saidst unto thy servants,
+'Except your youngest brother come down with you, ye shall see my face
+no more.' And it came to pass when we came up unto my father, we told
+him the words of my lord. And our father said, 'Go again, buy us a
+little food.' And we said, 'We cannot go down: if our youngest brother
+be with us, then will we go down; for we may not see the man's face,
+except our youngest brother be with us.' And my father said unto us, 'Ye
+know that my wife bare me two sons: and the one went out from me, and I
+said, Surely he is torn in pieces; and I have not seen him since: and if
+ye take this one also from me, and mischief befall him, ye shall bring
+down my gray hairs with sorrow to the grave.' Now therefore when I come
+to my father, and the lad be not with us; seeing that his life is bound
+up in the lad's life; it shall come to pass, when he seeth that the lad
+is not with us, that he will die: and thy servants shall bring down the
+gray hairs of our father with sorrow to the grave. For thy servant
+became surety for the lad unto my father, saying, 'If I bring him not
+unto thee, then shall I bear the blame to my father for ever.' Now
+therefore, let thy servant, I pray thee, abide instead of the lad a
+bondman to my lord; and let the lad go up with his brethren. For how
+shall I go up to my father, and the lad be not with me? lest I see the
+evil that shall come on my father."
+
+
+C. THE FORGIVENESS
+
+Then Joseph could not refrain himself before all them that stood by him;
+and he cried, "Cause every man to go out from me." And there stood no
+man with him, while Joseph made himself known unto his brethren. And he
+wept aloud.
+
+And Joseph said unto his brethren, "I am Joseph; doth my father yet
+live?" And his brethren could not answer him; for they were troubled at
+his presence. And Joseph said unto his brethren, "Come near to me, I
+pray you." And they came near. And he said, "I am Joseph your brother,
+whom ye sold into Egypt. And now be not grieved, nor angry with
+yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to
+preserve life. For these two years hath the famine been in the land: and
+there are yet five years, in the which there shall be neither plowing
+nor harvest. And God sent me before you to preserve you a remnant in the
+earth, and to save you alive by a great deliverance. So now it was not
+you that sent me hither, but God: and he hath made me a father to
+Pharaoh, and lord of all his house, and ruler over all the land of
+Egypt. Haste ye, and go up to my father, and say unto him, 'Thus saith
+thy son Joseph, God hath made me lord of all Egypt: come down unto me,
+tarry not: and thou shalt dwell in the land of Goshen, and thou shalt
+be near unto me, thou, and thy children, and thy children's children,
+and thy flocks, and thy herds, and all that thou hast: and there will I
+nourish thee; for there are yet five years of famine; lest thou come to
+poverty, thou, and thy household, and all that thou hast.' And, behold,
+your eyes see, and the eyes of my brother Benjamin, that it is my mouth
+that speaketh unto you. And ye shall tell my father of all my glory in
+Egypt, and of all that ye have seen and ye shall haste and bring down my
+father hither."
+
+And he fell upon his brother Benjamin's neck, and wept; and Benjamin
+wept upon his neck. And he kissed all his brethren, and wept upon them:
+and after that his brethren talked with him.
+
+
+=§28. Joseph and His Father= (Gen. 45:25-28; 46:28-30; 47:7-11)
+
+And they went up out of Egypt, and came into the land of Canaan unto
+Jacob their father. And they told him, saying, "Joseph is yet alive, and
+he is ruler over all the land of Egypt."
+
+And his heart fainted, for he believed them not. And they told him all
+the words of Joseph, which he had said unto them: and when he saw the
+wagons which Joseph had sent to carry him, the spirit of Jacob their
+father revived: and Israel said, "It is enough; Joseph my son is yet
+alive: I will go and see him before I die."
+
+And he sent Judah before him unto Joseph, to show the way before him
+unto Goshen; and they came unto the land of Goshen. And Joseph made
+ready his chariot, and went up to meet Israel his father, to Goshen. And
+he presented himself unto him, and fell on his neck, and wept on his
+neck a good while.
+
+And Israel said unto Joseph, "Now let me die, since I have seen thy
+face, that thou art yet alive."
+
+And Joseph brought in Jacob his father, and set him before Pharaoh: and
+Jacob blessed Pharaoh. And Pharaoh said unto Jacob, "How many are the
+days of the years of thy life?"
+
+And Jacob said unto Pharaoh, "The days of the years of my pilgrimage are
+an hundred and thirty years: few and evil have been the days of the
+years of my life, and they have not attained unto the days of the years
+of the life of my fathers in the days of their pilgrimage."
+
+And Jacob blessed Pharaoh, and went out from the presence of Pharaoh.
+And Joseph placed his father and his brethren, and gave them a
+possession in the land of Egypt, in the best of the land.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+73. This a rather long chapter, but it is so full of interest that it
+would not be well to divide it. Recall the last chapter and tell what
+was the condition in Egypt and what was Joseph's position.
+
+74 (§25A). We turn back in our story to what persons? What was happening
+to them? What was this journey, who went, why did they go, who remained
+behind? Compare this with Abraham's journey (§4).
+
+75 (§25B). How did Joseph feel when he saw his brothers after so many
+years? How did he recognize them, while they did not know him? Notice
+how roughly he treats them. He is going to see whether they care for the
+youngest brother Benjamin. How does he do this? We saw in the life of
+Jacob how an old sin comes back. So it is here, as the brothers realize.
+How does the interview end?
+
+76 (§25C). What happened about the money? Describe the report that they
+made to Jacob.
+
+77 (§26A). Why did they need to go to Egypt again? What did Judah say to
+his father? How did Jacob at last consent?
+
+78 (§26B). Joseph is not yet ready to tell them of his forgiveness,
+because he wants them to be really repentant. He has a very good plan in
+his mind. What took place between the brothers and the steward?
+
+79 (§26C). This description is very beautiful. What were Joseph's
+feelings when he saw Benjamin? How was the feast arranged? Notice that
+Joseph ate apart as the Egyptian custom required. How surprised they
+were that they should be seated according to their ages!
+
+80 (§27A). What was Joseph's plan about the cup? Tell the story of the
+arrest. Notice the custom of expressing sorrow. The brothers find
+themselves in a hard case. Once, when they were guilty, they had been
+able to escape detection; now, when they are innocent, they cannot
+escape. What was Joseph's harsh decision?
+
+81 (§27B). The brothers had not cared that Joseph should be sold as a
+slave and Jacob should be heartbroken. But now when Benjamin is to be a
+slave they feel different. Why is this? Tell in your own words Judah's
+noble speech. See how completely Joseph has brought his brothers to
+repentance.
+
+82 (§27C). Notice (1) Joseph's loving words, (2) his faith in God's
+providence, (3) his message to his father, (4) his affection for his
+brothers. Have you ever known forgiveness to do any good?
+
+83 (§28). How did Jacob receive the good news that Joseph was alive?
+Goshen was a fertile part of Egypt in which the Hebrews were to live.
+Describe the meeting of the father and son. Notice the formal
+presentation of Jacob to the king, and how stately is the old patriarch
+as he blesses the king.
+
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Remember how happy Joseph was in forgiving his brethren. Read Rom.
+12:20, 21. If anybody should annoy or anger you this week, try Joseph's
+plan. Instead of getting even with your enemy, be kind to him. See if
+you do not feel happier about it. Write in your notebook your own idea
+of whether Joseph was right in his forgiveness.
+
+
+
+
+MOSES
+
+
+ IX. MOSES' EARLY LIFE
+
+ X. MOSES' COMMISSION
+
+ XI. MOSES, THE DELIVERER
+
+ XII. MOSES, THE LAWGIVER
+
+
+
+
+
+IX. MOSES' EARLY LIFE
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§29. The Oppression of the Hebrews= (Exod. 1:6-12, 22)
+
+And Joseph died, and all his brethren, and all that generation. And the
+children of Israel were fruitful, and increased abundantly, and
+multiplied, and waxed exceeding mighty; and the land was filled with
+them.
+
+Now there arose a new king over Egypt, which knew not Joseph. And he
+said unto his people, "Behold, the people of the children of Israel are
+more and mightier than we: come, let us deal wisely with them; lest they
+multiply, and it come to pass, that, when there falleth out any war,
+they also join themselves unto our enemies, and fight against us, and
+get them up out of the land."
+
+Therefore, they did set over them taskmasters to afflict them with their
+burdens. And they built for Pharaoh store cities, Pithom and Raamses.
+But the more they afflicted them, the more they multiplied and the more
+they spread abroad. And they were grieved because of the children of
+Israel.
+
+And Pharaoh charged all his people, saying, "Every son that is born ye
+shall cast into the river, and every daughter ye shall save alive."
+
+
+=§30. The Birth and Adoption of Moses= (Exod. 2:1-10)
+
+[Illustration: _Copyright 1904 by Underwood and Underwood_
+THE SIXTY-FIVE-FOOT PORTRAIT STATUES OF RAMSES II]
+
+And there went a man of the house of Levi, and took to wife a daughter
+of Levi. And the woman bare a son: and when she saw him that he was a
+goodly child, she hid him three months. And when she could not longer
+hide him, she took for him an ark of bulrushes, and daubed it with slime
+and with pitch: and she put the child therein, and laid it in the flags
+by the river's brink. And his sister stood afar off, to know what would
+be done to him. And the daughter of Pharaoh came down to bathe at the
+river; and her maidens walked along by the river side; and she saw the
+ark among the flags, and sent her handmaid to fetch it. And she opened
+it, and saw the child: and, behold, the babe wept.
+
+And she had compassion on him, and said, "This is one of the Hebrews'
+children."
+
+Then said his sister to Pharaoh's daughter, "Shall I go and call thee a
+nurse of the Hebrew women, that she may nurse the child for thee?"
+
+And Pharaoh's daughter said to her, "Go."
+
+And the maid went and called the child's mother. And Pharaoh's daughter
+said unto her, "Take this child away, and nurse it for me, and I will
+give thee thy wages."
+
+And the woman took the child, and nursed it. And the child grew, and she
+brought him unto Pharaoh's daughter, and he became her son. And she
+called his name Moses.
+
+
+=§31. The Young Man's Unwise Methods= (Exod. 2:11-15)
+
+And it came to pass in those days, when Moses was grown up, that he went
+out unto his brethren, and looked on their burdens: and he saw an
+Egyptian smiting a Hebrew, one of his brethren. And he looked this way
+and that way, and when he saw that there was no man, he smote the
+Egyptian, and hid him in the sand. And he went out the second day, and,
+behold, two men of the Hebrews strove together: and he said to him that
+did the wrong, "Wherefore smitest thou thy fellow?" And he said, "Who
+made thee a prince and a judge over us? thinkest thou to kill me, as
+thou killedst the Egyptian?" And Moses feared, and said, "Surely the
+thing is known." Now when Pharaoh heard this thing, he sought to slay
+Moses.
+
+
+=§32. Moses in Midian= (Exod. 2:16-22)
+
+Moses fled from the face of Pharaoh, and dwelt in the land of Midian:
+and he sat down by a well. Now the priest of Midian had seven daughters:
+and they came and drew water, and filled the trough to water their
+father's flock. And the shepherds came and drove them away: but Moses
+stood up and helped them, and watered their flock. And when they came to
+Reuel their father, he said, "How is it that ye are come so soon
+to-day?" And they said, "An Egyptian delivered us out of the hands of
+the shepherds, and moreover he drew water for us, and watered the
+flock." And he said unto his daughters, "And where is he? why is it that
+ye have left the man? call him, that he may eat bread." And Moses was
+content to dwell with the man: and he gave Moses Zipporah his daughter,
+and she bare a son, and he called his name Gershom: for he said, "I have
+been a sojourner in a strange land."
+
+
+=§33. The Unhappy Hebrews= (Exod. 2:23-25)
+
+And it came to pass in the course of those many days, that the king of
+Egypt died: and the children of Israel sighed by reason of the bondage,
+and they cried, and their cry came up unto God by reason of the bondage.
+And God heard their groaning, and God remembered his covenant with
+Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob. And God saw the children of Israel,
+and God took knowledge of them.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+84. In any nation one of the greatest heroes is the man who was the
+founder of the national life. The Italians look to the great Garibaldi,
+who delivered them from their enemies and brought about a united Italy.
+Americans call Washington the father of his country, because he was the
+leader in the great struggle to make America a nation. The Hebrews
+always looked back to Moses as their great deliverer, who brought them
+out of Egypt and made them a nation. The study of this hero takes us to
+the second book of the Bible, which is called Exodus, meaning "Going
+out," because it gives the story of the escape of the Hebrews from
+Egypt.
+
+85 (§29). In the last chapter we were studying about a small tribe of
+people. Now we find that a long time has passed and the people have
+greatly increased in numbers. Consider how the negroes have increased in
+numbers since the War. There were then four millions. How many are there
+now?
+
+86 (§29). There probably arose a new dynasty, or line of kings. What did
+the king fear might happen if the Hebrews grew too numerous? These
+Pharaohs were mighty builders. What great objects had some of the
+earlier Pharaohs built? They loved to have splendid palaces and temples
+and strong fortifications. As there was no machinery, this work
+required great numbers of men. In the wars of those days all prisoners
+were made slaves and compelled to work. So the Egyptians treated the
+Hebrews as if they were prisoners. What kind of labor were they
+compelled to do?
+
+87 (§29). We get a glimpse into the awful harshness of that old slavery.
+As we see the pictures of the magnificent structures of those days we
+remember that they cost the lives of millions of human beings. We have
+done away with slavery, but are not people still compelled to work in
+awful conditions? There are very many occupations where the health of
+the laborers is broken down and their lives shortened. We have still a
+great deal to learn about how men ought to labor.
+
+88 (§29). When the harsh slavery did not prevent the increase of the
+Hebrews, it was brutally determined to murder them. What was the plan?
+The girls were saved because they could not fight.
+
+89 (§30). Doubtless many of the Hebrew children were drowned, but one
+mother was determined to save her boy. Tell the story of how he was
+hidden and found and saved.
+
+90 (§30). By the happy plan of the mother and sister the boy could be
+brought up safely in his own home. But he was also to have the
+opportunity of training in the royal palace. What did it mean that he
+was adopted by the princess?
+
+91 (§31). Which people would it have been most profitable for Moses to
+belong to--the Egyptians or the Hebrews? Sometimes we see a boy who is
+clever and fortunate separating himself from his family. How did Moses
+feel when he grew up and saw the sad condition of his people? What hasty
+thing did he do? Was Moses justified in that act? Let us see how it
+turned out.
+
+92 (§31). The young man was not only anxious to save his people from
+tyranny but also from quarreling among themselves. What happened the
+next day? People are not always willing to take good advice. What danger
+was Moses in?
+
+93 (§32). What was Moses obliged to do because he had killed the
+Egyptian overseer? Locate Midian. When Moses was off in the desert, a
+fugitive from justice, could he help his people? Was not his hasty act
+unwise? Do you remember someone attacking saloons with a hatchet? Can we
+often do good by violence? Sometimes we are very indignant because we
+see injustice, but in the long run we shall gain all good ends by
+peaceful means. Lynching is a poor way to secure justice.
+
+94 (§32). Notice that the girls were in charge of the flocks. What did
+the rude shepherds do? Again Moses interferes to help the weak, but this
+time he seems to have done it without fighting. Why did the girls think
+Moses was an Egyptian? How did it all turn out?
+
+95 (§33). Meantime everything looked very dark for the Hebrews. But God
+was preparing a man to save them. Would it have been a good thing for
+the Hebrews to have been happy in Egypt and to have stayed there and
+become Egyptians? Would it have been well if the Pilgrims had been well
+treated in England and had stayed there? Are our troubles ever good for
+us? Who is watching all the time?
+
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Moses was obliged to be a shepherd instead of a wealthy Egyptian. So
+sometimes our plans are changed. But often it turns out for good. Ask
+your parents, or your pastor, or some friend, to tell you if anything
+ever happened to them that seemed at the time to upset all their plans
+of life, but which turned out to be of great value in their training.
+Write an account of it in your notebook.
+
+
+
+
+X. MOSES' COMMISSION
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§34. The Call in the Wilderness= (Exod. 3:1-11; 4:1-17)
+
+A. THE BURNING BUSH
+
+Now Moses was keeping the flock of Jethro his father-in-law, the priest
+of Midian: and he led the flock to the back of the wilderness, and came
+to the mountain of God, unto Horeb. And the angel of the Lord appeared
+unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush: and he looked,
+and, behold, the bush burned with fire, and the bush was not consumed.
+
+And Moses said, "I will turn aside now, and see this great sight, why
+the bush is not burnt."
+
+And when the Lord saw that he turned aside to see, God called unto him
+out of the midst of the bush, and said, "Moses, Moses."
+
+And he said, "Here am I."
+
+And he said, "Draw not nigh hither: put off thy shoes from off thy feet,
+for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground. I am the God of thy
+father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob."
+
+And Moses hid his face; for he was afraid to look upon God. And the Lord
+said, "I have surely seen the affliction of my people which are in
+Egypt, and have heard their cry by reason of their taskmasters; for I
+know their sorrows; and I am come down to deliver them out of the hand
+of the Egyptians, and to bring them up out of that land unto a good land
+and a large, unto a land flowing with milk and honey. Come now
+therefore, and I will send thee unto Pharaoh, that thou mayest bring
+forth my people the children of Israel out of Egypt."
+
+[Illustration: ORIENTAL SANDALS]
+
+
+B. MOSES' HESITATION
+
+And Moses said unto God, "Who am I, that I should go unto Pharaoh, and
+that I should bring forth the children of Israel out of Egypt? Behold,
+they will not believe me, nor hearken unto my voice: for they will say,
+'The Lord hath not appeared unto thee.'"
+
+And the Lord said unto him, "What is that in thine hand?"
+
+And he said, "A rod."
+
+And he said, "Cast it on the ground."
+
+And he cast it on the ground, and it became a serpent; and Moses fled
+from before it.
+
+And the Lord said unto Moses, "Put forth thine hand and take it by the
+tail."
+
+And he put forth his hand, and laid hold of it, and it became a rod in
+his hand.
+
+And the Lord said furthermore unto him, "Put now thine hand into thy
+bosom."
+
+And he put his hand into his bosom: and when he took it out, behold, his
+hand was leprous, as white as snow.
+
+And he said, "Put thine hand into thy bosom again."
+
+And he put his hand into his bosom again; and when he took it out of his
+bosom, behold, it was turned again as his other flesh.
+
+And the Lord said, "It shall come to pass, if they will not believe
+thee, neither hearken to the voice of the first sign, that they will
+believe the voice of the latter sign."
+
+And Moses said unto the Lord, "Oh Lord, I am not eloquent, neither
+heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy servant: for I am slow
+of speech, and of a slow tongue."
+
+And the Lord said unto him, "Who hath made man's mouth? or who maketh a
+man dumb, or deaf, or seeing, or blind? is it not I the Lord? Now
+therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou
+shalt speak."
+
+And he said, "Oh Lord, send, I pray thee, by the hand of another whom
+thou wilt choose."
+
+And the anger of the Lord was kindled against Moses, and he said, "Is
+there not Aaron thy brother? I know that he can speak well. And also,
+behold, he cometh forth to meet thee: and when he seeth thee, he will be
+glad in his heart. And thou shalt speak unto him, and put the words in
+his mouth: and I will be with thy mouth, and with his mouth, and will
+teach you what ye shall do. And he shall be thy spokesman unto the
+people. And thou shalt take in thine hand this rod, wherewith thou shalt
+do the signs."
+
+And the Lord said to Aaron, "Go into the wilderness to meet Moses."
+
+And he went, and met him in the mountain of God, and kissed him. And
+Moses told Aaron all the words of the Lord wherewith he had sent him,
+and all the signs wherewith he had charged him.
+
+
+=§35. The Return to Egypt= (Exod. 4:18, 20, 27-31)
+
+And Moses went and returned to Jethro his father-in-law, and said unto
+him, "Let me go, I pray thee, and return unto my brethren which are in
+Egypt, and see whether they be yet alive."
+
+And Jethro said to Moses, "Go in peace."
+
+And Moses took his wife and his sons, and set them upon an ass, and he
+returned to the land of Egypt.
+
+And Moses and Aaron went and gathered together all the elders of the
+children of Israel: and Aaron spake all the words which the Lord had
+spoken unto Moses, and did the signs in the sight of the people. And the
+people believed: and when they heard that the Lord had visited the
+children of Israel, and that he had seen their affliction, then they
+bowed their heads and worshipped.
+
+
+=§36. Pharaoh's Harshness= (Exod. 5:1-6:1)
+
+A. THE CHALLENGE
+
+And afterward Moses and Aaron came, and said unto Pharaoh, "Thus saith
+the Lord, the God of Israel, 'Let my people go, that they may hold a
+feast unto me in the wilderness.'"
+
+And Pharaoh said, "Who is the Lord, that I should hearken unto his voice
+to let Israel go? I know not the Lord, and moreover I will not let
+Israel go."
+
+And they said, "The God of the Hebrews hath met with us: let us go, we
+pray thee, three days' journey into the wilderness, and sacrifice unto
+the Lord our God."
+
+And the king of Egypt said unto them, "Wherefore do ye, Moses and Aaron,
+loose the people from their work? get you unto your burdens. Behold,
+the people of the land are now many, and ye make them rest from their
+burdens."
+
+
+B. THE BITTER BONDAGE
+
+And the same day Pharaoh commanded the taskmasters of the people, and
+their officers, saying, "Ye shall no more give the people straw to make
+brick, as heretofore: let them go and gather straw for themselves. And
+the number of the bricks, which they did make heretofore, ye shall lay
+upon them; ye shall not diminish aught thereof: for they be idle;
+therefore they cry, saying, 'Let us go and sacrifice to our God.' Let
+heavier work be laid upon the men, that they may labor therein; and let
+them not regard lying words."
+
+And the taskmasters of the people went out, and their officers, and they
+spake to the people, saying, "Thus saith Pharaoh, 'I will not give you
+straw. Go yourselves, get you straw where ye can find it: for nought of
+your work shall be diminished.'"
+
+So the people were scattered abroad throughout all the land of Egypt to
+gather stubble for straw. And the taskmasters were urgent, saying,
+"Fulfil your works, your daily tasks, as when there was straw." And the
+officers of the children of Israel, which Pharaoh's taskmasters had set
+over them, were beaten, and demanded, "Wherefore have ye not fulfilled
+your task both yesterday and to-day, in making brick as heretofore?"
+
+Then the officers of the children of Israel came and cried unto Pharaoh,
+saying, "Wherefore dealest thou thus with thy servants? There is no
+straw given unto thy servants, and they say to us, 'Make brick': and
+behold, thy servants are beaten; but the fault is in thine own people."
+
+But he said, "Ye are idle, ye are idle: therefore ye say, 'Let us go and
+sacrifice to the Lord.' Go therefore now, and work; for there shall no
+straw be given you, yet shall ye deliver the number of bricks."
+
+And the officers of the children of Israel did see that they were in
+evil case, and they met Moses and Aaron, who stood in the way, as they
+came forth from Pharaoh: and they said unto them, "The Lord look upon
+you, and judge; because ye have made us to be abhorred in the eyes of
+Pharaoh, and in the eyes of his servants, to put a sword in their hand
+to slay us."
+
+
+C. THE PROMISE OF THE LORD
+
+And Moses returned unto the Lord, and said, "Lord, wherefore hast thou
+evil entreated this people? why is it that thou hast sent me? For since
+I came to Pharaoh to speak in thy name, he hath evil entreated this
+people; neither hast thou delivered thy people at all."
+
+And the Lord said unto Moses, "Now shalt thou see what I will do to
+Pharaoh: for by a strong hand shall he let them go, and by a strong
+hand shall he drive them out of his land."
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+96 (§34A). We left Moses in Midian. Locate it again on the map. With
+whom did he live? What was his occupation? Notice that he came to Mt.
+Horeb, which is also called Mt. Sinai. Locate it on the map.
+
+97 (§34A). As Moses was alone in the wilderness, his thoughts would
+naturally turn to his people. What would he wish for them? How greatly
+they needed a leader! If ever the thought occurred to him that he ought
+to be their leader, how would he feel about it? At last God's message
+came to him. It is one of the beautiful stories of God speaking to man.
+How was Moses told to show his reverence? It is the custom in the East.
+How could they take off their shoes so easily? (See illustration of the
+sandal.) What custom do we have to show reverence? How did Moses show a
+still deeper reverence?
+
+98 (§34A). What did God tell Moses? It might have seemed to the lonely
+exile that the Lord had forgotten all about the people in bondage. A
+commission is a duty given to a man: what was Moses' commission? At last
+God's plan for poor Israel was clear. The deliverer had been found.
+
+99 (§34B). It was a startling commission for Moses. He remembered how
+the people had treated him when he had tried to help them. (Recall §31.)
+What was he now afraid of? Tell the story of the signs with which the
+Lord gave him confidence. People were always anxious for something
+wonderful in those old days.
+
+100 (§34B). Moses had another reason for hesitation. Is humility a good
+preparation for a great work or is confidence better? How does the Lord
+fit an earnest man for his work? Humility is not good when it is through
+lack of faith. "The anger of the Lord" means his displeasure at what
+is not right. Who was sent with Moses?
+
+101 (§35). How did Moses act after receiving the commission. Did he tell
+his father-in-law his plans? Describe the meeting, as you may imagine
+it, between the two brothers and the Hebrew people.
+
+[Illustration: _Copyright 1904 by Underwood and Underwood_
+BRICK-MAKING IN EGYPT]
+
+102 (§36A). It was a bold thing to go to the king. What did Moses and
+Aaron demand? What did the king say about the Lord? What did he say
+Moses and Aaron were doing?
+
+103 (§36B). Brick was made from the black Nile mud mixed with sand and
+with chopped straw. There are pictures in Egypt of captives making these
+bricks with overseers guarding them. The soft mud would be put into a
+wooden mold, which would then be lifted off and the brick left to dry in
+the sun. Sometimes the captives had to gather waste material or stubble
+instead of straw. Why was this such a hardship to the Hebrews?
+
+104 (§36B). Note how the orders were carried out. There are two classes
+of officials mentioned: the Egyptian taskmasters and the Hebrew
+officers. The latter were responsible for the full work being done by
+their countrymen. Tell the whole story of the bondage.
+
+105 (§36B). Describe the interview of the officers with Pharaoh. How did
+they feel toward Moses and Aaron?
+
+106 (§36C). How did all this affect Moses? It is often darkest just
+before day. What did the Lord promise?
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Think over the story carefully and prepare for a debate, the students
+taking different sides on the question: Resolved that Moses was wrong in
+settling down in Midian and leaving his people so long without help.
+
+
+
+
+XI. MOSES, THE DELIVERER
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§37. The Plagues of Egypt= (Exod. 7:14-18, 25; 8:1-4, 6, 8, 13, 15-17,
+20-24, 28, 31, 32; 9:1-6, 8, 9, 22-28, 33, 34; 10:3-6, 14, 19-23, 28,
+29; 11:4-8; 12:29-36)
+
+A. THE NILE TURNED TO BLOOD
+
+And the Lord said unto Moses, "Pharaoh's heart is stubborn, he refuseth
+to let the people go. Get thee unto Pharaoh in the morning; lo, he goeth
+out unto the water; and thou shalt stand by the river's brink to meet
+him; and the rod which was turned to a serpent shalt thou take in thine
+hand. And thou shalt say unto him, 'The Lord, the God of the Hebrews,
+hath sent me unto thee, saying, Let my people go, that they may serve me
+in the wilderness: and, behold hitherto thou hast not hearkened. Thus
+saith the Lord, In this thou shalt know that I am the Lord: behold, I
+will smite with the rod that is in mine hand upon the waters which are
+in the river and they shall be turned to blood. And the fish that is in
+the river shall die, and the river shall be polluted; and the Egyptians
+shall loathe to drink water from the river.'"
+
+
+B. THE SWARMS OF FROGS
+
+And seven days were fulfilled, after that the Lord had smitten the
+river. And the Lord spake unto Moses, "Go in unto Pharaoh, and say unto
+him, 'Thus saith the Lord, Let my people go, that they may serve me. And
+if thou refuse to let them go, behold, I will smite all thy borders with
+frogs: and the river shall swarm with frogs, which shall go up and come
+into thine house, and into thy bedchamber, and upon thy bed, and into
+the house of thy servants, and upon thy people, and into thine ovens,
+and into thy kneading-troughs: and the frogs shall come up both upon
+thee, and upon thy people, and upon all thy servants.'"
+
+And the frogs came up, and covered the land of Egypt. Then Pharaoh
+called for Moses and Aaron, and said, "Entreat the Lord, that he take
+away the frogs from me, and from my people; and I will let the people
+go, that they may sacrifice unto the Lord."
+
+And the frogs died, but when Pharaoh saw that there was respite, he
+hardened his heart.
+
+
+C. THE STINGING GNATS AND SWARMS OF FLIES
+
+And the Lord said unto Moses, "Stretch out thy rod, and smite the dust
+of the earth, that it may become stinging gnats throughout all the land
+of Egypt." And there were gnats upon man, and upon beast; all the dust
+of the earth became gnats throughout all the land of Egypt.
+
+And the Lord said unto Moses, "Rise up early in the morning, and stand
+before Pharaoh; and say unto him, 'Thus saith the Lord, Let my people
+go, that they may serve me. Else, if thou wilt not let my people go,
+behold, I will send swarms of flies upon thee, and upon thy servants,
+and upon thy people, and into thy houses: and the houses of the
+Egyptians shall be full of swarms of flies, and also the ground whereon
+they are. And I will separate in that day the land of Goshen, in which
+my people dwell, that no swarms of flies shall be there; to the end thou
+mayest know that I am the Lord in the midst of the earth.'"
+
+And the Lord did so; and there came grievous swarms of flies into all
+the land of Egypt. And Pharaoh said, "I will let you go, that ye may
+sacrifice to the Lord your God in the wilderness."
+
+And the Lord removed the swarms of flies from Pharaoh, from his
+servants, and from his people; there remained not one. And Pharaoh
+hardened his heart this time also, and he did not let the people go.
+
+
+D. THE CATTLE PESTILENCE AND THE BOILS
+
+Then the Lord said unto Moses, "Go in unto Pharaoh, and tell him, 'Thus
+saith the Lord, the God of the Hebrews, Let my people go, that they may
+serve me. For if thou refuse to let them go, and wilt hold them still,
+behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thy cattle which is in the field,
+upon the horses, upon the asses, upon the camels, upon the herds, and
+upon the flocks: there shall be a very grievous pestilence. And the
+Lord shall separate between the cattle of Israel and the cattle of
+Egypt: and there shall nothing die of all that belongeth to the children
+of Israel.'"
+
+And on the morrow all the cattle of Egypt died: but of the cattle of the
+children of Israel died not one.
+
+And the Lord said unto Moses and unto Aaron, "Take handfuls of ashes,
+and let Moses sprinkle it toward the heaven in the sight of Pharaoh. And
+it shall become small dust over all the land of Egypt, and shall be a
+boil breaking forth with blains upon man and upon beast, throughout all
+the land of Egypt."
+
+
+E. THE HAIL, THE LOCUSTS, AND THE DARKNESS
+
+And the Lord said unto Moses, "Stretch forth thine hand toward heaven,
+that there may be hail in all the land of Egypt, upon man, and upon
+beast, and upon every herb of the field." So there was hail, and fire
+mingled with the hail, very grievous, such as had not been in all the
+land of Egypt since it became a nation. And the hail smote all that was
+in the field, both man and beast; and the hail smote every herb of the
+field, and brake every tree of the field. Only in the land of Goshen,
+where the children of Israel were, was there no hail. And Pharaoh sent,
+and called for Moses and Aaron, and said unto them, "I have sinned this
+time. I will let you go, and ye shall stay no longer."
+
+And the thunders and hail ceased, and the rain was not poured upon the
+earth. And when Pharaoh saw that the rain and the hail and the thunders
+were ceased, he sinned yet more, and hardened his heart, he and his
+servants.
+
+And Moses and Aaron went in unto Pharaoh, and said unto him, "Thus saith
+the Lord, the God of the Hebrews, 'How long wilt thou refuse to humble
+thyself before me? let my people go, that they may serve me. Else, if
+thou refuse to let my people go, behold, to-morrow I will bring locusts
+into thy border: and they shall cover the face of the earth, that one
+shall not be able to see the earth: and they shall eat that which
+remaineth unto you from the hail, and shall eat every tree which groweth
+for you out of the field: and thy houses shall be filled, and the houses
+of all thy servants, and the houses of all the Egyptians; as neither thy
+fathers nor thy fathers' fathers have seen, since the day that they were
+upon the earth unto this day.'"
+
+And Moses stretched forth his rod over the land of Egypt, and the Lord
+brought an east wind upon the land all that day, and all the night; and
+when it was morning, the east wind brought the locusts. And they did eat
+every herb of the land, and all the fruit of the trees which the hail
+had left.
+
+Then Pharaoh called for Moses and Aaron in haste; and he said, "I have
+sinned against the Lord your God, and against you."
+
+And the Lord turned an exceeding strong west wind, which took up the
+locusts, and drove them into the Red Sea; there remained not one locust
+in all the border of Egypt. But Pharaoh did not let the children of
+Israel go.
+
+And the Lord said unto Moses, "Stretch out thine hand toward heaven,
+that there may be darkness over the land of Egypt, even darkness which
+may be felt."
+
+And Moses stretched forth his hand toward heaven, and there was a thick
+darkness in all the land of Egypt three days; they saw not one another,
+neither rose any from his place for three days: but all the children of
+Israel had light in their dwellings.
+
+
+F. THE LAST PLAGUE
+
+And Pharaoh said unto Moses, "Get thee from me, take heed to thyself,
+see my face no more; for in the day thou seest my face thou shalt die."
+
+And Moses said, "Thus saith the Lord, 'About midnight will I go out into
+the midst of Egypt: and all the firstborn in the land of Egypt shall
+die, from the firstborn of Pharaoh that sitteth upon his throne, even
+unto the firstborn of the maidservant that is behind the mill; and all
+the firstborn of cattle. And there shall be a great cry throughout all
+the land of Egypt, such as there hath been none like it, nor shall be
+like it any more.' But against any of the children of Israel shall not a
+dog move his tongue, against man or beast: that ye may know how that
+the Lord doth put a difference between the Egyptians and Israel. And all
+these thy servants shall come down unto me, and bow down themselves unto
+me, saying, 'Get thee out, and all the people that follow thee': and
+after that I will go out." And he went out from Pharaoh in hot anger.
+
+And it came to pass at midnight, that the Lord smote all the firstborn
+in the land of Egypt, from the firstborn of Pharaoh that sat on his
+throne unto the firstborn of the captive that was in the dungeon; and
+all the firstborn of cattle. And Pharaoh rose up in the night, he, and
+all his servants, and all the Egyptians; and there was a great cry in
+Egypt; for there was not a house where there was not one dead. And he
+called for Moses and Aaron by night, and said, "Rise up, get you forth
+from among my people, both ye and the children of Israel; and go, serve
+the Lord, as ye have said. Take both your flocks and your herds, as ye
+have said, and be gone; and bless me also."
+
+And the Egyptians were urgent upon the people, to send them out of the
+land in haste; for they said, "We be all dead men."
+
+And the children of Israel did according to the word of Moses; and they
+asked of the Egyptians jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and
+raiment: and the Lord gave the people favor in the sight of the
+Egyptians, so that they let them have what they asked.
+
+
+=§38. The Great Deliverance= (Exod. 13:17, 18, 21, 22; 14:5-7, 10-14,
+19-27)
+
+A. THE FLIGHT AND PURSUIT
+
+And it came to pass, when Pharaoh had let the people go, that God led
+them not by the way of the land of the Philistines, although that was
+near; for God said, "Lest peradventure the people repent when they see
+war, and they return to Egypt:" but God led the people about, by the way
+of the wilderness by the Red Sea: and the children of Israel went up
+armed out of the land of Egypt.
+
+And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud, to lead them
+the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; that they
+might go by day and by night: the pillar of cloud by day, and the pillar
+of fire by night, departed not from before the people.
+
+And it was told the king of Egypt that the people were fled: and the
+heart of Pharaoh and of his servants was changed towards the people, and
+they said, "What is this we have done, that we have let Israel go from
+serving us?" And he made ready his chariot, and took his people with
+him: and he took six hundred chosen chariots, and all the chariots of
+Egypt, and captains over all of them.
+
+And when Pharaoh drew nigh, the children of Israel lifted up their eyes,
+and, behold, the Egyptians marched after them; and they were sore
+afraid: and the children of Israel cried out unto the Lord. And they
+said unto Moses, "Because there were no graves in Egypt, hast thou taken
+us away to die in the wilderness? wherefore hast thou dealt thus with
+us, to bring us forth out of Egypt? Is not this the word that we spake
+unto thee in Egypt, saying, 'Let us alone, that we may serve the
+Egyptians'? For it were better for us to serve the Egyptians, than that
+we should die in the wilderness."
+
+And Moses said unto the people, "Fear ye not, stand still, and see the
+salvation of the Lord, which he will work for you to-day: for the
+Egyptians whom ye have seen to-day, ye shall see them again no more for
+ever. The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace."
+
+
+B. THE PASSAGE OF THE RED SEA
+
+And the angel of God, which went before the camp of Israel, removed and
+went behind them; and the pillar of cloud removed from before them, and
+stood behind them: and it came between the camp of Egypt and the camp of
+Israel; and there was the cloud and the darkness, yet gave it light by
+night: and the one came not near the other all the night. And Moses
+stretched out his hand over the sea; and the Lord caused the sea to go
+back by a strong east wind all the night, and made the sea dry land. And
+the children of Israel went into the midst of the sea upon the dry
+ground. And the Egyptians pursued, and went in after them into the
+midst of the sea, all Pharaoh's horses, his chariots, and his horsemen.
+And it came to pass in the morning watch, that the Lord looked forth
+upon the host of the Egyptians through the pillar of fire and of cloud,
+and discomfited the host of the Egyptians. And he took off their chariot
+wheels, that they drove them heavily: so that the Egyptians said, "Let
+us flee from the face of Israel; for the Lord fighteth for them against
+the Egyptians."
+
+And the Lord said unto Moses, "Stretch out thine hand over the sea, that
+the waters may come again upon the Egyptians, upon their chariots, and
+upon their horsemen." And Moses stretched forth his hand over the sea,
+and the sea returned to its strength when the morning appeared; and the
+Egyptians fled against it; and the Lord overthrew the Egyptians in the
+midst of the sea.
+
+
+=§39. The Song of the Exodus= (Exod. 14:30, 31; 15:1, 2, 20, 21)
+
+Thus the Lord saved Israel that day out of the hand of the Egyptians;
+and Israel saw the Egyptians dead upon the sea shore. And Israel saw the
+great work which the Lord did upon the Egyptians, and the people feared
+the Lord: and they believed in the Lord, and in his servant Moses.
+
+Then sang Moses and the children of Israel this song unto the Lord, and
+spake, saying,
+
+ I will sing unto the Lord, for he hath triumphed gloriously:
+ The horse and his rider hath he thrown into the sea.
+ The Lord is my strength and song,
+ And he is become my salvation:
+ This is my God and I will praise him;
+ My father's God, and I will exalt him.
+
+And Miriam the prophetess, the sister of Aaron, took a timbrel in her
+hand; and all the women went out after her with timbrels and with
+dances. And Miriam answered them,
+
+ Sing ye to the Lord, for he hath triumphed gloriously;
+ The horse and his rider hath he thrown into the sea.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+107. The story of the deliverance from Egypt makes a long chapter, but
+it is full of exciting interest and shows the fearless character of the
+great leader who trusted in his God. It was a bold thing for Moses to
+return to Egypt and try to persuade the king to let Israel go. But when
+he was sent to threaten Pharaoh it was indeed a task requiring courage.
+Imagine a single man to-day demanding of the sultan of Turkey that he
+should free his slaves.
+
+108 (§37). Moses was sent to tell the king that terrible plagues would
+come upon his people if he refused to let the Hebrews go. Ten plagues
+are mentioned. Nine of them were as follows: (1) the water of the Nile
+turned to blood-red color and made undrinkable; (2) enormous numbers of
+frogs; (3) swarms of stinging insects, perhaps gnats or mosquitoes; (4)
+swarms of flies, which would be terrible in a hot country; (5) a cattle
+pestilence; (6) fearful boils on men and cattle; (7) destructive hail;
+(8) locusts that ate vegetation; (9) the awful hot desert wind filling
+the air with fine sand and causing darkness.
+
+109 (§37). When Pharaoh was frightened by each of the plagues, what did
+he promise? What made him break his promise? Did you ever know anyone
+who was sorry for doing wrong when the punishment came, but forgot his
+promises afterward?
+
+110 (§37F). What did Pharaoh threaten Moses after the ninth plague? What
+did Moses say should be the last plague? Probably some sudden terrible
+pestilence came upon Egypt. Tell the story of that night.
+
+111 (§38A). Study the map and notice what a short journey it would be
+from Egypt along the coast to the Philistine country. But the borders of
+Egypt were strongly guarded, so that was a dangerous way to go. What
+might have happened if the Hebrews had seen that they would have to
+fight?
+
+112 (§38A). Moses was a wise leader. He knew he had a host of slaves,
+who had not learned courage. So he led them southward toward the Red
+Sea. There was a road leading to the wilderness near the Bitter Lakes.
+Locate this.
+
+113 (§38A). What happened when the Egyptians found that the people had
+actually gone? What did the Hebrews say when they learned that Pharaoh
+was following them? How did Moses encourage them?
+
+114 (§38B). The Hebrews were in a very difficult situation. They had
+come to a place where the water from the Red Sea ran far up the
+low-lying sands. What great canal has since been dug there? The water
+was too deep for the Hebrews to cross. Pharaoh's army was coming up
+behind. The only thing that could save Israel would be a strong wind
+that should drive the waters back and leave the sands clear. How often
+God's great Providence helps his people in trouble! Moses bravely
+encouraged them.
+
+115 (§38B). What separated the Israelites from the Egyptians? What made
+the crossing possible? What trouble did the Egyptians experience? What
+would naturally happen if the high wind stopped after the Israelites had
+crossed? Tell the story of the deliverance.
+
+116 (§39). What do you think were the feelings of Israel when they found
+themselves safe? Recite the song in which they celebrated their escape?
+What does "Exodus" mean?
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Let us try to see just what happened to the Hebrews. Draw a map of Egypt
+and the Sinai peninsula on a larger scale than that in your book. Mark
+Goshen, the region where the Hebrews lived. Mark the bitter lakes coming
+nearly to the Gulf of Suez. Connect these with a wavy line showing the
+shallow waters which were driven back for the passage of the Hebrews.
+Mark with a red line the road which the Hebrews might have taken along
+the coast road straight to Canaan and the road which they actually took
+south of the bitter lakes. Continue this last line into the Sinai
+peninsula, noting that the people were led into the wilderness.
+
+
+
+
+XII. MOSES, THE LAWGIVER
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§40. The Law at Sinai= (Exod. 15:22-25, 27; 19:1)
+
+A. THE MARCH AND THE MURMURING
+
+And Moses led Israel onward from the Red Sea, and they went three days
+in the wilderness, and found no water. And when they came to Marah, they
+could not drink of the waters for they were bitter. And the people
+murmured against Moses, saying, "What shall we drink?" And he cried unto
+the Lord; and the Lord showed him a tree, and he cast it into the
+waters, and the waters were made sweet.
+
+And they came to Elim, where were twelve springs of water, and
+threescore and ten palm trees: and they encamped there by the waters.
+And they took their journey from Elim, and in the third month they came
+to the wilderness of Sinai; and there Israel encamped before the mount.
+
+[Illustration: MOSES]
+
+B. THE TEN COMMANDMENTS
+
+And Moses went up unto God, and the Lord called unto him out of the
+mountain, saying, "Thus shalt thou say to the house of Jacob, and tell
+the children of Israel;
+
+ =I am the Lord thy God, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out
+ of the house of bondage.=
+
+ =Thou shalt have none other gods before me.=
+
+ =Thou shalt not make unto thee a graven image, nor the likeness of any
+ form that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that
+ is in the water under the earth; thou shalt not bow down thyself unto
+ them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting
+ the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, upon the third and upon
+ the fourth generation of them that hate me; and showing mercy unto
+ thousands of them that love me and keep my commandments.=
+
+ =Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord
+ will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.=
+
+ =Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labor,
+ and do all thy work: but the seventh day is a sabbath unto the Lord thy
+ God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy
+ daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy
+ stranger that is within thy gates: for in six days the Lord made heaven
+ and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day:
+ wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.=
+
+ =Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the
+ land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.=
+
+ =Thou shalt do no murder.=
+
+ =Thou shalt not commit adultery.=
+
+ =Thou shalt not steal.=
+
+ =Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.=
+
+ =Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's house, thou shalt not covet thy
+ neighbor's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox,
+ nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbor's.=
+
+And all the people saw the thunderings, and the lightnings, and the
+voice of the trumpet, and the mountain smoking: and when the people saw
+it, they trembled, and stood afar off. And they said unto Moses, "Speak
+thou with us, and we will hear: but let not God speak with us, lest we
+die."
+
+And Moses said unto the people, "Fear not: for God is come to prove
+you, and that his fear may be before you, that ye sin not."
+
+And the people stood afar off, and Moses drew near unto the thick
+darkness where God was.
+
+
+=§41. The Great Rebellion= (Exod. 24:13, 18; 32:1-8, 15-20, 30-35)
+
+A. THE GOLDEN CALF
+
+And Moses and Joshua his minister went up into the mount of God. And
+Moses was in the mount forty days and forty nights. And when the people
+saw that Moses delayed to come down from the mount, the people gathered
+themselves together unto Aaron, and said unto him, "Up, make us gods,
+which shall go before us; for as for this Moses, the man that brought us
+up out of the land of Egypt, we know not what is become of him."
+
+And Aaron said unto them, "Break off the golden rings, which are in the
+ears of your wives, of your sons, and of your daughters, and bring them
+unto me."
+
+And all the people brake off the golden rings which were in their ears,
+and brought them unto Aaron. And he received it at their hand, and
+fashioned it with a graving tool, and made it a molten calf: and they
+said, "These be thy gods, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the
+land of Egypt."
+
+And when Aaron saw this, he built an altar before it; and Aaron made
+proclamation, and said, "To-morrow shall be a feast to the Lord."
+
+And they rose up early on the morrow, and offered burnt offerings, and
+brought peace offerings; and the people sat down to eat and to drink,
+and rose up to play.
+
+And the Lord spake unto Moses, "Go, get thee down; for thy people, which
+thou broughtest up out of the land of Egypt, have corrupted themselves:
+they have turned aside quickly out of the way which I commanded them:
+they have made them a molten calf, and have worshipped it, and have
+sacrificed unto it."
+
+And Moses turned and went down from the mount with the two tables in his
+hand. And when Joshua heard the noise of the people as they shouted, he
+said unto Moses, "There is a noise of war in the camp."
+
+And he said, "It is not the voice of them that shout for mastery,
+neither is it the voice of them that cry for being overcome: but the
+noise of them that sing do I hear."
+
+And it came to pass, as soon as he came nigh unto the camp, that he saw
+the calf and the dancing: and Moses' anger waxed hot, and he cast the
+tables out of his hands, and brake them beneath the mount. And he took
+the calf which they had made, and burnt it with fire, and ground it to
+powder, and strewed it upon the water, and made the children of Israel
+drink of it.
+
+
+B. MOSES' PRAYER
+
+And it came to pass on the morrow, that Moses said unto the people, "Ye
+have sinned a great sin: and now I will go up unto the Lord;
+peradventure I shall make atonement for your sin."
+
+And Moses returned unto the Lord, and said, "Oh, this people have sinned
+a great sin, and have made them gods of gold. Yet now, if thou wilt
+forgive their sin--; and if not, blot me, I pray thee, out of thy book
+which thou hast written."
+
+And the Lord said unto Moses, "Whosoever hath sinned against me, him
+will I blot out of my book. And now go, lead the people unto the place
+of which I have spoken unto thee: behold, mine angel shall go before
+thee: nevertheless in the day when I visit, I will visit their sin upon
+them."
+
+And the Lord smote the people, because they made the calf, which Aaron
+made.
+
+[The people were forgiven, but again and again they rebelled. Moses
+prayed for them, but the Lord said they must wander in the wilderness
+forty years. At last Moses led them to the plains of Moab and to the
+river Jordan, where he made his farewell speech.]
+
+
+=§42. The Last Days of Moses= (Deut. 31:1-3, 6-8; 34)
+
+A. THE FAREWELL SPEECH
+
+And Moses spake these words unto all Israel, "I am a hundred and twenty
+years old this day; I can no more go out and come in: and the Lord hath
+said unto me, 'Thou shalt not go over this Jordan.' The Lord thy God, he
+will go over before thee; he will destroy these nations from before
+thee, and thou shalt possess them: and Joshua, he shall go over before
+thee, as the Lord hath spoken. Be strong and of a good courage, fear
+not, nor be affrighted at them: for the Lord thy God, he it is that doth
+go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee."
+
+And Moses called unto Joshua, and said unto him in the sight of all
+Israel, "Be strong and of a good courage: for thou shalt go with this
+people into the land which the Lord hath sworn unto their fathers to
+give them; and thou shalt cause them to inherit it. And the Lord, he it
+is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail
+thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed."
+
+
+B. THE DEATH OF MOSES
+
+And Moses went up from the plains of Moab unto mount Nebo, to the top of
+Pisgah, that is over against Jericho. And the Lord showed him all the
+land.
+
+And the Lord said unto him, "This is the land which I sware unto
+Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, saying, I will give it unto thy
+seed: I have caused thee to see it with thine eyes, but thou shalt not
+go over thither."
+
+So Moses the servant of the Lord died there in the land of Moab,
+according to the word of the Lord. And he buried him in the valley in
+the land of Moab, but no man knoweth of his sepulchre unto this day. And
+Moses was a hundred and twenty years old when he died: his eye was not
+dim, nor his natural force abated. And the children of Israel wept for
+Moses in the plains of Moab thirty days.
+
+And there hath not arisen a prophet since in Israel like unto Moses,
+whom the Lord knew face to face; in all the signs and the wonders, which
+the Lord sent him to do in the land of Egypt, to Pharaoh, and to all his
+land; and in all the mighty hand, and in all the great terror, which
+Moses wrought in the sight of all Israel.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+117. After the Revolutionary War, the thirteen American states adopted a
+constitution. Washington was the great leader. We all honor him now, but
+during his life many were jealous of him and the people often found
+fault with him and lost confidence in him. He was greatly tried and
+would have given up the presidency but for his sense of duty. So it was
+with Moses. He brought deliverance to the people and gave them their
+first great laws, but they constantly murmured against him and against
+God. The long story of his leadership of Israel during forty years in
+the wilderness is told in the books of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and
+Deuteronomy. We shall study a few of the main incidents.
+
+118 (§40A). After the victory over the Egyptians, Moses led the people
+toward Mt. Sinai. Notice on the map the mountain range in the Sinai
+Peninsula. What difficulty soon arose? How did the people meet it? This
+was the beginning of a number of trials that Moses had in his
+leadership.
+
+119 (§40A). How long did it take to reach Mt. Sinai? The gathering at
+the mountain was a very solemn occasion. Israel was to receive a
+constitution. Think of the solemn time when the constitution of the
+United States was adopted.
+
+120 (§40B). What do we call these great words? Every student should know
+them by heart. If they were learned in the Primary Department it would
+be well to recall them.
+
+121 (§40B). How were the people impressed by the holy law? Let us
+understand that when we speak of "the fear of the Lord" it does not mean
+that we are afraid of him, but that we have a great reverence for him.
+
+122 (§41A). How long had Moses remained in the mountain to which he had
+gone to receive the laws? The people could not understand a God whom
+they could not see. They wanted an idol such as the Egyptians had. Tell
+the story of the golden calf.
+
+123 (§41A). How did Moses learn of what had happened? What did Moses
+bring down from the mountain? What did Joshua hear? What did Moses do
+when he found what had happened? Is it ever right to be angry?
+
+124 (§41B). The people had greatly disappointed Moses, but he was very
+sorry for their sin. He went to pray for them. Read carefully his
+wonderful prayer. Moses well knew God's love, but he knew also that
+wickedness must be punished.
+
+125. We shall consider another great rebellion in connection with the
+next two heroes whom we study. It resulted in the Hebrews being
+sentenced to travel about for forty years. Moses led them. He was their
+chief, ruling over them, and their general, enabling them to conquer
+their enemies.
+
+126 (§42A). Moses had led the people for forty years. At last the grand
+old man brought them to the very border of the Promised Land. What river
+was all that separated them from Canaan? Locate the place of the last
+camp just opposite Jericho. The book of Deuteronomy gives the farewell
+speeches of Moses. This section is a part of what he said to them. Tell
+it in your own words. What great American gave a Farewell Message to his
+countrymen?
+
+127 (§42B). It was a great disappointment to Moses that he could not
+lead the people into Canaan, but he cheerfully accepted God's will. It
+must have been a wonderful sight that the old man saw from the mountain.
+Imagine yourself on Mt. Nebo. Look over Canaan and tell what Moses saw.
+Where did Moses die? How did Israel mourn for him? What did the writer
+of the last verses think of this great man? Learn Mrs. Alexander's
+beautiful poem.
+
+THE BURIAL OF MOSES
+
+ By Nebo's lonely mountain,
+ On this side Jordan's wave,
+ In a vale in the land of Moab,
+ There lies a lonely grave;
+ But no man dug that sepulchre,
+ And no man saw it e'er,
+ For the angels of God upturned the sod,
+ And laid the dead man there.
+
+ That was the grandest funeral
+ That ever passed on earth;
+ But no man heard the tramping,
+ Or saw the train go forth.
+ Noiselessly as the daylight
+ Comes when the night is done,
+ And the crimson streak on ocean's cheek
+ Grows into the great sun,
+
+ Noiselessly as the springtime
+ Her crown of verdure weaves,
+ And all the trees on all the hills
+ Open their thousand leaves,
+ So, without sound of music,
+ Or voice of them that wept,
+ Silently down from the mountain crown
+ The great procession swept.
+
+ This was the bravest warrior
+ That ever buckled sword;
+ This the most gifted poet
+ That ever breathed a word;
+ And never earth's philosopher
+ Traced, with his golden pen,
+ On the deathless page, truths half so sage
+ As he wrote down for men.
+
+ And had he not high honor?
+ The hillside for his pall;
+ To lie in state while angels wait,
+ With stars for tapers tall;
+ And the dark rock-pines, like tossing plumes,
+ Over his bier to wave;
+ And God's own hand, in that lonely land,
+ To lay him in the grave.
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Draw a picture of two large tables of stone. Write the first five
+commandments on one, using just the first sentence of each commandment.
+Write the last five commandments on the other in full, except that for
+the tenth commandment use only its first four words. Do this very
+neatly.
+
+
+
+
+REVIEW
+
+ XIII. THE HEROES OF ISRAEL'S WANDERINGS
+
+
+
+
+XIII. THE HEROES OF ISRAEL'S WANDERINGS
+
+128. Our studies have brought us to the time when the Hebrews were about
+to enter the land of Canaan. Up to that time they were a wandering
+people going from place to place, seeking pasture for their flocks or
+refuge from famine. After they settled down they used to tell the
+stories of the heroes of the old wandering days. We have studied five of
+these. Who was called the Father of the Faithful? Who was his son? Who
+was the man who gave his name to the nation? Which of his sons became
+the ruler of Egypt? Who was the deliverer of the people from Egypt? Let
+us recall some of the stories of these five heroes.
+
+129 (5-7, §2). Tell the story of Abraham's journey westward to the new
+land. Who did he believe called him and led him? What people in our own
+history did we compare with him?
+
+130 (12, 13, §5). Abraham had a nephew with him: what was his name? What
+great wealth did these two men have? What trouble was caused by the
+increase of their wealth? How did Abraham settle the matter? Why did we
+call him "magnanimous"?
+
+131 (23, 24, §8). Abraham was most anxious to do what he thought was
+right. Tell the wonderful story of how God showed him that he need not
+sacrifice his son.
+
+132. Read §11A and see if you can recall the story of Jacob's deception
+of Isaac.
+
+133 (50, §16). After many years and after Jacob had learned many hard
+lessons he turned back to his own land. Tell the story of his meeting
+with the brother whom he had wronged.
+
+134 (§19). How many sons had Jacob? Who was his favorite? Why did his
+brothers hate him? Tell the story of how they sold him as a slave.
+
+135 (§23C). Joseph prospered in Egypt, but through false accusation was
+thrown into prison. Here he interpreted the dreams of two men: who were
+they? which of the men was pardoned by the king and forgot Joseph? The
+king dreamed: how did this lead to Joseph's promotion?
+
+136 (§27C). There were seven years of good crops followed by seven years
+of famine. How did the famine bring Joseph's brothers to Egypt? Why did
+they not recognize him when he knew them? What plan did he use to make
+them sorry for their unkindness and to make one of them willing to be a
+slave to save his youngest brother? Tell the story of the forgiveness.
+
+137 (84, 89, 90, §30). After the Hebrews had been a long time in Egypt
+they became very numerous. Pharaoh was alarmed at their numbers. What
+order did he give so that there should be no more men? Tell the story of
+Moses' safety and adoption.
+
+138 (97, 98, §34A). Moses had been obliged to flee from Egypt and had
+lived a long time in the wilderness thinking about how his people could
+be saved. Perhaps sometimes he thought that he ought to deliver them,
+but he hesitated. Tell the story of the Burning Bush and how God
+encouraged him to go back to Egypt and be the deliverer.
+
+139 (114, §38B). Moses boldly went back and told the king he must let
+the people go. After ten awful plagues Pharaoh let them go. But no
+sooner were they gone than he repented and followed after them. How did
+Moses lead them into safety by God's good providence?
+
+140 (127, §42B). How many years did Moses lead his people in the
+wilderness? To what point did he bring them at last? There he made them
+a noble farewell speech of encouragement. Tell the story of how he saw
+Canaan, and of his death. What did the writer of the Book of Deuteronomy
+think of Moses?
+
+
+
+
+WAR HEROES
+
+ XIV. JOSHUA AND CALEB
+
+ XV. GIDEON, THE WARRIOR
+
+ XVI. SAMSON, THE STRONG MAN
+
+
+
+
+XIV. JOSHUA AND CALEB
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§43. The Twelve Spies= (Num. 13:1, 2, 17-21, 25-28, 30-33; 14:1-10,
+26-33)
+
+A. THE MISSION OF THE SPIES
+
+The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, "Send thou men, that they may spy out
+the land of Canaan, which I give unto the children of Israel: of every
+tribe of their fathers shall ye send a man, every one a prince among
+them."
+
+And Moses sent twelve men of the tribes of Israel, and of them Caleb was
+of the tribe of Judah and Joshua of the tribe of Ephraim. And Moses sent
+them to spy out the land of Canaan, and said unto them, "Get you up this
+way by the South, and go up into the mountains: and see the land, what
+it is; and the people that dwelleth therein, whether they be strong or
+weak, whether they be few or many; and what the land is that they dwell
+in, whether it be good or bad; and what cities they be that they dwell
+in, whether in camps, or in strongholds; and what the land is, whether
+it be fat or lean, whether there be wood therein, or not. And be ye of
+good courage, and bring of the fruit of the land."
+
+Now the time was the time of the first-ripe grapes. So they went up, and
+spied out the land. And they came unto the valley of Eshcol, and cut
+down from thence a branch with one cluster of grapes, and they bare it
+upon a staff between two; they brought also of the pomegranates, and of
+the figs.
+
+
+B. THE REPORT OF THE COWARDS
+
+And they returned from spying out the land at the end of forty days. And
+they went and came to Moses, and to the children of Israel, and showed
+them the fruit of the land. And they told him, and said, "We came unto
+the land whither thou sentest us, and surely it floweth with milk and
+honey; and this is the fruit of it. Howbeit the people that dwell in the
+land are strong, and the cities are fenced, and very great: and moreover
+we saw the giants, the children of Anak, there."
+
+And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said, "Let us go up at
+once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it."
+
+But the men that went up with him said, "We are not able to go up
+against the people; for they are stronger than we." And they brought up
+an evil report of the land which they had spied out unto the children of
+Israel, saying, "The land, through which we have gone to spy it out, is
+a land that eateth up the inhabitants thereof; and all the people that
+we saw in it are men of great stature. And there we saw the giants, the
+sons of Anak: and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so we
+were in their sight."
+
+
+C. THE DISCOURAGEMENT
+
+And all the congregation lifted up their voice, and cried; and the
+people wept that night. And all the children of Israel murmured against
+Moses and against Aaron: and said unto them, "Would God that we had died
+in the land of Egypt! or would God we had died in this wilderness! And
+wherefore doth the Lord bring us unto this land, to fall by the sword?
+Our wives and our little ones shall be a prey: were it not better for us
+to return into Egypt?"
+
+And they said one to another, "Let us make a captain, and let us return
+into Egypt."
+
+Then Moses and Aaron fell on their faces before all the assembly of the
+children of Israel.
+
+
+D. THE ADVICE OF THE HEROES
+
+And Joshua and Caleb, which were of them that spied out the land, rent
+their clothes: and they spake unto all the children of Israel, saying,
+"The land, which we passed through to spy it out, is an exceeding good
+land. If the Lord delight in us, then he will bring us into this land,
+and give it unto us; a land which floweth with milk and honey. Only
+rebel not against the Lord, neither fear ye the people of the land; for
+they are bread for us: their defence is removed from over them, and the
+Lord is with us: fear them not."
+
+But all the people cried to stone them with stones.
+
+
+E. THE SENTENCE OF THE LORD
+
+And the glory of the Lord appeared in the tent of meeting unto all the
+children of Israel. And the Lord spake unto Moses and unto Aaron,
+saying, "I have heard the murmurings of the children of Israel, which
+they murmur against me. Say unto them, 'As I live, saith the Lord,
+surely as ye have spoken in mine ears, so will I do to you: your
+carcases shall fall in this wilderness; and all that were numbered of
+you, according to your whole number, from twenty years old and upward,
+which have murmured against me, surely ye shall not come into the land,
+concerning which I lifted up my hand that I would make you dwell
+therein, save Caleb and Joshua. But your little ones, which ye said
+should be a prey, them will I bring in, and they shall know the land
+which ye have rejected. But as for you, your carcases shall fall in this
+wilderness. And your children shall be wanderers in the wilderness forty
+years.'"
+
+
+=§44. After the Forty Years= (Josh. 1:1-11; 11:16-18; 14:6-13)
+
+A. JOSHUA'S REWARD
+
+Now it came to pass after the death of Moses the servant of the Lord,
+that the Lord spake unto Joshua, Moses' minister, saying, "Moses my
+servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all
+this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even to the children
+of Israel. Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, to
+you have I given it, as I spake unto Moses. From the wilderness, and
+this Lebanon, even unto the great river, the river Euphrates, all the
+land of the Hittites, and unto the great sea toward the going down of
+the sun, shall be your border. There shall not any man be able to stand
+before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be
+with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. Be strong and of a
+good courage: for thou shalt cause this people to inherit the land which
+I sware unto their fathers to give them. Only be strong and very
+courageous, to observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my
+servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the
+left, that thou mayest have good success whithersoever thou goest. This
+book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth, but thou shalt
+meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according
+to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way
+prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. Have not I commanded
+thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not affrighted, neither be
+thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou
+goest."
+
+Then Joshua commanded the officers of the people, saying, "Pass through
+the midst of the camp, and command the people, saying, 'Prepare you
+victuals; for within three days ye are to pass over this Jordan, to go
+in to possess the land, which the Lord your God giveth you to possess
+it.'"
+
+
+B. JOSHUA'S CONQUESTS
+
+So Joshua took all that land, the hill country, and all the South, and
+the lowland, and the hill country of Israel, and the lowland of the
+same; and all their kings he took, and smote them, and put them to
+death. Joshua made war a long time with all those kings. So Joshua took
+the whole land, according to all that the Lord spake unto Moses; and
+Joshua gave it for an inheritance unto Israel according to their
+divisions by their tribes.
+
+
+C. CALEB'S REWARD
+
+Then the children of Judah drew nigh unto Joshua: and Caleb said unto
+him, "Thou knowest the thing that the Lord spake unto Moses the man of
+God concerning me and concerning thee in Kadesh-barnea. Forty years old
+was I when Moses the servant of the Lord sent me from Kadesh-barnea to
+spy out the land; and I brought him word again as it was in mine heart.
+Nevertheless my brethren that went up with me made the heart of the
+people melt: but I wholly followed the Lord my God. And Moses sware on
+that day, saying, 'Surely the land whereon thy foot hath trodden shall
+be an inheritance to thee and to thy children for ever, because thou
+hast wholly followed the Lord my God.' And now, behold, the Lord hath
+kept me alive, as he spake, these forty and five years, from the time
+that the Lord spake this word unto Moses, while Israel walked in the
+wilderness: and now, lo, I am this day fourscore and five years old. As
+yet I am as strong this day as I was in the day that Moses sent me: as
+my strength was then, even so is my strength now, for war, and to go out
+and to come in. Now, therefore, give me this mountain, whereof the Lord
+spake in that day; for thou heardest in that day how the giants, the
+sons of Anak, were there, and cities great and fenced: it may be that
+the Lord will be with me, and I shall drive them out, as the Lord
+spake."
+
+And Joshua blessed him; and he gave Hebron unto Caleb for an
+inheritance. And the land had rest from war.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+141. We have followed the story of Moses to the time of his death. Now
+we shall go back to notice the part that two other heroes played in the
+wilderness. It was at the time when Moses had led the people from Mount
+Sinai toward the southern part of Canaan. Locate this journey on the
+map.
+
+142 (§43A). Notice that we take up the Book of Numbers, which is so
+called because it tells of the census of the people in the wilderness.
+Try to imagine the feelings of the people who had come from slavery in
+Egypt and had reached the borders of the strange new land. They would
+wish to know what was before them. What plan was to be used to find
+out?
+
+143 (§43A). The southern part of Canaan was called "the South." Locate
+it. They were to go through there and then to the higher country where
+the vineyards were planted on the hills. What seven different things
+were these men to find out? What were they to bring back with them? What
+time of the year was it? We can imagine how the settlers in the early
+history of our country might have sent scouts to go through the Indian
+lands to find out what they were and what kind of people the Indian
+tribes were.
+
+144 (§43A). These twelve men went all through the land. What did they
+get as a sample of the fruit? Why did two men have to carry it? What
+does this show of the character of the land?
+
+145 (§43B). How long did it take them to find out about the country?
+What did they do when they came back. What report did they give? The
+children of Anak were very tall men. It seems that there must have been
+a tribe of exceedingly big men in Canaan. These frightened the spies.
+
+146 (§43B). There was one of the committee who spoke out a bold word.
+Who was he and what did he say? But what did the others reply? Notice
+that at first they said they saw some tall men. Soon they began to think
+that all the Canaanites were giants. So difficulties grow in our minds
+when we are cowardly.
+
+147 (§43C). What happened when the people heard the discouraging report?
+It shows how a few men can discourage a whole army. What rebellion did
+they plan? Would it have been wise to go back to Egypt?
+
+148 (§43D). Moses and Aaron were very much troubled. But the two heroes
+out of the twelve spies made a great speech. They were troubled so they
+tore their clothes. But what did they say about the land? Who did they
+say would bless the people if they would be faithful and brave? How did
+the people respond? Think of the two noble men standing against the
+great crowd.
+
+149 (§43E). The message of the Lord tells of the punishment for the
+rebellion. What was to happen to all the grown men? What two men were to
+be an exception? What was to happen to the children? Notice that the
+punishment is that they shall not go into the land. But they did not
+want to go. Sometimes the worst punishment is to take a person at his
+word.
+
+150 (§44A). Now imagine forty years to pass. All the old men are gone.
+The great leader is gone. Let us see what became of the two brave men.
+We turn to a new book, the sixth in our Bible, which is called after the
+name of the hero. Who was chosen to succeed Moses? Was not this an honor
+and reward? What was to be his duty for the people? What spirit was he
+to have? What was to be his guide? Who promised to be with him? What did
+he immediately do as the first act of his leadership?
+
+151 (§44B). The first eleven chapters of this book give the account of
+Joshua's wars to gain the land for his people. This passage tells how he
+succeeded. Tell it in your own words.
+
+152 (§44C). The old hero Caleb comes up to get his share of the new
+land. Tell what he says to Joshua. As he states that it is forty-five
+years since Moses gave him the promise, there must have been five years
+spent in conquering the land. It was a long time to wait for his reward,
+but at last the old man receives it. It is interesting to note that he
+chooses his own reward. He asks to be given the very highland country
+that the spies were so much afraid of. He expects the Lord to help him
+to drive the giants out. One would think that an old man would ask for
+an easy place. Caleb asks for a hard one. What do you think of Caleb?
+What kind of a place do you want in the world--an easy place with
+plenty to get or a hard place with plenty of chance to do good? Think
+about that question and then answer it to yourself.
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+This week you will undoubtedly have some difficult lessons assigned in
+school. It will seem that they are too hard and you will feel inclined
+to give them up. Do not be afraid of the giants, be like Joshua and
+Caleb and you can conquer if you are brave enough. Make up your mind to
+conquer some hard task each day. When you are sure you have really
+conquered a difficulty think how those heroes must have felt about the
+giants. Write in your notebook the reason why Caleb and Joshua wanted to
+do the hard duty.
+
+
+
+
+XV. GIDEON, THE WARRIOR
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§45. The Call of Gideon= (Judg. 6:2-6, 11-24, 36-40)
+
+A. THE OPPRESSION OF THE MIDIANITES
+
+The hand of Midian prevailed against Israel: and because of Midian the
+children of Israel made them the dens which are in the mountains, and
+the caves, and the strongholds. And so it was, when Israel had sown,
+that the Midianites came up and encamped against them, and destroyed the
+increase of the earth, and left no sustenance in Israel, neither sheep,
+nor ox, nor ass. For they came up with their cattle and their tents,
+they came in as locusts for multitude; both they and their camels were
+without number: and they came into the land to destroy it. And Israel
+was brought very low because of Midian; and the children of Israel cried
+unto the Lord.
+
+
+B. THE ANGEL'S VISIT TO GIDEON
+
+And the angel of the Lord came, and sat under the oak that belonged unto
+Joash the Abiezrite: and his son Gideon was beating out wheat in the
+winepress, to hide it from the Midianites. And the angel of the Lord
+appeared unto him, and said unto him, "The Lord is with thee, thou
+mighty man of valor."
+
+And Gideon said unto him, "Oh my lord, if the Lord be with us, why then
+is all this befallen us? and where are all his wondrous works which our
+fathers told us of, saying, 'Did not the Lord bring us up from Egypt?'
+but now the Lord hath cast us off, and delivered us into the hand of
+Midian."
+
+And the Lord looked upon him, and said, "Go in this thy might, and save
+Israel from the hand of Midian: have not I sent thee?"
+
+And he said unto him, "Oh Lord, wherewith shall I save Israel? behold,
+my family is the poorest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my father's
+house."
+
+And the Lord said unto him, "Surely I will be with thee, and thou shalt
+smite the Midianites as one man."
+
+And he said unto him, "If now I have found grace in thy sight, then show
+me a sign that it is thou that talkest with me. Depart not hence, I pray
+thee, until I come unto thee, and bring forth my present, and lay it
+before thee."
+
+And he said, "I will tarry until thou come again."
+
+And Gideon went in, and made ready a kid, and unleavened cakes of an
+ephah of meal: the flesh he put in a basket, and he put the broth in a
+pot, and brought it out unto him under the oak, and presented it.
+
+And the angel of God said unto him, "Take the flesh and the unleavened
+cakes, and lay them upon this rock, and pour out the broth."
+
+And he did so. Then the angel of the Lord put forth the end of the staff
+that was in his hand, and touched the flesh and the unleavened cakes;
+and there went up fire out of the rock, and consumed the flesh and the
+unleavened cakes; and the angel of the Lord departed out of his sight.
+And Gideon saw that he was the angel of the Lord; and Gideon said,
+"Alas, O Lord God! forasmuch as I have seen the angel of the Lord face
+to face."
+
+And the Lord said unto him, "Peace be unto thee; fear not: thou shalt
+not die."
+
+Then Gideon built an altar there unto the Lord.
+
+C. THE SIGN OF THE FLEECE
+
+And Gideon said unto God, "If thou wilt save Israel by mine hand, as
+thou hast spoken, behold, I will put a fleece of wool on the
+threshing-floor: if there be dew on the fleece only, and it be dry upon
+all the ground, then shall I know that thou wilt save Israel by mine
+hand, as thou hast spoken."
+
+And it was so: for he rose up early on the morrow, and pressed the
+fleece together, and wrung the dew out of the fleece, a bowlful of
+water. And Gideon said unto God, "Let not thine anger be kindled against
+me, and I will speak but this once: let me prove, I pray thee, but this
+once with the fleece; let it now be dry only upon the fleece, and upon
+all the ground let there be dew."
+
+And God did so that night: for it was dry upon the fleece only, and
+there was dew on all the ground.
+
+
+=§46. The Defeat of the Midianites= (Judg. 6:33-35; 7:2-24; 8:4,
+10-12, 21)
+
+A. THE GATHERING OF THE TRIBES
+
+Then all the Midianites assembled themselves together; and they passed
+over, and pitched in the valley of Jezreel. But the spirit of the Lord
+came upon Gideon; and he blew a trumpet; and Abiezer was gathered
+together after him. And he sent messengers throughout all Manasseh; and
+they also were gathered together after him: and he sent messengers unto
+Asher, and unto Zebulun, and unto Naphtali; and they came up to meet
+them.
+
+
+B. THE CHOICE OF THE WARRIORS
+
+And the Lord said unto Gideon, "The people that are with thee are too
+many for me to give the Midianites into their hand, lest Israel vaunt
+themselves against me, saying, 'Mine own hand hath saved me.' Now
+therefore go to, proclaim in the ears of the people, saying, 'Whosoever
+is fearful and trembling, let him return and depart from mount Gilead.'"
+
+And there returned of the people twenty and two thousand; and there
+remained ten thousand. And the Lord said unto Gideon, "The people are
+yet too many; bring them down unto the water, and I will try them for
+thee there: and it shall be, that of whom I say unto thee, 'This shall
+go with thee,' the same shall go with thee; and of whomsoever I say unto
+thee, 'This shall not go with thee,' the same shall not go."
+
+So he brought down the people unto the water: and the Lord said unto
+Gideon, "Every one that lappeth of the water with his tongue, as a dog
+lappeth, him shalt thou set by himself; likewise every one that boweth
+down upon his knees to drink."
+
+And the number of them that lapped, putting their hand to their mouth,
+was three hundred men: but all the rest of the people bowed down upon
+their knees to drink water.
+
+And the Lord said unto Gideon, "By the three hundred men that lapped
+will I save you, and deliver the Midianites into thine hand: and let all
+the people go every man unto his place."
+
+So the people took victuals in their hand, and their trumpets: and he
+sent all the men of Israel every man unto his tent, but retained the
+three hundred men: and the camp of Midian was beneath him in the valley.
+
+
+C. THE DREAM OF THE ENEMY
+
+And it came to pass the same night, that the Lord said unto him, "Arise,
+get thee down into the camp; for I have delivered it into thine hand.
+But if thou fear to go down, go thou with Purah thy servant down to the
+camp: and thou shalt hear what they say; and afterward shall thine
+hands be strengthened to go down into the camp."
+
+Then went he down with Purah his servant unto the outermost part of the
+armed men that were in the camp. And the Midianites lay along in the
+valley like locusts for multitude; and their camels were without number,
+as the sand which is upon the sea shore for multitude.
+
+And when Gideon was come, behold, there was a man that told a dream unto
+his fellow, and said, "Behold, I dreamed a dream, and, lo, a cake of
+barley bread tumbled into the camp of Midian, and came unto the tent,
+and smote it that it fell, and turned it upside down, so that the tent
+lay flat."
+
+And his fellow answered and said, "This is nothing else save the sword
+of Gideon the son of Joash, a man of Israel: into his hand God hath
+delivered Midian, and all the host."
+
+And it was so, when Gideon heard the telling of the dream, and the
+interpretation thereof, that he worshipped; and he returned into the
+camp of Israel, and said, "Arise; for the Lord hath delivered into your
+hand the host of Midian."
+
+
+D. THE PLAN OF THE BATTLE
+
+And he divided the three hundred men into three companies, and he put
+into the hands of all of them trumpets, and empty pitchers, with torches
+within the pitchers. And he said unto them, "Look on me, and do
+likewise: and, behold, when I come to the outermost part of the camp, it
+shall be that, as I do, so shall ye do. When I blow the trumpet, I and
+all that are with me, then blow ye the trumpets also on every side of
+all the camp, and say, 'For the Lord and for Gideon.'"
+
+So Gideon, and the hundred men that were with him, came unto the
+outermost part of the camp in the beginning of the middle watch, when
+they had but newly set the watch: and they blew the trumpets, and brake
+in pieces the pitchers that were in their hands. And the three companies
+blew the trumpets, and brake the pitchers, and held the torches in their
+left hands, and the trumpets in their right hands to blow withal: and
+they cried, "The sword of the Lord and of Gideon."
+
+And they stood every man in his place round about the camp: and all the
+host ran; and they shouted, and put them to flight. And they blew the
+three hundred trumpets, and the Lord set every man's sword against his
+fellow, and against all the host: and the host fled and the men of
+Israel pursued after Midian.
+
+
+E. THE PURSUIT AND THE VICTORY
+
+And Gideon sent messengers throughout all the hill country of Ephraim,
+saying, "Come down against Midian and take the Jordan before them." So
+they came down.
+
+And Gideon came to the Jordan, and passed over, he, and the three
+hundred men that were with him, faint, yet pursuing.
+
+Now the two kings of Midian had with them about fifteen thousand men,
+all that were left of the host. And Gideon smote the host. And the two
+kings of Midian fled. And Gideon pursued after them and took them. And
+he slew them, and took the crescents that were on their camels' necks.
+
+
+=§47. The Result of the Victory= (Judg. 8:22-27)
+
+Then the men of Israel said unto Gideon, "Rule thou over us, both thou,
+and thy son, and thy son's son also: for thou hast saved us out of the
+hand of Midian."
+
+And Gideon said unto them, "I will not rule over you, neither shall my
+son rule over you: the Lord shall rule over you."
+
+And Gideon said unto them, "I would desire and request of you, that ye
+would give me every man the earrings of his spoil."
+
+And they answered, "We will willingly give them."
+
+And they spread a garment, and did cast therein every man the earrings
+of his spoil. And the weight of the golden earrings that he requested
+was a thousand and seven hundred shekels of gold; beside the crescents,
+and the pendants, and the purple raiment that was on the kings of
+Midian, and beside the chains that were about their camels' necks. And
+Gideon made an idol thereof, and put it in his city, even in Ophrah: and
+all Israel went after it there: and it became a snare unto Gideon, and
+to his house.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+153. After the death of Joshua, the Hebrews had a hard time from their
+many enemies. Just as our forefathers were constantly in danger from the
+Indians, so the Hebrew settlers were often attacked and their goods
+taken from them. But in their case it was worse, because their enemies
+often came against them in great armies and conquered them. Israel had
+no king or governor, but from time to time some hero rose up to deliver
+them. These men were called "judges," because in addition to leading the
+people in war they decided matters of dispute. Their stories are told in
+the Book of Judges. Gideon was one of these military heroes.
+
+154 (§45A). The Midianites were a wandering people of the desert. They
+wandered on the borders of Edom and Moab. Find these places on the map,
+southeast of Canaan. As they raised no crops themselves they delighted
+to attack the agricultural people after the crops were harvested and
+steal all the result of the year's work. That is the meaning of the fear
+of the Hebrews that is described. Where did the Hebrews hide? How many
+were there of the enemy?
+
+155 (§45B). Notice that Gideon was afraid to thresh his wheat in the
+open place, so he was beating out a few sheaves in the hollow where they
+pressed the grapes. What did the angel say to him when he saw his
+powerful frame and how vigorously he was beating his wheat? Tell the
+conversation, showing how the angel encouraged Gideon. He was a brave
+man, but like everyone else he had lost heart. What sign was given to
+Gideon? It was such a solemn thing to be called by God to deliver the
+people that Gideon was afraid, but God encouraged him. What did Gideon
+build there? What did that mean?
+
+156 (§45C). What further sign was given to Gideon to make him sure that
+the Lord was with him?
+
+157 (§46A). There were twelve tribes in Israel and each tribe consisted
+of a number of clans. Gideon was of the clan of Abiezer, which was part
+of the tribe of Manasseh. Look at the map of Canaan and note the names
+of the Twelve Tribes. In the tribe of Issachar is the Plain of
+Esdraelon. That was the great plain where many of the battles of Israel
+were fought. If you can look at a relief map you will see how this great
+plain lay. The enemy had crossed the Jordan and camped on this plain.
+When Gideon heard it, he was stirred to the heart. What did he do? First
+his own clan followed him. Then he called his own tribe to follow him.
+Then he sent to three of the northern tribes. Find all these on the map.
+Try to imagine the Israelites all gathering together at the call of the
+hero.
+
+158 (§46B). Here we have a strange story. It would seem as if the army
+ought to be as large as possible, but the Lord told Gideon that he did
+not want the people to boast of the victory. Who were told to go home?
+How large was the army? How many went home? How many remained? But still
+the numbers were too large: what was the second plan to reduce them? How
+many at last were left?
+
+159 (§46C). What did Gideon do in order to find out about the enemy?
+Tell the dream that he heard explained.
+
+160 (§46D). Read carefully and explain what Gideon told his men. He had
+a stratagem in mind to frighten the enemy. It is to be noted that the
+men who went home left their provisions and their trumpets, so Gideon
+had as many trumpets in his little army as in the big army. What would
+the Midianites think when they heard three hundred trumpets blowing? The
+night was divided into three watches. The sentries had just been set
+for the second watch when the attack was made. Describe the actions of
+the Israelites. What did they shout? The Midianites killed one another
+in the confusion.
+
+161 (§46E). Gideon wanted the great tribe of Ephraim to help in the
+fight, so he asked them to go down to the river Jordan to cut off the
+flying enemy. What did Gideon do himself? What happened to the kings of
+Midian and the host?
+
+162 (§47). What did the grateful people offer Gideon? Why did he refuse?
+What great American refused to be a king? The story closes in
+disappointment. Is it not strange that after the great victory Gideon
+should forget God? Tell the story of making the idol.
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Make a search during the next week for an example of some brave person
+standing up like Gideon for a good cause when others hold back. There is
+sure to be someone if you are keen enough to find him. It may be at
+school or in the city, or you may hear of someone in the newspapers.
+Talk it over with your companions until you have found the best example.
+Write about it in your notebook.
+
+
+
+
+XVI. SAMSON, THE STRONG MAN
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§48. The Birth of Samson= (Judg. 13:2-6, 24)
+
+There was a certain man of the Danites, whose name was Manoah; and his
+wife bare no child. And the angel of the Lord appeared unto the woman,
+and said unto her, "Behold now, thou shalt bear a son. Now therefore
+beware, I pray thee, and drink no wine nor strong drink, and eat not any
+unclean thing: for, lo, thou shalt bear a son; and no razor shall come
+upon his head: for the child shall be a Nazirite unto God from his
+birth: and he shall begin to save Israel out of the hand of the
+Philistines."
+
+Then the woman came and told her husband.
+
+And the woman bare a son and called his name Samson: and the child grew
+and the Lord blessed him.
+
+
+=§49. The Riddle at the Wedding Feast= (Judg. 14)
+
+And Samson went down to Timnah, and saw a woman in Timnah of the
+daughters of the Philistines. And he came up, and told his father and
+his mother, and said, "I have seen a woman in Timnah of the daughters of
+the Philistines: now therefore get her for me to wife."
+
+Then his father and his mother said unto him, "Is there never a woman
+among the daughters of thy brethren, or among all my people, that thou
+goest to take a wife of the Philistines?"
+
+And Samson said unto his father, "Get her for me; for she pleaseth me
+well."
+
+Then went Samson down, and his father and his mother, to Timnah, and
+came to the vineyards of Timnah: and, behold, a young lion roared
+against him. And the spirit of the Lord came mightily upon him, and he
+rent him as he would have rent a kid, and he had nothing in his hand:
+but he told not his father or his mother what he had done. And he went
+down, and talked with the woman; and she pleased Samson well.
+
+And after a while he returned to take her, and he turned aside to see
+the carcase of the lion: and, behold, there was a swarm of bees in the
+body of the lion, and honey. And he took it into his hands, and went on,
+eating as he went, and he came to his father and mother, and gave unto
+them, and they did eat: but he told them not that he had taken the honey
+out of the body of the lion. And his father went down unto the woman:
+and Samson made there a feast; for so used the young men to do. And it
+came to pass, when they saw him, that they brought thirty companions to
+be with him.
+
+And Samson said unto them, "Let me now put forth a riddle unto you: if
+ye can declare it me within the seven days of the feast, and find it
+out, then I will give you thirty linen garments and thirty changes of
+raiment: but if ye cannot declare it me, then shall ye give me thirty
+linen garments and thirty changes of raiment."
+
+And they said unto him, "Put forth thy riddle, that we may hear it."
+
+And he said unto them,
+
+ "Out of the eater came forth meat,
+ And out of the strong came forth sweetness."
+
+And they could not in three days declare the riddle.
+
+And it came to pass on the seventh day, that they said unto Samson's
+wife, "Entice thy husband, that he may declare unto us the riddle, lest
+we burn thee and thy father's house with fire: have ye called us to
+impoverish us? is it not so?"
+
+And Samson's wife wept before him, and said, "Thou dost but hate me, and
+lovest me not: thou hast put forth a riddle unto the children of my
+people, and hast not told it me."
+
+And he said unto her, "Behold, I have not told it my father nor my
+mother, and shall I tell thee?"
+
+And she wept before him the seven days, while their feast lasted: and it
+came to pass on the seventh day, that he told her, because she pressed
+him sore: and she told the riddle to the children of her people. And the
+men of the city said unto him on the seventh day before the sun went
+down, "What is sweeter than honey? and what is stronger than a lion?"
+
+And he said unto them,
+
+ "If ye had not plowed with my heifer,
+ Ye had not found out my riddle."
+
+And the spirit of the Lord came mightily upon him, and he went down to
+Ashkelon, and smote thirty men of them, and took their spoil, and gave
+the changes of raiment unto them that declared the riddle. And his anger
+was kindled, and he went up to his father's house. But Samson's wife was
+given to his companion, whom he had used as his friend.
+
+
+=§50. Samson's Strength= (Judg. 15:1-17; 16:1-3)
+
+A. THE STORY OF THE FOXES
+
+But it came to pass after a while, in the time of wheat harvest, that
+Samson visited his wife with a kid; and he said, "I will go in to my
+wife into the chamber."
+
+But her father would not suffer him to go in. And her father said, "I
+verily thought that thou hadst utterly hated her; therefore I gave her
+to thy companion: is not her younger sister fairer than she? take her, I
+pray thee, instead of her."
+
+And Samson said unto them, "This time shall I be blameless in regard to
+the Philistines, when I do them a mischief."
+
+And Samson went and caught three hundred foxes, and took firebrands, and
+turned tail to tail, and put a firebrand in the midst between every two
+tails. And when he had set the brands on fire, he let them go into the
+standing grain of the Philistines, and burnt up both the shocks and the
+standing grain, and also the oliveyards.
+
+Then the Philistines said, "Who hath done this?"
+
+And they said, "Samson, the son-in-law of the Timnite, because he hath
+taken his wife, and given her to his companion."
+
+And the Philistines came up, and burnt her and her father with fire.
+
+And Samson said unto them, "If ye do after this manner, surely I will be
+avenged of you, and after that will I cease."
+
+And he smote them hip and thigh with a great slaughter: and he went down
+and dwelt in the cleft of the rock of Etam.
+
+
+B. THE STORY OF THE JAWBONE
+
+Then the Philistines went up, and pitched in Judah, and spread
+themselves in Lehi. And the men of Judah said, "Why are ye come up
+against us?"
+
+And they said, "To bind Samson are we come up, to do to him as he hath
+done to us."
+
+Then three thousand men of Judah went down to the cleft of the rock of
+Etam, and said to Samson, "Knowest thou not that the Philistines are
+rulers over us? what then is this that thou hast done unto us?"
+
+And he said unto them, "As they did unto me, so have I done unto them."
+
+And they said unto him, "We are come down to bind thee, that we may
+deliver thee into the hand of the Philistines."
+
+And Samson said unto them, "Swear unto me, that ye will not fall upon me
+yourselves."
+
+And they spake unto him, saying, "No; but we will bind thee fast, and
+deliver thee into their hand: but surely we will not kill thee."
+
+And they bound him with two new ropes, and brought him up from the rock.
+When he came unto Lehi, the Philistines shouted as they met him: and the
+spirit of the Lord came mightily upon him, and the ropes that were upon
+his arms became as flax that was burnt with fire, and his bands dropped
+from off his hands. And he found a new jawbone of an ass, and put forth
+his hand, and took it, and smote a thousand men therewith. And Samson
+said,
+
+ "With the jawbone of an ass, heaps upon heaps,
+ With the jawbone of an ass have I smitten a thousand men."
+
+And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking, that he cast
+away the jawbone out of his hand.
+
+
+C. THE STORY OF THE GATES OF GAZA
+
+And Samson went to Gaza. And it was told the Gazites, saying, "Samson is
+come hither." And they compassed him in, and laid wait for him all
+night in the gate of the city, and were quiet all the night, saying,
+"Let be till morning light, then we will kill him."
+
+And Samson lay till midnight, and arose at midnight, and laid hold of
+the doors of the gate of the city, and the two posts, and plucked them
+up, bar and all, and put them upon his shoulders, and carried them up to
+the top of the mountain that is before Hebron.
+
+
+=§51. Samson's Weakness= (Judg. 16:4-22)
+
+And it came to pass afterward, that he loved a woman, whose name was
+Delilah. And the lords of the Philistines came up unto her, and said
+unto her, "Entice him, and see wherein his great strength lieth, and by
+what means we may prevail against him, that we may bind him to afflict
+him: and we will give thee every one of us eleven hundred pieces of
+silver."
+
+And Delilah said to Samson, "Tell me, I pray thee, wherein thy great
+strength lieth, and wherewith thou mightest be bound to afflict thee."
+
+And Samson said unto her, "If they bind me with seven new bowstrings
+that were never dried, then shall I become weak, and be as another man."
+
+Then the lords of the Philistines brought up to her seven new bowstrings
+which had not been dried, and she bound him with them. Now she had liers
+in wait abiding in the inner chamber. And she said unto him, "The
+Philistines be upon thee, Samson."
+
+And he brake the bowstrings as a string of tow is broken when it touches
+the fire. So his strength was not known.
+
+And Delilah said unto Samson, "Behold, thou hast mocked me, and told me
+lies: now tell me, I pray thee, wherewith thou mightest be bound."
+
+And he said unto her, "If they only bind me with new ropes wherewith no
+work hath been done, then shall I become weak, and be as another man."
+
+So Delilah took new ropes, and bound him therewith, and said unto him,
+"The Philistines be upon thee, Samson."
+
+And the liers in wait were abiding in the inner chamber. And he brake
+them from off his arms like a thread.
+
+And Delilah said unto Samson, "Hitherto thou hast mocked me, and told me
+lies: tell me wherewith thou mightest be bound."
+
+And he said unto her, "If thou weavest the seven locks of my head with
+the web."
+
+And she fastened it with the pin, and said unto him, "The Philistines be
+upon thee, Samson."
+
+And he awaked out of his sleep, and plucked away the pin of the beam,
+and the web.
+
+And she said unto him, "How canst thou say, 'I love thee,' when thine
+heart is not with me? thou hast mocked me these three times, and hast
+not told me wherein thy great strength lieth."
+
+And it came to pass, when she pressed him daily with her words, and
+urged him, that his soul was vexed unto death. And he told her all his
+heart, and said unto her, "There hath not come a razor upon mine head:
+for I have been a Nazirite unto God from my birth: if I be shaven, then
+my strength will go from me, and I shall become weak, and be like any
+other man."
+
+And when Delilah saw that he had told her all his heart, she sent and
+called for the lords of the Philistines, saying, "Come up this once, for
+he hath told me all his heart."
+
+Then the lords of the Philistines came up unto her, and brought the
+money in their hand. And she made him sleep upon her knees: and she
+called for a man, and shaved off the seven locks of his head; and she
+began to afflict him, and his strength went from him. And she said, "The
+Philistines be upon thee, Samson."
+
+And he awoke out of his sleep, and said, "I will go out as at other
+times, and shake myself."
+
+But he wist not that the Lord was departed from him.
+
+And the Philistines laid hold on him, and put out his eyes; and they
+brought him down to Gaza, and bound him with fetters of brass; and he
+did grind in the prison house. Howbeit the hair of his head began to
+grow again after he was shaven.
+
+
+=§52. Samson's Vengeance= (Judg. 16:23-31)
+
+And the lords of the Philistines gathered them together to offer a great
+sacrifice unto Dagon their god, and to rejoice: for they said, "Our god
+hath delivered Samson our enemy into our hand." And when the people saw
+him, they praised their god: for they said, "Our god hath delivered into
+our hand our enemy, and the destroyer of our country, which hath slain
+many of us." And it came to pass, when their hearts were merry, that
+they said, "Call for Samson, that he may make us sport."
+
+And they called for Samson out of the prison house; and he made sport
+before them: and they set him between the pillars. And Samson said unto
+the lad that held him by the hand, "Suffer me that I may feel the
+pillars whereupon the house resteth, that I may lean upon them."
+
+Now the house was full of men and women; and all the lords of the
+Philistines were there; and there were upon the roof about three
+thousand men and women, that beheld while Samson made sport.
+
+And Samson called unto the Lord, and said, "O Lord God, remember me, I
+pray thee, and strengthen me, I pray thee, only this once. O God, that I
+may be at once avenged of the Philistines for my two eyes."
+
+And Samson took hold of the two middle pillars upon which the house
+rested, and leaned upon them, the one with his right hand, and the other
+with his left. And Samson said, "Let me die with the Philistines." And
+he bowed himself with all his might; and the house fell upon the lords,
+and upon all the people that were therein. So the dead which he slew at
+his death were more than they which he slew in his life.
+
+Then his brethren and all the house of his father came down, and took
+him, and brought him up, and buried him in the burying-place of Manoah
+his father.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+163. All peoples have their old stories of heroes who had great
+strength. The Greeks had their Hercules and the Hebrews had their
+Samson. In reading his story we must remember that it belongs to a rude
+age, when men's passions were strong and they had not learned the
+gentler ways of life. The story is full of adventure; it is very well
+told; it shows us much of the old Hebrew life; and it helps us to see
+how hard the lot of the people must have been under their oppressors. Of
+course they remembered any strong man of those days, and his story grew
+as it was told from generation to generation.
+
+164 (§48). The first thing that we learn about the hero is that he was a
+promised child. He was set apart from his birth to the Lord. Such
+persons were called Nazirites. They had to abstain from wine, and their
+hair was not to be cut.
+
+165 (§49). With whom did Samson fall in love? The Philistines were the
+oppressors of his people. What did his parents think of it? It would
+seem that they all went down to make the betrothal feast. What great
+feat of strength did Samson perform on the way? Then there was a second
+visit for the marriage itself. What did Samson find this time on his
+way?
+
+166 (§49). The story describes some of the old customs. What was Samson
+expected to provide for the wedding? How many young men were there? What
+bet did he make with them? What was the riddle? Could you have guessed
+it?
+
+167 (§49). How did the young men find out the riddle? How did Samson pay
+his bet? Consider what rude times those must have been.
+
+168 (§50A). We have a number of the old stories of Samson's strength.
+Consider what injury was done to Samson. What humorous and savage
+revenge did Samson take upon his enemies? It was considered a great
+insult to burn the standing grain. What horrible vengeance did the
+Philistines take on the bride's family?
+
+169 (§50B). Tell what Samson's own people did to him. Why did they do
+it? What was Samson's great feat? Notice how big they made the
+stories--one man killing a thousand.
+
+170 (§50C). They loved the stories of Samson's clever escapes. How did
+the men of Gaza think he was caught? How did Samson escape?
+
+171 (§51). This strong man was not really a great man. After he had lost
+his first Philistine wife he fell in love with another woman of the same
+race. She proved as deceitful as the first. Note the enormous bribe that
+the Philistine lords offered Delilah. What was the first trial of
+Samson's strength? The new bowstrings were probably cords made from the
+intestines of animals. If they were not dried they would be tougher.
+
+172 (§51). Tell the story of the second trial. The story of the third
+trial is not quite so plain. It means that his long hair was to be
+woven in with a piece of stuff that was being woven in the loom. When he
+woke up he walked off with the whole heavy loom.
+
+173 (§51). Notice how he let the wicked woman tease him. Was he strong
+or weak? Is it the part of a strong man to go into temptation or to run
+away from it? What was done to Samson? He makes us think of many a big
+strong man who was weak when it came to a question of goodness. Most of
+the big prize fighters are so weak that they become drunkards. Think of
+this hero doing the work of a slave.
+
+174 (§52). Notice how delighted the Philistines were that they had
+overcome their great enemy. Imagine the crowd gathered in a temple, the
+roof of which rested upon two central pillars. When they were very merry
+they sent for the poor blind Samson to make fun of him. What happened?
+
+175. Do you think Samson was a great man?
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Discuss the question whether Samson ought to have been put among the
+heroes of Israel. Read over the story carefully and see why the Hebrews
+would have wished to class him with their heroes. Read it again to see
+what there is against giving him that distinction. Prepare for a debate
+upon the question.
+
+
+
+
+A HEROINE
+
+ XVII. RUTH, THE FOREIGNER
+
+
+
+
+XVII. RUTH, THE FOREIGNER
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§53. The Three Widows= (Ruth 1:1-5)
+
+And it came to pass in the days when the judges judged, that there was a
+famine in the land. And a certain man of Bethlehem went to sojourn in
+the country of Moab, he, and his wife, and his two sons. And the name of
+the man was Elimelech, and the name of his wife Naomi, and the name of
+his two sons Mahlon and Chilion. And they came into the country of Moab,
+and continued there.
+
+And Elimelech, Naomi's husband died; and she was left, and her two sons.
+And they took them wives of the women of Moab; the name of the one was
+Orpah, and the name of the other Ruth: and they dwelt there about ten
+years. And Mahlon and Chilion died both of them; and the woman was left
+of her two children and of her husband.
+
+
+=§54. The Return to Bethlehem= (Ruth 1:6-22)
+
+A. THE TWO DAUGHTERS-IN-LAW
+
+Then she arose with her daughters-in-law, that she might return from the
+country of Moab: for she had heard in the country of Moab how that the
+Lord had visited his people in giving them bread. And she went forth out
+of the place where she was, and her two daughters-in-law with her; and
+they went on the way to return unto the land of Judah.
+
+And Naomi said unto her two daughters-in-law, "Go, return each of you to
+her mother's house: the Lord deal kindly with you, as ye have dealt with
+the dead, and with me. The Lord grant you that ye may find rest, each of
+you in the house of her husband." Then she kissed them, and they lifted
+up their voice, and wept.
+
+And they said unto her, "Nay, but we will return with thee unto thy
+people."
+
+And Naomi said, "Turn again, my daughters: why will ye go with me? have
+I yet sons that they may be your husbands? Turn again, my daughters, go
+your way; for I am too old to have a husband. If I should say, I have
+hope, if I should even have a husband, and should also bear sons; would
+ye therefore tarry till they were grown? would ye therefore stay from
+having husbands? nay, my daughters: for it grieveth me much for your
+sakes, for the hand of the Lord is gone forth against me." And they
+lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her
+mother-in-law; but Ruth clave unto her.
+
+And she said, "Behold thy sister-in-law is gone back unto her people,
+and unto her god: return thou after thy sister-in-law."
+
+And Ruth said, "Entreat me not to leave thee, and to return from
+following after thee; for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou
+lodgest, I will lodge; thy people shall be my people, and thy God my
+God; where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the Lord
+do so to me, and more also, if aught but death part thee and me." And
+when she saw that she was stedfastly minded to go with her, she left off
+speaking unto her.
+
+
+B. THE ARRIVAL IN BETHLEHEM
+
+So they two went until they came to Bethlehem. And it came to pass, when
+they were come to Bethlehem, that all the city was moved about them, and
+the women said, "Is this Naomi?"
+
+And she said unto them, "Call me not Naomi, call me Mara; for the
+Almighty hath dealt very bitterly with me. I went out full, and the Lord
+hath brought me home again empty; why call ye me Naomi, seeing the Lord
+hath testified against me, and the Almighty hath afflicted me?"
+
+So Naomi returned, and Ruth the Moabitess, her daughter-in-law, with
+her; and they came to Bethlehem in the beginning of barley harvest.
+
+
+=§55. In the Barley Field= (Ruth 2)
+
+A. THE GLEANERS
+
+And Naomi had a kinsman of her husband's, a mighty man of wealth; and
+his name was Boaz.
+
+And Ruth the Moabitess said unto Naomi, "Let me now go to the field, and
+glean among the ears of grain after him in whose sight I shall find
+favor."
+
+And she said unto her, "Go, my daughter."
+
+And she went, and came and gleaned in the field after the reapers: and
+she happened to light on the portion of the field belonging unto Boaz.
+
+And, behold, Boaz came from Bethlehem, and said unto the reapers, "The
+Lord be with you."
+
+And they answered him, "The Lord bless thee."
+
+Then said Boaz unto his servant that was set over the reapers, "Whose
+damsel is this?"
+
+And he answered, "It is the Moabitish damsel that came back with Naomi
+out of the country of Moab: and she said, 'Let me glean, I pray you, and
+gather after the reapers among the sheaves.' So she came, and hath
+continued even from the morning until now, save that she tarried a
+little in the house."
+
+Then said Boaz unto Ruth, "Hearest thou not, my daughter? Go not to
+glean in another field, neither pass from hence, but abide here fast by
+my maidens. Let thine eyes be on the field that they do reap, and go
+thou after them: have I not charged the young men that they shall not
+touch thee? and when thou art athirst, go unto the vessels, and drink of
+that which the young men have drawn."
+
+Then she fell on her face, and bowed herself to the ground, and said
+unto him, "Why have I found favor in thy sight, that thou shouldst take
+knowledge of me, seeing I am a foreigner?"
+
+And Boaz answered and said unto her, "It hath fully been showed me, all
+that thou hast done unto thy mother-in-law since the death of thy
+husband; and how thou hast left thy father and thy mother, and the land
+of thy nativity, and art come unto a people that thou knewest not
+heretofore. The Lord recompense thy work, and a full reward be given
+thee of the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings thou art come to
+take refuge."
+
+Then she said, "Let me find favor in thy sight, my lord; for that thou
+hast comforted me, and for that thou hast spoken kindly unto thy
+handmaid, though I be not as one of thy handmaidens."
+
+And at meal-time Boaz said unto her, "Come hither, and eat of the bread,
+and dip thy morsel in the vinegar."
+
+And she sat beside the reapers; and they reached her parched grain, and
+she did eat, and was sufficed, and left thereof.
+
+And when she was risen up to glean, Boaz commanded his young men,
+saying, "Let her glean even among the sheaves, and reproach her not. And
+also pull out some for her from the bundles, and leave it, and let her
+glean, and rebuke her not."
+
+
+B. THE HUMBLE AND HAPPY HOME
+
+So she gleaned in the field until even; and she beat out that which she
+had gleaned, and it was about a bushel of barley. And she took it up,
+and went into the city; and her mother-in-law saw what she had gleaned:
+and she brought forth and gave to her that which she had left after she
+was sufficed.
+
+And her mother-in-law said unto her, "Where hast thou gleaned to-day? and
+where hast thou wrought? blessed be he that did take knowledge of thee."
+
+And she showed her mother-in-law with whom she had wrought, and said,
+"The man's name with whom I wrought to-day is Boaz."
+
+And Naomi said unto her daughter-in-law, "Blessed be he of the Lord, who
+hath not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead." And Naomi
+said unto her, "The man is nigh of kin unto us, one of our near
+kinsmen."
+
+And Ruth the Moabitess said, "Yea, he said unto me, 'Thou shalt keep
+fast by my young men, until they have ended all my harvest.'"
+
+And Naomi said unto Ruth her daughter-in-law, "It is good, my daughter,
+that thou go out with his maidens, and that they meet thee not in any
+other field."
+
+So she kept fast by the maidens of Boaz, to glean unto the end of barley
+harvest and of wheat harvest; and she dwelt with her mother-in-law.
+
+
+=§56. At the Threshing Floor= (Ruth 3)
+
+A. THE PLAN
+
+And Naomi her mother-in-law said unto her, "My daughter, shall I not
+seek rest for thee, that it may be well with thee? And now is not Boaz
+our kinsman, with whose maidens thou wast? Behold, he winnoweth barley
+to-night in the threshing-floor. Wash thyself therefore, and anoint thee,
+and put thy raiment upon thee, and get thee down to the threshing-floor;
+but make not thyself known unto the man, until he shall have done eating
+and drinking. And it shall be, when he lieth down, that thou shalt
+mark the place where he shall lie, and thou shalt go in, and uncover his
+feet, and lay thee down: and he will tell thee what thou shalt do." And
+she said unto her, "All that thou sayest I will do."
+
+[Illustration: _Copyright 1904 by Underwood and Underwood_
+WINNOWING GRAIN]
+
+
+B. THE DUTY OF THE KINSMAN
+
+And she went down unto the threshing-floor, and did according to all
+that her mother-in-law bade her. And when Boaz had eaten and drunk, and
+his heart was merry, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of
+grain: and she came softly, and uncovered his feet, and laid her down.
+And it came to pass at midnight, that the man was afraid, and turned
+himself; and, behold, a woman lay at his feet.
+
+And he said, "Who art thou?"
+
+And she answered, "I am Ruth thy handmaid: spread therefore thy skirt
+over thy handmaid; for thou art a near kinsman."
+
+And he said, "Blessed be thou of the Lord, my daughter: thou hast showed
+more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning, inasmuch as thou
+followedst not young men, whether poor or rich. And now, my daughter,
+fear not; I will do to thee all that thou sayest; for all the city of my
+people doth know that thou art a worthy woman. And now it is true that I
+am a near kinsman; howbeit there is a kinsman nearer than I. Tarry this
+night, and it shall be in the morning, that if he will perform unto
+thee the part of a kinsman, well; but if he will not, then will I do the
+part of a kinsman to thee, as the Lord liveth: lie down until the
+morning."
+
+And she lay at his feet until the morning: and she rose up before one
+could discern another. For he said, "Let it not be known that the woman
+came to the threshing-floor."
+
+And he said, "Bring the mantle that is upon thee, and hold it," and she
+held it; and he measured six measures of barley, and laid it on her: and
+he went into the city.
+
+And when she came to her mother-in-law, she said, "How hast thou fared,
+my daughter?"
+
+And she told her all that the man had done to her. And she said, "These
+six measures of barley gave he me; for he said, 'Go not empty unto thy
+mother-in-law.'"
+
+Then she said, "Sit still, my daughter, until thou know how the matter
+will fall; for the man will not rest, until he have finished the thing
+this day."
+
+
+=§57. At the City Gate= (Ruth 4:1-17)
+
+A. THE PURCHASE
+
+Now Boaz went up to the gate, and sat him down there: and, behold, the
+near kinsman of whom Boaz spake came by: unto whom he said, "Ho, such a
+one! turn aside, sit down here." And he turned aside, and sat down.
+
+And he took ten men of the elders of the city, and said, "Sit ye down
+here." And they sat down.
+
+And he said unto the near kinsman, "Naomi, that is come again out of the
+country of Moab, selleth the parcel of land, which was our brother
+Elimelech's: and I thought to disclose it unto thee, saying, 'Buy it
+before them that sit here, and before the elders of my people.' If thou
+wilt redeem it, redeem it: but if thou wilt not redeem it, then tell me,
+that I may know; for there is none to redeem it besides thee; and I am
+after thee."
+
+And he said, "I will redeem it."
+
+Then said Boaz, "What day thou buyest the field of the hand of Naomi,
+thou must buy also Ruth the Moabitess, the wife of the dead, to raise up
+the name of the dead upon his inheritance."
+
+And the near kinsman said, "I cannot redeem it for myself, lest I mar
+mine own inheritance: take thou my right of redemption on thee; for I
+cannot redeem it."
+
+Now this was the custom in former time in Israel concerning redeeming
+and concerning exchanging, to confirm all things; a man drew off his
+shoe, and gave it to his neighbor; and this was the manner of witness in
+Israel.
+
+So the near kinsman said unto Boaz, "Buy it for thyself." And he drew
+off his shoe.
+
+And Boaz said unto the elders, and unto all the people, "Ye are
+witnesses this day, that I have bought all that was Elimelech's, and
+all that was Chilion's and Mahlon's, of the hand of Naomi. Moreover Ruth
+the Moabitess, the wife of Mahlon, have I purchased to be my wife, to
+raise up the name of the dead upon his inheritance, that the name of the
+dead be not cut off from among his brethren, and from the gate of his
+place; ye are witnesses this day."
+
+And all the people that were in the gate, and the elders, said, "We are
+witnesses. The Lord make the woman that is come into thy house like
+Rachel and like Leah, which two did build the house of Israel: and do
+thou worthily in Ephrathah, and be famous in Bethlehem."
+
+
+B. THE HAPPY MARRIAGE
+
+So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife, and she bare a son.
+
+And the women said unto Naomi, "Blessed be the Lord, who hath not left
+thee this day without a near kinsman; and let his name be famous in
+Israel. And he shall be unto thee a restorer of life, and a nourisher of
+thine old age; for thy daughter-in-law, who loveth thee, who is better
+to thee than seven sons, hath borne him."
+
+And Naomi took the child, and laid it in her bosom, and became nurse
+unto it.
+
+And the women her neighbors gave it a name, saying, "There is a son born
+to Naomi." And they called his name Obed. He is the father of Jesse,
+the father of David.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+176. We study one of the heroines of Israel. She was a foreigner of the
+country of Moab, but held a most important place in Israel's history as
+the great-grandmother of King David. The story tells of her devotion and
+of its reward.
+
+177 (§53). Notice the time in which the story is placed. The town which
+is mentioned is well known to us because of one who was born there long
+afterward: who was he? The farmer with his wife and two sons went over
+to the rich high country of Moab. Locate it on the map, east of the
+Jordan. What happened in Moab?
+
+178 (§54A). What did Naomi decide to do? These three women loved one
+another very dearly, but Naomi thought that the young women ought to
+marry again, so she told them to stay in their own land as they would
+not be likely to find husbands among strangers.
+
+179 (§54A). According to the Hebrew custom, if a man died his brother
+would marry the widow, but Naomi had no sons who could marry these young
+widows. Why did Orpah return? Why did Ruth refuse to leave her
+mother-in-law? Note how beautifully Ruth spoke. Love does not count the
+cost. What do we mean by Ruth's devotion?
+
+180 (§54B). Why were the Bethlehem women so surprised at Naomi's
+appearance? Naomi means "Pleasant." Perhaps the name had been given to
+her because of her beauty. Mara, the same as our name Mary, means
+"Bitter." Explain what Naomi meant by her speech to the women. What time
+of year was it when they returned?
+
+181 (§55A). The principal man of the story is introduced to us. The two
+women had nothing to live on, but the Hebrew law permitted the poor to
+follow the reapers and to gather up the stalks that were dropped or
+left. This was called gleaning. Where did Ruth go to glean? This young
+woman did not leave her mother to do the work. Her love expressed itself
+in deeds.
+
+182 (§55A). Tell the conversation between Boaz and the foreman. Note the
+kindness of this Bethlehem gentleman to the stranger. It is the mark of
+a gentleman to be kind. It was not usual to invite the gleaners to share
+the lunch with the farm hands, but Boaz was especially kind to Ruth.
+What directions did he give to the young men? How would this help her in
+gleaning?
+
+183 (§55B). Notice that she beat out the ears of barley, so as not to
+carry home the straw. How much did she have? This was a good day's
+gleaning. How surprised Naomi was that she had secured so much! Tell
+their conversation in your own words. They were poor, but they were
+happy all that harvest time: why?
+
+184 (§56A). Remember that it was the Hebrew custom for a man's widow to
+be married by his brother. If he had no brother his nearest relative was
+expected to marry her. So Naomi hoped that Boaz, who was related to her
+dead husband, would marry Ruth. She plans a little scheme to let him
+know privately that he is a near relative who ought to do this honor for
+those who were dead. There would be a great feast at the time the barley
+was threshed, and then all the men would go to sleep in the open air on
+the smooth floor where the threshing was done. Ruth was instructed to
+let Boaz know the plan when the others were asleep.
+
+185 (§56B). Tell the story in your own words. Notice especially that
+Boaz explains that there is a nearer relative who ought to marry Ruth.
+What did Boaz give to Ruth to take to her mother-in-law? Tell the
+conversation of the two women.
+
+186 (§57A). The Gate was the place where all the business was done.
+Note how the business was begun, and how arrangements were made for the
+bargain to be witnessed. The conversation refers to the Hebrew laws of
+real estate. It is enough for us to see that the kinsman was not willing
+to marry Ruth. What interesting old custom is shown? They were sitting
+on the ground cross-legged, so one could easily pull off his shoe or
+sandal. What other story have we had in which the sandal was easily
+taken off? (See 97 and illustration.) Note Boaz' solemn statement of the
+agreement. How did all the people congratulate Boaz?
+
+187 (§57B). It is interesting to see that the people congratulated Naomi
+when Ruth's baby was born, because there was again a son for her family.
+This grandson would take the place of the sons whom she had lost. What
+did the women think of Ruth? What relation was Ruth to David?
+
+188. What do you think of Ruth? Look up I Cor. 13:13 in the Revised
+Version and see what it says about the greatest thing in the world. Can
+everybody have this greatest thing? How much does it cost? Think whether
+you are bringing that into your home.
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+We do not always see the heroism that is just about us. The only women
+whom we think about as heroines are those who have done some great
+public work, but there is many a heroine who is quietly giving up her
+ambitions to make the home happy as Ruth gave up herself to go with
+Naomi. Ask your mother to tell you about some young woman who gave up
+opportunity of education, or ease, or pleasure, in order to help the
+family. Write about it in your notebook.
+
+
+
+
+THE FOUNDERS OF THE KINGDOM
+
+
+ XVIII. SAMUEL AND ELI
+
+ XIX. SAMUEL AND SAUL
+
+ XX. JONATHAN'S VICTORY
+
+
+
+
+XVIII. SAMUEL AND ELI
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§58. The Birth of Samuel= (I Sam. 1:1-4, 8-28; 2:11)
+
+A. HANNAH'S GRIEF
+
+Now there was a certain man of the hill country of Ephraim, and his name
+was Elkanah. And the name of his wife was Hannah and she had no
+children. And this man went up out of his city from year to year to
+worship and to sacrifice unto the Lord of hosts in Shiloh. And the two
+sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, priests unto the Lord, were there. And
+when the day came that Elkanah sacrificed, Hannah wept, and did not eat.
+
+And Elkanah her husband said unto her, "Hannah, why weepest thou? and
+why eatest thou not? and why is thy heart grieved? am I not better to
+thee than ten sons?"
+
+So Hannah rose up after they had eaten in Shiloh, and after they had
+drunk. Now Eli the priest sat upon his seat by the door post of the
+temple of the Lord. And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed unto
+the Lord, and wept sore. And she vowed a vow, and said, "O Lord of
+hosts, if thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of thine handmaid, and
+remember me, and not forget thine handmaid, but wilt give unto thine
+handmaid a man child, then I will give him unto the Lord all the days
+of his life, and there shall no razor come upon his head."
+
+And it came to pass, as she continued praying before the Lord, that Eli
+marked her mouth. Now Hannah, she spake in her heart; only her lips
+moved, but her voice was not heard: therefore Eli thought she had been
+drunken. And Eli said unto her, "How long wilt thou be drunken? put away
+thy wine from thee."
+
+And Hannah answered and said, "No, my lord, I am a woman of a sorrowful
+spirit: I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink, but I poured out my
+soul before the Lord. Count not thine handmaid for a wicked woman: for
+out of the abundance of my complaint have I spoken."
+
+Then Eli answered and said, "Go in peace: and the God of Israel grant
+thy petition that thou hast asked of him."
+
+And she said, "Let thy servant find grace in thy sight."
+
+So the woman went her way, and did eat, and her countenance was no more
+sad. And they rose up in the morning early, and worshipped before the
+Lord, and returned, and came to their house to Ramah.
+
+
+B. THE DEDICATION OF SAMUEL
+
+And it came to pass, that Hannah bare a son; and she called his name
+Samuel. And the man Elkanah went up to offer unto the Lord the yearly
+sacrifice, and his vow. But Hannah went not up; for she said unto her
+husband, "I will not go up until the child be weaned, and then I will
+bring him, that he may appear before the Lord, and there abide for
+ever."
+
+And Elkanah her husband said unto her, "Do what seemeth thee good; tarry
+until thou hast weaned him; only the Lord establish his word."
+
+So the woman tarried until she weaned him. And when she had weaned him,
+she took him up with her, with three bullocks, and one ephah of meal,
+and a bottle of wine, and brought him unto the house of the Lord in
+Shiloh: and the child was young. And they slew the bullock, and brought
+the child to Eli. And she said, "Oh my lord, as thy soul liveth, my
+lord, I am the woman that stood by thee here, praying unto the Lord. For
+this child I prayed; and the Lord hath given me my petition which I
+asked of him: therefore I also have granted him to the Lord; as long as
+he liveth he is granted to the Lord."
+
+And Elkanah went to Ramah to his house. And the child did minister unto
+the Lord before Eli the priest.
+
+
+=§59. The Wicked Priests= (I Sam. 2:12-17, 22-25, 18, 19, 26)
+
+Now the sons of Eli were wicked men; they knew not the Lord. And the
+custom of the priests with the people was, that, when any man offered
+sacrifice, the priest's servant came, while the flesh was being boiled,
+with a fleshhook of three teeth in his hand; and he struck it into the
+kettle; all that the fleshhook brought up the priest took. So they did
+in Shiloh unto all the Israelites that came thither. Yea, before they
+burnt the fat, the priest's servant came, and said to the man that
+sacrificed, "Give flesh to roast for the priest; for he will not have
+boiled flesh of thee, but raw." And if the man said unto him, "They will
+surely burn the fat presently, and then take as much as thy soul
+desireth;" then he would say, "Nay, but thou shalt give it to me now:
+and if not, I will take it by force." And the sin of the young men was
+very great before the Lord; for they despised the offering of the Lord.
+
+Now Eli was very old; and he heard all that his sons did unto all
+Israel. And he said unto them, "Why do ye such things? for I hear of
+your evil dealings from all this people. Nay, my sons; for it is no good
+report that I hear: ye make the Lord's people to transgress. If one man
+sinned against another, God shall judge him: but if a man sin against
+the Lord, who shall entreat for him?"
+
+Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto the voice of their father.
+
+But Samuel ministered before the Lord, being a child, girded with a
+linen ephod. Moreover his mother made him a little robe, and brought it
+to him from year to year, when she came up with her husband to offer the
+yearly sacrifice. And Eli blessed Elkanah and his wife. And the child
+Samuel grew on, and was in favor both with the Lord, and also with men.
+
+
+=§60. The Call of Samuel= (I Sam. 3:1-18)
+
+And the child Samuel ministered unto the Lord before Eli. And it came to
+pass at that time, when Eli was laid down in his place, (now his eyes
+had begun to wax dim, that he could not see,) and the lamp of God was
+not yet gone out, and Samuel was laid down to sleep, in the temple of
+the Lord, where the ark of God was; that the Lord called Samuel: and he
+said, "Here am I." And he ran unto Eli, and said, "Here am I; for thou
+calledst me." And he said, "I called not; lie down again."
+
+And he went and lay down. And the Lord called yet again, "Samuel."
+
+And Samuel arose and went to Eli, and said, "Here am I; for thou
+calledst me."
+
+And he answered, "I called not, my son; lie down again."
+
+Now Samuel did not yet know the Lord, neither was the word of the Lord
+yet revealed unto him. And the Lord called Samuel again the third time.
+And he arose and went to Eli, and said, "Here am I; for thou calledst
+me."
+
+And Eli perceived that the Lord had called the child. Therefore Eli said
+unto Samuel, "Go, lie down: and it shall be, if he call thee, that thou
+shalt say, 'Speak, Lord; for thy servant heareth.'"
+
+So Samuel went and lay down in his place. And the Lord came, and stood,
+and called as at other times, "Samuel, Samuel."
+
+Then Samuel said, "Speak; for thy servant heareth."
+
+And the Lord said to Samuel, "Behold, I will do a thing in Israel, at
+which both the ears of every one that heareth it shall tingle. In that
+day I will perform against Eli all that I have spoken concerning his
+house, from the beginning even unto the end. For I have told him that I
+will judge his house for ever, for the iniquity which he knew, because
+his sons did bring a curse upon themselves, and he restrained them not."
+
+And Samuel lay until the morning, and opened the doors of the house of
+the Lord. And Samuel feared to show Eli the vision.
+
+Then Eli called Samuel, and said, "Samuel, my son."
+
+And he said, "Here am I."
+
+And he said, "What is the thing that the Lord hath spoken unto thee? I
+pray thee hide it not from me: God do so to thee, and more also, if thou
+hide any thing from me of all the things that he spake unto thee."
+
+And Samuel told him every whit, and hid nothing from him. And he said,
+"It is the Lord: let him do what seemeth him good."
+
+
+=§61. The Punishment of the Wicked Priests= (I Sam. 4:1-18)
+
+A. ISRAEL'S DOUBLE DEFEAT
+
+Now Israel went out against the Philistines to battle. And the
+Philistines put themselves in array against Israel: and when they joined
+battle, Israel was smitten before the Philistines: and they slew of the
+army in the field about four thousand men. And when the people were come
+into the camp, the elders of Israel said, "Wherefore hath the Lord
+smitten us to-day before the Philistines? Let us fetch the ark of the
+covenant of the Lord out of Shiloh unto us, that it may come among us,
+and save us out of the hand of our enemies."
+
+So the people sent to Shiloh, and they brought from thence the ark of
+the covenant of the Lord of hosts; and the two sons of Eli, Hophni and
+Phinehas, were there with the ark. And when the ark of the covenant of
+the Lord came into the camp, all Israel shouted with a great shout, so
+that the earth rang again.
+
+And when the Philistines heard the noise of the shout, they said, "What
+meaneth the noise of this great shout in the camp of the Hebrews?" And
+they understood that the ark of the Lord was come into the camp. And the
+Philistines were afraid, for they said, "God is come into the camp." And
+they said, "Woe unto us! for there hath not been such a thing
+heretofore. Woe unto us! who shall deliver us out of the hand of these
+mighty gods? these are the gods that smote the Egyptians with all manner
+of plagues in the wilderness. Be strong, and quit yourselves like men, O
+ye Philistines, that ye be not servants unto the Hebrews, as they have
+been to you: quit yourselves like men, and fight."
+
+And the Philistines fought, and Israel was smitten, and they fled every
+man to his tent: and there was a very great slaughter; for there fell of
+Israel thirty thousand footmen. And the ark of God was taken; and the
+two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, were slain.
+
+
+B. THE DEATH OF THE OLD PRIEST
+
+And there ran a man of Benjamin out of the army, and came to Shiloh the
+same day with his clothes rent, and with earth upon his head. And when
+he came, lo, Eli sat upon his seat by the wayside watching: for his
+heart trembled for the ark of God. And when the man came into the city,
+and told it, all the city cried out.
+
+And when Eli heard the noise of the crying, he said, "What meaneth the
+noise of this tumult?"
+
+And the man hasted, and came and told Eli. Now Eli was ninety and eight
+years old; and his eyes were set, that he could not see. And the man
+said unto Eli, "I am he that came out of the army, and I fled to-day out
+of the army."
+
+And he said, "How went the matter, my son?"
+
+And he that brought the tidings answered and said, "Israel is fled
+before the Philistines, and there hath been also a great slaughter among
+the people, and thy two sons also, Hophni and Phinehas, are dead, and
+the ark of God is taken."
+
+And it came to pass, when he made mention of the ark of God, that he
+fell from off his seat backward by the side of the gate, and his neck
+brake, and he died: for he was an old man, and heavy. And he had judged
+Israel forty years.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+189. We turn to the Books of Samuel, which take their name from one of
+the great heroes of Israel. He did not write the books, for they contain
+the story of what happened long after his death, but as he was the
+noblest character in the books they were named after him.
+
+190 (§58A). At the beginning of this story we learn that Elkanah the
+husband and Hannah his wife had no children. They had gone up to Shiloh
+to the sacred building that was called the house of God, and had
+celebrated a sacred feast. But Hannah was greatly troubled that she had
+no child. What did she do? What did she promise if she could have a son?
+We remember from the story of Samson that leaving the hair uncut was a
+mark that the child was to serve God.
+
+191 (§58A). When Hannah prayed, did she speak aloud? What did Eli, the
+old priest, think about her? Tell in your own words their conversation.
+
+192 (§58B). The boy whom Hannah longed for was born. What was his name?
+It was the custom to kill animals at the house of God as a sign of
+thanksgiving: what did Hannah take with her for this sacrifice? What
+did she say to Eli? Note that she brings the boy to the old priest to
+learn the duties of the house of God.
+
+193 (§59). Perhaps the wrong-doing of the priests seems rather difficult
+to understand. Eli, the old priest, was assisted by his two sons. Their
+duty was to offer the sacrifices for the people, and they would be
+allowed part of the meat as their pay. That was one of the ways in which
+a priest had his living. But these young priests would send their
+servants to stick a large fork into the pot where the meat was boiling
+and whatever came out they would take. Or they would take the meat
+first, before the offering to the Lord had been made, and this was
+considered a dishonor to the sacrifice. It often happens that public
+officers are more anxious to get what they can than to do their duty.
+
+194 (§59). How did the father feel about his sons? What did he say to
+them? What ought he to have done to them? Why did he not do so?
+
+195 (§59). What was happening to Samuel all this time? The linen ephod
+was a white dress such as a priest would wear. Who made the boy's
+garments? Think what those happy meetings of the parents and boy once a
+year must have been.
+
+196 (§60). Imagine how the little church, or temple, was at night. There
+was a room in which the sacred box called the ark was kept. A lamp
+burned in this room all night. Samuel had a room near by, where he
+slept, and old Eli had another. What wonderful thing happened to Samuel
+one night? Tell it in your own words. Nearly all men and women who have
+become great have heard calls in some manner in their youth. Joan of
+Arc, the young girl who saved France from her enemies, thought that she
+heard God calling to her, though she was only thirteen years of age.
+This was a vision that Samuel saw in the night. Do you remember the
+dreams of Joseph? It is often in conscience and in times of
+thoughtfulness that God speaks to us.
+
+197 (§60). How did Samuel do as Eli had told him? Note that God tells
+the boy that a great punishment will come upon Eli's family. How was Eli
+to blame for the wickedness of his sons?
+
+198 (§60). What did Samuel do as soon as he got up in the morning? What
+does this show us regarding his duties? What did he think about the
+vision? But old Eli knew that there was something very important that
+had happened. Tell in your own words the conversation between them. Note
+that the poor old man can simply say that he must bear what comes upon
+him. What do you think of Eli?
+
+199 (§61A). With whom did Israel go to war? Locate the country of these
+enemies on the map. How did the battle come out? The people thought that
+if they could have the ark with them they could conquer. They thought
+the Lord would fight for them. Where did they go to get the ark? Who
+were with the ark?
+
+200 (§61A). When the two priests brought the ark to the camp, what
+happened? What effect did this have upon the Philistines? What was the
+result? What happened to the two priests? What happened to the ark?
+
+201 (§61B). When a Hebrew felt very sad he covered his head with dust
+and tore his dress. Tell the story of how the news of the defeat was
+brought to Eli. How old was the priest? What was he doing? Why did he
+care so much about the ark of God? What happened to him? Eli was a noble
+man himself, but could he not have done better for Israel than he did?
+Remember that young Samuel was growing up while these things were going
+on.
+
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Think of what paragraph 196 means to you. It is at Samuel's age that
+most young people come into the full membership of the church. Write
+what you think that means.
+
+
+
+
+XIX. SAMUEL AND SAUL
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§62. The Meeting of Samuel and Saul= (I Sam. 9:1-25)
+
+A. SAUL SEEKING THE DONKEYS
+
+Now there was a man of Benjamin, whose name was Kish, a mighty man of
+valor. And he had a son, whose name was Saul, a young man and a goodly:
+and there was not among the children of Israel a goodlier person than
+he: from his shoulders and upward he was higher than any of the people.
+And the asses of Kish, Saul's father, were lost. And Kish said to Saul
+his son, "Take now one of the servants with thee, and arise, go seek the
+asses."
+
+And he passed through the hill country of Ephraim, and there they were
+not: and he passed through the land of the Benjamites, but they found
+them not. When they were come to the land of Zuph, Saul said to his
+servant that was with him, "Come and let us return; lest my father cease
+caring for the asses, and take thought for us."
+
+And he said unto him, "Behold now, there is in this city a man of God,
+and he is a man that is held in honor; all that he saith cometh surely
+to pass: now let us go thither; peradventure he can tell us concerning
+our journey whereon we go."
+
+Then said Saul to his servant, "But, behold, if we go, what shall we
+bring the man? for the bread is spent in our vessels, and there is not a
+present to bring to the man of God: what have we?"
+
+And the servant answered Saul again, and said, "Behold, I have in my
+hand the fourth part of a shekel of silver: that will I give to the man
+of God, to tell us our way."
+
+Then said Saul to his servant, "Well said; come, let us go."
+
+
+B. SAUL ENTERTAINED BY SAMUEL
+
+So they went unto the city where the man of God was. As they went up the
+ascent to the city, they found young maidens going out to draw water,
+and said unto them, "Is the seer here?"
+
+And they answered them, and said, "He is; behold, he is before thee:
+make haste now, for he is come to-day into the city; for the people have
+a sacrifice to-day in the high place: as soon as ye be come into the
+city, ye shall straightway find him, before he go up to the high place
+to eat: for the people will not eat until he come, because he doth bless
+the sacrifice; and afterwards they eat that be bidden. Now therefore get
+you up; for at this time ye shall find him."
+
+And they went up to the city; and as they came within the city, behold,
+Samuel came out toward them, to go up to the high place.
+
+Now the Lord had revealed unto Samuel a day before Saul came, saying,
+"To-morrow about this time I will send thee a man out of the land of
+Benjamin, and thou shalt anoint him to be prince over my people Israel,
+and he shall save my people out of the hand of the Philistines: for I
+have looked upon my people, because their cry is come unto me."
+
+And when Samuel saw Saul, the Lord said unto him, "Behold the man of
+whom I spake to thee! this same shall have authority over my people."
+
+Then Saul drew near to Samuel in the gate, and said, "Tell me, I pray
+thee, where the seer's house is."
+
+And Samuel answered Saul, and said, "I am the seer; go up before me unto
+the high place, for ye shall eat with me to-day: and in the morning I
+will let thee go, and will tell thee all that is in thine heart. And as
+for thine asses that were lost three days ago, set not thy mind on them;
+for they are found. And on whom is all the desire of Israel? Is it not
+on thee, and for all thy father's house?"
+
+And Saul answered and said, "Am not I a Benjamite, of the smallest of
+the tribes of Israel? and my family the least of all the families of the
+tribe of Benjamin? wherefore then speakest thou to me after this
+manner?"
+
+And Samuel took Saul and his servant, and brought them into the
+guest-chamber, and made them sit in the chiefest place among them that
+were bidden, which were about thirty persons. And Samuel said unto the
+cook, "Bring the portion which I gave thee, of which I said unto thee,
+'Set it by thee.'"
+
+And the cook took up the thigh, and that which was upon it, and set it
+before Saul.
+
+And Samuel said, "Behold that which hath been reserved! set it before
+thee and eat; because unto the appointed time hath it been kept for
+thee, for I said, 'I have invited the people.'"
+
+So Saul did eat with Samuel that day. And when they were come down from
+the high place into the city, he communed with Saul upon the housetop.
+
+
+=§63. Saul Anointed by Samuel= (I Sam. 9:26-10:7)
+
+A. THE PROMISE OF THE KINGDOM
+
+And they arose early: and it came to pass about the spring of the day,
+that Samuel called to Saul on the housetop, saying, "Up, that I may send
+thee away."
+
+And Saul arose, and they went out both of them, he and Samuel, abroad.
+As they were going down at the end of the city, Samuel said to Saul,
+"Bid the servant pass on before us, (and he passed on,) but stand thou
+still at this time, that I may cause thee to hear the word of God." Then
+Samuel took the vial of oil, and poured it upon his head, and kissed
+him, and said, "Is it not that the Lord hath anointed thee to be prince
+over his inheritance? When thou art departed from me to-day, then thou
+shalt find two men by Rachel's sepulchre, in the border of Benjamin;
+and they will say unto thee, 'The asses which thou wentest to seek are
+found: and lo, thy father hath left the care of the asses, and taketh
+thought for you, saying, What shall I do for my son?' Then shalt thou go
+on forward from thence, and thou shalt come to the oak of Tabor, and
+there shall meet thee there three men going up to God to Beth-el, one
+carrying three kids, and another carrying three loaves of bread, and
+another carrying a bottle of wine: and they will salute thee, and give
+thee two loaves of bread; which thou shalt receive of their hand. After
+that thou shalt come to the hill of God, where is the garrison of the
+Philistines: and it shall come to pass, when thou art come thither to
+the city, that thou shalt meet a band of prophets coming down from the
+high place with a psaltery, and a timbrel, and a pipe, and a harp,
+before them; and they shall be prophesying: and the spirit of the Lord
+will come mightily upon thee, and thou shalt prophesy with them, and
+shalt be turned into another man. And let it be, when these signs are
+come unto thee, that thou do as occasion serve thee: for God is with
+thee."
+
+
+B. SAUL'S RETURN HOME
+
+And it was so, that when he had turned his back to go from Samuel, God
+gave him another heart: and all those signs came to pass that day. And
+when they came thither to the hill, behold, a band of prophets met him;
+and the spirit of God came mightily upon him, and he prophesied among
+them. And it came to pass, when all that knew him before-time saw that,
+behold, he prophesied with the prophets, then the people said one to
+another, "What is this that is come unto the son of Kish? Is Saul also
+among the prophets?"
+
+And when he had made an end of prophesying, he came to the high place.
+And Saul's uncle said unto him and to his servant, "Whither went ye?"
+
+And he said, "To seek the asses: and when we saw that they were not
+found, we came to Samuel."
+
+And Saul's uncle said, "Tell me, I pray thee, what Samuel said unto
+you."
+
+And Saul said unto his uncle, "He told us plainly that the asses were
+found." But concerning the matter of the kingdom, whereof Samuel spake,
+he told him not.
+
+
+=§64. Saul's Opportunity= (I Sam. 11:1-11, 15)
+
+Then Nahash the Ammonite came up, and encamped against Jabesh-gilead:
+and all the men of Jabesh said unto Nahash, "Make a covenant with us,
+and we will serve thee."
+
+And Nahash the Ammonite said unto them, "On this condition will I make
+it with you, that all your right eyes be put out; and I will lay it for
+a reproach upon all Israel."
+
+And the elders of Jabesh said unto him, "Give us seven days' respite,
+that we may send messengers unto all the borders of Israel: and then, if
+there be none to save us, we will come out to thee."
+
+Then came the messengers to Gibeah of Saul, and spake these words in the
+ears of the people: and all the people lifted up their voice, and wept.
+And, behold, Saul came following the oxen out of the field; and Saul
+said, "What aileth the people that they weep?"
+
+And they told him the words of the men of Jabesh. And the spirit of God
+came mightily upon Saul when he heard those words, and his anger was
+kindled greatly. And he took a yoke of oxen, and cut them in pieces, and
+sent them throughout all the borders of Israel by the hand of
+messengers, saying, "Whosoever cometh not forth after Saul and after
+Samuel, so shall it be done unto his oxen."
+
+And the dread of the Lord fell on the people, and they came out as one
+man. And he numbered them in Bezek; and the children of Israel were
+three hundred thousand, and the men of Judah thirty thousand. And they
+said unto the messengers that came, "Thus shall ye say unto the men of
+Jabesh-gilead, 'To-morrow, by the time the sun is hot, ye shall have
+deliverance.'"
+
+And the messengers came and told the men of Jabesh; and they were glad.
+Therefore the men of Jabesh said, "To-morrow we will come out unto you,
+and ye shall do with us all that seemeth good unto you."
+
+And it was so on the morrow, that Saul put the people in three
+companies; and they came into the midst of the camp in the morning
+watch, and smote the Ammonites until the heat of the day: and it came to
+pass, that they which remained were scattered, so that two of them were
+not left together.
+
+And all the people went to Gilgal; and there they made Saul king before
+the Lord in Gilgal; and there they sacrificed sacrifices of peace
+offerings before the Lord; and there Saul and all the men of Israel
+rejoiced greatly.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+202 (§62A). Look at the map of Canaan and find the tribe of Benjamin. Is
+it a very large tribe? The tribes occupied separate districts, something
+like our states. This story is going to tell us about how the first king
+was chosen, so it is particular to tell us where he came from and how it
+happened. What kind of man was Saul? Some animals that are used very
+much in Palestine had strayed: tell about them.
+
+203 (§62A). Saul and the servant had wandered a long way looking for the
+donkeys, probably spending several days in the hunt. At last Saul made
+up his mind to do something: what was it? But the servant thought of a
+plan to help them in their search. The man of God was one who could help
+people in their troubles. They were supposed to bring him a present.
+What did Saul do about the present?
+
+204 (§62B). Try to imagine the whole scene. Think what Saul and the
+servant were doing: whom did they meet and what did they ask? We must
+understand that a feast was to be held. The people were going to cook a
+whole animal. They would pour out the blood and burn the fat, which was
+called a sacrifice and was part of their religion; then they would eat
+the rest of the animal with great joy. It happened that the two men
+reached the city just as the feast was to be held. And Samuel would be
+there to ask the blessing. The girls told the two men all this. What
+happened just as they reached the city?
+
+205 (§62B). The Philistines were enemies of Israel who greatly troubled
+them. Samuel had been wondering how the people could be saved from their
+enemies. What had the Lord told him? What did Samuel feel just as soon
+as he saw Saul?
+
+206 (§62B). Try to imagine the meeting. What did Saul say? What did
+Samuel answer? Notice the invitation, the information about the donkeys,
+and especially the hint of some great thing. Saul is surprised: what
+does he say to Samuel?
+
+207 (§62B). What did Samuel do for Saul? What plan had Samuel made so
+that a good piece of meat could be kept? Note the part of the animal
+that they thought best is the same that we like: it is the leg of lamb
+or the second joint of the turkey. What did Samuel say to Saul?
+
+208 (§62B). Evidently Samuel took Saul to his own house. What part of
+the house did they use in those days for visiting? How could they do so?
+What do you think they talked about? Once during the Civil War Abraham
+Lincoln went to visit Henry Ward Beecher: what do you think they talked
+of? Samuel had great hopes that Saul was the man to save Israel.
+
+209 (§63A). After the conversation they went to bed. Then they talked
+again early in the morning. Then Samuel walked with Saul out of the
+city. What plan did Samuel use to be alone with Saul? Picture the scene
+to yourself: the old man with the flask of olive oil in his hand, the
+tall young man wondering about his future, the anointing, the solemn
+kiss, the promise.
+
+210 (§63A). What signs was Saul to have? Samuel's last word meant that
+Saul was to wait until some great opportunity should arise and then to
+do as God led him. We shall see how the opportunity came.
+
+211 (§63B). Tell the story of what happened to Saul after he left
+Samuel. What was the conversation between Saul and his uncle? What did
+Saul keep silent about? Why do you think he did so? He was modest; he
+did not want to boast. It seems that he went quietly to work on his
+father's farm and waited for something to happen that should show him
+what to do.
+
+212 (§64). The scene of the story changes. Locate Ammon on the map, east
+of the Jordan. The Ammonites were old enemies of Israel. Locate
+Jabesh-Gilead, the town which they attacked. The people were afraid and
+begged for mercy. What terms did the cruel king offer them? He was so
+sure that no one in Israel could save them that he let them send
+messengers asking for help. The messengers came to the town where Saul
+lived. Locate Gibeah in Saul's tribe. How did the people feel when they
+heard the news? What had Saul been doing since his return from Samuel?
+Tell the story of how he came home on the day the messengers arrived.
+
+213 (§64). How did the news affect Saul? This was the opportunity that
+Samuel had told him to wait for. What striking thing did he do to gather
+an army? Tell the story of the successful march to relieve
+Jabesh-Gilead.
+
+214 (§64). What did the people think of the hero who had saved them?
+What did they do? Who was the first president of the United States? Why
+was he elected? Who was the first king of Israel? Why was he chosen?
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Consider which man you would rather have been: A wise, good man who was
+magnanimous enough to see that a king was needed and to choose him, or
+the vigorous man who could conquer the enemies and win the kingship.
+Think carefully of the heroic qualities of each of them. Write down
+which you admire the most and why you would rather be that one.
+
+
+
+
+XX. JONATHAN'S VICTORY
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§65. The New King and the Old Foes= (I Sam. 13:2-7, 15-17; 14:1-23)
+
+A. THE OUTBREAK OF WAR
+
+When Saul had reigned two years over Israel, he chose him three thousand
+men of Israel; whereof two thousand were with him in Michmash and in the
+mount of Beth-el, and a thousand were with Jonathan in Gibeah of
+Benjamin: and the rest of the people he sent every man to his tent. And
+Jonathan smote the garrison of the Philistines that was in Geba, and the
+Philistines heard of it.
+
+And Saul blew the trumpet throughout all the land, saying, "Let the
+Hebrews hear."
+
+And all Israel heard say that Saul had smitten the garrison of the
+Philistines, and that Israel also was had in abomination with the
+Philistines. And the people were gathered together after Saul.
+
+And the Philistines assembled themselves together to fight with Israel,
+thirty thousand chariots, and six thousand horsemen, and people as the
+sand which is on the sea shore in multitude: and they came up, and
+pitched in Michmash, eastward of Beth-aven. When the men of Israel saw
+that they were in a strait, (for the people were distressed,) then the
+people did hide themselves in caves, and in thickets, and in rocks, and
+in holds, and in pits.
+
+[Illustration: A PHILISTINE]
+
+Now some of the Hebrews had gone over Jordan to the land of Gad and
+Gilead. And Saul numbered the people that were present with him, about
+six hundred men. And Saul, and Jonathan his son, and the people that
+were present with them, abode in Geba of Benjamin: but the Philistines
+encamped in Michmash. And the spoilers came out of the camp of the
+Philistines.
+
+
+B. JONATHAN'S BOLD ATTACK
+
+Now it fell upon a day, that Jonathan the son of Saul said unto the
+young man that bare his armor, "Come and let us go over to the
+Philistines' garrison, that is on yonder side." But he told not his
+father.
+
+And Saul abode in the uttermost part of Gibeah under the pomegranate
+tree which is in Migron: and the people that were with him were about
+six hundred men. And the people knew not that Jonathan was gone. And
+between the passes, by which Jonathan sought to go over unto the
+Philistines' garrison, there was a rocky crag on the one side, and a
+rocky crag on the other side. The one crag rose up on the north in front
+of Michmash, and the other on the south in front of Geba.
+
+And Jonathan said to the young man that bare his armor, "Come and let us
+go over unto the garrison: it may be that the Lord will work for us: for
+there is not restraint to the Lord to save by many or by few."
+
+And his armorbearer said unto him, "Do all that is in thine heart: turn
+thee, behold I am with thee according to thy heart."
+
+Then said Jonathan, "Behold, we will pass over unto the men, and we will
+discover ourselves unto them. If they say thus unto us, 'Tarry until we
+come to you;' then we will stand still in our place, and will not go up
+unto them. But if they say thus, 'Come up unto us,' then we will go up:
+for the Lord hath delivered them into our hand: and this shall be the
+sign unto us."
+
+And both of them discovered themselves unto the garrison of the
+Philistines: and the Philistines said, "Behold, the Hebrews come forth
+out of the holes where they had hid themselves." And the men of the
+garrison answered Jonathan and his armorbearer, and said, "Come up to
+us, and we will show you a thing." And Jonathan said unto his
+armorbearer, "Come up after me: for the Lord hath delivered them into
+the hand of Israel."
+
+And Jonathan climbed up upon his hands and upon his feet, and his
+armorbearer after him: and they fell before Jonathan; and his
+armorbearer slew them after him. And that first slaughter, which
+Jonathan and his armorbearer made, was about twenty men, within as it
+were half an acre of land. And there was a trembling in the camp, in the
+field, and among all the people; the garrison, and the spoilers, they
+also trembled: and the earth quaked; so there was an exceeding great
+trembling.
+
+
+C. THE GENERAL BATTLE
+
+And the watchmen of Saul in Gibeah of Benjamin looked; and, behold, the
+multitude melted away, and they went hither and thither.
+
+Then said Saul unto the people that were with him, "Number now, and see
+who is gone from us."
+
+And when they had numbered, behold, Jonathan and his armorbearer were
+not there. And Saul said unto Ahijah the priest, "Bring hither the ark
+of God." For the ark of God was there at that time with the children of
+Israel.
+
+And it came to pass, while Saul talked unto the priest, that the tumult
+that was in the camp of the Philistines went on and increased: and Saul
+said unto the priest, "Withdraw thine hand."
+
+And Saul and all the people that were with him were gathered together,
+and came to the battle: and, behold, every man's sword was against his
+fellow, and there was a very great discomfiture. Now the Hebrews that
+were with the Philistines as before-time, which went up with them into
+the camp from the country round about, even they also turned to be with
+the Israelites that were with Saul and Jonathan. Likewise all the men of
+Israel which had hid themselves in the hill country of Ephraim, when
+they heard that the Philistines fled, even they also followed hard after
+them in the battle. So the Lord saved Israel that day: and the battle
+passed over by Beth-aven.
+
+
+=§66. Saul's Oath and Jonathan's Danger= (I Sam. 14:24-46)
+
+A. THE OATH OF ABSTINENCE
+
+And the men of Israel were distressed that day: for Saul had adjured the
+people, saying, "Cursed be the man that eateth any food until it be
+evening, and I be avenged on mine enemies."
+
+So none of the people tasted food. And all the people came into the
+forest; and there was honey upon the ground. And when the people were
+come unto the forest, behold, the honey dropped: but no man put his hand
+to his mouth; for the people feared the oath. But Jonathan heard not
+when his father charged the people with the oath: wherefore he put forth
+the end of the rod that was in his hand, and dipped it in the honeycomb,
+and put his hand to his mouth; and his eyes were enlightened.
+
+Then answered one of the people, and said, "Thy father straitly charged
+the people with an oath, saying, 'Cursed be the man that eateth food
+this day.'" And the people were faint.
+
+Then said Jonathan, "My father hath troubled the land: see, I pray you,
+how mine eyes have been enlightened, because I tasted a little of this
+honey. How much more, if haply the people had eaten freely to-day of the
+spoil of their enemies which they found? for had there not been now a
+much greater slaughter among the Philistines?"
+
+
+B. THE HUNGRY WARRIORS
+
+And they smote of the Philistines that day from Michmash to Aijalon: and
+the people were very faint. And the people flew upon the spoil, and took
+sheep, and oxen, and calves, and slew them on the ground: and the people
+did eat them with the blood.
+
+Then they told Saul, saying, "Behold, the people sin against the Lord,
+in that they eat with the blood."
+
+And he said, "Ye have dealt treacherously: roll a great stone unto me
+this day." And Saul said, "Disperse yourselves among the people, and say
+unto them, 'Bring me hither every man his ox, and every man his sheep,
+and slay them here, and eat; and sin not against the Lord in eating with
+the blood.'"
+
+And all the people brought every man his ox with him that night, and
+slew them there. And Saul built an altar unto the Lord: the same was the
+first altar that he built unto the Lord.
+
+
+C. JONATHAN'S DANGER AND RESCUE
+
+And Saul said, "Let us go down after the Philistines by night, and spoil
+them until the morning light, and let us not leave a man of them."
+
+And they said, "Do whatsoever seemeth good unto thee."
+
+Then said the priest, "Let us draw near hither unto God." And Saul asked
+counsel of God, "Shall I go down after the Philistines? wilt thou
+deliver them into the hand of Israel?" But he answered him not that day.
+
+And Saul said, "Draw nigh hither, all ye chiefs of the people: and know
+and see wherein this sin hath been this day. For, as the Lord liveth,
+which saveth Israel, though it be in Jonathan my son, he shall surely
+die." But there was not a man among all the people that answered him.
+
+Then said he unto all Israel, "Be ye on one side, and I and Jonathan my
+son will be on the other side."
+
+And the people said unto Saul, "Do what seemeth good unto thee."
+
+Therefore Saul said unto the Lord, the God of Israel, "Show the right."
+And Jonathan and Saul were taken by lot: but the people escaped.
+
+And Saul said, "Cast lots between me and Jonathan my son." And Jonathan
+was taken.
+
+Then Saul said to Jonathan, "Tell me what thou hast done."
+
+And Jonathan told him, and said, "I did certainly taste a little honey
+with the end of the rod that was in mine hand; and, lo, I must die."
+
+And Saul said, "God do so and more also: for thou shalt surely die,
+Jonathan."
+
+And the people said unto Saul, "Shall Jonathan die, who hath wrought
+this great salvation in Israel? God forbid: as the Lord liveth, there
+shall not one hair of his head fall to the ground; for he hath wrought
+with God this day."
+
+So the people rescued Jonathan, that he died not. Then Saul went up from
+following the Philistines: and the Philistines went to their own place.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+215 (§65A). There was a strong enemy on the western coast that was the
+most serious trouble to Israel. It was to save themselves from these
+people that the Hebrews had longed for a king. Imagine how we should
+feel if some foreign nation should capture New York and Chicago and St.
+Louis and San Francisco and should compel us to give up a large part of
+our crops every year. We should look for a great general to lead us to
+turn them out. What then did Saul feel was his first duty as king? He
+had with him his noble son: what was his name? The first blow was struck
+at the town of Geba: what followed at once?
+
+216 (§65A). Note the great force of the Philistines. What do you think
+they expected to do with the Hebrews? How did the Hebrews behave? We
+have seen before how the people would hide from their enemies. How many
+warriors did Saul have left? Notice that the two forces were drawn up on
+opposite sides of a valley. Each was on a height which it was difficult
+to attack. The reference to "the spoilers" means that the Philistines
+determined to destroy all the Hebrew country. The little army of Saul
+was unable to prevent the raids.
+
+217 (§65B). Evidently some bold deed had to be done. We find that the
+king had a hero son. The knights in Europe used to have their squires:
+Jonathan had his armorbearer. Why did he not tell his father of his
+plan? At the battle of Santiago in the Cuban war Lieutenant Hobson
+wanted to do a very bold deed, but it was so dangerous that he had
+difficulty in getting permission. Jonathan was afraid his father would
+think his plan foolhardy. Study the description of the place. There was
+a narrow pass between two rocky crags. In order to reach the
+Philistines, Jonathan would have to climb the steep rock. Note that
+Jonathan hopes for the Lord to be with him. How does the armorbearer
+respond?
+
+218 (§65B). Jonathan proposes to go into the open at the bottom of the
+valley and call to the Philistine sentinels, and then to decide whether
+to attack according to their reply. He thinks that they will make one of
+two replies: what were they? Tell what happened. How do you think the
+sudden attack of two men could have frightened the Philistines?
+
+219 (§65C). The Hebrew sentinels on their crag suddenly saw a great
+disturbance on the opposite height, which the Philistines held. What did
+Saul do? The king intended to consult God through the priest, but the
+confusion in the enemy's camp grew so great that he decided to attack at
+once. Three causes helped to put the Philistines to flight: what were
+they?
+
+220 (§66A). In the old time it was thought to be very religious to make
+solemn vows to God. Saul felt that the Lord was saving Israel from the
+oppression: what oath did he put upon the people? What did the hungry
+people find in the forest? How did they act? How did Jonathan act? The
+little food was so refreshing that he seemed to see clearly again, so it
+is said "his eyes were enlightened." Tell what conversation took place
+about the honey.
+
+221 (§66B). In order to understand this story, we must remember that it
+was considered wrong to eat meat unless it had been properly killed so
+that the blood could run off. The blood was thought to be an offering to
+God. The Jews still keep up the same custom, and their meat is always
+specially killed. When the Philistines fled, what property did they
+leave behind? How did the hungry Hebrews behave? How did Saul secure an
+altar where the animals could be properly killed? Saul was very careful
+to do everything that was considered right.
+
+222 (§66C). The king thought that the victory should be followed up, so
+that the Philistines could not return to trouble them. They had a custom
+of seeking to find out God's will about any matter through the priest,
+just as people do in the temples of Japan to-day. But there was some
+difficulty in securing an answer, so Saul felt sure that someone had
+broken the oath. It was a most solemn matter to him. What did he say to
+the leaders of the people? Tell how they found out that Jonathan was
+guilty.
+
+223 (§66C). When a man was found out by the lot, he was expected to
+confess. What did Jonathan confess? Do you think that he had done wrong?
+Evidently Saul thought so, because at that time it seemed terrible to
+break a solemn oath. Picture the scene to yourself and see how nobly
+Jonathan was ready to bear the punishment.
+
+224 (§66C). It seems to us most strange that the king should think so
+much of the matter as to feel that his son must die, but we must
+remember that it was part of their religion. It makes us very glad that
+we know God so much better, and that we can see that he must have been
+pleased with the hero who had risked his life to save his people from
+their enemies. Indeed we find that Jonathan's noble conduct was so clear
+that the people decided that the old custom must be broken. What did
+they say? Why did they think the Lord would not wish Jonathan to die?
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Imagine that you were Jonathan's armorbearer. Write a letter home, just
+as the young man might, telling what happened that day. Make it as full
+of description as possible.
+
+
+
+
+DAVID
+
+
+ XXI. DAVID AND THE GIANT
+
+ XXII. THE HERO FRIENDS, DAVID AND JONATHAN
+
+ XXIII. DAVID, THE OUTLAW
+
+ XXIV. DAVID, THE KING
+
+ XXV. DAVID AND HIS REBEL SON
+
+
+
+
+XXI. DAVID AND THE GIANT
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§67. The Anointing of David= (I Sam. 16:1-13)
+
+And the Lord said unto Samuel, "I have rejected Saul from being king
+over Israel. Fill thine horn with oil, and go, I will send thee to Jesse
+the Bethlehemite: for I have provided me a king among his sons."
+
+And Samuel said, "How can I go? if Saul hear it, he will kill me."
+
+And the Lord said, "Take an heifer with thee, and say, 'I am come to
+sacrifice to the Lord.' And call Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will show
+thee what thou shalt do: and thou shalt anoint unto me him whom I name
+unto thee."
+
+And Samuel did that which the Lord spake, and came to Bethlehem. And the
+elders of the city came to meet him trembling, and said, "Comest thou
+peaceably?"
+
+And he said, "Peaceably: I am come to sacrifice unto the Lord: sanctify
+yourselves, and come with me to the sacrifice." And he sanctified Jesse
+and his sons, and called them to the sacrifice. And it came to pass,
+when they were come, that he looked on Eliab, and said, "Surely the
+Lord's anointed is before him."
+
+But the Lord said unto Samuel, "Look not on his countenance, or on the
+height of his stature; because I have rejected him: for the Lord seeth
+not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the
+Lord looketh on the heart."
+
+[Illustration: DAVID]
+
+Then Jesse called Abinadab, and made him pass before Samuel. And he
+said, "Neither hath the Lord chosen this."
+
+Then Jesse made Shammah to pass by. And he said, "Neither hath the Lord
+chosen this."
+
+And Jesse made seven of his sons to pass before Samuel. And Samuel said
+unto Jesse, "The Lord hath not chosen these." And Samuel said unto
+Jesse, "Are here all thy children?"
+
+And he said, "There remaineth yet the youngest, and, behold, he keepeth
+the sheep."
+
+And Samuel said unto Jesse, "Send and fetch him: for we will not sit
+down till he come hither."
+
+And he sent, and brought him in. Now he was ruddy, and withal of a
+beautiful countenance, and goodly to look upon. And the Lord said,
+"Arise, anoint him: for this is he."
+
+Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his
+brethren: and the spirit of the Lord came mightily upon David from that
+day forward.
+
+
+=§68. David and Goliath= (I Sam. 17:1-14, 16-52)
+
+A. GOLIATH'S CHALLENGE
+
+Now the Philistines gathered together their armies to battle, and they
+were gathered together at Socoh, which belongeth to Judah. And Saul and
+the men of Israel were gathered together, and pitched in the vale of
+Elah, and set the battle in array against the Philistines. And the
+Philistines stood on the mountain on the one side, and Israel stood on
+the mountain on the other side: and there was a valley between them.
+
+And there went out a champion out of the camp of the Philistines, named
+Goliath, of Gath, whose height was six cubits and a span. And he had an
+helmet of brass upon his head, and he was clad with a coat of mail; and
+the weight of the coat was five thousand shekels of brass. And he had
+greaves of brass upon his legs, and a javelin of brass between his
+shoulders. And the staff of his spear was like a weaver's beam; and his
+spear's head weighed six hundred shekels of iron: and his shield-bearer
+went before him. And he stood and cried unto the armies of Israel, and
+said unto them, "Why are ye come out to set your battle in array? am not
+I a Philistine, and ye servants to Saul? choose you a man for you, and
+let him come down to me. If he be able to fight with me, and kill me,
+then will we be your servants: but if I prevail against him, and kill
+him, then shall ye be our servants, and serve us." And the Philistine
+said, "I defy the armies of Israel this day, give me a man, that we may
+fight together."
+
+And when Saul and all Israel heard those words of the Philistine, they
+were dismayed, and greatly afraid, and the Philistine drew near morning
+and evening, and presented himself forty days.
+
+
+B. DAVID'S VISIT TO THE ARMY
+
+Now Jesse had eight sons: and the man was an old man in the days of
+Saul, stricken in years among men. And the three eldest sons of Jesse
+had gone after Saul to the battle: and the names of his three sons that
+went to the battle were Eliab the firstborn, and next unto him
+Abinadab, and the third Shammah. And David was the youngest: and the
+three eldest followed Saul.
+
+And Jesse said unto David his son, "Take now for thy brethren an ephah
+of this parched corn, and these ten loaves, and carry them quickly to
+the camp to thy brethren; and bring these ten cheeses unto the captain
+of their thousand, and look how thy brethren fare."
+
+And David rose up early in the morning, and left the sheep with a
+keeper, and took, and went, as Jesse had commanded him; and he came to
+the place of the wagons, as the host which was going forth to the fight
+shouted for the battle. And Israel and the Philistines put the battle in
+array, army against army. And David left his baggage in the hand of the
+keeper of the baggage, and ran to the army, and came and saluted his
+brethren. And as he talked with them, behold, there came up the
+champion, the Philistine of Gath, Goliath by name, out of the ranks of
+the Philistines, and spake according to the same words: and David heard
+them. And all the men of Israel, when they saw the man, fled from him,
+and were sore afraid. And the men of Israel said, "Have ye seen this man
+that is come up? surely to defy Israel is he come up: and it shall be,
+that the man who killeth him, the king will enrich him with great
+riches, and will give him his daughter, and make his father's house free
+in Israel."
+
+And David spake to the men that stood by him, saying, "What shall be
+done to the man that killeth this Philistine, and taketh away the
+reproach from Israel? for who is this Philistine, that he should defy
+the armies of the living God?"
+
+And the people answered him after this manner, saying, "So shall it be
+done to the man that killeth him."
+
+And Eliab his eldest brother heard when he spake unto the men; and
+Eliab's anger was kindled against David, and he said, "Why art thou come
+down? and with whom hast thou left those few sheep in the wilderness? I
+know thy pride, and the naughtiness of thine heart; for thou art come
+down that thou mightest see the battle."
+
+And David said, "What have I now done? Is there not a cause?" And he
+turned away from him toward another, and spake after the same manner:
+and the people answered him again after the former manner.
+
+
+C. THE ACCEPTANCE OF THE CHALLENGE
+
+And when the words were heard which David spake, they rehearsed them
+before Saul; and he sent for him. And David said to Saul, "Let no man's
+heart fail because of him; thy servant will go and fight with this
+Philistine."
+
+And Saul said to David, "Thou art not able to go against this Philistine
+to fight with him: for thou art but a youth, and he a man of war from
+his youth."
+
+And David said unto Saul, "Thy servant kept his father's sheep; and when
+there came a lion, or a bear, and took a lamb out of the flock, I went
+out after him, and smote him, and delivered it out of his mouth: and
+when he arose against me, I caught him by his beard, and smote him, and
+slew him. Thy servant smote both the lion and the bear: and this
+Philistine shall be as one of them, seeing he hath defied the armies of
+the living God." And David said, "The Lord that delivered me out of the
+paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out
+of the hand of this Philistine."
+
+And Saul said unto David, "Go, and the Lord shall be with thee." And
+Saul clad David with his apparel, and he put an helmet of brass upon his
+head, and he clad him with a coat of mail. And David girded his sword
+upon his apparel, and he essayed to go; for he had not proved it.
+
+And David said unto Saul, "I cannot go with these; for I have not proved
+them." And David put them off him.
+
+
+D. THE COMBAT
+
+And he took his staff in his hand, and chose him five smooth stones out
+of the brook, and put them in the shepherd's bag which he had, even in
+his scrip; and his sling was in his hand: and he drew near to the
+Philistine. And the Philistine came on and drew near unto David; and the
+man that bare the shield went before him. And when the Philistine looked
+about, and saw David, he disdained him: for he was but a youth, and
+ruddy, and withal of a fair countenance. And the Philistine said unto
+David, "Am I a dog, that thou comest to me with staves?" And the
+Philistine cursed David by his gods. And the Philistine said to David,
+"Come to me, and I will give thy flesh unto the fowls of the air, and to
+the beasts of the field."
+
+Then said David to the Philistine, "Thou comest to me with a sword, and
+with a spear, and with a javelin: but I come to thee in the name of the
+Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, which thou hast defied.
+This day will the Lord deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite
+thee, and take thine head from off thee; and I will give the carcases of
+the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to
+the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is
+a God in Israel: and that all this assembly may know that the Lord
+saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the Lord's, and he
+will give you into our hand."
+
+And it came to pass, when the Philistine arose, and came and drew nigh
+to meet David, that David hastened, and ran toward the army to meet the
+Philistine. And David put his hand in his bag, and took thence a stone,
+and slang it, and smote the Philistine in his forehead; and the stone
+sank into his forehead, and he fell upon his face to the earth. So David
+prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a stone, and smote
+the Philistine, and slew him; but there was no sword in the hand of
+David. Then David ran, and stood over the Philistine, and took his
+sword, and drew it out of the sheath thereof, and slew him, and cut off
+his head therewith.
+
+And when the Philistines saw that their champion was dead, they fled.
+And the men of Israel and of Judah arose, and shouted, and pursued the
+Philistines, until thou comest to Gath, and to the gates of Ekron.
+
+
+=§69. David before Saul= (I Sam. 17:15-18:5)
+
+And when Saul saw David go forth against the Philistine, he said unto
+Abner, the captain of the host, "Abner, whose son is this youth?"
+
+And Abner said, "As thy soul liveth, O king, I cannot tell."
+
+And the king said, "Inquire thou whose son the stripling is."
+
+And as David returned from the slaughter of the Philistine, Abner took
+him, and brought him before Saul with the head of the Philistine in his
+hand. And Saul said to him, "Whose son art thou, thou young man?"
+
+And David answered, "I am the son of thy servant Jesse the
+Bethlehemite."
+
+And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking unto Saul, that
+the soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved
+him as his own soul. And Saul took him that day, and would let him go no
+more home to his father's house. Then Jonathan and David made a
+covenant, because he loved him as his own soul. And Jonathan stripped
+himself of the robe that was upon him, and gave it to David, and his
+apparel, even to his sword, and to his bow, and to his girdle.
+
+And David went out whithersoever Saul sent him, and behaved himself
+wisely: and Saul set him over the men of war, and it was good in the
+sight of all the people, and also in the sight of Saul's servants.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+225 (§67). It is a surprise to read that Saul who had begun his reign so
+well had made a failure so early. But he was a headstrong man. He would
+not take Samuel's advice, and the old prophet realized that a new king
+would have to be chosen. We have now the interesting story of how David
+was given his first knowledge of the great future that was before him.
+
+226 (§67). Tell the story of the plan for a visit to Bethlehem. What did
+Samuel think when he saw Jesse's oldest son? What did the Lord tell him
+about the way to judge of men? Saul was a man of noble appearance, but
+sometimes such men are disappointing. What occurred regarding the other
+sons? Tell the story of the anointing of David. Compare this with the
+anointing of Saul.
+
+227 (§68A). We hear again of the same old enemies of Israel. Who were
+they and where did they live? Who was their champion? Six cubits and a
+span would be at least ten feet, so we may suppose that as this story
+was told over and over again they came to exaggerate the height of the
+giant. But he must have been a very big man. He had heavy bronze armor.
+How many pieces? Five thousand shekels would be about 150 lbs.--a heavy
+coat of mail. Who was with him? Tell the story of his challenge.
+
+228 (§68B). How many of David's brothers were in the army? Why did Jesse
+send David to the army and what presents did he send with him? Tell the
+story of David's inquiry about the Philistine. What did his brother say
+to him? What did David think of the challenge?
+
+229 (§68C). Tell the story of David's interview with Saul. What kind of
+a young man was he? What had he been able to do in his shepherd life?
+How did he get along with Saul's armor?
+
+230 (§68D). There was one weapon with which David was very skilful. Some
+of the Israelites could do wonders with this simple weapon: read Judg.
+20:16. Try to imagine what the two men looked like when they met.
+Describe the meeting.
+
+231 (§68D). What did Goliath say to David? The young man knew that the
+safety of his people depended upon this fight. What noble words did he
+say? Did he boast of his own skill? Tell the story of the combat.
+
+232 (§69). What conversation took place regarding David? What did Saul
+do for the young victor?
+
+233 (§69). Jonathan comes out nobly in the story. We might think that he
+would be jealous of David's success, but instead of that, he was
+delighted with his fine appearance and his courage. How did Jonathan
+show his pleasure in David? There began that day a great friendship that
+lasted till death. There can be no jealousy between friends. It is one
+of the noblest feelings, when one friend can be glad of another's
+advancement.
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+When David was practicing with his sling and keeping his flocks he
+little thought that he would ever be king of Israel. We do not know how
+our common duties are getting us ready for a greater work. Make a list
+of the principal things that you will have to do this week. Write them
+down in your notebook. Then write down what good you think they will do
+to prepare you for your work when you are grown up.
+
+
+
+
+XXII. THE HERO FRIENDS, DAVID AND JONATHAN
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§70. Saul's Jealousy of David= (I Sam. 18:6-9, 27-29; 19:1-18)
+
+A. THE BEGINNING OF THE JEALOUSY
+
+And it came to pass as they came, when David returned from the slaughter
+of the Philistine, that the women came out of all the cities of Israel,
+singing and dancing, to meet king Saul, with timbrels, with joy, and
+with instruments of music. And the women sang one to another as they
+played, and said,
+
+ Saul hath slain his thousands,
+ And David his ten thousands.
+
+And Saul was very wroth, and this saying displeased him; and he said,
+"They have ascribed unto David ten thousands, and to me they have
+ascribed but thousands: and what can he have more but the kingdom?" And
+Saul eyed David from that day and forward.
+
+And Saul gave him Michal his daughter to wife. And Saul saw and knew
+that the Lord was with David; and Michal Saul's daughter loved him. And
+Saul was yet the more afraid of David; and Saul was David's enemy
+continually.
+
+
+B. JONATHAN THE PEACEMAKER
+
+And Saul spake to Jonathan his son, and to all his servants, that they
+should slay David. But Jonathan, Saul's son, delighted much in David.
+
+And Jonathan told David, saying, "Saul my father seeketh to slay thee:
+now therefore, I pray thee, take heed to thyself in the morning, and
+abide in a secret place, and hide thyself: and I will go out and stand
+beside my father in the field where thou art, and I will commune with my
+father of thee; and if I see ought, I will tell thee."
+
+And Jonathan spake good of David unto Saul his father, and said unto
+him, "Let not the king sin against his servant, against David; because
+he hath not sinned against thee, and because his works have been very
+good toward thee: for he put his life in his hand, and smote the
+Philistine, and the Lord wrought a great victory for all Israel: thou
+sawest it, and didst rejoice: wherefore then wilt thou sin against
+innocent blood, to slay David without a cause?"
+
+And Saul hearkened unto the voice of Jonathan: and Saul sware, "As the
+Lord liveth, he shall not be put to death."
+
+And Jonathan called David, and Jonathan showed him all those things. And
+Jonathan brought David to Saul, and he was in his presence, as
+before-time.
+
+
+C. SAUL'S ATTEMPTS TO KILL DAVID
+
+And there was war again: and David went out, and fought with the
+Philistines, and slew them with a great slaughter; and they fled before
+him. And an evil spirit from the Lord was upon Saul, as he sat in his
+house with his spear in his hand; and David played with his hand. And
+Saul sought to smite David even to the wall with the spear; but he
+slipped away out of Saul's presence, and he smote the spear into the
+wall: and David fled, and escaped that night. And Saul sent messengers
+unto David's house, to watch him, and to slay him in the morning: and
+Michal David's wife told him, saying, "If thou save not thy life
+to-night, to-morrow thou shalt be slain." So Michal let David down
+through the window: and he went, and fled, and escaped.
+
+And Michal took the teraphim, and laid it in the bed, and put a pillow
+of goats' hair at the head thereof, and covered it with the clothes. And
+when Saul sent messengers to take David, she said, "He is sick."
+
+And Saul sent the messengers to see David, saying, "Bring him up to me
+in the bed, that I may slay him." And when the messengers came in,
+behold, the teraphim was in the bed, with the pillow of goats' hair at
+the head thereof. And Saul said unto Michal, "Why hast thou deceived me
+thus, and let mine enemy go, that he is escaped?"
+
+And Michal answered Saul, "He said unto me, 'Let me go; why should I
+kill thee?'"
+
+Now David fled, and escaped, and came to Samuel to Ramah, and told him
+all that Saul had done to him. And he and Samuel went and dwelt in
+Naioth.
+
+
+=§71. The Two Friends= (I Sam. 20:1-39)
+
+A. THE COVENANT OF THE FRIENDS
+
+And David fled from Naioth in Ramah, and came and said before Jonathan,
+"What have I done? what is mine iniquity? and what is my sin before thy
+father, that he seeketh my life?"
+
+And he said unto him, "God forbid; thou shalt not die: behold, my father
+doeth nothing either great or small, but that he discloseth it unto me
+and why should my father hide this thing from me? it is not so."
+
+And David sware moreover, and said, "Thy father knoweth well that I have
+found grace in thine eyes; and he saith, 'Let not Jonathan know this,
+lest he be grieved': but truly as the Lord liveth, and as thy soul
+liveth, there is but a step between me and death."
+
+Then said Jonathan unto David, "Whatsoever thy soul desireth, I will
+even do it for thee."
+
+And David said unto Jonathan, "Behold, to-morrow is the new moon, and I
+should not fail to sit with the king at meat: but let me go, that I may
+hide myself in the field unto the third day at even. If thy father miss
+me at all, then say, 'David earnestly asked leave of me that he might
+run to Bethlehem his city: for it is the yearly sacrifice there for all
+the family.' If he say thus, 'It is well;' thy servant shall have peace:
+but if he be wroth, then know that evil is determined by him. Therefore
+deal kindly with thy servant; for thou hast brought thy servant into a
+covenant of the Lord with thee: but if there be in me iniquity, slay me
+thyself; for why shouldest thou bring me to thy father?"
+
+And Jonathan said, "Far be it from thee: for if I should at all know
+that evil were determined by my father to come upon thee, then would not
+I tell it thee?"
+
+Then said David to Jonathan, "Who shall tell me if perchance thy father
+answer thee roughly?"
+
+And Jonathan said unto David, "Come and let us go out into the field."
+And they went out both of them into the field.
+
+And Jonathan said unto David, "The Lord, the God of Israel, be witness;
+when I have sounded my father about this time to-morrow, or the third
+day, behold, if there be good toward David, shall I not then send unto
+thee, and disclose it unto thee? The Lord do so to Jonathan, and more
+also, should it please my father to do thee evil, if I disclose it not
+unto thee, and send thee away, that thou mayest go in peace: and the
+Lord be with thee, as he hath been with my father. And thou shalt not
+only while yet I live show me the kindness of the Lord, that I die not:
+but also thou shalt not cut off thy kindness from my house for ever:
+no, not when the Lord hath cut off the enemies of David every one from
+the face of the earth."
+
+And Jonathan caused David to swear again, for the love that he had to
+him: for he loved him as he loved his own soul. Then Jonathan said unto
+him, "To-morrow is the new moon: and thou shalt be missed, because thy
+seat will be empty. And when thou hast stayed three days, thou shalt go
+down quickly, and come to the place where thou didst hide thyself when
+the business was in hand, and shalt remain by the stone Ezel. And I will
+shoot three arrows on the side thereof, as though I shot at a mark. And
+behold, I will send the lad, saying, 'Go, find the arrows.' If I say
+unto the lad, 'Behold, the arrows are on this side of thee': take them,
+and come; for there is peace to thee and no hurt, as the Lord liveth.
+But if I say thus unto the boy, 'Behold, the arrows are beyond thee'; go
+thy way; for the Lord hath sent thee away. And as touching the matter
+which thou and I have spoken of, behold, the Lord is between thee and me
+for ever."
+
+
+B. SAUL'S DEADLY ANGER
+
+So David hid himself in the field: and when the new moon was come, the
+king sat him down to eat meat. And the king sat upon his seat, as at
+other times, even upon the seat by the wall; and Jonathan stood up, and
+Abner sat by Saul's side: but David's place was empty. Nevertheless
+Saul spake not any thing that day; for he thought, "Something hath
+befallen him, he is not clean; surely he is not clean." And it came to
+pass on the morrow after the new moon, which was the second day, that
+David's place was empty: and Saul said unto Jonathan his son, "Wherefore
+cometh not the son of Jesse to meat, neither yesterday, nor to-day?"
+
+And Jonathan answered Saul, "David earnestly asked leave of me to go to
+Bethlehem: and he said 'Let me go, I pray thee; for our family hath a
+sacrifice in the city; and my brother, he hath commanded me to be there:
+and now, if I have found favor in thine eyes, let me get away, I pray
+thee, and see my brethren.' Therefore he is not come unto the king's
+table."
+
+Then Saul's anger was kindled against Jonathan, and he said unto him,
+"Thou son of a perverse rebellious woman, do not I know that thou hast
+chosen the son of Jesse to thine own shame? For as long as the son of
+Jesse liveth upon the ground, thou shalt not be established, nor thy
+kingdom. Wherefore now send and fetch him unto me, for he shall surely
+die."
+
+And Jonathan answered Saul his father, and said unto him, "Wherefore
+should he be put to death? what hath he done?"
+
+And Saul cast his spear at him to smite him: whereby Jonathan knew that
+it was determined of his father to put David to death. So Jonathan
+arose from the table in fierce anger, and did eat no meat the second
+day of the month: for he was grieved for David, because his father had
+done him shame.
+
+
+C. THE PARTING OF THE FRIENDS
+
+And it came to pass in the morning, that Jonathan went out into the
+field at the time appointed with David, and a little lad with him. And
+he said unto his lad, "Run, find now the arrows which I shoot." And as
+the lad ran, he shot an arrow beyond him. And when the lad was come to
+the place of the arrow which Jonathan had shot, Jonathan cried after the
+lad, and said, "Is not the arrow beyond thee?" And Jonathan cried after
+the lad, "Make speed, haste, stay not." And Jonathan's lad gathered up
+the arrows, and came to his master. But the lad knew not any thing: only
+Jonathan and David knew the matter.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+234. When David returned victorious from the fight with Goliath,
+Jonathan, the king's son, made a fast friendship with him. Read §69.
+What do you think each of these young men would admire in the other?
+There was the beginning that day of a life-long friendship.
+
+235 (§70A). It is still the custom among the Arabs for the women to go
+dancing and singing to meet the warriors returning from a fight. The
+women of Israel had the simplest musical instrument, the tambourine,
+such as the Salvation Army women use. They composed a little verse to
+sing: what was it? How did Saul feel when he heard it? Was it natural
+for him to have this feeling? It was a very sad thing connected with
+the Spanish War, that after the battle of Santiago there was a bitter
+jealousy between the two American admirals. It is a most pitiful thing
+when great men are jealous. Recall why we called Abraham "magnanimous."
+What would have been magnanimous conduct in Saul? Was Jonathan jealous?
+
+236 (§70B). There are a number of stories of Saul's enmity against
+David. We shall study a few of them. How did Jonathan try to be the
+peacemaker? How did he praise David to the king? What effect did it
+have? Evidently Saul had a better nature, to which Jonathan could
+appeal, but there was always danger that the fit of jealousy would
+return.
+
+237 (§70C). David had been appointed to a high command in the army. He
+seems always to have been successful against the Philistines. But it
+made Saul jealous. Saul had been subject to fits of melancholy, which
+was explained in those days as caused by an evil spirit. David, who was
+a skilful player on the harp, had often been able to soothe the king.
+So, when the jealousy made him moody, David tried to cheer him with
+music. But a sudden fit of rage came upon Saul. What happened?
+
+238 (§70C). David had married Michal, the daughter of the king. What
+plan of Saul's did she discover? How did she help her husband to escape?
+The teraphim was an idol about the size of a man: how did Michal use it
+to deceive Saul's messengers? But when Saul was determined to have David
+brought to him even if he were sick in bed, how was the deceit
+discovered? What did Saul say to his daughter? Notice that she told her
+father a falsehood, saying that David had threatened to kill her. Where
+did David flee?
+
+239 (§71A). This is another story of how Jonathan helped David when he
+first found out his father's jealousy. Note that Jonathan feels sure
+that Saul will not do evil to David, but David is certain of his danger.
+A plan is thought of to find out whether the king is really David's
+enemy. There was to be the regular monthly religious feast at the time
+of the new moon and it was David's duty to be present. What was the plan
+that he suggested to test the king? What appeal does David make to
+Jonathan? The two friends go out into the field where they can talk
+unobserved.
+
+240 (§71A). This is the story of the covenant or agreement. If Jonathan
+finds that Saul is well disposed to David, what does he promise to do?
+If Saul is evil disposed, what does he agree to do? He is sure that
+David will succeed to the throne; what therefore does he ask of him in
+the future? We are glad to know that David remembered this promise long
+after and took care of Jonathan's lame son.
+
+241 (§71A). Jonathan knows that it will be dangerous for him to tell
+David the result of his observation of the king as he would probably be
+watched, so he arranges to tell him by signal. Read the story carefully,
+and then tell in your own words how David was to know if he could return
+safely, and how he was to know if he must escape.
+
+242 (§71B). Tell the story of the Feast of the New Moon. Notice that
+Saul did not object to David's absence the first day, thinking that
+there might be some religious cleansing that was necessary. What excuse
+did Jonathan make? The king thought that Jonathan could not understand
+that David would get the throne, and he was angry with him for being so
+foolish as to be friends with him. Do you think Jonathan knew that David
+was to be king? What was the end of the discussion between the king and
+his son?
+
+243 (§71C). How did Jonathan inform David that the king was his enemy?
+Why did he say to the boy, "Make speed, haste, stay not"? So these two
+friends parted, each trusting the other.
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Have you known a friend who was magnanimous when he might have been
+jealous? Write about it in your notebook.
+
+
+
+
+XXIII. DAVID, THE OUTLAW
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§72. The Band of Outlaws= (I Sam. 22:1, 2; 23:1-8, 13, 14; 25:2-42)
+
+A. THE GATHERING OF THE BAND
+
+David arose and fled for fear of Saul, and escaped to the cave of
+Adullam: and when his brethren and all his father's house heard it, they
+went down thither to him. And every one that was in distress, and every
+one that was in debt, and every one that was discontented, gathered
+themselves unto him; and he became captain over them: and there were
+with him about four hundred men.
+
+And they told David, saying, "Behold, the Philistines are fighting
+against Keilah, and they rob the threshing-floors."
+
+Therefore David enquired of the Lord, saying, "Shall I go and smite
+these Philistines?"
+
+And the Lord said unto David, "Go, and smite the Philistines, and save
+Keilah."
+
+And David's men said unto him, "Behold, we be afraid here in Judah: how
+much more then if we go to Keilah against the armies of the
+Philistines?"
+
+Then David enquired of the Lord yet again. And the Lord answered him and
+said, "Arise, go down to Keilah; for I will deliver the Philistines
+into thine hand."
+
+And David and his men went to Keilah, and fought with the Philistines,
+and brought away their cattle, and slew them with a great slaughter. So
+David saved the inhabitants of Keilah.
+
+And it was told Saul that David was come to Keilah. And Saul summoned
+all the people to war, to go down to Keilah, to besiege David and his
+men. Then David and his men, which were about six hundred, arose and
+departed out of Keilah, and went whithersoever they could go. And it was
+told Saul that David was escaped from Keilah; and he forbare to go
+forth.
+
+And David abode in the wilderness in the strongholds, and remained in
+the hill country.
+
+
+B. DAVID'S REQUEST OF NABAL
+
+And there was a man in Maon, whose possessions were in Carmel; and the
+man was very great, and he had three thousand sheep, and a thousand
+goats: and he was shearing his sheep in Carmel. Now the name of the man
+was Nabal; and the name of his wife Abigail: and the woman was of good
+understanding, and of a beautiful countenance: but the man was churlish
+and evil in his doings.
+
+And David heard in the wilderness that Nabal did shear his sheep. And
+David sent ten young men, and David said unto the young men, "Get you
+up to Carmel, and go to Nabal, and greet him in my name: and thus
+shall ye say to him that liveth in prosperity, 'Peace be both unto thee,
+and peace be to thine house, and peace be unto all that thou hast. And
+now I have heard that thou hast shearers: thy shepherds have now been
+with us, and we did them no hurt, neither was there aught missing unto
+them, all the while they were in Carmel. Ask thy young men, and they
+will tell thee: wherefore let the young men find favor in thine eyes;
+for we come in a good day: give, I pray thee, whatsoever cometh to thine
+hand, unto thy servants, and to thy son David.'"
+
+And when David's young men came, they spake to Nabal according to all
+those words in the name of David. And Nabal answered David's servants,
+and said, "Who is David? and who is the son of Jesse? there be many
+servants now-a-days that break away every man from his master. Shall I
+then take my bread, and my water, and my flesh that I have killed for my
+shearers, and give it unto men of whom I know not whence they be?"
+
+So David's young men turned on their way, and went back, and came and
+told him according to all these words. And David said unto his men,
+"Gird ye on every man his sword." And they girded on every man his
+sword; and David also girded on his sword: and there went up after David
+about four hundred men; and two hundred abode by the stuff.
+
+
+C. ABIGAIL'S PEACEMAKING
+
+But one of the young men told Abigail, Nabal's wife, saying, "Behold,
+David sent messengers out of the wilderness to salute our master; and he
+flew upon them. But the men were very good unto us, and we were not
+hurt, neither missed we anything, as long as we were with them, when we
+were in the fields: they were a wall unto us both by night and by day,
+all the while we were with them keeping the sheep. Now therefore know
+and consider what thou wilt do; for evil is determined against our
+master, and against all his house: for he is such a worthless fellow,
+that one cannot speak to him."
+
+Then Abigail made haste, and took two hundred loaves, and two bottles of
+wine, and five sheep ready dressed, and five measures of parched corn,
+and a hundred clusters of raisins, and two hundred cakes of figs, and
+laid them on asses. And she said unto her young men, "Go on before me;
+behold, I come after you." But she told not her husband Nabal. And it
+was so, as she rode on her ass, and came down by the covert of the
+mountain, that, behold, David and his men came down against her; and she
+met them. Now David had said, "Surely in vain have I kept all that this
+fellow hath in the wilderness, so that nothing was missed of all that
+belonged unto him: and he hath returned me evil for good. God do so unto
+David, and more also, if I leave of all that pertain to him by the
+morning light so much as one man child."
+
+And when Abigail saw David, she hasted, and lighted off her ass, and
+fell before David on her face, and bowed herself to the ground. And she
+fell at his feet, and said, "Upon me, my lord, upon me be the iniquity:
+and let thine handmaid, I pray thee, speak in thine ears, and hear thou
+the words of thine handmaid. Let not my lord, I pray thee, regard this
+worthless fellow, even Nabal: for as his name is, so is he; Nabal, fool,
+is his name, and folly is with him: but I thine handmaid saw not the
+young men of my lord, whom thou didst send. Now therefore, this present
+which thy servant hath brought unto my lord, let it be given unto the
+young men that follow my lord. Forgive, I pray thee, the trespass of
+thine handmaid: for the Lord will certainly make my lord a sure house,
+because my lord fighteth the battles of the Lord; and evil shall not be
+found in thee all thy days. And though man be risen up to pursue thee,
+and to seek thy life, yet the life of my lord shall be bound in the
+bundle of life with the Lord thy God; and the lives of thine enemies,
+them shall he sling out, as from the hollow of a sling. And it shall
+come to pass, when the Lord shall have done to my lord according to all
+the good that he hath spoken concerning thee, and shall have appointed
+thee prince over Israel; that this shall be no grief unto thee, nor
+offence of heart unto my lord, either that thou hast shed blood
+causeless, or that my lord hath avenged himself: and when the Lord shall
+have dealt well with my lord, then remember thine handmaid."
+
+And David said to Abigail, "Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel,
+which sent thee this day to meet me: and blessed be thy wisdom, and
+blessed be thou, which hast kept me this day from bloodguiltiness, and
+from avenging myself with mine own hand. For in very deed, as the Lord,
+the God of Israel, liveth, which hath withholden me from hurting thee,
+except thou hadst hasted and come to meet me, surely there had not been
+left unto Nabal by the morning light so much as one man child."
+
+So David received of her hand that which she had brought him: and he
+said unto her, "Go up in peace to thine house; see, I have hearkened to
+thy voice, and have accepted thy person."
+
+
+D. THE END OF NABAL
+
+And Abigail came to Nabal; and, behold, he held a feast in his house,
+like the feast of a king; and Nabal's heart was merry within him, for he
+was very drunken: wherefore she told him nothing, less or more, until
+the morning light. And it came to pass in the morning, when the wine was
+gone out of Nabal, that his wife told him these things, and his heart
+died within him, and he became as a stone. And it came to pass about
+ten days after, that the Lord smote Nabal, that he died.
+
+And when David heard that Nabal was dead, he said, "Blessed be the Lord,
+that hath pleaded the cause of my reproach from the hand of Nabal, and
+hath kept back his servant from evil; and the evil-doing of Nabal hath
+the Lord returned upon his own head."
+
+And David sent and spake concerning Abigail, to take her to him to wife.
+And when the servants of David were come to Abigail to Carmel, they
+spake unto her, saying, "David hath sent us unto thee, to take thee to
+him to wife."
+
+And she arose, and bowed herself with her face to the earth, and said,
+"Behold, thine handmaid is a servant to wash the feet of the servants of
+my lord." And Abigail hasted, and arose, and rode upon an ass, with five
+damsels of hers that followed her; and she went after the messengers of
+David, and became his wife.
+
+
+=§73. David's Generosity to Saul= (I Sam. 26:2-25; 27:1-4)
+
+A. THE SLEEPING ENEMY
+
+And Saul arose, and went down to the wilderness, having three thousand
+chosen men of Israel with him, to seek David. David therefore sent out
+spies and knew where Saul was come. And David arose, and came to the
+place where Saul had pitched: and David beheld the place where Saul
+lay, and Abner, the captain of his host: and Saul lay within the place
+of the wagons, and the people pitched round about him. Then answered
+David and said to Ahimelech the Hittite, and to Abishai, "Who will go
+down with me to Saul to the camp?"
+
+And Abishai said, "I will go down with thee."
+
+So David and Abishai came to the people by night: and, behold, Saul lay
+sleeping within the place of the wagons, with his spear stuck in the
+ground at his head: and Abner and the people lay round about him.
+
+Then said Abishai to David, "God hath delivered up thine enemy into
+thine hand this day: now therefore let me smite him, I pray thee, with
+the spear to the earth at one stroke, and I will not smite him the
+second time."
+
+And David said to Abishai, "Destroy him not: for who can put forth his
+hand against the Lord's anointed, and be guiltless?" And David said, "As
+the Lord liveth, either the Lord shall smite him; or his day shall come
+to die; or he shall go down into battle, and perish. The Lord forbid
+that I should put forth mine hand against the Lord's anointed: but now
+take, I pray thee, the spear that is at his head, and the cruse of
+water, and let us go."
+
+So David took the spear and the cruse of water from Saul's head; and
+they gat them away, and no man saw it, nor knew it, neither did any
+awake: for they were all asleep; because a deep sleep from the Lord was
+fallen upon them.
+
+
+B. SAUL'S REPENTANCE
+
+Then David went over to the other side, and stood on the top of the
+mountain afar off; a great space being between them: and David cried to
+the people, and to Abner, saying, "Answerest thou not, Abner?"
+
+Then Abner answered and said, "Who art thou that criest to the king?"
+
+And David said to Abner, "Art not thou a valiant man? and who is like to
+thee in Israel? wherefore then hast thou not kept watch over thy lord
+the king? for there came one of the people in to destroy the king thy
+lord. This thing is not good that thou hast done. As the Lord liveth, ye
+are worthy to die, because ye have not kept watch over your lord, the
+Lord's anointed. And now, see, where the king's spear is, and the cruse
+of water that was at his head."
+
+And Saul knew David's voice, and said, "Is this thy voice, my son
+David?"
+
+And David said, "It is my voice, my lord, O king. Wherefore doth my lord
+pursue after his servant? for what have I done? or what evil is in mine
+hand? for the king of Israel is come out to seek a flea, as when one
+doth hunt a partridge in the mountains."
+
+Then said Saul, "I have sinned: return, my son David: for I will no more
+do thee harm, because my life was precious in thine eyes this day:
+behold, I have played the fool, and have erred exceedingly."
+
+And David answered and said, "Behold the spear, O king! let then one of
+the young men come over and fetch it. And the Lord shall render to every
+man his righteousness and his faithfulness: forasmuch as the Lord
+delivered thee into my hand to-day, and I would not put forth mine hand
+against the Lord's anointed. And, behold, as thy life was much set by
+this day in mine eyes, so let my life be much set by in the eyes of the
+Lord, and let him deliver me out of all tribulation."
+
+Then Saul said to David, "Blessed be thou, my son David: thou shalt both
+do mightily, and shalt surely prevail." So David went his way, and Saul
+returned to his place.
+
+
+C. DAVID'S FLIGHT FROM ISRAEL
+
+And David said in his heart, "I shall now perish one day by the hand of
+Saul: there is nothing better for me than that I should escape into the
+land of the Philistines; and Saul shall despair of me, to seek me any
+more in all the borders of Israel: so shall I escape out of his hand."
+
+And David arose, and passed over, he and the six hundred men that were
+with him, unto Achish the king of Gath. And David dwelt with Achish at
+Gath, he and his men. And it was told Saul that David was fled to Gath:
+and he sought no more again for him.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+244. It was clear to David that Saul had determined to kill him. He
+therefore decided to flee to his own tribe of Judah and to dwell in the
+mountains where it would be hard for Saul to reach him. The caves in the
+Judean hills have been the refuge all through the centuries for those
+who were in danger from the government. In thus fleeing from the king,
+David became an outlaw, that is, one who refuses to be under the law. Of
+course he was obliged to do so by the king's tyranny.
+
+245 (§72A). Adullam was probably about twelve miles from Bethlehem.
+David would have friends near his own town. He gathered to him all his
+own relatives, who otherwise might have been killed by the king. Three
+classes of people are mentioned as joining him: who are they? The first
+would be those who were oppressed, the second those who were likely to
+be sold as slaves for debt, the third those who had some grievance. It
+has often happened in countries where there was no free government that
+men have banded together in sufficient strength to defy the rulers. In
+English history we read of Robin Hood and his outlaws, who made the rich
+pay tribute, when they caught them in the forest. Of course in our
+modern free states there is no excuse for any such life, and we rightly
+put down all bandits as criminals. How many men did David have at the
+first?
+
+246 (§72A). News soon came to David that the people of Keilah, a few
+miles south of Adullam, were being robbed by the old enemies, the
+Philistines. They had come when the people were threshing the grain, and
+intended to steal it. How did David use his band of adventurers against
+the Philistines? What food supply did he secure?
+
+247 (§72A). How was David's expedition brought to an end? How large had
+his band grown to be? He must have been an able chieftain to attract
+these men to him. The next story shows how he provided for them.
+
+248 (§72B). Find Maon and Carmel on the map, just south of Hebron. Who
+was the rich sheep owner? What kind of man was he and what kind of wife
+had he? It is evident that David's men had protected the shepherds. What
+request did he make at the time of the shearing feast? Was this a
+reasonable request? There were so many bands of robbers abroad that it
+was a great advantage to the Judean shepherds to have David's
+protection. Of course he in turn needed supplies for his men.
+
+249 (§72B). What answer did Nabal send back? How did he sneer at David's
+band? What did David decide to do? How did he divide his men?
+
+250 (§72C). What report was brought to Abigail? What did the shepherds
+think of David? What did Abigail immediately do? David was in a great
+rage with Nabal, though of course he really had no right to any pay from
+the man. What vengeance had he decided to take? What do you think of
+that? How thankful it makes us feel that we live in times when we have
+strong laws, and no man is permitted to take the law in his own hands.
+
+251 (§72C). Notice how beautifully Abigail speaks to David, telling him
+that she knows he will never be sorry that he was merciful. How does
+David respond? What do you think of a man who gives up his purpose so
+suddenly?
+
+252 (§72D). Note the character of the drunken fellow and his cowardice
+when he learned of his escape. Probably his drunkenness and the shock of
+his terror seriously affected him. How long afterward did he die? When
+David heard the news, what message did he send to the beautiful Abigail?
+How did she reply?
+
+253 (§73A). Saul had not given up his determination to kill David. He
+had made several unsuccessful attempts to capture him. At last he heard
+of David's hiding-place. How many men did he take with him? But David
+was ever on the watch. How did he discover that Saul was coming?
+
+254 (§73A). Tell the story of the sleeping camp, of David's stealthy
+approach with a single companion, of the proposal of Abishai, of David's
+reply, of the spear and the jug of water. What did we mean when we said
+Abraham was "magnanimous"? Would you say that David was magnanimous?
+Read Rom. 12:19-21. Where does David appear best--when he threatens
+Nabal or when he spares Saul?
+
+255 (§73B). Tell the story of the conversation with Saul: David's
+summons to the sleepers, his reproach of the captain, Saul's
+recognition, David's appeal, Saul's repentance, the peaceful separation.
+
+256 (§73C). David knew that he could not trust Saul. There was constant
+danger from the jealous king, so he decided to leave the country. We are
+surprised to find that he found refuge with Israel's enemies. Where did
+he go? Locate the city on the map. How was he received? What did Saul
+decide? But David could afford to wait. In a little while everything was
+going to turn to his advantage.
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Imagine that you were Abishai. Write the story as though you were
+telling your brother Joab about that night when you crept with David to
+the sleeping camp. Describe all that happened and tell what you thought
+of David.
+
+
+
+
+XXIV. DAVID, THE KING
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§74. The Way to the Throne= (I Sam. 31:1-6; II Sam. 1:1-4, 17, 19, 20,
+23, 24, 26, 27; 2:1-4, 8-11; 3:1; 5:1-3)
+
+A. THE BATTLE OF GILBOA
+
+Now the Philistines fought against Israel: and the men of Israel fled
+from before the Philistines, and fell down slain in mount Gilboa. And
+the Philistines followed hard upon Saul and upon his sons; and the
+Philistines slew Jonathan, and Abinadab, and Malchi-shua, the sons of
+Saul. And the battle went sore against Saul, and the archers overtook
+him; and he was greatly distressed by reason of the archers. Then said
+Saul to his armorbearer, "Draw thy sword, and thrust me through
+therewith; lest these Philistines come and thrust me through, and abuse
+me."
+
+But his armorbearer would not; for he was sore afraid. Therefore Saul
+took his sword, and fell upon it. And when his armorbearer saw that Saul
+was dead, he likewise fell upon his sword, and died with him. So Saul
+died, and his three sons, and his armorbearer, and all his men, that
+same day together.
+
+
+B. DAVID'S DIRGE OVER SAUL AND JONATHAN
+
+And it came to pass after the death of Saul, that a man came out of the
+camp from Saul with his clothes rent, and earth upon his head: and so it
+was, when he came to David, that he fell to the earth, and did
+obeisance. And David said unto him, "From whence comest thou?"
+
+And he said unto him, "Out of the camp of Israel am I escaped."
+
+And David said unto him, "How went the matter? I pray thee, tell me."
+
+And he answered, "The people are fled from the battle, and many of the
+people also are fallen and dead; and Saul and Jonathan his son are dead
+also."
+
+And David lamented with this lamentation over Saul and over Jonathan his
+son:
+
+ Thy glory, O Israel, is slain upon thy high places!
+ How are the mighty fallen!
+
+ Tell it not in Gath,
+ Publish it not in the streets of Ashkelon;
+ Lest the daughters of the Philistines rejoice,
+ Lest the daughters of the enemy triumph.
+
+ Saul and Jonathan were lovely and pleasant in their lives,
+ And in their death they were not divided;
+ They were swifter than eagles,
+ They were stronger than lions.
+
+ Ye daughters of Israel, weep over Saul,
+ Who clothed you in scarlet delicately,
+ Who put ornaments of gold upon your apparel.
+
+ I am distressed for thee, my brother Jonathan:
+ Very pleasant hast thou been unto me:
+ Thy love to me was wonderful,
+ Passing the love of women.
+
+ How are the mighty fallen,
+ And the weapons of war perished!
+
+
+C. DAVID MADE KING
+
+And it came to pass after this, that David enquired of the Lord, saying,
+"Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah?"
+
+And the Lord said unto him, "Go up."
+
+And David said, "Whither shall I go up?"
+
+And he said, "Unto Hebron."
+
+So David went up thither, and his men that were with him did David bring
+up: and they dwelt in the cities of Hebron. And the men of Judah came,
+and there they anointed David king over the house of Judah.
+
+Now Abner, the captain of Saul's host, had taken Ish-bosheth the son of
+Saul, and made him king over Israel. But the house of Judah followed
+David. And the time that David was king in Hebron over the house of
+Judah was seven years and six months.
+
+Now there was long war between the house of Saul and the house of
+David: and David waxed stronger and stronger, but the house of Saul
+waxed weaker and weaker, and when Ish-bosheth was dead, then came all
+the tribes of Israel to David unto Hebron, and spake, saying, "Behold,
+we are thy bone and thy flesh. In times past, when Saul was king over
+us, it was thou that leddest out and broughtest in Israel: and the Lord
+said to thee, 'Thou shalt feed my people Israel, and thou shalt be
+prince over Israel.'"
+
+So all the elders of Israel came to the king to Hebron; and king David
+made a covenant with them in Hebron before the Lord: and they anointed
+David king over Israel.
+
+
+=§75. David's Great Reign= (I Chron. 11:4-9; II Sam. 5:17-25; 8:2-6, 13,
+14; 10:6, 17-19; 11:1; 12:29-31; 5:11, 12; 23:14-17)
+
+A. THE NEW CAPITAL
+
+And David and all Israel went to Jerusalem, where the Jebusites were,
+the inhabitants of the land. And the inhabitants said to David, "Thou
+shalt not come hither."
+
+Nevertheless David took the stronghold of Zion. And David said,
+"Whosoever smiteth the Jebusites first shall be chief and captain."
+
+So Joab the son of Zeruiah went up first, and was chief. And David dwelt
+in the stronghold; therefore they called it the city of David. And he
+built the city round about, from Millo, even round about: and Joab
+repaired the rest of the city. So David waxed greater and greater: for
+the Lord of hosts was with him.
+
+
+B. DAVID'S WARS OF DEFENSE
+
+And when the Philistines heard that they had anointed David king over
+Israel, they went up and spread themselves in the valley of Rephaim.
+
+And David enquired of the Lord, saying, "Shall I go up against the
+Philistines? wilt thou deliver them into my hand?"
+
+And the Lord said unto David, "Go up; for I will certainly deliver the
+Philistines into thy hand."
+
+And David went up and smote them; and he said, "The Lord hath broken
+down mine enemies before me like the breaking of waters."
+
+And the Philistines came up yet again, and spread themselves in the
+valley of Rephaim. And when David enquired of the Lord, he said, "Thou
+shalt not go up. Go about to their rear and come upon them opposite the
+mulberry trees. And it shall be, when thou hearest the sound of marching
+in the tops of the mulberry trees, that then thou shalt bestir thyself;
+for then is the Lord gone out before thee to smite the host of the
+Philistines."
+
+And David did so as the Lord commanded him, and smote the Philistines,
+and subdued them.
+
+And he smote Moab. And the Moabites became servants to David and brought
+tribute.
+
+And David put garrisons in Damascus; and the Syrians became servants to
+David, and brought tribute. And the Lord gave victory to David
+whithersoever he went.
+
+And David got him a name when he returned from smiting Edom in the
+valley of salt, even eighteen thousand men. And he put garrisons in
+Edom; and all the Edomites became servants to David.
+
+And the children of Ammon hired the Syrians. And it was told David; and
+he gathered all Israel together, and passed over the Jordan. And the
+Syrians set themselves in array against David, and fought with him. And
+the Syrians fled before Israel; and David slew the men of seven hundred
+chariots of the Syrians, and forty thousand horsemen, and smote the
+captain of their host.
+
+And when all the kings saw that they were smitten before Israel, they
+made peace with Israel, and served them. So the Syrians feared to help
+the children of Ammon any more.
+
+And it came to pass, at the return of the year, that David sent Joab,
+and his servants with him, and all Israel; and they destroyed the
+children of Ammon. And David went to Rabbah, and fought against it, and
+took it. And he brought forth the spoil of the city exceeding much. And
+thus did he unto all the cities of the children of Ammon.
+
+And Hiram king of Tyre sent messengers to David, and cedar trees, and
+carpenters, and masons: and they built David a house. And David
+perceived that the Lord had established him king over Israel, and that
+he had exalted his kingdom for his people Israel's sake.
+
+
+C. DAVID'S KNIGHTS
+
+And at one time David was in the stronghold, and the garrison of the
+Philistines was then in Bethlehem. And David longed, and said, "Oh that
+one would give me drink of the water of the well of Bethlehem, which is
+by the gate!"
+
+And the three mighty men brake through the host of the Philistines, and
+drew water out of the well of Bethlehem, that was by the gate, and took
+it, and brought it to David: nevertheless he would not drink thereof,
+but poured it out unto the Lord. And he said, "Be it far from me, O
+Lord, that I should do this: shall I drink the blood of the men that
+went in jeopardy of their lives?" therefore he would not drink it.
+
+These things did these three mighty men.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+257. David spent many years as captain of his outlaw band, first in the
+mountains of Judah and then in Philistia. The Philistines thought he had
+given up his own people and become one of them. Fortunately, however,
+they did not wish him to fight against Saul, so he was not obliged to
+meet that difficulty. He had simply to wait till the end of Saul's
+reign. It came very tragically.
+
+258 (§74A). The battles of Israel were generally fought on the broad
+plain of Esdraelon. Find it on the map southeast of Mt. Carmel. In this
+case, however, Saul had entrenched his army on the high ground to the
+south of the plain. But the terrible enemies who had troubled Israel so
+long were too strong for him. How did the battle result? Who were
+killed? How did Saul die?
+
+259 (§74B). David was still in the Philistine town of Ziklag. He had
+been fighting the Amalekites who had attacked him. How was the news of
+the battle of Gilboa brought to him? How would you expect him to feel
+about Saul's death? how about Jonathan's? As a matter of fact he forgot
+all his wrongs, and remembered only how he had loved Saul and honored
+him in the early days, and of course he remembered his great friendship
+with Jonathan. Was this "magnanimous"?
+
+260 (§74B). A dirge means a song for the dead. David was a fine poet and
+he sang this beautiful song of lamentation over the king and the prince.
+Notice the six stanzas. The first and the last are a refrain. The second
+is a hope that the Philistines will not know the sad news. The third is
+a praise of Saul and Jonathan. The fourth is a special praise of Saul,
+whose victories had brought spoil to Israel. The fifth is the tender
+lament of the singer for his friend. This would be a noble poem to learn
+by heart.
+
+261 (§74C). After Saul's death, it was a question whether David should
+return home. Tell what happened. Find Hebron on the map in the south.
+But Saul's general had another policy. What did he do? So there was war
+between the north and south. At last Ish-bosheth, Saul's son, was
+murdered by two men who thought they would get reward from David. He
+punished them of course, but the way was open for David to be king of
+the whole land. Tell how David was elected king.
+
+262 (§75A). When the thirteen American colonies adopted the Constitution
+and became the United States, it was necessary to have a capital that
+should not be in any one state. So two of the states gave a piece of
+land, which was called a District: what is its full name? What is the
+name of the city that was built to be the capital of our country? Does
+it belong to any one of the states in particular? Saul had not had a
+definite capital, except his own town. David had his headquarters at the
+old town of Hebron. But it would not do to have a town of Judah as
+capital of all Israel. There was a strong town that had never been
+conquered and occupied by the Israelites, but was still inhabited by the
+old Jebusites. David decided to capture this city and make it his
+capital. What is the name of the city that is still after 3,000 years
+the chief city in Palestine? Find it on the map. The fortress was so
+strong that there was a proverb that it could be defended even by the
+blind and the lame. Tell the story of the capture.
+
+263 (§75B). The first necessity was to prevent the enemies all around
+Israel from interfering with the new kingdom. Who was the first enemy
+subdued? Locate their territory. In several campaigns these old enemies
+were prevented from giving any more trouble. The next enemy was in the
+southeast: who were they? Locate their territory. The next was an old
+city in the north, then a people in the south, then a nation to the east
+who hired northern allies. Locate all these, and note that David subdued
+all his troublesome neighbors. One people was left on the northwest
+coast, but they were a commercial and not a military people. What
+alliance did David make with them?
+
+264 (§75C). David was able to conquer all these enemies because he had a
+noble company of knights about him. They were brave and loyal to their
+king. We study one fine passage that tells of a heroic deed during one
+of the Philistine campaigns. What do you think of the bravery of the
+heroes and the conduct of the king?
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Draw an outline map of Canaan. Mark Jerusalem which David made his
+capital. Mark the territory of each of the enemies whom David conquered.
+You will find that you will have to go all around the map showing that
+David had to defend his people on every side.
+
+
+
+
+XXV. DAVID AND HIS REBEL SON
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§76. The Treacherous Son and the Loyal Friends= (II Sam. 14:25, 26;
+15:1-15, 18-37)
+
+A. ABSALOM'S BEAUTY AND TREACHERY
+
+Now in all Israel there was none to be so much praised as Absalom for
+his beauty: from the sole of his foot even to the crown of his head
+there was no blemish in him. And when he cut the hair of his head, (now
+it was at every year's end that he cut it: because the hair was heavy on
+him, therefore he cut it:) he weighed the hair of his head at two
+hundred shekels, after the king's weight.
+
+And Absalom prepared him a chariot and horses, and fifty men to run
+before him. And Absalom rose up early, and stood beside the way of the
+gate: and it was so, that when any man had a suit which should come to
+the king for judgment, then Absalom called unto him, and said, "Of what
+city art thou?"
+
+And he said, "Thy servant is of one of the tribes of Israel."
+
+And Absalom said unto him, "See, thy matters are good and right; but
+there is no man deputed of the king to hear thee." Absalom said
+moreover, "Oh that I were made judge in the land, that every man which
+hath any suit or cause might come unto me, and I would do him justice!"
+
+And it was so, that when any man came nigh to do him obeisance, he put
+forth his hand, and took hold of him, and kissed him. And on this manner
+did Absalom to all Israel that came to the king for judgment: so Absalom
+stole the hearts of the men of Israel.
+
+And it came to pass at the end of four years, that Absalom said unto the
+king, "I pray thee, let me go and pay my vow, which I have vowed unto
+the Lord, in Hebron."
+
+And the king said unto him, "Go in peace."
+
+So he arose, and went to Hebron. But Absalom sent spies throughout all
+the tribes of Israel, saying, "As soon as ye hear the sound of the
+trumpet, then ye shall say, 'Absalom is king in Hebron.'"
+
+And with Absalom went two hundred men out of Jerusalem, that were
+invited, and went in their simplicity; and they knew not any thing. And
+Absalom sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David's counselor, from his
+city, even from Giloh, while he offered the sacrifices. And the
+conspiracy was strong; for the people increased continually with
+Absalom.
+
+
+B. DAVID'S FLIGHT
+
+And there came a messenger to David, saying, "The hearts of the men of
+Israel are after Absalom."
+
+And David said unto all his servants that were with him at Jerusalem,
+"Arise, and let us flee; for else none of us shall escape from Absalom:
+make speed to depart, lest he overtake us quickly, and bring down evil
+upon us, and smite the city with the edge of the sword."
+
+And the king's servants said unto the king, "Behold, thy servants are
+ready to do whatsoever my lord the king shall choose."
+
+And the king went forth, and all his household after him. And all his
+servants passed on beside him; and all the Cherethites, and all the
+Pelethites, and all the Gittites, six hundred men which came after him
+from Gath, passed on before the king.
+
+Then said the king to Ittai the Gittite, "Wherefore goest thou also with
+us? return, and abide with the king: for thou art a stranger, and also
+an exile; return to thine own place. Whereas thou camest but yesterday,
+should I this day make thee go up and down with us, seeing I go whither
+I may? return thou, and take back thy brethren; mercy and truth be with
+thee."
+
+And Ittai answered the king, and said, "As the Lord liveth, surely in
+what place my lord the king shall be, whether for death or for life,
+even there also will thy servant be."
+
+And David said to Ittai, "Go and pass over."
+
+And Ittai the Gittite passed over, and all his men, and all the little
+ones that were with him. And all the country wept with a loud voice,
+and all the people passed over: the king also himself passed over the
+brook Kidron, and all the people passed over, toward the way of the
+wilderness.
+
+And, lo, Zadok also came, and all the Levites with him, bearing the ark
+of the covenant of God; and they set down the ark of God, until all the
+people had done passing out of the city.
+
+And the king said unto Zadok, "Carry back the ark of God into the city:
+if I shall find favor in the eyes of the Lord, he will bring me again,
+and show me both it, and his habitation: but if he say thus, 'I have no
+delight in thee;' behold, here am I, let him do to me as seemeth good
+unto him."
+
+
+C. DAVID'S PLAN
+
+The king said unto Zadok the priest, "Return into the city in peace.
+See, I will tarry at the fords of the wilderness, until there come word
+from you." Zadok therefore carried the ark of God again to Jerusalem:
+and they abode there.
+
+And David went up by the ascent of the mount of Olives, and wept as he
+went up; and he had his head covered, and went barefoot: and all the
+people that were with him covered every man his head, and they went up,
+weeping as they went up.
+
+And one told David, saying, "Ahithophel is among the conspirators with
+Absalom."
+
+And David said, "O Lord, I pray thee, turn the counsel of Ahithophel
+into foolishness."
+
+And it came to pass, that when David was come to the top of the ascent,
+behold, Hushai came to meet him with his coat rent, and earth upon his
+head: and David said unto him, "If thou passest on with me, then thou
+shalt be a burden unto me: but if thou return to the city, and say unto
+Absalom, 'I will be thy servant, O king; as I have been thy father's
+servant in time past, so will I now be thy servant': then shalt thou
+defeat for me the counsel of Ahithophel. And hast thou not there with
+thee Zadok and Abiathar the priests? therefore it shall be, that what
+thing soever thou shalt hear out of the king's house, thou shalt tell it
+to Zadok and Abiathar the priests. Behold, they have there with them
+their two sons; and by them ye shall send unto me everything that ye
+shall hear."
+
+So Hushai, David's friend, came into the city.
+
+
+=§77. The Folly and Fate of Absalom= (II Sam. 16:15, 16, 20; 17:1-16,
+22, 24; 18:1-17, 21, 24, 25, 31-33)
+
+A. ABSALOM'S COUNCIL OF WAR
+
+And Absalom, and all the people, the men of Israel, came to Jerusalem,
+and Ahithophel with him. And it came to pass, when Hushai, David's
+friend, was come unto Absalom, that Hushai said unto Absalom, "God save
+the king, God save the king."
+
+Then said Absalom to Ahithophel, "Give your counsel what we shall do."
+
+And Ahithophel said unto Absalom, "Let me now choose out twelve thousand
+men, and I will arise and pursue after David this night: and I will come
+upon him while he is weary and weak-handed, and will make him afraid:
+and all the people that are with him shall flee; and I will smite the
+king only: and I will bring back all the people unto thee: so all the
+people shall be in peace."
+
+And the saying pleased Absalom well, and all the elders of Israel.
+
+Then said Absalom unto Hushai, "Ahithophel hath spoken after this
+manner: shall we do after his saying? if not, speak thou."
+
+And Hushai said unto Absalom, "The counsel that Ahithophel hath given
+this time is not good. Thou knowest thy father and his men, that they be
+mighty men, and they be chafed in their minds, as a bear robbed of her
+whelps in the field: and thy father is a man of war, and will not lodge
+with the people. Behold, he is hid now in some pit, or in some other
+place: and it will come to pass, when some of them be fallen at the
+first, that whosoever heareth it will say, 'There is a slaughter among
+the people that follow Absalom.' And even he that is valiant, whose
+heart is as the heart of a lion, shall utterly melt: for all Israel
+knoweth that thy father is a mighty man, and they which be with him are
+valiant men. But I counsel that all Israel be gathered together unto
+thee, from Dan even to Beer-sheba, as the sand that is by the sea for
+multitude; and that thou go to battle in thine own person. So shall we
+come upon him in some place where he shall be found, and we will light
+upon him as the dew falleth on the ground: and of him and of all the men
+that are with him we will not leave so much as one. Moreover, if he be
+gotten into a city, then shall all Israel bring ropes to that city, and
+we will draw it into the river, until there be not one small stone found
+there."
+
+And Absalom and all the men of Israel said, "The counsel of Hushai is
+better than the counsel of Ahithophel."
+
+Then said Hushai unto Zadok and to Abiathar the priests, "Thus and thus
+did Ahithophel counsel Absalom and the elders of Israel; and thus and
+thus have I counselled. Now therefore send quickly, and tell David,
+saying, 'Lodge not this night at the fords of the wilderness, but in any
+wise pass over; lest the king be swallowed up, and all the people that
+are with him.'"
+
+Then David arose, and all the people that were with him, and they passed
+over Jordan: by the morning light there lacked not one of them that was
+not gone over Jordan. And when Ahithophel saw that his counsel was not
+followed, he saddled his ass, and arose, and gat him home, unto his
+city, and set his house in order, and hanged himself; and he died, and
+was buried in the sepulchre of his father.
+
+
+B. THE BATTLE AND THE DEATH OF ABSALOM
+
+And David numbered the people that were with him, and set captains of
+thousands and captains of hundreds over them. And David sent forth the
+people, a third part under the hand of Joab, and a third part under the
+hand of Abishai, Joab's brother, and a third part under the hand of
+Ittai the Gittite. And the king said unto the people, "I will surely go
+forth with you myself also."
+
+But the people said, "Thou shalt not go forth: for if we flee away, they
+will not care for us; neither if half of us die, will they care for us:
+but thou art worth ten thousand of us: therefore now it is better that
+thou be ready to succor us out of the city."
+
+And the king said unto them, "What seemeth you best I will do."
+
+And the king stood by the gate side, and all the people went out by
+hundreds and by thousands. And the king commanded Joab and Abishai and
+Ittai, saying, "Deal gently for my sake with the young man, even with
+Absalom."
+
+And all the people heard when the king gave all the captains charge
+concerning Absalom. So the people went out into the field against
+Israel: and the battle was in the forest of Ephraim. And the people of
+Israel were smitten there before the servants of David, and there was a
+great slaughter there that day of twenty thousand men. For the battle
+was there spread over the face of all the country: and the forest
+devoured more people that day than the sword devoured. And Absalom
+chanced to meet the servants of David. And Absalom rode upon his mule,
+and the mule went under the thick boughs of a great oak, and his head
+caught hold of the oak, and he was taken up between the heaven and the
+earth; and the mule that was under him went on.
+
+And a certain man saw it, and told Joab, and said, "Behold, I saw
+Absalom hanging in an oak."
+
+And Joab said unto the man that told him, "And, behold, thou sawest it,
+and why didst thou not smite him there to the ground? and I would have
+given thee ten pieces of silver, and a girdle."
+
+And the man said unto Joab, "Though I should receive a thousand pieces
+of silver in mine hand, yet would I not put forth mine hand against the
+king's son: for in our hearing the king charged thee and Abishai and
+Ittai, saying, 'Beware that none touch the young man Absalom.' Otherwise
+if I had dealt falsely against his life, (and there is no matter hid
+from the king,) then thou thyself wouldest have set thyself against me."
+
+Then said Joab, "I may not tarry thus with thee." And he took three
+darts in his hand, and thrust them through the heart of Absalom, while
+he was yet alive in the midst of the oak. And ten young men that bare
+Joab's armor compassed about and smote Absalom, and slew him. And Joab
+blew the trumpet, and the people returned from pursuing after Israel:
+for Joab held back the people. And they took Absalom, and cast him into
+the great pit in the forest, and raised over him a very great heap of
+stones: and all Israel fled every one to his tent.
+
+
+C. DAVID'S GRIEF
+
+Then said Joab to the Cushite, "Go tell the king what thou hast seen."
+And the Cushite bowed himself unto Joab, and ran.
+
+Now David sat between the two gates: and the watchman went up to the
+roof of the gate unto the wall, and lifted up his eyes, and looked, and,
+behold, a man running alone. And the watchman cried, and told the king.
+And the king said, "If he be alone, there is tidings in his mouth." And,
+behold, the Cushite came; and the Cushite said, "Tidings for my lord the
+king: for the Lord hath avenged thee this day of all them that rose up
+against thee."
+
+And the king said unto the Cushite, "Is it well with the young man
+Absalom?"
+
+And the Cushite answered, "The enemies of my lord the king, and all that
+rise up against thee to do thee hurt, be as that young man is."
+
+And the king was much moved, and went up to the chamber over the gate,
+and wept: and as he went, thus he said, "O my son Absalom, my son, my
+son Absalom! would God I had died for thee, O Absalom, my son, my son!"
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+265. David did not bring up his sons well and there were very bad family
+quarrels. At last Absalom murdered one of his brothers and was obliged
+to flee. The king allowed him to return, but the wicked young man
+planned to rebel against his father.
+
+266 (§76A). What are we told of this handsome young man? Beauty of face
+and figure is very desirable, but it frequently makes a person vain and
+selfish. Probably Absalom had been admired and spoiled, and had come to
+think only of himself.
+
+267 (§76A). How did the young prince make a fine appearance? We see that
+people were accustomed to come to the king to have their matters of law
+decided. He was the supreme court. Of course it was not always possible
+to hear all the cases at once. How did Absalom persuade the people that
+he would make a better king than his father? Note how the prince
+pretended to be democratic. What do you think of all this conduct?
+
+268 (§76A). This deceitful conduct continued for four years until
+Absalom thought he was ready to strike the blow. He decided to make
+Hebron the headquarters of his rebellion. Locate Hebron. It was where
+David had his capital when he was king of Judah. Can you think of any
+reason why that city might have been dissatisfied? What excuse did
+Absalom give for a journey to Hebron? How did he plan to gather an army?
+How many innocent men went with him? What wise man did Absalom get on
+his side?
+
+269 (§76B). What did David decide upon as soon as he heard the news?
+Notice that he had a body guard of 600 Philistine soldiers. The old
+enemies were good warriors and he had taken them into his service.
+David had a wonderful way of gaining friends. Tell the story of Ittai.
+How did the people feel about the flight of the old king?
+
+270 (§76B). It was customary for the ark to be taken when the army went
+to battle (§61A). So the priest thought he ought to carry it with David.
+But the king sent it back again, saying that he would trust in the Lord.
+Moreover he was glad to have a friend in the city. How did he arrange
+with Zadok to have news sent to him? Describe the sad journey up the
+Mount of Olives. What signs of grief did they show?
+
+271 (§76C). Whom did David hear had joined Absalom? How did he plan that
+bad advice might be given to Absalom? How did he arrange for news to be
+brought to him? Let us get the movement of the story before us. Absalom
+is marching from Hebron with his counselor and his army; David is in
+flight with his 600 guards and some faithful friends, but he has left
+some friends in the city to send him news; presently Absalom marches
+into the city.
+
+272 (§77A). The first act of the new king is to decide what to do.
+Ahithophel advised immediate pursuit of David. Tell what he said.
+Absalom decided to ask the wise old Hushai his advice also. Whose side
+was Hushai really on? What advice did he give? How did he frighten
+Absalom and how did he flatter him? Why was this advice good for David?
+What was decided?
+
+273 (§77A). How was David informed of the council? He decided to cross
+the river at once, so as to have the swift stream between himself and
+his pursuers. Locate the Jordan. Did he succeed in getting his whole
+company over? What became of Ahithophel? Meantime Absalom was gathering
+a considerable army. After a lapse of a little time he followed his
+father, who had been gathering all the people that were loyal to him.
+The matter could only be settled by battle.
+
+274 (§77B). How many divisions were there of David's army? Why did he
+not go himself to battle? Notice how he reviewed the troops as they went
+forth. What special command did he give to the captains? Why did he do
+this? Give an account of the battle.
+
+275 (§77B). In the battle, which was going against him, Absalom met
+David's guards. What accident happened to him as he was trying to
+escape? What dispute took place between the soldier and Joab? What did
+Joab do? There was no need for further pursuit, so Joab called back his
+troops. What was done with Absalom? We see that with the death of the
+leader the rebels fled to their homes. Joab called a Cushite, that is a
+negro slave: what command did he give him?
+
+276 (§77C). Where was David during the battle? What conversation took
+place between the king and the Cushite? How was David affected? What do
+you think of David in all this matter?
+
+
+A REVIEW OF DAVID
+
+David was one of those men who loved others and could make them love
+him. It will be interesting to make a list of all those of whom we have
+studied who felt the influence of his winning disposition. Read I Sam.
+16:12, 21; 18:1, 20; 24:16; 25:42; II Sam. 1:26; 2:4; 5:3; 15:21, 32;
+18:3; 23:15, 16. Write a little paper telling of all the people who
+loved David.
+
+
+
+
+REVIEW
+
+ XXVI. TEN HEROES OF ISRAEL
+
+
+
+
+XXVI. TEN HEROES OF ISRAEL
+
+After we had studied the heroes of Israel's wanderings we looked back
+over the stories and tried to remember the great characters we had
+learned to know. Now we have added ten more heroes to our acquaintance
+since Moses. Let us look back over the stories of these ten, and see if
+we can remember about them.
+
+277. Moses brought the people near to Canaan and then sent twelve spies
+into the land to find out about it. Ten of the men were afraid, and said
+that the Hebrews could not conquer it, but two men were brave, and told
+their countrymen to trust in the Lord and go up. Tell the story of these
+two and what happened to them later. (§44; Josh. 1:1, 2; 14:13.[1])
+
+[1: Very short Scripture references are given--just enough to
+recall the story. Read these and glance over the section in the textbook
+to refresh the memory.]
+
+278. After the Hebrews had settled in Canaan they were greatly troubled
+by enemies. Many heroes arose who delivered them. One, who was called by
+the Lord, gathered a large army, then sent home all who were not fit and
+reduced his army to 300 men. He then devised a strange plan to frighten
+the enemy. Tell the story. (§46; Judg. 7:19, 20.) What reward did this
+hero refuse? (§47; Judg. 8:22, 23.)
+
+279. One of the heroes of Israel was a man of enormous strength. What
+were some of the stories told about him? How did he foolishly sin and
+lose his strength? (§51; Judg. 15:14, 15; 16:18, 19.)
+
+280. Who was the heroine of whom we studied? Tell what you remember of
+her. (§54.)
+
+281. Do you remember the story of the good old priest who had two wicked
+sons, and of the little boy who came to live with him? Tell the story of
+how the boy came, and what happened one special night, and how the old
+priest died. (§§60, 61; I Sam. 3:10, 11; 4:18.)
+
+282. The little boy grew up to be a great prophet. He saw that the
+people could never be saved from their enemies without a strong king.
+One day a young man who was seeking some straying animals came to see
+him. Tell the story of what happened. What great blow for liberty did
+this young man strike and so become king? (§64; I Sam. 11:6-11.)
+
+283. The new king had a brave son. This young man determined to help
+free his people from their oppressors. Tell the story of his bold attack
+upon the Philistines. (§65; I Sam. 14:13.) How did Saul follow up the
+attack?
+
+284. The young man who was to be the great king of Israel performed a
+wonderful feat of arms. One of the Philistine heroes challenged the
+Hebrews to send a single man against him. Who accepted the challenge
+and how did the combat turn out? (§68; I Sam. 17:48,49.)
+
+285. Who were the two hero friends? Tell the story of their parting.
+(§71; I Sam. 20:35-39.)
+
+286. Why was David an outlaw? Tell the story of his sparing the king's
+life. (§73; I Sam. 26:9-12.)
+
+287. David had a company of heroes about him. Tell the story of the
+knights who brought him the drink of water. (§75C; II Sam. 23:14-17.)
+
+288. David had a bitter trial in his wicked son who rebelled against
+him. But many loyal friends stood by him: who were these, and how did
+they show their loyalty? (§76; II Sam. 15:19-34.)
+
+289. Write down the names of the ten heroes in a column. How many were
+great patriots? How many trusted God? How many showed fine leadership?
+How many showed weakness of character? Who showed a great love? How many
+were unselfish? Which of them do you think the greatest?
+
+
+
+
+SOLOMON
+
+ XXVII. SOLOMON, THE WISE KING
+
+
+
+
+XXVII. SOLOMON, THE WISE KING
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§78. Solomon's Wise Choice= (I Kings 2:12; 3:3-15)
+
+Solomon sat upon the throne of David his father; and his kingdom was
+established greatly. And Solomon loved the Lord, walking in the statutes
+of David his father.
+
+And the king went to Gibeon to sacrifice there; for that was the great
+high place: a thousand burnt offerings did Solomon offer upon that
+altar. In Gibeon the Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream by night: and
+God said, "Ask what I shall give thee."
+
+And Solomon said, "Thou hast showed unto thy servant David my father
+great kindness, according as he walked before thee in truth, and in
+righteousness, and in uprightness of heart with thee; and thou hast kept
+for him this great kindness, that thou hast given him a son to sit on
+his throne, as it is this day. And now, O Lord my God, thou hast made
+thy servant king instead of David my father: and I am but a little
+child; I know not how to go out or come in. And thy servant is in the
+midst of thy people which thou hast chosen, a great people, that cannot
+be numbered nor counted for multitude. Give thy servant therefore an
+understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between
+good and evil; for who is able to judge this thy great people?"
+
+And the speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing. And
+God said unto him, "Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not
+asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor
+hast asked the life of thine enemies, but hast asked for thyself
+understanding to discern justice; behold, I have done according to thy
+word: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that
+there hath been none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any
+arise like unto thee. And I have also given thee that which thou hast
+not asked, both riches and honor, so that there shall not be any among
+the kings like unto thee, all thy days. And if thou wilt walk in my
+ways, to keep my statutes and my commandments, as thy father David did
+walk, then I will lengthen thy days."
+
+And Solomon awoke, and, behold, it was a dream: and he came to
+Jerusalem, and stood before the ark of the covenant of the Lord, and
+offered up burnt offerings, and offered peace offerings, and made a
+feast to all his servants.
+
+
+=§79. Solomon and the Temple= (I Kings 5:1-12; 6:1, 2, 7, 15, 16, 19,
+21, 22, 38; 8:1, 6, 10, 11, 22, 23, 26, 27, 30, 54-58, 62)
+
+A. PREPARATIONS FOR THE TEMPLE
+
+And Hiram king of Tyre sent his servants unto Solomon; for he had heard
+that they had anointed him king in the room of his father: for Hiram
+was ever a lover of David.
+
+And Solomon sent to Hiram, saying, "Thou knowest how that David my
+father could not build a house for the name of the Lord his God for the
+wars which were about him on every side, until the Lord put them under
+the soles of his feet. But now the Lord my God hath given me rest on
+every side, so that there is neither adversary nor evil occurrence. And,
+behold, I purpose to build a house for the name of the Lord my God, as
+the Lord spake unto David my father, saying, 'Thy son, whom I will set
+upon thy throne in thy room, he shall build a house for my name.' Now
+therefore command thou that they cut me cedar trees out of Lebanon; and
+my servants shall be with thy servants: and I will give thee hire for
+thy servants according to all that thou shalt say: for thou knowest that
+there is not among us any that knoweth how to cut timber like unto the
+Sidonians."
+
+And it came to pass, when Hiram heard the words of Solomon, that he
+rejoiced greatly, and said, "Blessed be the Lord this day, which hath
+given unto David a wise son over this great people."
+
+And Hiram sent to Solomon, saying, "I have heard the message which thou
+hast sent unto me: I will do all thy desire concerning timber of cedar,
+and concerning timber of fir. My servants shall bring them down from
+Lebanon unto the sea: and I will make them into rafts to go by sea unto
+the place that thou shalt appoint me, and will cause them to be broken
+up there, and thou shalt receive them, and thou shalt accomplish my
+desire, in giving food for my household."
+
+[Illustration: CEDARS OF LEBANON]
+
+So Hiram gave Solomon timber of cedar and timber of fir according to all
+his desire. And Solomon gave Hiram twenty thousand measures of wheat
+for food to his household, and twenty measures of pure oil: thus gave
+Solomon to Hiram year by year.
+
+And the Lord gave Solomon wisdom, as he promised him; and there was
+peace between Hiram and Solomon; and they two made a league together.
+
+
+B. THE BUILDING OF THE TEMPLE
+
+And it came to pass in the fourth year of Solomon's reign, in the second
+month, that he began to build the house of the Lord. And the house was
+sixty cubits in length, twenty cubits in breadth, and thirty cubits in
+height. And the house was built of stone made ready at the quarry; and
+there was neither hammer nor axe nor any tool of iron heard in the
+house, while it was in building.
+
+And he built the walls of the house within with boards of cedar: and he
+covered the floor of the house with boards of fir.
+
+And he built an oracle, even the most holy place, in the midst of the
+house within, to set there the ark of the covenant of the Lord. Solomon
+overlaid the house within with pure gold: and he drew chains of gold
+across before the oracle; and he overlaid it with gold. Also the whole
+altar that belonged to the oracle he overlaid with gold.
+
+And in the eleventh year, in the eighth month, was the house finished
+throughout all the parts thereof, and according to all the fashion of
+it. So was he seven years in building it.
+
+
+C. THE DEDICATION OF THE TEMPLE
+
+Then Solomon assembled the elders of Israel, and all the heads of the
+tribes, the princes of the children of Israel, to bring up the ark of
+the covenant of the Lord. And the priests brought in the ark of the
+covenant of the Lord unto its place, into the oracle of the house, to
+the most holy place. And it came to pass, when the priests were come out
+of the holy place, that the cloud filled the house of the Lord so that
+the priests could not stand to minister by reason of the cloud; for the
+glory of the Lord filled the house.
+
+Then Solomon stood before the altar of the Lord in the presence of all
+the assembly of Israel, and spread forth his hands toward heaven; and he
+said, "O Lord, the God of Israel, who keepest covenant and
+lovingkindness with thy servants, that walk before thee with all their
+heart, let thy word, I pray thee, be verified, which thou spakest unto
+thy servant David my father. But will God in very deed dwell on the
+earth? behold heaven and the heaven of heavens cannot contain thee; how
+much less this house that I have builded! Yet hearken thou to the
+supplication of thy servant, and of thy people Israel, when they shall
+pray toward this place: yea, hear thou in heaven thy dwelling place; and
+when thou hearest, forgive."
+
+
+D. THE BENEDICTION
+
+And it was so, that when Solomon had made an end of praying all this
+prayer and supplication unto the Lord, he arose from before the altar of
+the Lord, from kneeling on his knees with his hands spread forth toward
+heaven. And he stood, and blessed all the congregation of Israel with a
+loud voice, saying, "Blessed be the Lord, that hath given rest unto his
+people Israel, according to all that he promised: there hath not failed
+one word of all his good promise, which he promised by Moses his
+servant. The Lord our God be with us, as he was with our fathers: let
+him not leave us, nor forsake us: that he may incline our hearts unto
+him, to walk in all his ways, and to keep his commandments, and his
+statutes, and his ordinances, which he commanded our fathers."
+
+And the king, and all Israel with him, offered sacrifice before the
+Lord.
+
+
+=§80. The Greatness of Solomon= (I Kings 10:1-10, 13, 23-25)
+
+A. THE VISIT OF THE QUEEN OF SHEBA
+
+And when the queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon concerning the
+name of the Lord, she came to prove him with hard questions.
+
+And she came to Jerusalem with a very great train, with camels that bare
+spices, and very much gold, and precious stones: and when she was come
+to Solomon, she communed with him of all that was in her heart. And
+Solomon told her all her questions: there was not anything hid from the
+king, which he told her not.
+
+And when the queen of Sheba had seen all Solomon's wisdom, and the house
+that he had built, and the food of his table, and the sitting of his
+servants, and the attendance of his ministers, and their apparel, and
+his cupbearers, and his ascent by which he went up unto the house of the
+Lord; there was no more spirit in her. And she said to the king, "It was
+a true report that I heard in mine own land of thy acts and of thy
+wisdom. Howbeit I believed not the words, until I came, and mine eyes
+had seen it: and, behold, the half was not told me: thy wisdom and
+prosperity exceed the fame which I heard. Happy are thy men, happy are
+these thy servants, which stand continually before thee, and that hear
+thy wisdom. Blessed be the Lord thy God, which delighted in thee, to set
+thee on the throne of Israel: because the Lord loved Israel for ever,
+therefore he made thee king, to do justice and righteousness."
+
+And she gave the king a hundred and twenty talents of gold, and of
+spices very great store, and precious stones: there came no more such
+abundance of spices as these which the queen of Sheba gave to king
+Solomon.
+
+And king Solomon gave unto the queen of Sheba all her desire,
+whatsoever she asked, besides that which Solomon gave her of his royal
+bounty. So she turned and went to her own country, she and her servants.
+
+
+B. HIS WEALTH AND WISDOM
+
+So king Solomon exceeded all the kings of the earth in riches and
+wisdom. And all the earth sought the presence of Solomon, to hear his
+wisdom, which God had put in his heart. And they brought every man his
+tribute, vessels of silver, and vessels of gold, and raiment, and armor
+and spices, horses, and mules, a rate year by year.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+290. We are to study the story of the man whom the Hebrews loved to
+think of as one of their heroes, because of his great wisdom and wealth.
+He was the most splendid of all their kings. To be sure he laid very
+heavy taxes upon the people to raise money for his magnificence, but the
+later ages forgot all that in admiration of his glory.
+
+291 (§78). When David died he left a throne to his son that was secure
+from all enemies. The young king had a great opportunity to be a noble
+ruler. Read carefully the story of the young man's dream. What offer did
+God make to him in the dream? In what spirit did Solomon reply? When he
+says he is a little child he means that he is young and inexperienced.
+Remember that one of the important duties of an eastern king was to hear
+cases, as a kind of chief justice. What quality did Solomon ask for? Why
+was the Lord pleased? What did he give Solomon?
+
+292 (§78). It is often true that the young man who desires above all
+things to fit himself to do his duty, without thinking of honor or
+wealth, actually obtains those also. Washington never sought greatness,
+but what do we think of him? Tennyson wrote of the great Duke of
+Wellington,
+
+ Not once or twice in our fair island story
+ The path of duty was the way to glory.
+
+Learn these lines.
+
+293 (§79A). One of David's great hopes was that he could build a noble
+house of worship. He had been unable to do so, partly because of his
+many wars. Solomon therefore decided to carry out his father's plan. But
+the Hebrews were not skilful as artists or mechanics. They were at that
+time mostly farmers and shepherds. Solomon therefore decided to secure
+the help of the people of Phoenicia, called the Sidonians, who lived on
+his northwest border. Locate the country. What are its two chief cities?
+Who was the king who sent to congratulate Solomon on his succession to
+the throne?
+
+294 (§79A). Read carefully Solomon's message to Hiram. What proof does
+he give that he is able to build the temple? What trees does he ask for?
+These were the noble trees that grew in the mountains of Lebanon. Locate
+this region to the north of Israel. What reason does Solomon give why
+the Sidonians (that is, the people of Sidon) should cut the trees?
+
+295 (§79A). Read Hiram's reply. Notice the plan of getting the timber to
+Jerusalem. The lumbermen from Tyre and Sidon would cut it in the
+mountains. It would be hauled by the nearest route to the sea. Note on
+the map where that would be. Then how was it to be taken by sea to the
+port nearest to Jerusalem? This port was probably Joppa. Locate it. What
+then was to be done with it before it was hauled up the steep roads to
+Jerusalem? It was a hard job in those days when they had no railways.
+How different from the way our lumber trains carry the great timbers!
+What was Solomon to give Hiram in exchange? This is a very old story of
+trade between nations.
+
+296 (§79B). When did Solomon begin to build? The building itself was not
+very large. A cubit is rather less than two feet, so the structure was
+about 100 feet long, 35 feet wide, and 50 feet high. Do you know any
+building about that size? Inside, one-third of the space was partitioned
+off for the ark. How was this room ornamented? How long did it take to
+finish the work?
+
+297 (§79C). What solemn procession was held? How was the glory of the
+Lord shown? Read carefully the prayer of Solomon and see that it is
+reverent and trustful. What is his great hope that God will do for the
+people when they pray? We are quite sure that God will do that. Read I
+John 1:9.
+
+298 (§79D). Who pronounced the benediction upon the people? What does he
+feel that God has done for them? What does he hope that God will do for
+them?
+
+299 (§80A). This is one of the stories showing the fame of Solomon.
+Sheba was in Arabia. Note how much information the story gives us of the
+products of those times. Tell the story of the visit.
+
+300 (§80B). What does the story tell us finally of Solomon's wealth and
+wisdom?
+
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Recall the lines about the Duke of Wellington and write them in your
+notebook. Find out if there is any man in your own state of whom that
+would be true. Find someone in politics or business or in one of the
+professions who has been more anxious to do his duty than for anything
+else and to whom reward has come. Write an account of it.
+
+
+
+
+TWO PROPHETS
+
+
+ XXVIII. ELIJAH, THE CHAMPION OF PURE RELIGION
+
+ XXIX. ELIJAH, THE CHAMPION OF JUSTICE
+
+ XXX. ELISHA, THE HEALER AND COUNSELOR
+
+
+
+
+
+XXVIII. ELIJAH, THE CHAMPION OF PURE RELIGION
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§81. Elijah and the Drought= (I Kings 16:30-17:24)
+
+A. THE STARTLING PROPHECY
+
+Ahab the son of Omri did that which was evil in the sight of the Lord
+above all that were before him. And it came to pass, that he took to
+wife Jezebel the daughter of Ethbaal king of the Sidonians, and went and
+served Baal, and worshipped him. And he reared up an altar for Baal in
+the house of Baal, which he had built in Samaria. And Ahab did yet more
+to provoke the Lord, the God of Israel, to anger than all the kings of
+Israel that were before him.
+
+And Elijah the Tishbite, who was of the sojourners of Gilead, said unto
+Ahab, "As the Lord, the God of Israel, liveth, before whom I stand,
+there shall not be dew nor rain these years, but according to my word."
+
+
+B. ELIJAH AT THE BROOK
+
+And the word of the Lord came unto him, saying, "Get thee hence, and
+turn thee eastward, and hide thyself by the brook Cherith, that is
+before Jordan. And it shall be, that thou shalt drink of the brook; and
+I have commanded the ravens to feed thee there."
+
+So he went and did according unto the word of the Lord: for he went and
+dwelt by the brook Cherith, that is before Jordan. And the ravens
+brought him bread and flesh in the morning, and bread and flesh in the
+evening; and he drank of the brook. And it came to pass after a while,
+that the brook dried up, because there was no rain in the land.
+
+
+C. THE WIDOW'S CAKE
+
+And the word of the Lord came unto him, saying, "Arise, get thee to
+Zarephath, which belongeth to Sidon, and dwell there: behold, I have
+commanded a widow woman there to sustain thee."
+
+So he arose and went to Zarephath; and when he came to the gate of the
+city, behold, a widow woman was there gathering sticks: and he called to
+her, and said, "Fetch me, I pray thee, a little water in a vessel, that
+I may drink."
+
+And as she was going to fetch it, he called to her, and said, "Bring me,
+I pray thee, a morsel of bread in thine hand."
+
+And she said, "As the Lord thy God liveth, I have not a cake, but an
+handful of meal in the barrel, and a little oil in the cruse: and,
+behold, I am gathering two sticks, that I may go in and dress it for me
+and my son, that we may eat it, and die."
+
+And Elijah said unto her, "Fear not; go and do as thou hast said: but
+make me thereof a little cake first, and bring it forth unto me, and
+afterward make for thee and for thy son. For thus saith the Lord, the
+God of Israel, 'The barrel of meal shall not waste, neither shall the
+cruse of oil fail, until the day that the Lord sendeth rain upon the
+earth.'"
+
+And she went and did according to the saying of Elijah: and she, and he,
+and her house, did eat many days. The barrel of meal wasted not, neither
+did the cruse of oil fail, according to the word of the Lord, which he
+spake by Elijah.
+
+
+D. THE WIDOW'S SON
+
+And it came to pass after these things, that the son of the woman, the
+mistress of the house, fell sick; and his sickness was so sore, that
+there was no breath left in him. And she said unto Elijah, "O thou man
+of God? thou art come unto me to bring my sin to my remembrance, and to
+slay my son!"
+
+And he said unto her, "Give me thy son."
+
+And he took him out of her bosom, and carried him up into the chamber,
+where he abode, and laid him upon his own bed. And he cried unto the
+Lord, and said. "O Lord my God, hast thou also brought evil upon the
+widow with whom I sojourn, by slaying her son?" And he stretched himself
+upon the child three times, and cried unto the Lord, and said, "O Lord
+my God, I pray thee, let this child's soul come into him again."
+
+And the Lord hearkened unto the voice of Elijah; and the soul of the
+child came into him again, and he revived. And Elijah took the child,
+and brought him down out of the chamber into the house, and delivered
+him unto his mother: and Elijah said, "See, thy son liveth."
+
+And the woman said to Elijah, "Now I know that thou art a man of God,
+and that the word of the Lord in thy mouth is truth."
+
+
+=§82. Elijah's Victory= (I Kings 18:1-46)
+
+A. THE SEARCH FOR PASTURAGE
+
+And it came to pass after many days, that the word of the Lord came to
+Elijah, in the third year, saying, "Go, show thyself unto Ahab; and I
+will send rain upon the earth." And Elijah went to show himself unto
+Ahab.
+
+And the famine was sore in Samaria. And Ahab called Obadiah, who was
+over the household. (Now Obadiah feared the Lord greatly: for it was so,
+when Jezebel cut off the prophets of the Lord, that Obadiah took a
+hundred prophets, and hid them by fifty in a cave, and fed them with
+bread and water.) And Ahab said unto Obadiah, "Go through the land, unto
+all the fountains of water, and unto all the brooks: peradventure we may
+find grass and save the horses and mules alive, that we lose not all the
+beasts."
+
+So they divided the land between them to pass throughout it: Ahab went
+one way by himself, and Obadiah went another way by himself.
+
+
+B. ELIJAH'S CHALLENGE TO THE KING
+
+And as Obadiah was in the way, behold, Elijah met him: and he knew him,
+and fell on his face, and said, "Is it thou, my lord Elijah?"
+
+And he answered him, "It is I: go, tell thy lord, 'Behold, Elijah is
+here.'"
+
+And he said, "Wherein have I sinned, that thou wouldest deliver thy
+servant into the hand of Ahab, to slay me? As the Lord thy God liveth,
+there is no nation or kingdom, whither my lord hath not sent to seek
+thee: and when they said, 'He is not here,' he took an oath of the
+kingdom and nation, that they found thee not. And now thou sayest, 'Go,
+tell thy lord, Behold, Elijah is here.' And it shall come to pass, as
+soon as I am gone from thee, that the spirit of the Lord shall carry
+thee whither I know not; and so when I come and tell Ahab, and he cannot
+find thee, he shall slay me: but I thy servant fear the Lord from my
+youth. Was it not told my lord what I did when Jezebel slew the prophets
+of the Lord, how I hid a hundred men of the Lord's prophets by fifty in
+a cave, and fed them with bread and water? And now thou sayest, 'Go,
+tell thy lord, Behold Elijah is here': and he shall slay me."
+
+And Elijah said, "As the Lord of hosts liveth, before whom I stand, I
+will surely show myself unto him to-day."
+
+So Obadiah went to meet Ahab, and told him: and Ahab went to meet
+Elijah. And it came to pass, when Ahab saw Elijah, that Ahab said unto
+him, "Is it thou, thou troubler of Israel?"
+
+And he answered, "I have not troubled Israel; but thou, and thy father's
+house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the Lord, and thou
+hast followed the Baalim. Now therefore send, and gather to me all
+Israel unto mount Carmel, and the prophets of Baal four hundred and
+fifty, which eat at Jezebel's table."
+
+
+C. THE TEST AT CARMEL
+
+So Ahab sent unto all the children of Israel, and gathered the prophets
+together unto mount Carmel.
+
+And Elijah came near unto all the people, and said, "How long halt ye
+between two opinions? if the Lord be God, follow him: but if Baal, then
+follow him." And the people answered him not a word.
+
+Then said Elijah unto the people, "I, even I only, am left a prophet of
+the Lord; but Baal's prophets are four hundred and fifty men. Let them
+therefore give us two bullocks; and let them choose one bullock for
+themselves, and cut it in pieces, and lay it on the wood, and put no
+fire under: and I will dress the other bullock, and lay it on the wood,
+and put no fire under. And call ye on the name of your god, and I will
+call on the name of the Lord: and the God that answereth by fire, let
+him be God."
+
+And all the people answered and said, "It is well spoken."
+
+And Elijah said unto the prophets of Baal, "Choose you one bullock for
+yourselves, and dress it first; for ye are many; and call on the name of
+your god, but put no fire under."
+
+And they took the bullock which was given them, and they dressed it, and
+called on the name of Baal from morning even until noon, saying, "O
+Baal, hear us." But there was no voice, nor any that answered. And they
+leaped about the altar which was made.
+
+And it came to pass at noon, that Elijah mocked them, and said, "Cry
+aloud: for he is a god; either he is musing, or he is gone aside, or he
+is on a journey, or peradventure he sleepeth, and must be awaked."
+
+And they cried aloud, and cut themselves after their manner with knives
+and lances, till the blood gushed out upon them. And it was so, when
+midday was past, that they prophesied until the time of the offering of
+the evening sacrifice; but there was neither voice, nor any to answer,
+nor any that regarded.
+
+And Elijah said unto all the people, "Come near unto me." And all the
+people came near unto him.
+
+And he repaired the altar of the Lord that was thrown down. And Elijah
+took twelve stones, according to the number of the tribes of the sons of
+Jacob. And with the stones he built an altar in the name of the Lord;
+and he made a trench about the altar, as great as would contain two
+measures of seed. And he put the wood in order, and cut the bullock in
+pieces, and laid it on the wood. And he said, "Fill four barrels with
+water, and pour it on the burnt offering, and on the wood." And he said,
+"Do it the second time." And they did it the second time. And he said,
+"Do it the third time." And they did it the third time. And the water
+ran round about the altar; and he filled the trench also with water.
+
+And it came to pass at the time of the offering of the evening
+sacrifice, that Elijah the prophet came near, and said, "O Lord, the God
+of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this day that thou
+art God in Israel, and that I am thy servant, and that I have done all
+these things at thy word. Hear me, O Lord, hear me, that this people may
+know that thou, Lord, art God, and that thou hast turned their heart
+back again."
+
+Then the fire of the Lord fell, and consumed the burnt offering, and the
+wood, and the stones, and the dust, and licked up the water that was in
+the trench. And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces:
+and they said, "The Lord, he is God; the Lord, he is God."
+
+And Elijah said unto them, "Take the prophets of Baal; let not one of
+them escape."
+
+And they took them: and Elijah brought them down to the brook Kishon,
+and slew them there.
+
+
+D. THE COMING OF THE RAIN
+
+And Elijah said unto Ahab, "Get thee up, eat and drink; for there is the
+sound of abundance of rain." So Ahab went up to eat and to drink.
+
+And Elijah went up to the top of Carmel; and he bowed himself down upon
+the earth, and put his face between his knees. And he said to his
+servant, "Go up now, look toward the sea."
+
+And he went up, and looked, and said, "There is nothing."
+
+And he said, "Go again," seven times. And it came to pass at the seventh
+time, that he said, "Behold, there ariseth a cloud out of the sea, as
+small as a man's hand."
+
+And he said, "Go up, say unto Ahab, 'Make ready thy chariot, and get
+thee down, that the rain stop thee not.'"
+
+And it came to pass in a little while, that the heaven grew black with
+clouds and wind, and there was a great rain. And Ahab rode, and went to
+Jezreel. And the hand of the Lord was on Elijah; and he girded up his
+loins, and ran before Ahab to the entrance of Jezreel.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+301. In the beautiful city of Florence in Italy there was once a great
+prince named Lorenzo, whose reign was very splendid, but who oppressed
+the people and lived an evil life. The people followed his bad example
+and there was great immorality in Florence. But a fearless preacher came
+to the city who told the prince and the people plainly of their sins.
+Great crowds went to hear him and he became the most influential man in
+Florence. By his stirring words he compelled the government to give back
+the liberties to the people, and he led the citizens to promise to serve
+God with good lives. His enemies finally proved too strong for him and
+killed him, but this noble Italian preacher, Savonarola, left an
+influence that has lasted to this day.
+
+Among the heroes of Israel were some bold preachers, called prophets,
+who did not hesitate to denounce the sins of kings and people. One of
+the greatest of these was Elijah.
+
+302 (§81A). Ahab was a very wicked king who married a princess from
+Sidon. Locate the city on the coast of Palestine. The Sidonians
+worshipped a god called Baal, and so the king built a temple for this
+idol in his capital. He thought he could go on serving the Lord and
+serve Baal also. Suddenly a man appeared in the court. He was roughly
+clad, not a man of the city. What startling message did he bring?
+
+303 (§81B). While the drought came upon Israel the prophet was taken
+care of. Tell the story of Elijah at the brook. What happened to the
+brook at last?
+
+304 (§81C). Elijah was east of the Jordan. He was sent to Zarephath near
+Sidon. Locate it. Tell the story of his conversation with the widow. The
+"cruse" was a flask or small jug for holding liquids.
+
+305 (§81D). Many wonderful stories were told of this great prophet. Tell
+the story of the widow's son. Think of the prophet waiting all this
+time till he should be sent back to the king.
+
+306 (§82A). At last Elijah's message came. How long had he waited?
+Meantime what was the condition in Israel, and Samaria the capital? Who
+was Obadiah? What had he done? What did the king and Obadiah undertake?
+
+307 (§82B). Tell the story of Elijah's conversation with the timid
+Obadiah. This man was good, but he was having a hard time as the servant
+of a bad king. What bold answer did Elijah make to the king? What is a
+challenge? What challenge did Elijah make?
+
+308 (§82C). This is the important part of the story. Find Mt. Carmel on
+the coast. Imagine the scene: the king, the prophets of Baal, and
+Elijah, as the actors, and the great crowd as an audience. What was
+Elijah's first question to the people? We have a saying that no one can
+be on the fence: everyone must be on one side or the other. Whenever
+there is a right and wrong, people must take sides.
+
+309 (§82C). What test did Elijah propose? Who prepared the bullock for
+the sacrifice first? How did they try to gain the attention of their
+god? Could Baal hear them? How did Elijah mock them? What was the result
+of all the excitement?
+
+310 (§82C). Notice how serious Elijah was. How did he prepare for the
+sacrifice? How did he arrange so that nobody could say there was a
+trick? What prayer did Elijah offer? Learn this noble prayer so that you
+can recite it. What happened? How did it affect the people?
+
+311 (§82C). Those were days when men were very stern. What awful
+punishment did Elijah inflict on the false prophets?
+
+312 (§82D). Elijah was sure that the drought would now be over. What did
+he say to Ahab? They had eaten nothing all day, so everyone went eagerly
+to the food. But Elijah went back to the mountain. Who went with him?
+What happened? What message did the prophet send to Ahab? Notice how
+quickly the storm came up. Elijah was a man of the desert, hardy and
+strong; he was also under great excitement from the events of the day.
+It was sixteen miles from Carmel to Jezreel. Locate these places on the
+map. The king drove his horses hard in the storm. What did Elijah do?
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Imagine yourself present at the scene on Mt. Carmel and that your
+parents were unable to go. How would you tell them the story of all that
+happened that day? Write it out just as you would have told it, if you
+were a young Israelite on that great occasion.
+
+
+
+
+XXIX. ELIJAH, THE CHAMPION OF JUSTICE
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§83. Elijah's Discouragement= (I Kings 19:1-21)
+
+A. THE BITTER DISAPPOINTMENT
+
+And Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, and how he had slain all
+the prophets with the sword. Then Jezebel sent a messenger unto Elijah,
+saying, "So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I make not thy life
+as the life of one of them by to-morrow about this time."
+
+And when he saw that, he arose, and went for his life, and came to
+Beer-sheba, which belongeth to Judah, and left his servant there. But he
+himself went a day's journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down
+under a juniper tree: and he requested for himself that he might die;
+and said, "It is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life; for I am not
+better than my fathers."
+
+And he lay down and slept under a juniper tree; and, behold, an angel
+touched him, and said unto him, "Arise and eat."
+
+And he looked, and, behold, there was at his head a cake baked on the
+coals, and a bottle of water. And he did eat and drink, and laid himself
+down again.
+
+And the angel of the Lord came again the second time, and touched him,
+and said, "Arise and eat; because the journey is too great for thee."
+
+And he arose, and did eat and drink, and went in the strength of that
+food forty days and forty nights unto Horeb the mount of God.
+
+
+B. ELIJAH COMFORTED AND INSTRUCTED
+
+And he came thither unto a cave, and lodged there; and, behold, the word
+of the Lord came to him, and he said unto him, "What does thou here,
+Elijah?"
+
+And he said, "I have been very jealous for the Lord, the God of hosts;
+for the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine
+altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword: and I, even I only, am
+left; and they seek my life, to take it away."
+
+And he said, "Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the Lord."
+
+And, behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the
+mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the Lord; but the Lord
+was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the Lord was
+not in the earthquake: and after the earthquake a fire; but the Lord was
+not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice. And it was so,
+when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in his mantle, and went
+out, and stood in the entering of the cave. And, behold, there came a
+voice unto him, and said, "What doest thou here, Elijah?"
+
+And he said, "I have been very jealous for the Lord, the God of hosts;
+for the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine
+altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword; and I, even I only, am
+left; and they seek my life, to take it away."
+
+And the Lord said unto him, "Go, return on thy way to the wilderness of
+Damascus: and when thou comest, thou shalt anoint Hazael to be king over
+Syria: and Jehu shalt thou anoint to be king over Israel: and Elisha the
+son of Shaphat shalt thou anoint to be prophet in thy room. And it shall
+come to pass, that him that escapeth from the sword of Hazael shall Jehu
+slay: and him that escapeth from the sword of Jehu shall Elisha slay.
+Yet will I leave me seven thousand in Israel, all the knees which have
+not bowed unto Baal, and every mouth which hath not kissed him."
+
+
+C. THE CALL OF ELISHA
+
+So he departed thence, and found Elisha the son of Shaphat, who was
+plowing, with twelve yoke of oxen before him, and he with the twelfth:
+and Elijah passed over unto him, and cast his mantle upon him. And he
+left the oxen, and ran after Elijah, and said, "Let me, I pray thee,
+kiss my father and my mother, and then I will follow thee."
+
+And he said unto him, "Go back again; for what have I done to thee?"
+
+And he returned from following him, and took the yoke of oxen, and slew
+them, and boiled their flesh with the instruments of the oxen, and gave
+unto the people, and they did eat. Then he arose, and went after Elijah,
+and ministered unto him.
+
+
+=§84. Elijah and the Tyrant= (I Kings 21:1-24)
+
+A. AHAB COVETS NABOTH'S VINEYARD
+
+And it came to pass after these things, that Naboth the Jezreelite had a
+vineyard, which was in Jezreel, hard by the palace of Ahab king of
+Samaria. And Ahab spake unto Naboth, saying, "Give me thy vineyard, that
+I may have it for a garden of herbs, because it is near unto my house;
+and I will give thee for it a better vineyard than it: or, if it seem
+good to thee, I will give thee the worth of it in money."
+
+And Naboth said to Ahab, "The Lord forbid it me, that I should give the
+inheritance of my fathers unto thee."
+
+And Ahab came into his house heavy and displeased because of the word
+which Naboth the Jezreelite had spoken to him: for he had said, "I will
+not give thee the inheritance of my fathers." And he laid him down upon
+his bed, and turned away his face, and would eat no bread.
+
+But Jezebel his wife came to him, and said unto him, "Why is thy spirit
+so sad, that thou eatest no bread?"
+
+And he said unto her, "Because I spake unto Naboth the Jezreelite, and
+said unto him, 'Give me thy vineyard for money; or else, if it please
+thee, I will give thee another vineyard for it': and he answered, 'I
+will not give thee my vineyard.'"
+
+And Jezebel his wife said unto him, "Dost thou now govern the kingdom of
+Israel? arise, and eat bread, and let thine heart be merry: I will give
+thee the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite."
+
+
+B. JEZEBEL'S PLOT
+
+So she wrote letters in Ahab's name, and sealed them with his seal, and
+sent the letters unto the elders and to the nobles that were in the
+city, and that dwelt with Naboth. And she wrote in the letters, saying,
+"Proclaim a fast, and set Naboth on high among the people: and set two
+wicked men before him, and let them bear witness against him, saying,
+'Thou didst curse God and the king.' And then carry him out, and stone
+him, that he die."
+
+And the men of his city, even the elders and the nobles who dwelt in his
+city, did as Jezebel had sent unto them, according as it was written in
+the letters which she had sent unto them. They proclaimed a fast, and
+set Naboth on high among the people. And the two wicked men came in and
+sat before him: and the men bare witness against him, even against
+Naboth, in the presence of the people, saying, "Naboth did curse God and
+the king." Then they carried him forth out of the city, and stoned him
+with stones, that he died. Then they sent to Jezebel, saying, "Naboth is
+stoned, and is dead."
+
+And it came to pass, when Jezebel heard that Naboth was stoned, and was
+dead, that she said to Ahab, "Arise, take possession of the vineyard of
+Naboth the Jezreelite, which he refused to give thee for money: for
+Naboth is not alive, but dead."
+
+And it came to pass, when Ahab heard that Naboth was dead, that he rose
+up to go down to the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite, to take
+possession of it.
+
+
+C. ELIJAH'S STARTLING SENTENCE
+
+And the word of the Lord came to Elijah the Tishbite, saying, "Arise, go
+down to meet Ahab king of Israel, who dwelleth in Samaria: behold, he is
+in the vineyard of Naboth, whither he is gone down to take possession of
+it. And thou shalt speak unto him, saying, 'Thus saith the Lord, Hast
+thou killed, and also taken possession?' and thou shalt speak unto him,
+saying, 'Thus saith the Lord, In the place where dogs licked the blood
+of Naboth, shall dogs lick thy blood, even thine.'"
+
+And Ahab said to Elijah, "Hast thou found me, O mine enemy?"
+
+And he answered, "I have found thee: because thou hast sold thyself to
+do that which is evil in the sight of the Lord. Behold, I will bring
+evil upon thee, and will utterly sweep thee away, and will cut off from
+Ahab every man child, and him that is shut up and him that is left at
+large in Israel, for the provocation wherewith thou hast provoked me to
+anger, and hast made Israel to sin. And of Jezebel also spake the Lord,
+saying, 'The dogs shall eat Jezebel by the rampart of Jezreel.' Him that
+dieth of Ahab in the city the dogs shall eat; and him that dieth in the
+field shall the fowls of the air eat."
+
+
+=§85. The Old Prophet and the New Prophet= (II Kings 2:1-15)
+
+A. THE FAREWELL OF THE OLD PROPHET
+
+And it came to pass, when the Lord would take up Elijah by a whirlwind
+into heaven, that Elijah went with Elisha from Gilgal. And Elijah said
+unto Elisha, "Tarry here, I pray thee; for the Lord hath sent me as far
+as Beth-el."
+
+And Elisha said, "As the Lord liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not
+leave thee."
+
+So they went down to Beth-el. And the sons of the prophets that were at
+Beth-el came forth to Elisha, and said unto him, "Knowest thou that the
+Lord will take away thy master from thy head to-day?"
+
+And he said, "Yea, I know it; hold ye your peace."
+
+And Elijah said unto him, "Elisha, tarry here, I pray thee; for the Lord
+hath sent me to Jericho."
+
+And he said, "As the Lord liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not
+leave thee."
+
+So they came to Jericho. And the sons of the prophets that were at
+Jericho came near to Elisha, and said unto him, "Knowest thou that the
+Lord will take away thy master from thy head to-day?"
+
+And he answered, "Yea, I know it; hold ye your peace."
+
+And Elijah said unto him, "Tarry here, I pray thee; for the Lord hath
+sent me to Jordan."
+
+And he said, "As the Lord liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not
+leave thee."
+
+And they two went on. And fifty men of the sons of the prophets went,
+and stood over against them afar off: and they two stood by Jordan. And
+Elijah took his mantle, and wrapped it together, and smote the waters,
+and they were divided hither and thither, so that they two went over on
+dry ground. And it came to pass, when they were gone over, that Elijah
+said unto Elisha, "Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken from
+thee."
+
+And Elisha said, "I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be
+upon me."
+
+And he said, "Thou hast asked a hard thing: nevertheless, if thou see me
+when I am taken from thee, it shall be so unto thee; but if not, it
+shall not be so."
+
+And it came to pass, as they still went on, and talked, that, behold,
+there appeared a chariot of fire, and horses of fire, which parted them
+both asunder; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven. And Elisha
+saw it, and he cried, "My father, my father, the chariots of Israel and
+the horsemen thereof!"
+
+
+B. THE NEW PROPHET
+
+And he saw him no more: and he took hold of his own clothes, and rent
+them in two pieces. He took up also the mantle of Elijah that fell from
+him, and went back, and stood by the bank of Jordan. And he took the
+mantle of Elijah that fell from him, and smote the waters, and said,
+"Where is the Lord, the God of Elijah?" and when he also had smitten the
+waters, they were divided hither and thither: and Elisha went over.
+
+And when the sons of the prophets which were at Jericho over against him
+saw him, they said, "The spirit of Elijah doth rest on Elisha." And they
+came to meet him, and bowed themselves to the ground before him.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+313. How did the great day close after Elijah had defeated the prophets
+of Baal? How do you think Ahab felt about it? Elijah probably hoped to
+see a complete return of the people to the Lord and he expected the
+wicked queen Jezebel to be prevented from interfering with the prophets
+of the Lord.
+
+314 (§83A). What did Ahab do when he returned home? What did Jezebel
+decide? Was she willing to give up her power? Elijah saw that nothing
+had been gained, for the wicked queen was still in control. Where did he
+go? Follow his journey on the map. Mention all the circumstances that
+would make Elijah tired out. His discouragement was largely due to his
+exhaustion from hunger and travel. What kind thing did the Lord do for
+the tired prophet?
+
+315 (§83B). Where did Elijah go? Horeb is another name for Mount Sinai.
+Do you remember what great hero led the people to Sinai? (§40A.) Elijah
+wanted to go back to the mountain where his people had heard of the
+Lord. Tell the story of what happened at the cave. The Lord would show
+Elijah that the people could not be saved by great contests, but by
+gentle means. He also told him that it would take time to get rid of the
+idolatry. He told him three important persons would all have a part in
+the work, even after he was dead: who were these?
+
+316 (§83B). Elijah was mistaken in thinking that he was the only
+faithful man left. How many were there? There are often more good people
+than we think.
+
+317 (§83C). Tell the story of the call of Elisha.
+
+318 (§84A). Locate Jezreel on the map. We found it before, near Mt.
+Carmel. King Ahab had a fine palace there, though his capital was in
+Samaria. But the king needed some more land to make a garden. How did he
+try to get it? Why would not the man sell it? We must remember that in
+those times a farm would sometimes remain in one family for centuries.
+How did Ahab behave? What did Jezebel say that she would do?
+
+319 (§84B). A king of Israel could not do as he pleased. He was bound to
+respect the rights of his people. Jezebel therefore thought out a plan
+to have Naboth killed. What was the plan and how did it work?
+
+320 (§84B). When Jezebel heard of the success of her plot she told the
+king. What did he do? What ought he to have done?
+
+321 (§84C). The king and queen had forgotten all about Elijah. How did
+he suddenly appear? Imagine how frightened the king must have been when
+he saw the stern prophet coming to meet him in the garden. So conscience
+suddenly speaks when we have forgotten it. What did Elijah say?
+
+322 (§84C). We have seen Elijah the champion of pure religion, now we
+see him the champion of justice. There was no one else who dare speak
+against the king's tyranny. Do you think he was brave? Why did not Ahab
+kill him?
+
+323 (§85A). Tell the story of the last journey of Elijah and Elisha.
+Follow the journey on the map. Imagine the fearful mountain storm on the
+east of Jordan in the midst of which Elijah was carried away. Is it not
+a grand story of the end of such a stormy life?
+
+324 (§85B). How did the new prophet begin his work?
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Ahab, although in many respects an able king, showed himself in this
+incident a bully. A bully is one who does wrong to a person who is too
+weak to resist. There is generally a bully in every school. Is there
+also a hero? Write what you think a hero ought to do with a bully.
+
+
+
+
+XXX. ELISHA, THE HEALER AND COUNSELOR
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§86. The Payment of the Widow's Debt= (II Kings 4:1-7)
+
+Now there cried a certain woman of the wives of the sons of the prophets
+unto Elisha, saying, "Thy servant my husband is dead: and thou knowest
+that thy servant did fear the Lord: and the creditor is come to take
+unto him my two children to be slaves."
+
+And Elisha said unto her, "What shall I do for thee? tell me; what hast
+thou in the house?"
+
+And she said, "Thine handmaid hath not any thing in the house, save a
+pot of oil."
+
+Then he said, "Go, borrow thee vessels abroad of all thy neighbors, even
+empty vessels; borrow not a few. And thou shalt go in, and shut the door
+upon thee and upon thy sons, and pour out into all those vessels; and
+thou shalt set aside that which is full."
+
+So she went from him, and shut the door upon her and upon her sons; they
+brought the vessels to her, and she poured out. And it came to pass,
+when the vessels were full, that she said unto her son, "Bring me yet a
+vessel."
+
+And he said, "There is not another vessel."
+
+And the oil stopped. Then she came and told the man of God. And he said,
+"Go, sell the oil, and pay thy debt, and live thou and thy sons on the
+rest."
+
+
+=§87. The Healing of the Leper= (II Kings 5)
+
+A. NAAMAN'S VISIT TO ISRAEL
+
+Now Naaman, captain of the host of the king of Syria, was a great man
+with his master, and honorable, because by him the Lord had given
+victory unto Syria: he was also a mighty man of valor, but he was a
+leper. And the Syrians had gone out in bands, and had brought away a
+captive out of the land of Israel a little maid; and she waited on
+Naaman's wife. And she said unto her mistress, "Would God my lord were
+with the prophet that is in Samaria! then would he recover him of his
+leprosy."
+
+And one went in, and told his lord, saying, "Thus and thus said the maid
+that is of the land of Israel."
+
+And the king of Syria said, "Go to, go, and I will send a letter unto
+the king of Israel."
+
+And he departed, and took with him ten talents of silver, and six
+thousand pieces of gold, and ten changes of raiment. And he brought the
+letter to the king of Israel, saying, "And now when this letter is come
+unto thee, behold, I have sent Naaman my servant to thee, that thou
+mayest recover him of his leprosy."
+
+And it came to pass, when the king of Israel had read the letter, that
+he rent his clothes, and said, "Am I God, to kill and to make alive,
+that this man doth send unto me to recover a man of his leprosy? but
+consider, I pray you, and see how he seeketh a quarrel against me."
+
+
+B. NAAMAN HEALED
+
+And it was so, when Elisha the man of God heard that the king of Israel
+had rent his clothes, that he sent to the king, saying, "Wherefore hast
+thou rent thy clothes? let him come now to me, and he shall know that
+there is a prophet in Israel."
+
+So Naaman came with his horses and with his chariots, and stood at the
+door of the house of Elisha. And Elisha sent a messenger unto him,
+saying, "Go and wash in Jordan seven times, and thy flesh shall come
+again to thee, and thou shalt be clean."
+
+But Naaman was wroth, and went away, and said, "Behold, I thought, He
+will surely come out to me, and stand, and call on the name of the Lord
+his God, and wave his hand over the place, and recover the leper. Are
+not Abanah and Pharpar, the rivers of Damascus, better than all the
+waters of Israel? may I not wash in them, and be clean?"
+
+So he turned and went away in a rage. And his servants came near, and
+spake unto him, and said, "My father, if the prophet had bid thee do
+some great thing, wouldest thou not have done it? how much rather then,
+when he saith to thee, 'Wash, and be clean'?"
+
+Then went he down, and dipped himself seven times in Jordan, according
+to the saying of the man of God: and his flesh came again like unto the
+flesh of a little child, and he was clean.
+
+
+C. NAAMAN'S GRATITUDE
+
+And he returned to the man of God, he and all his company, and came, and
+stood before him: and he said, "Behold now, I know that there is no God
+in all the earth, but in Israel: now therefore, I pray thee, take a
+present of thy servant."
+
+But he said, "As the Lord liveth, before whom I stand, I will receive
+none."
+
+And he urged him to take it; but he refused. And Naaman said, "If not,
+yet I pray thee let there be given to thy servant two mules' burden of
+earth; for thy servant will henceforth offer neither burnt offering nor
+sacrifice unto other gods, but unto the Lord."
+
+And he said unto him, "Go in peace."
+
+So he departed from him a little way.
+
+
+D. PUNISHMENT OF GREED AND DECEIT
+
+But Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of God, said, "Behold, my
+master hath spared this Naaman the Syrian, in not receiving at his hands
+that which he brought: as the Lord liveth, I will run after him, and
+take somewhat of him."
+
+So Gehazi followed after Naaman. And when Naaman saw one running after
+him, he lighted down from the chariot to meet him, and said, "Is all
+well?"
+
+And he said, "All is well. My master hath sent me, saying, 'Behold, even
+now there be come to me from the hill country of Ephraim two young men
+of the sons of the prophets; give them, I pray thee, a talent of silver,
+and two changes of raiment.'"
+
+And Naaman said, "Be content, take two talents."
+
+And he urged him and bound two talents of silver in two bags, with two
+changes of raiment, and laid them upon two of his servants; and they
+bare them before him. And when he came to the hill, he took them from
+their hand, and bestowed them in the house: and he let the men go, and
+they departed. But he went in, and stood before his master.
+
+And Elisha said unto him, "Whence comest thou, Gehazi?"
+
+And he said, "Thy servant went no whither."
+
+And he said unto him, "Went not mine heart with thee, when the man
+turned again from his chariot to meet thee? Is it a time to receive
+money, and to receive garments, and oliveyards and vineyards, and sheep
+and oxen, and menservants and maidservants? The leprosy therefore of
+Naaman shall cleave unto thee, and unto thy seed for ever."
+
+And he went out from his presence a leper as white as snow.
+
+
+=§88. Mysterious Capture of the Syrian Soldiers= (II Kings 6:8-23)
+
+A. THE SYRIANS' FEAR OF ELISHA
+
+Now the king of Syria warred against Israel; and he took counsel with
+his servants, saying, "In such and such a place shall be my camp."
+
+And the man of God sent unto the king of Israel, saying, "Beware that
+thou pass not such a place; for thither the Syrians are coming down."
+
+And the king of Israel sent to the place which the man of God told him
+and warned him of; and he saved himself there, not once nor twice.
+
+And the heart of the king of Syria was sore troubled for this thing; and
+he called his servants, and said unto them, "Will ye not show me which
+of us is for the king of Israel?"
+
+And one of his servants said, "Nay, my lord, O king: but Elisha, the
+prophet that is in Israel, telleth the king of Israel the words that
+thou speakest in thy bedchamber."
+
+And he said, "Go and see where he is, that I may send and fetch him."
+
+And it was told him, saying, "Behold, he is in Dothan."
+
+
+B. THE UNSEEN ARMY OF THE LORD
+
+Therefore sent he thither horses, and chariots, and a great host: and
+they came by night, and compassed the city about. And when the servant
+of the man of God was risen early, and gone forth, behold, an host with
+horses and chariots was round about the city. And his servant said unto
+him, "Alas, my master! how shall we do?"
+
+And he answered, "Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they
+that be with them." And Elisha prayed, and said, "Lord, I pray thee,
+open his eyes, that he may see."
+
+And the Lord opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold,
+the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha.
+And when they came down to him, Elisha prayed unto the Lord, and said,
+"Smite this people, I pray thee, with blindness." And he smote them with
+blindness according to the word of Elisha.
+
+And Elisha said unto them, "This is not the way, neither is this the
+city: follow me, and I will bring you to the man whom ye seek." And he
+led them to Samaria.
+
+
+C. THE RELEASE OF THE PRISONERS
+
+And it came to pass, when they were come into Samaria, that Elisha said,
+"Lord, open the eyes of these men, that they may see." And the Lord
+opened their eyes, and they saw; and, behold, they were in the midst of
+Samaria.
+
+And the king of Israel said unto Elisha, when he saw them, "My father,
+shall I smite them? shall I smite them?"
+
+And he answered, "Thou shalt not smite them: wouldest thou smite those
+whom thou hast taken captive with thy sword and with thy bow? set bread
+and water before them, that they may eat and drink, and go to their
+master."
+
+And he prepared great provision for them: and when they had eaten and
+drunk, he sent them away, and they went to their master. And the bands
+of Syria came no more into the land of Israel.
+
+
+=§89. Elisha's Last Counsel= (II Kings 13:14-19)
+
+Now Elisha was fallen sick of the sickness of which he died: and Joash
+the king of Israel came down unto him, and wept over him, and said, "My
+father, my father, the chariots of Israel and the horsemen thereof!"
+
+And Elisha said unto him, "Take bow and arrows." And he took unto him
+bow and arrows.
+
+And he said to the king of Israel, "Put thine hand upon the bow." And he
+put his hand upon it. And Elisha laid his hands upon the king's hands.
+
+And he said, "Open the window eastward." And he opened it.
+
+Then Elisha said, "Shoot." And he shot.
+
+And he said, "The Lord's arrow of victory, even the arrow of victory
+over Syria: for thou shalt smite the Syrians in Aphek, till thou have
+consumed them."
+
+And he said, "Take the arrows." And he took them.
+
+And he said unto the king of Israel. "Smite upon the ground." And he
+smote thrice, and stayed.
+
+And the man of God was wroth with him, and said, "Thou shouldest have
+smitten five or six times; then hadst thou smitten Syria till thou hadst
+consumed it: whereas now thou shalt smite Syria but thrice."
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+325. Different kinds of men are needed for different times. Severe
+contests require vigorous men: times of trouble require patient men.
+When the king and all Israel were going into heathen worship, the
+strong, stern Elijah was the man to force them back to right conduct.
+But when the kingdom of Israel fell into great weakness and was beaten
+again and again by the Syrians, there was need of a prophet who could
+comfort and encourage the nation. The young man who had been trained by
+Elijah was fitted for this work. What was his name? He must have been a
+most kindly and helpful man as there are more wonderful stories gathered
+about his name than about any of the other heroes of Israel. We shall
+study four of these stories.
+
+326 (§86). This story shows us how harsh the old law of debt was. Why
+were the widow's two sons to be sold as slaves? She came to Elisha in
+her trouble, and he said that they would use whatever she had. What did
+she have? How was the debt paid?
+
+327 (§87A). Locate Syria on the map to the north of Israel. What is the
+capital? These people had been fighting against Israel and had taken
+many prisoners and made slaves of them. What was the name of the Syrian
+general? He was a great man, but he had the terrible disease of leprosy.
+It is a most frightful malady, slowly eating away the body. The
+general's wife had a little Hebrew slave. How did she get her? What did
+the little slave say to her mistress? Tell the story of Naaman's visit
+to Israel.
+
+328 (§87B). How was the king of Israel troubled, and what did Elisha say
+to him? Describe the grand visit of the general with all his servants to
+the simple home of the prophet. What message did Elisha send? Why was
+Naaman angry? What did his servants say to him? How did it all turn out?
+
+329 (§87C). What great change of feeling came over Naaman? What did he
+wish to give Elisha? The prophet did not want any present, because he
+wished Naaman to know that the Lord's prophet would help anyone in need
+without money.
+
+330 (§87D). What did Elisha's servant think of this conduct of his
+master? Tell the story of his greed and deceit. Notice how one sin leads
+to another and one lie leads to another. But the prophet understood the
+wicked servant. What terrible punishment came upon him?
+
+331 (§88A). How did Elisha help his people against the plans of the
+Syrians? What did the Syrian king think of it? It seems evident that
+Elisha was the counselor of Israel. Locate Dothan on the map.
+
+332 (§88B). Tell the story of the two armies, one of them visible and
+the other invisible. This is a beautiful way of telling of God's power
+and care that are always over us. How did Elisha lead the army to
+Samaria?
+
+333 (§88C). How did the Syrians find that they were in the capital of
+their enemies? What did the king want to do to them? How did Elisha say
+they should be treated? Do you remember that several times we have
+called the heroes "magnanimous"? Elisha has this character. After all,
+forgiveness is the best revenge.
+
+334 (§89). At last the old prophet who had been the counselor of several
+kings was about to die. Who visited him? Notice he used the same words
+of him that Elisha had used of Elijah. What did it mean? Tell the story
+of the bow and arrows. The king was not a strong character and he showed
+it in this little bit of play. Elisha meant to tell him that great
+things in the world can only be done by determination. In the Civil War
+our great generals did not give up after three endeavors. Grant said "I
+propose to fight it out on this line, if ..." (finish the quotation),
+and Lee held together his gallant army to the last limit of endurance.
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Tell your parents, or some friend, what you have learned about Elisha,
+and explain that you are to write a short story in your notebook on "A
+Hero of Helpfulness." Ask them if they can tell you about some good
+doctor who was unselfish and kindly and gave himself for the good of
+others. Or perhaps they know some pastor who was always seeking to help
+his people and cared very little what good things he got himself. Or
+they may be able to tell you of a good woman who spent her life in doing
+good to people. She would be "A Heroine of Helpfulness." Find out some
+strong character who did good unselfishly like Elisha, and write the
+story for the next class.
+
+
+
+
+PATRIOTS IN TROUBLOUS TIMES
+
+ XXXI. NEHEMIAH, THE BUILDER
+
+ XXXII. ESTHER, THE PATRIOT QUEEN
+
+ XXXIII. JUDAS, THE HAMMERER
+
+ XXXIV. DANIEL AND HIS FRIENDS
+
+
+
+
+
+XXXI. NEHEMIAH, THE BUILDER
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§90. Nehemiah's Plans= (Neh. 1:1-4, 11. 2:1-9, 11-13, 16-18)
+
+A. NEHEMIAH'S SORROW FOR JERUSALEM
+
+Now it came to pass as I was in Shushan the palace, that Hanani, one of
+my brethren, came, he and certain men out of Judah; and I asked them
+concerning the Jews that had escaped, which were left of the captivity,
+and concerning Jerusalem. And they said unto me, "The remnant that are
+left of the captivity there in the province are in great affliction and
+reproach: the wall of Jerusalem also is broken down, and the gates
+thereof are burned with fire."
+
+And it came to pass, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept,
+and mourned certain days; and I fasted and prayed before the God of
+heaven, and said, "O Lord, I beseech thee, let now thine ear be
+attentive to the prayer of thy servant, and to the prayer of thy
+servants, who delight to fear thy name: and prosper, I pray thee, thy
+servant this day, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man." (Now I
+was cupbearer to the king.)
+
+
+B. THE KING'S PERMISSION TO REBUILD
+
+And it came to pass in the month Nisan, in the twentieth year of
+Artaxerxes the king, when wine was before him, that I took up the wine,
+and gave it unto the king. Now I had not been before-time sad in his
+presence. And the king said unto me, "Why is thy countenance sad, seeing
+thou art not sick? this is nothing else but sorrow of heart."
+
+Then I was very sore afraid. And I said unto the king, "Let the king
+live for ever: why should not my countenance be sad, when the city, the
+place of my father's sepulchres, lieth waste, and the gates thereof are
+consumed with fire?"
+
+Then the king said unto me, "For what dost thou make request?"
+
+So I prayed to the God of heaven. And I said unto the king, "If it
+please the king, and if thy servant have found favor in thy sight, that
+thou wouldest send me unto Judah, unto the city of my fathers'
+sepulchres, that I may build it."
+
+And the king said unto me, (the queen also sitting by him,) "For how
+long shall thy journey be? and when wilt thou return?"
+
+So it pleased the king to send me; and I set him a time. Moreover I said
+unto the king, "If it please the king, let letters be given me to the
+governors beyond the river, that they may let me pass through till I
+come unto Judah; and a letter unto Asaph the keeper of the king's
+forest, that he may give me timber to make beams for the gates of the
+castle, and for the wall of the city, and for the house that I shall
+enter into."
+
+And the king granted me, according to the good hand of my God upon me.
+
+
+C. NEHEMIAH'S ARRIVAL IN JERUSALEM
+
+Then I came to the governors beyond the river, and gave them the king's
+letters. Now the king had sent with me captains of the army and
+horsemen. So I came to Jerusalem, and was there three days.
+
+And I arose in the night, I and some few men with me; neither told I any
+man what my God put into my heart to do for Jerusalem: neither was there
+any beast with me, save the beast that I rode upon. And I went out by
+night by the valley gate, and viewed the walls of Jerusalem, which were
+broken down, and the gates thereof were consumed with fire. And the
+rulers knew not whither I went, or what I did; neither had I as yet told
+it to the Jews, nor to the priests, nor to the nobles, nor to the
+rulers, nor to the rest that did the work.
+
+
+D. THE BEGINNING OF THE WORK
+
+Then said I unto them, "Ye see the evil case that we are in, how
+Jerusalem lieth waste, and the gates thereof are burned with fire: come
+and let us build up the wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more a
+reproach." And I told them of the hand of my God which was good upon me;
+as also of the king's words that he had spoken unto me.
+
+And they said, "Let us rise up and build." So they strengthened their
+hands for the good work.
+
+
+=§91. Nehemiah's Difficulties= (Neh. 4:1-4, 6-9, 16-20; 6:1-9)
+
+A. SCORNFUL JEALOUSY OF THE ENEMIES
+
+But it came to pass that, when Sanballat heard that we builded the wall,
+he was wroth, and took great indignation, and mocked the Jews. And he
+spake before his brethren and the army of Samaria, and said, "What do
+these feeble Jews? will they fortify themselves? will they sacrifice?
+will they make an end in a day? will they revive the stones out of the
+heaps of rubbish, seeing they are burned?"
+
+Now Tobiah the Ammonite was by him, and he said, "Even that which they
+build, if a fox go up, he shall break down their stone wall."
+
+"Hear, O our God; for we are despised: and turn back their reproach upon
+their own head; for they have provoked thee to anger before the
+builders."
+
+So we built the wall; and all the wall was joined together unto half the
+height thereof: for the people had a mind to work.
+
+
+B. CONSPIRACY OF THE ENEMIES
+
+But it came to pass that, when Sanballat, and Tobiah, and the Arabians,
+and the Ammonites, and the Ashdodites, heard that the repairing of the
+walls of Jerusalem went forward, and that the breaches began to be
+stopped, that they were very wroth; and they conspired all of them
+together to come and fight against Jerusalem, and to cause confusion
+therein. But we made our prayer unto our God, and set a watch against
+them day and night, because of them. And it came to pass from that time
+forth, that half of my servants wrought in the work, and half of them
+held the spears, the shields, and the bows, and the coats of mail; and
+the rulers were behind all the house of Judah. They that builded the
+wall and they that bore burdens laded themselves, every one with one of
+his hands wrought in the work, and with the other held his weapon; and
+the builders, every one had his sword girded by his side, and so
+builded. And he that sounded the trumpet was by me. And I said unto the
+nobles, and to the rulers and to the rest of the people, "The work is
+great and large, and we are separated upon the wall, one far from
+another: in what place soever ye hear the sound of the trumpet, resort
+ye thither unto us; our God shall fight for us."
+
+
+C. PLOTS OF THE ENEMIES
+
+Now it came to pass, when it was reported to Sanballat and Tobiah, and
+to Geshem the Arabian, and unto the rest of our enemies, that I had
+builded the wall, and that there was no breach left therein (though even
+unto that time I had not set up the doors in the gates); that Sanballat
+and Geshem sent unto me, saying, "Come, let us meet together in one of
+the villages in the plain of Ono."
+
+But they thought to do me mischief. And I sent messengers unto them,
+saying, "I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down: why should
+the work cease, whilst I leave it, and come down to you?"
+
+And they sent unto me four times after this sort; and I answered them
+after the same manner. Then sent Sanballat his servant unto me in like
+manner the fifth time with an open letter in his hand; wherein was
+written, "It is reported among the nations, and Gashmu saith it, that
+thou and the Jews think to rebel; for which cause thou buildest the
+wall: and thou wouldest be their king, according to these words. And
+thou hast also appointed prophets to preach of thee at Jerusalem,
+saying, 'There is a king in Judah': and now shall it be reported to the
+king according to these words. Come now therefore, and let us take
+counsel together."
+
+Then I sent unto him, saying, "There are no such things done as thou
+sayest, but thou feignest them out of thine own heart." For they all
+would have made us afraid, saying, "Their hands shall be weakened from
+the work, that it be not done." But now, O God, strengthen thou my
+hands.
+
+
+=§92. Nehemiah's Success= (Neh. 6:15, 16; 7:1-3; 12:27, 31, 38, 40, 43;
+Ps. 122:2,3)
+
+A. THE COMPLETION OF THE WALL
+
+So the wall was finished in the twenty and fifth day of the month Elul,
+in fifty and two days. And it came to pass, when all our enemies heard
+thereof, that all the heathen that were about us feared, and were much
+cast down in their own eyes: for they perceived that this work was
+wrought of our God.
+
+Now it came to pass, when the wall was built, and I had set up the
+doors, that I gave my brother Hanani, and Hananiah the governor of the
+castle, charge over Jerusalem: for he was a faithful man, and feared God
+above many. And I said unto them, "Let not the gates of Jerusalem be
+opened until the sun be hot; and while they stand on guard, let them
+shut the doors, and bar ye them: and appoint watches of the inhabitants
+of Jerusalem, every one in his watch, and every one to be over against
+his house."
+
+
+B. THE DEDICATION OF THE WALL
+
+And at the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem they sought the Levites
+out of all their places, to bring them to Jerusalem, to keep the
+dedication with gladness, both with thanksgivings, and with singing,
+with cymbals, psalteries, and with harps. Then I brought up the princes
+of Judah upon the wall, and appointed two great companies that gave
+thanks and went in procession; whereof one went on the right hand upon
+the wall eastward. And the other company of them that gave thanks went
+to meet them, and I after them, with the half of the people, upon the
+wall. And the two companies of them that gave thanks met in the house of
+God, and stood still, and the singers sang loud:
+
+ Our feet are standing
+ Within thy gates, O Jerusalem,
+ Jerusalem, that art builded
+ As a city that is compact together.
+
+And they offered great sacrifices that day, and rejoiced; for God had
+made them rejoice with great joy; and the women also and the children
+rejoiced: so that the joy of Jerusalem was heard even afar off.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+335. When a man has been prominent in a great undertaking it is very
+interesting to have his own account of it. General Grant was persuaded
+by friends to write a story of his own campaigns. It was called
+"Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S. Grant," the word "memoirs" meaning his
+own recollections of the events. Perhaps the first man who ever wrote
+such a personal story was the Governor of Judah, 2,300 years ago. The
+story we study here might be called "Personal Memoirs of Nehemiah."
+
+336. Nehemiah was a great patriot. It is easy to be a patriot when it
+simply means shouting for a great, prosperous country. But this man had
+never seen his own land. His great-grandparents had been taken away as
+prisoners, and the family had been one hundred and fifty years in the
+foreign land. But they had never forgotten their own beloved country.
+Nehemiah was rich, and in a high office in Persia, but he loved
+Jerusalem and longed to be able to serve her. Read (and learn) Ps.
+137:5, 6, and you will see how the patriotic Jews in the East felt about
+their fatherland. Let us read this personal story of the patriot and see
+what he did.
+
+337 (§90A). Look at the map of the Semitic world and find Persia in the
+East. Find Susa, which is the same as Shushan. It is a long way from
+Jerusalem. But one day some of the Jews came from Jerusalem to the
+palace of the Persian king to tell the story of the sad condition of
+their city. What did they tell Nehemiah? How did the story affect him?
+What office did he hold? Look up the description of this office that we
+had some time ago (62).
+
+338 (§90B). Oriental kings are very arbitrary and the courtiers have to
+be most careful not to offend them. Note how cleverly Nehemiah managed,
+so that he obtained all that he wanted from the king. What did he
+obtain?
+
+339 (§90C). Look again at the map. What is the river that Nehemiah
+mentions? Recall the first journey that we followed from the East to
+Palestine (§§3, 5). Note that the Governor traveled with a body guard.
+What did he do first in Jerusalem?
+
+340 (§90D). The people who had lived so long in the ruined city were
+discouraged. How did Nehemiah cheer them? How did they respond?
+
+341 (§91A). There were jealous enemies all around Judah, so Nehemiah
+soon found himself in difficulties. First they despised his efforts. How
+did he meet this ridicule?
+
+342 (§91B). When the enemies could not stop him by laughing at him, what
+did they try? How did Nehemiah plan his work so as not to be surprised?
+
+343 (§91C). What plots did the enemies devise? How did Nehemiah meet the
+plots?
+
+344 (§92A). In the old times, cities had to have walls all around them
+to prevent attacks. How long did it take this vigorous governor to
+repair the fortifications? How did he plan to guard the city?
+
+345 (§92B). What help did Nehemiah feel that he had in all his work?
+"Dedication" means an offering to God. They gave the city to God. Tell
+the story of this joyful patriotic service. Learn the song that they
+sang.
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+You will probably find that people to-day are opposed in their
+determination to do what is right in just the same three ways that
+Nehemiah suffered. Keep a good lookout during the week and see if you
+can find anyone, young or old, trying to do some right thing while
+somebody else laughs, or while somebody tries to stop it by force, or
+while somebody tells falsehoods about it. If you find any hero who goes
+straight on in right-doing in spite of these oppositions, give a short
+account of it in your notebook.
+
+
+
+
+XXXII. ESTHER, THE PATRIOT QUEEN
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§93. Esther Made Queen= (Esther 1:1, 5, 7, 9, 11-13, 15, 16, 19, 21;
+2:1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 15-18, 20)
+
+A. QUEEN VASHTI DEPOSED
+
+King Ahasuerus made a feast unto all the people that were present in
+Shushan the palace, both great and small, seven days in the court of the
+garden of the king's palace. And they gave them in vessels of gold royal
+wine in abundance, according to every man's pleasure.
+
+Also Vashti the queen made a feast for the women in the royal house. On
+the seventh day, when the heart of the king was merry with wine, he
+commanded to bring Vashti the queen before the king with the crown
+royal, to show the peoples and the princes her beauty: for she was fair
+to look on. But the queen Vashti refused to come at the king's
+commandment by the chamberlains: therefore was the king very wroth, and
+his anger burned in him.
+
+Then the king said to the wise men, "What shall we do unto the queen
+Vashti according to law, because she hath not done the bidding of the
+king?"
+
+And Memucan answered before the king and the princes, "If it please the
+king, let there go forth a royal commandment from him, and let it be
+written among the laws of the Persians and the Medes, that it be not
+altered, that Vashti come no more before king Ahasuerus; and let the
+king give her royal estate unto another that is better than she."
+
+And the saying pleased the king and the princes; and the king did
+according to the word of Memucan.
+
+
+B. THE SELECTION OF ESTHER
+
+After these things, when the wrath of king Ahasuerus was pacified, he
+remembered Vashti, and what she had done, and what was decreed against
+her. Then said the king's servants that ministered unto him, "Let there
+be fair young maidens sought for the king in all his kingdom; and let
+the maiden which pleaseth the king be queen instead of Vashti." And the
+thing pleased the king; and he did so.
+
+There was a certain Jew, whose name was Mordecai, who had brought up
+Esther, his uncle's daughter: for she had neither father nor mother, and
+the maiden was fair and beautiful; and when her father and mother were
+dead, Mordecai took her for his own daughter. So it came to pass, when
+the king's commandment and his decree was heard, and when many maidens
+were gathered together unto Shushan the palace, that Esther was taken
+into the king's house.
+
+Now when the turn of Esther was come to go in unto the king, she
+required nothing but what the keeper of the women appointed. And Esther
+obtained favor in the sight of all them that looked upon her. So Esther
+was taken unto king Ahasuerus into his house royal in the tenth month,
+in the seventh year of his reign. And the king loved Esther above all
+the women, and she obtained grace and favor in his sight more than all
+the virgins; so that he set the royal crown upon her head, and made her
+queen instead of Vashti.
+
+Then the king made a great feast unto all his princes and his servants,
+even Esther's feast; and he gave gifts, according to the bounty of the
+king.
+
+Esther had not yet showed her kindred nor her people; as Mordecai had
+charged her: for Esther did the commandment of Mordecai, like as when
+she was brought up with him.
+
+
+=§94. The Plot against the Jews= (Esther 3:1, 2, 5, 6, 8-13; 4:1, 2, 4,
+5, 8, 11-17)
+
+A. THE ENMITY OF HAMAN
+
+After these things did king Ahasuerus promote Haman, and advanced him,
+and set his seat above all the princes that were with him. And all the
+king's servants, that were in the king's gate, bowed down, and did
+reverence to Haman: for the king had so commanded concerning him. But
+Mordecai bowed not down, nor did him reverence.
+
+And when Haman saw that Mordecai bowed not down, nor did him reverence,
+then was Haman full of wrath. But he thought scorn to lay hands on
+Mordecai alone; for they had showed him the people of Mordecai:
+wherefore Haman sought to destroy all the Jews that were throughout the
+whole kingdom of Ahasuerus, even the people of Mordecai.
+
+And Haman said unto king Ahasuerus, "There is a certain people scattered
+abroad and dispersed among the peoples in all the provinces of thy
+kingdom; and their laws are diverse from those of every people; neither
+keep they the king's laws: therefore it is not for the king's profit to
+suffer them. If it please the king, let it be written that they be
+destroyed."
+
+And the king took his ring from his hand and gave it unto Haman, and
+said, "The people is given to thee to do with them as it seemeth good to
+thee."
+
+Then were the king's scribes called, and letters were sent by posts into
+all the king's provinces, to destroy, to slay, and to cause to perish,
+all Jews, both young and old, little children and women, in one day,
+even upon the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, which is the month
+Adar, and to take the spoil of them for a prey.
+
+
+B. MORDECAI'S APPEAL TO ESTHER
+
+Now when Mordecai knew all that was done, Mordecai rent his clothes, and
+put on sackcloth with ashes, and went out into the midst of the city,
+and cried with a loud and a bitter cry: and he came even before the
+king's gate: for none might enter within the king's gate clothed with
+sackcloth. And in every province, whithersoever the king's commandment
+and his decree came, there was great mourning among the Jews, and
+fasting, and weeping, and wailing; and many lay in sackcloth and ashes.
+
+And Esther's maidens and her chamberlains came and told it her; and the
+queen was exceedingly grieved: and she sent her chamberlain to Mordecai
+to know what this was, and why it was.
+
+And Mordecai gave him a copy of the writing of the decree that was given
+out in Shushan to destroy them, to show it unto Esther, and to declare
+it unto her; and to charge her that she should go in unto the king, to
+make supplication unto him, and to make request before him, for her
+people.
+
+And he came and told Esther the words of Mordecai. Then Esther gave him
+a message unto Mordecai, saying: "All the king's servants, and the
+people of the king's provinces, do know, that whosoever, whether man or
+woman, shall come unto the king into the inner court, who is not called,
+there is one law for him, that he be put to death, except such to whom
+the king shall hold out the golden sceptre, that he may live: but I have
+not been called to come in unto the king these thirty days."
+
+And they told to Mordecai Esther's words. Then Mordecai bade them return
+answer unto Esther, "Think not with thyself that thou shalt escape in
+the king's house, more than all the Jews. For if thou altogether
+holdest thy peace at this time, then shall relief and deliverance arise
+to the Jews from another place, but thou and thy father's house shall
+perish: and who knoweth whether thou art not come to the kingdom for
+such a time as this?"
+
+Then Esther bade them return answer unto Mordecai, "Go, gather together
+all the Jews that are present in Shushan, and fast ye for me, and
+neither eat nor drink three days, night or day: I also and my maidens
+will fast in like manner; and so will I go in unto the king, which is
+not according to the law: and if I perish, I perish."
+
+So Mordecai went his way, and did according to all that Esther had
+commanded him.
+
+
+=§95. Esther's Brave Intercession= (Esther 5:1-5; 7:2-6, 9, 10; 8:1-8,
+9, 11, 15-17; 9:1, 2, 5, 20-23, 32)
+
+A. THE DANGEROUS INTERVIEW
+
+Now it came to pass on the third day, that Esther put on her royal
+apparel, and stood in the inner court of the king's house, over against
+the king's house: and the king sat upon his royal throne in the royal
+house, over against the entrance of the house. And it was so, when the
+king saw Esther the queen standing in the court, that she obtained favor
+in his sight: and the king held out to Esther the golden sceptre that
+was in his hand. So Esther drew near, and touched the top of the
+sceptre. Then said the king unto her, "What wilt thou, queen Esther?
+and what is thy request? it shall be given thee even to the half of the
+kingdom."
+
+[Illustration: _From Price, "The Monuments and the Old Testament"_
+ESTHER'S PALACE]
+
+And Esther said, "If it seem good unto the king, let the king and Haman
+come this day unto the banquet that I have prepared for him."
+
+Then the king said, "Cause Haman to make haste, that it may be done as
+Esther hath said."
+
+So the king and Haman came to the banquet that Esther had prepared. And
+the king said unto Esther, "What is thy petition, queen Esther? and it
+shall be granted thee: and what is thy request? even to the half of the
+kingdom it shall be performed."
+
+Then Esther the queen answered and said, "If I have found favor in thy
+sight, O king, and if it please the king, let my life be given me at my
+petition, and my people at my request: for we are sold, I and my people,
+to be destroyed, to be slain, and to perish."
+
+Then spake the king Ahasuerus and said unto Esther the queen, "Who is
+he, and where is he, that durst presume in his heart to do so?"
+
+And Esther said, "An adversary and an enemy, even this wicked Haman."
+
+Then Haman was afraid before the king and the queen. Then said one of
+the chamberlains that were before the king, "Behold also, the gallows
+fifty cubits high, which Haman hath made for Mordecai standeth in the
+house of Haman."
+
+And the king said, "Hang him thereon."
+
+So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai.
+Then was the king's wrath pacified.
+
+
+B. THE DELIVERANCE OF THE JEWS
+
+On that day did the king Ahasuerus give the house of Haman the Jews'
+enemy unto Esther the queen. And Mordecai came before the king; for
+Esther had told what he was unto her. And the king took off his ring,
+which he had taken from Haman, and gave it unto Mordecai. And Esther set
+Mordecai over the house of Haman.
+
+And Esther spake yet again before the king, and fell down at his feet,
+and besought him with tears to put away the mischief of Haman and his
+device that he had devised against the Jews. Then the king held out to
+Esther the golden sceptre. So Esther arose, and stood before the king.
+And she said, "If it please the king, and if I have found favor in his
+sight, and the thing seem right before the king, and I be pleasing in
+his eyes, let it be written to reverse the letters devised by Haman
+which he wrote to destroy the Jews which are in all the king's
+provinces: for how can I endure to see the evil that shall come unto my
+people? or how can I endure to see the destruction of my kindred?"
+
+Then the king Ahasuerus said unto Esther the queen and to Mordecai the
+Jew, "Behold, I have given Esther the house of Haman, and him they have
+hanged upon the gallows, because he laid his hand upon the Jews. Write
+ye also to the Jews, as it liketh you, in the king's name, and seal it
+with the king's ring: for the writing which is written in the king's
+name, and sealed with the king's ring, may no man reverse."
+
+Then were the king's scribes called at that time, and it was written
+according to all that Mordecai commanded unto the Jews, and to the
+satraps, and the governors and princes of the provinces, that the king
+granted the Jews which were in every city to gather themselves together,
+and to stand for their life, to destroy, to slay, and to cause to
+perish, all the power of the people and province that would assault
+them, their little ones and women, and to take the spoil of them for a
+prey.
+
+And Mordecai went forth from the presence of the king in royal apparel
+of blue and white, and with a great crown of gold, and with a robe of
+fine linen and purple: and the city of Shushan shouted and was glad. The
+Jews had light and gladness, and joy and honor. And in every province,
+and in every city, whithersoever the king's commandment and his decree
+came, the Jews had gladness and joy, a feast and a good day. And many
+from among the peoples of the land became Jews; for the fear of the Jews
+was fallen upon them.
+
+
+C. THE FEAST OF THE DELIVERANCE
+
+Now in the twelfth month, which is the month Adar, on the thirteenth day
+of the same, when the king's commandment and his decree drew near to be
+put in execution, in the day that the enemies of the Jews hoped to have
+rule over them; whereas it was turned to the contrary, that the Jews had
+rule over them that hated them; the Jews gathered themselves together in
+their cities throughout all the provinces of the king Ahasuerus, to lay
+hand on such as sought their hurt: and no man could withstand them; for
+the fear of them was fallen upon all the peoples. And the Jews smote all
+their enemies with the stroke of the sword, and with slaughter and
+destruction, and did what they would unto them that hated them.
+
+And Mordecai wrote letters unto all the Jews that were in all the
+provinces of the king Ahasuerus, both nigh and far, to enjoin them that
+they should keep the fourteenth day of the month Adar, and the fifteenth
+day of the same, yearly, as the days wherein the Jews had rest from
+their enemies, and the month which was turned unto them from sorrow to
+gladness, and from mourning into a good day: that they should make them
+days of feasting and gladness, and of sending portions one to another,
+and gifts to the poor. And the Jews undertook to do as they had begun,
+and as Mordecai had written unto them.
+
+And the commandment of Esther confirmed these matters of the feast of
+Purim; and it was written in the book.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+346. Among the stories of their heroes the Jews preserved several
+stories of heroines, and none is more striking than that of the patriot
+queen, whose extraordinary bravery saved her people. There are many
+kinds of bravery, some in doing, some in suffering. Let us try to get a
+correct judgment of Esther.
+
+347 (§93A). The first part of the story shows how Esther became the
+queen of Persia. What kind of feast did the king give? What command did
+he give to Vashti? Let us remember that ladies in the East do not often
+appear in public before men. How did it happen that Vashti was deposed?
+
+348 (§93B). What plan was proposed to secure a most beautiful wife for
+the king? Who was Mordecai? How did he get Esther introduced to the
+king? How did she become queen? Note that her cousin had advised her not
+to let it be known that she was a Jewess, because there was a prejudice
+against her nation.
+
+349 (§94A). The villain of the story is Haman. What high place did he
+hold? How did Mordecai offend him? What revenge did he plan?
+
+350 (§94B). Mordecai knew that when a royal decree had been issued it
+could not be changed. How did he behave? What did he request Esther to
+do?
+
+351 (§94B). Notice the strict rule of the Persian court. No one could
+see the king unless summoned by him. How different from our democratic
+government, where any citizen may at least ask permission to see the
+president! But Mordecai urged Esther to risk her life to save her
+people. Now see how brave she was. She might have said, "No one knows
+that I am a Jewess. I am quite safe as the king's wife. I will keep
+silent. It would be folly to risk my life by offending the king." But
+she decided to risk her great place with its wealth and luxury, and also
+her life, because her duty to her people required it. What answer did
+she send to Mordecai?
+
+352 (§95A). Describe Esther's approach to the king. The tyrant happened
+to be in a good humor, so she was safe. What invitation did she extend?
+
+353 (§95A). Haman was delighted with the great honor the queen did him.
+He had no idea that his enemy, whom he had planned to hang on a high
+gallows, was the queen's cousin. How did it all turn out?
+
+354 (§95B). How was Mordecai promoted? We must remember that although
+Haman was dead, the king's decree for the slaughter of the Jews could
+not be changed. But permission could be given to the Jews to defend
+themselves on the day of the massacre. How was this arranged?
+
+355 (§95C). Of course this is an old story of times when people took
+fierce revenge, so we learn that the Jews slaughtered their enemies. But
+it was a great deliverance, and Mordecai and Esther planned that a great
+feast should be kept to celebrate it. What kind of feast was it?
+
+356 (§95C). The Jews still keep the Feast of Purim. It is one of the
+merriest times they have. They have all kinds of fun and give presents,
+as we do at Christmas. And they still honor the beautiful queen, who
+stood with her own people in their peril, and saved them by her wit and
+courage.
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Recall Mordecai's suggestion to Esther (p. 356). In the days of chivalry
+knights had a motto: _Noblesse oblige_ meaning that those of noble rank
+had an obligation to serve those in need. Any strength or good we have
+is not for our own use, but to help others with. Take this as your
+motto. Draw a banner and inscribe in colors: _Noblesse oblige_.
+
+
+
+
+XXXIII. JUDAS, THE HAMMERER
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§96. The Tyrant and the Heroes= (I Macc. 1:41-50, 54-57; 2:1-7, 14, 15,
+17-25, 27, 28, 44, 45, 48-50, 64-66, 70)
+
+A. THE TYRANNY OF ANTIOCHUS
+
+Antiochus, king of Syria, who had rule over many peoples and over the
+Jews, wrote to his whole kingdom, that all should be one people, and
+that each should forsake his own laws. And all the nations agreed
+according to the word of the king, and many of Israel consented to his
+worship, and sacrificed to the idols, and profaned the sabbath. And the
+king sent letters by the hand of messengers unto Jerusalem and the
+cities of Judah, that they should follow laws strange to the land, and
+should profane the sabbaths and feasts, and pollute the sanctuary; that
+they should build altars, and temples for idols, and should sacrifice
+swine's flesh and unclean beasts. And whosoever shall not do according
+to the word of the king, he shall die.
+
+And they built an abomination of desolation upon the altar, and in the
+cities of Judah they built idol altars. And they rent in pieces the
+books of the law which they found, and set them on fire. And wheresoever
+was found with any a book of the covenant, and if any consented to the
+law, the king's sentence delivered him to death.
+
+
+B. THE OLD HERO AND HIS FIVE SONS
+
+In those days rose up Mattathias the priest, who dwelt at Modin. And he
+had five sons, John, Simon, Judas who was called Maccabæus (the
+Hammerer), Eleazar, Jonathan. And he saw the blasphemies that were
+committed in Judah and in Jerusalem, and he said. "Woe is me! wherefore
+was I born to see the destruction of my people and of the holy city?
+Wherefore should we live any longer?"
+
+And Mattathias and his sons rent their clothes, and put on sackcloth,
+and mourned exceedingly.
+
+And the king's officers came into the city Modin to sacrifice. And they
+spake to Mattathias saying, "Thou art a ruler and an honorable and great
+man in this city, and strengthened with sons and brethren; now therefore
+come thou first and do the commandment of the king, as all the nations
+have done, and the men of Judah, and they that remain in Jerusalem: and
+thou and thy house shall be in the number of the king's Friends, and
+thou and thy sons shall be honored with silver and gold and many gifts."
+
+And Mattathias answered and said with a loud voice, "If all the nations
+that are in the king's dominion hearken unto him, to fall away each one
+from the worship of his fathers, and have made choice to follow his
+commandments, yet will I and my sons and my brethren walk in the
+covenant of our fathers. We will not hearken to the king's words, to go
+aside from our worship, on the right hand, or on the left."
+
+And when he had left speaking these words, there came a Jew in the sight
+of all to sacrifice on the altar which was at Modin, according to the
+king's commandment. And Mattathias saw it, and his zeal was kindled, and
+he showed forth his wrath, and ran and slew him upon the altar. And the
+king's officer, who compelled men to sacrifice, he killed at that time,
+and pulled down the altar. And he cried with a loud voice, "Whosoever is
+zealous for the law, let him come forth after me."
+
+And Mattathias and his sons fled into the mountains, and they mustered a
+host and smote sinners in their anger, and they went round about, and
+pulled down the altars, and they rescued the law out of the hand of the
+Gentiles.
+
+And the days of Mattathias drew near that he should die, and he said
+unto his sons, "My children, be ye zealous for the law, and give your
+lives for the covenant of your fathers. Be strong and show yourselves
+men in behalf of the law; for therein shall ye obtain glory. And,
+behold, Simon your brother, I know that he is a man of counsel; give ear
+unto him alway: he shall be a father unto you. And Judas Maccabæus, he
+hath been strong and mighty from his youth: he shall be your captain,
+and shall fight the battle of the people."
+
+And he blessed them, and was gathered to his fathers. And all Israel
+made great lamentation for him.
+
+
+=§97. The Great Deliverance= (I Macc. 3:1, 2, 13, 15-23, 25, 34, 35;
+4:14, 25, 28, 34, 36-40, 42, 43, 47, 48, 53-56, 58; 9:20-22)
+
+A. THE VICTORIES OF JUDAS
+
+And his son Judas, who was called Maccabæus, rose up in his stead. And
+all his brethren helped him, and so did all they that clave unto his
+father. And they fought with gladness the battle of Israel.
+
+And Seron, the commander of the host of Syria, heard that Judas had
+gathered a congregation of faithful men with him, and of such as went
+out to war. And he went up with a mighty army of the ungodly to take
+vengeance on the children of Israel.
+
+And Judas went forth to meet him with a small company. But when they saw
+the army coming to meet them they said unto Judas, "What? shall we be
+able, being a small company, to fight against so great and strong a
+multitude? And we for our part are faint, having tasted no food this
+day."
+
+And Judas said, "It is an easy thing for many to be shut up in the hands
+of a few; and with heaven it is all one to save by many or by few: for
+victory in battle standeth not in the multitude of a host; but strength
+is from heaven. They come to destroy us and our wives and our children:
+but we fight for our lives and our laws. Be ye not afraid of them."
+
+Now when he had left off speaking, he leapt suddenly upon them, and
+Seron and his army were discomfited before him.
+
+And the fear of Judas and his brethren, and the dread of them, began to
+fall upon the nations round about them. And king Antiochus gave Lysias
+half of his forces, and the elephants, and gave him charge to destroy
+the strength of Israel, and the remnant of Jerusalem. And Lysias chose
+three mighty men; and with them he sent forty thousand footmen, and
+seven thousand horse, to go into the land of Judah, and to destroy it.
+And Judas joined battle, and the Gentiles were discomfited. And Israel
+had a great deliverance that day.
+
+And the next year Lysias gathered together sixty thousand chosen
+footmen, and five thousand horse. And Judas met them with ten thousand
+men. And they joined battle; and there fell of the army of Lysias about
+five thousand men.
+
+
+B. THE TEMPLE CLEANSED
+
+Judas and his brethren said, "Behold, our enemies are discomfited; let
+us go up to cleanse the holy place and to dedicate it afresh."
+
+And all the army was gathered together, and they went up unto mount
+Zion. And they saw the sanctuary laid desolate, and the altar profaned
+and the gates burned up, and shrubs growing in the court as in a forest,
+and the priests' chambers pulled down. And they rent their clothes, and
+made great lamentation, and put ashes upon their heads, and fell on
+their faces to the ground, and cried toward heaven.
+
+Then Judas chose blameless priests, and they cleansed the holy place.
+And they built a new altar after the fashion of the former; and they
+built the holy place, and the inner parts of the house; and they
+hallowed the courts.
+
+
+C. THE OLD WORSHIP RESTORED
+
+And they offered sacrifice according to the law upon the new altar of
+burnt offerings which they had made. At what time and on what day the
+Gentiles had profaned it, even on that day was it dedicated afresh, with
+songs and harps and lutes, and with cymbals. And all the people fell
+upon their faces, and worshipped, and gave praise unto heaven, which had
+given them good success. And they kept the dedication of the altar eight
+days, and offered burnt offerings with gladness, and sacrificed a
+sacrifice of deliverance and praise. And there was exceeding great
+gladness among the people, and the reproach of the Gentiles was turned
+away.
+
+
+D. THE DEATH OF JUDAS
+
+And when Judas died all Israel made great lamentation for him, and
+mourned many days, and said, "How is the mighty fallen, the Savior of
+Israel!"
+
+And the rest of the acts of Judas, and his wars, and the valiant deeds
+which he did, and his greatness, they are not written; for they were
+exceeding many.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+357. Three hundred years ago King Philip II of Spain was the most
+powerful king in Europe. He was a bitter tyrant, determined to rule his
+people according to his own will. He was a Roman Catholic and hated all
+Protestants. The little country of Holland was part of his territory and
+he ordered the people to become Roman Catholics. They refused, for they
+were loyal to their own religion. He sent against them a great army
+under the command of a brutal general, Alva, and all Europe thought that
+the little people would be crushed. But they fought for their faith and
+their homes so valiantly that the tyrant was compelled to withdraw. It
+is almost impossible to destroy patriots.
+
+358. We always admire the heroism of those who resist tyrants. The Jews
+were often bitterly persecuted and they had many a hero who defended
+them. One of the greatest of all their heroes was Judas, who was called
+the Maccabee, or the Hammerer. With a great faith in God and a wonderful
+courage he defeated large armies. His story is not found in the Old
+Testament, but in another collection of Hebrew books called "The
+Apocrypha." The book is I Maccabees.
+
+359 (§96A). At the time of this story the Jews were under the rule of
+Antiochus, the king of Syria. What was the wish of this tyrant? What
+insults were offered to the religion of the Jews?
+
+360 (§96B). An old priest was living in one of the villages of Judah
+with his five noble sons. They were very much distressed about the sad
+state of their people: but what could they do against the strong king?
+At last the king's officers came to this village to order the heathen
+sacrifices. What did they demand of Mattathias, and what did they
+promise him? How did the old priest answer? What followed?
+
+361 (§96B). The priest and his sons went to the hills, where they could
+find refuge in the caves. Who joined them? What did they do? The fierce
+contest was too severe for the old man, and he soon fell ill. What were
+his last words to his sons?
+
+362 (§97A). Who took the lead after the death of the old priest? Note
+that there was no jealousy among those noble brothers. Tell the story of
+the first victory over the Syrians.
+
+363 (§97A). The king was astonished that his forces should be defeated
+by the little army of patriots. Great preparations to crush the Jews
+were made. Note that elephants with armed men were employed. What was
+the result of the campaigns?
+
+364 (§97B). At last the victories were so conclusive that they thought
+it safe to go to Jerusalem and clean out the abominations from the
+temple. In what condition did they find the temple? How did it affect
+them? How did Judas purify it?
+
+365 (§97C). Note how happy they were when they could worship once more
+in the house of God. Describe the celebration.
+
+366 (§97D). One can imagine how greatly the Jews would honor such a
+deliverer as Judas. How did they mourn for him at his death?
+
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Imagine yourself a boy (or girl) about thirteen years old, living in the
+village of Modin a little over two thousand years ago. Imagine that you
+were present on the day when the officers came to command the heathen
+sacrifice. Then imagine yourself writing a letter describing everything
+that took place that day. Write it in the first person to some friend
+who was absent. Describe the whole scene just as it lies in your mind,
+and tell what you think of the heroes.
+
+
+
+
+XXXIV. DANIEL AND HIS FRIENDS
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=§98. The Training of the Young Men= (Daniel 1:1-19)
+
+When Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, came against Jerusalem and
+captured it, certain of the youths of the nobility were taken and given
+into the charge of the master of the king's servants that he should
+teach them the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans. And the king
+appointed for them a daily portion of the king's meat, and of the wine
+which he drank, and that they should be nourished three years; that at
+the end thereof they might stand before the king. Now among these were,
+of the children of Judah, Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. And
+the master gave names unto them: unto Daniel he gave the name of
+Belteshazzar; and to Hananiah, of Shadrach; and to Mishael, of Meshach;
+and to Azariah, of Abed-nego.
+
+But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with
+the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he
+requested of the master that he might not defile himself. Now God made
+Daniel to find favor and compassion in the sight of the master. And he
+said unto Daniel, "I fear my lord the king, who hath appointed your meat
+and your drink: for why should he see your faces worse liking than the
+youths which are of your own age? so should ye endanger my head with the
+king."
+
+Then said Daniel to the steward, whom the master had appointed over
+them, "Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, ten days; and let them give
+us vegetables to eat, and water to drink. Then let our countenances be
+looked upon before thee, and the countenance of the youths that eat of
+the king's meat; and as thou seest, deal with thy servants."
+
+So he hearkened unto them in this matter, and proved them ten days. And
+at the end of ten days their countenances appeared fairer, and they were
+fatter in flesh, than all the youths which did eat of the king's meat.
+So the steward took away their meat, and the wine that they should
+drink, and gave them vegetables. Now as for these four youths, God gave
+them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had
+understanding in all visions and dreams. And at the end of the days
+which the king had appointed for bringing them in, the master brought
+them in before Nebuchadnezzar. And the king communed with them; and
+among them all was found none like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and
+Azariah: therefore stood they before the king.
+
+
+=§99. The Golden Image and the Fiery Furnace= (Dan. 3:1, 2, 4-30)
+
+A. THE WORSHIP OF THE GOLDEN IMAGE
+
+Nebuchadnezzar the king made an image of gold, whose height was sixty
+cubits, and its breadth six cubits: he set it up in the plain of Dura in
+the province of Babylon. Then the king sent to gather together all the
+rulers of the provinces to come to the dedication of the image.
+
+Then the herald cried aloud, "To you it is commanded, O peoples,
+nations, and languages, that at what time ye hear the sound of the
+cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, dulcimer, and all kinds of
+music, ye fall down and worship the golden image that Nebuchadnezzar the
+king hath set up: and whoso falleth not down and worshippeth shall the
+same hour be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace."
+
+Therefore at that time, when all the peoples heard the music, they fell
+down and worshipped the golden image that Nebuchadnezzar the king had
+set up.
+
+
+B. THE THREE JEWS DEFY THE KING
+
+Wherefore at that time certain Chaldeans came near, and brought
+accusation against the Jews, and said to Nebuchadnezzar, "O king, live
+for ever. Thou, O king, hast made a decree, that every man that shall
+hear the sound of the music, shall fall down and worship the golden
+image: and whoso falleth not down and worshippeth, shall be cast into
+the midst of a burning fiery furnace. There are certain Jews whom thou
+hast appointed over the affairs of the province of Babylon, Shadrach,
+Meshach, and Abed-nego; these men, O king, have not regarded thee: they
+serve not thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set
+up."
+
+Then Nebuchadnezzar in his rage and fury commanded to bring Shadrach,
+Meshach, and Abed-nego. Then they brought these men before the king.
+Nebuchadnezzar said unto them, "Is it of purpose, O Shadrach, Meshach,
+and Abed-nego, that ye serve not my god, nor worship the golden image
+which I have set up? Now if ye be ready that at what time ye hear the
+sound of the music, ye fall down and worship the image which I have
+made, well: but if ye worship not, ye shall be cast the same hour into
+the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who is that god that shall
+deliver you out of my hands?"
+
+Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego answered and said to the king, "O
+Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer thee in this matter. If it be
+so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery
+furnace; and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not,
+be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor
+worship the golden image which thou hast set up."
+
+
+C. DELIVERANCE FROM THE FIERY FURNACE
+
+Then was Nebuchadnezzar full of fury, and the form of his visage was
+changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego: therefore he spake,
+and commanded that they should heat the furnace seven times more than it
+was wont to be heated. And he commanded certain mighty men that were in
+his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, and to cast them into
+the burning fiery furnace. Then these men were bound in their hose,
+their tunics, and their mantles, and their other garments, and were cast
+into the midst of the burning fiery furnace. Therefore because the
+king's commandment was urgent, and the furnace exceeding hot, the flame
+of the fire slew those men that took up Shadrach, Meshach, and
+Abed-nego. And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, fell
+down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace.
+
+Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonished and rose up in haste: he
+spake and said unto his counselors, "Did not we cast three men bound
+into the midst of the fire?"
+
+They answered and said unto the king, "True, O king."
+
+He answered and said, "Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of
+the fire, and they have no hurt; and the aspect of the fourth is like a
+son of the gods."
+
+Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the mouth of the burning fiery furnace:
+he spake and said, "Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, ye servants of the
+Most High God, come forth, and come hither."
+
+Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, came forth out of the midst of
+the fire. And the satraps, the deputies, and the governors, and the
+king's counselors, being gathered together, saw these men, that the fire
+had no power upon their bodies, nor was the hair of their head singed,
+neither were their hose changed, nor had the smell of fire passed on
+them.
+
+Nebuchadnezzar spake and said, "Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach,
+and Abed-nego, who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that
+trusted in him, and have changed the king's word, and have yielded their
+bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own
+God. Therefore I make a decree, that every people, nation, and language,
+which speak anything amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and
+Abed-nego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a
+ruin: because there is no other god that is able to deliver after this
+sort."
+
+Then the king promoted Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, in the province
+of Babylon.
+
+
+=§100. Daniel and the Lions= (Dan. 6:1-28)
+
+A. THE DECREE OF KING DARIUS
+
+It pleased Darius to set over the kingdom a hundred and twenty satraps,
+which should be throughout the whole kingdom; and over them three
+presidents, of whom Daniel was one; that these satraps might give
+account unto them, and that the king should have no damage. Then this
+Daniel was distinguished above the presidents and the satraps, because
+an excellent spirit was in him; and the king thought to set him over the
+whole realm.
+
+Then the presidents and the satraps sought to find occasion against
+Daniel as touching the kingdom; but they could find none occasion nor
+fault; forasmuch as he was faithful, neither was there any error or
+fault found in him. Then said these men, "We shall not find any occasion
+against this Daniel, except we find it against him concerning the law of
+his God."
+
+Then these presidents and satraps assembled together to the king, and
+said thus unto him, "King Darius, live for ever. All the presidents of
+the kingdom, the deputies and the satraps, the counselors and the
+governors, have consulted together, to establish a royal statute, and to
+make a strong decree, that whosoever shall ask a petition of any god or
+man for thirty days, save of thee, O king, he shall be cast into the den
+of lions. Now, O king, establish the decree, and sign the writing, that
+it be not changed, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which
+altereth not."
+
+Wherefore king Darius signed the writing and the decree.
+
+
+B. DANIEL AT HIS PRAYERS
+
+And when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house
+(now his windows were open in his chamber toward Jerusalem); and he
+kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks
+before his God, as he did aforetime. Then these men assembled together,
+and found Daniel making petition and supplication before his God.
+
+Then they came near, and spake before the king concerning the king's
+decree; "Hast thou not signed a decree, that every man that shall make
+petition unto any god or man within thirty days, save unto thee, O king,
+shall be cast into the den of lions?"
+
+The king answered and said, "The thing is true, according to the law of
+the Medes and Persians, which altereth not."
+
+Then answered they and said before the king, "That Daniel, which is of
+the children of the captivity of Judah, regardeth not thee, O king, nor
+the decree that thou hast signed, but maketh his petition three times a
+day."
+
+Then the king, when he heard these words, was sore displeased, and set
+his heart on Daniel to deliver him: and he labored till the going down
+of the sun to rescue him.
+
+Then these men assembled together unto the king and said unto the king,
+"Know, O king, that it is a law of the Medes and Persians, that no
+decree nor statute which the king establisheth may be changed."
+
+
+C. DANIEL DELIVERED FROM THE LIONS
+
+Then the king commanded, and they brought Daniel, and cast him into the
+den of lions. Now the king spake and said unto Daniel, "Thy God whom
+thou servest continually, he will deliver thee."
+
+And a stone was brought, and laid upon the mouth of the den; and the
+king sealed it with his own signet, and with the signet of his lords;
+that nothing might be changed concerning Daniel.
+
+Then the king went to his palace, and passed the night fasting: neither
+were instruments of music brought before him: and his sleep fled from
+him. Then the king arose very early in the morning, and went in haste
+unto the den of lions. And when he came near unto the den to Daniel, he
+cried with a lamentable voice: the king spake and said to Daniel, "O
+Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest
+continually, able to deliver thee from the lions?"
+
+Then said Daniel unto the king, "O king, live for ever. My God hath sent
+his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, and they have not hurt me:
+forasmuch as before him innocency was found in me; and also before thee,
+O king, have I done no hurt."
+
+Then was the king exceeding glad, and commanded that they should take
+Daniel up out of the den. So Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no
+manner of hurt was found upon him, because he had trusted in his God.
+
+And the king commanded, and they brought those men which had accused
+Daniel, and they cast them into the den of lions, them, their children,
+and their wives; and the lions had the mastery of them, and break all
+their bones in pieces, or ever they came at the bottom of the den.
+
+
+D. THE PROSPERITY OF DANIEL
+
+Then king Darius wrote unto all the peoples, nations, and languages,
+that dwell in all the earth; "Peace be multiplied unto you. I make a
+decree, that in all the dominion of my kingdom men tremble and fear
+before the God of Daniel: for he is the living God, and stedfast for
+ever, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed, and his
+dominion shall be even unto the end: he delivereth and rescueth, and he
+worked signs and wonders in heaven and in earth; who hath delivered
+Daniel from the power of the lions."
+
+So this Daniel prospered in the reign of Darius, and in the reign of
+Cyrus the Persian.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+367. In the last chapter we studied the bitter persecution of the Jews
+in the time of Antiochus. God sent them a great deliverer in Judas the
+Hammerer. He also sent them a helper who told them heroic stories of
+the olden time to encourage them to believe that God would surely
+deliver them. These stories were of Daniel and his three friends who
+were taken to Babylon in the captivity. They were under great temptation
+to be untrue to their religion. We can see how these stories would help
+the people to be faithful.
+
+368 (§98). In the old times the food and wine for the king's table would
+first be offered to the heathen gods, so Daniel felt that he would
+really be an idolator if he took them. What request did he make? How did
+the master think it would be discovered that he had not fed them on rich
+food? What test did Daniel propose? How did it turn out? Of course it
+was really much more healthy for the young men to live simply. It took
+some courage to stand out against the officer, but it was a matter of
+conscience with Daniel and his friends.
+
+369 (§99A). Imagine the great golden image 100 feet high. What was the
+king's command to the people? What was to be the penalty if they refused
+to obey? How would a faithful servant of the Lord feel about it?
+
+370 (§99B). We do not know where Daniel was at this time, but what did
+his three friends do? What did the king say to them? What did they
+answer him? Notice carefully that they said they were sure God could
+save them, but whether he did or not they would be faithful. God does
+not always save people from death. The noble army of martyrs have been
+faithful unto death. But God has always brought good out of their
+sufferings.
+
+371 (§99C). Describe the scene when these men were thrown into the
+furnace? What did the king think he saw? What did he do to the three?
+What impression did it make on the king? We can understand how the Jews
+would have told such a wonderful story as this to cheer those who were
+under great temptation to give up their faith.
+
+372 (§100A). Long after, when Daniel was an old man, another great
+danger arose. He had meantime been promoted to the highest station.
+Great men always have many enemies who are jealous of them. All our
+great Americans have had those who envied them. What foolish thing did
+Daniel's enemies persuade the king to do? There seems to have been a
+rule that if the king gave an order it could not be changed.
+
+373 (§100B). What had been Daniel's custom regarding prayer? How did he
+change it when he heard of the decree? Would he have been wiser to pray
+secretly? Some of our soldier boys that went to the war were ashamed to
+kneel down and pray at night, but some of them were not afraid even when
+their companions jeered them. Do you remember a story like that in _Tom
+Brown at Rugby_? How did the king feel when he found that Daniel had
+refused to obey the decree? Why could not the king pardon him? Notice
+how bitterly his enemies insisted on the penalty.
+
+374 (§100C). What did the king say to Daniel? How did the king pass the
+night? What happened in the morning? What was done to his enemies?
+
+375 (§100D). What message did the king send to his people? Daniel's
+bravery made the king respect his religion. What was the result of all
+this to Daniel? Suppose Daniel had been killed by the lions, what would
+you think of him?
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Think about Daniel's refusal to do wrong. You have probably
+known one of your companions who refused to do some wrong when
+it was hard to refuse. Young people can be heroes in standing
+up for duty. Write about anybody whom you have known who did
+this. Or perhaps you will find somebody actually doing such a
+thing now. Make a good story of it for your notebook.
+
+
+
+
+REVIEW
+
+ XXXV. SEVEN HEROIC NAMES
+
+
+
+
+XXXV. SEVEN HEROIC NAMES
+
+376. The Hebrews always looked back to their magnificent king, whom they
+thought of as the wisest of men. What was his name? Tell the story of
+his great building. (§79; I Kings 5:2-6.[2])
+
+[2: Very short Scripture references are given, just enough to
+recall the story. It might be well to read these as well as to look at
+the section in the textbook.]
+
+377. What great prophet was the champion of pure religion? Tell the
+story of the test at Mount Carmel. (§82; I Kings 18:20-24.)
+
+378. King Ahab had a fine palace in Jezreel and Naboth had a vineyard
+near by. Tell the story of the king's covetousness. Why did Elijah
+interfere? (§84; I Kings 21:17-23.)
+
+379. Who was the prophet that followed Elijah? Why did we call him the
+healer and counselor? We read a number of stories of his kindly deeds to
+the people. Tell one of them.
+
+380. One of Israel's heroes was a man who had always lived far away from
+Jerusalem. He had a high office, and would have found it more profitable
+not to trouble himself about his countrymen. But he heard of their sad
+condition and persuaded the king to let him help them. Tell the story of
+Nehemiah building the wall of Jerusalem. (§91; Neh. 6:15, 16.)
+
+381. Two books in the Old Testament are named after women. One was a
+foreigner who came into Israel, the other was the beautiful Jewess who
+married the Persian king. Who was the wicked man that wanted to kill all
+the Jews? How did the queen risk her life to save her people? (§95;
+Esther 4:13-17.)
+
+382. We studied about one hero, whose story is not in the Old Testament.
+What did his surname Maccabæus mean? How did he deliver his people?
+(§97.)
+
+383. Sometimes the noblest heroism is just to refuse to be frightened
+away from doing right. Who was the man who prayed three times a day when
+the king had commanded that no prayers should be offered except to
+himself. Tell the story of the den of lions. (§100.)
+
+384. Write down these seven heroic names. Which of them was honored as
+the kindly helper of the needy and the wise adviser of his nation in
+days of trouble? Which was the gallant soldier who defeated the tyrant?
+Who risked life and fortune to save the people? Who started out in his
+youth to be a good judge and ruler of the people? Who was loyal to his
+conscience at the risk of his life? Who was the stern rebuker of
+injustice? Who gave up his ease to work for his troubled people? Note
+that there are many ways to be a hero.
+
+ * * * * *
+
+
+
+
+CONSTRUCTIVE BIBLE STUDIES
+
+
+=Kindergarten Series=
+
+ =The Sunday Kindergarten: Game, Gift, and Story.= By CARRIE S.
+ FERRIS. Teacher's manual, $1.25 net; postpaid $1.40. Pupil's
+ material: Permanent, $1.00 net, postage extra; Temporary, 35
+ cents net, postage extra.
+
+
+=Elementary Series=
+
+=Grades I-VIII=
+
+ =Child Religion in Song and Story.= (The Child in His World.)
+ By GEORGIA L. CHAMBERLIN AND MARY ROOT KERN. Teacher's manual,
+ $1.25 net; postpaid $1.39. Sunday Story Reminders, for the
+ pupil, 40 cents net; postpaid 45 cents.
+
+ =Child Religion in Song and Story. (Walks with Jesus in His
+ Home Country.)= By GEORGIA L. CHAMBERLIN AND MARY ROOT KERN.
+ Teacher's manual, $1.25 net; postpaid $1.40. Pupil's Reminders,
+ 40 cents net; postpaid 45 cents.
+
+ =Introduction to the Bible for Teachers of Children.= By
+ GEORGIA L. CHAMBERLIN. Teacher's manual, $1.00 net; postpaid
+ $1.10, Pupils notebook, 25 cents net; postpaid 29 cents.
+
+ =The Life Of Jesus.= By HERBERT W. GATES. Teacher's manual, 75
+ cents net; postpaid 83 cents. Pupil's notebook, 50 cents net;
+ postpaid 58 cents.
+
+ =Paul Of Tarsus.= By LOUISE WARREN ATKINSON. Teacher's manual,
+ $1.00 net; postpaid $1.10. Pupil's notebook, 50 cents net;
+ postpaid 59 cents. Pupil's home-work book, 25 cents net;
+ postpaid 28 cents.
+
+ =Heroes of Israel.= By THEODORE G. SOARES. Pupil's textbook,
+ $1.00 net; postpaid $1.13. Teacher's manual, $1.00 net; postage
+ extra.
+
+ =Studies in the Gospel according to Mark.= By ERNEST D. BURTON.
+ Pupil's textbook, $1.00 net; postpaid $1.12.
+
+ =Studies in the First Book of Samuel.= By HERBERT L. WILLETT.
+ Pupil's textbook, $1.00 net; postpaid $1.13.
+
+
+=Secondary Series=
+
+=High School Grades=
+
+ =Life of Christ.= By ISAAC B. BURGESS. Pupil's textbook, $1.00
+ net; postpaid $1.12. Pupil's notebook, 25 cents net; postage
+ extra.
+
+ =The Hebrew Prophets or Patriots and Leaders of Israel.= By
+ GEORGIA LOUISE CHAMBERLIN. Pupil's textbook, $1.00 net;
+ postpaid $1.12. Teacher's manual (announcement of price later).
+
+ =A Short History of Christianity in the Apostolic Age.= By
+ GEORGE H. GILBERT. Pupil's textbook, $1.00 net; postpaid $1.12.
+
+
+=Published by
+THE UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO PRESS
+CHICAGO, ILLINOIS.=
+
+
+=CONSTRUCTIVE BIBLE STUDIES=
+
+
+=Adult Series=
+
+ =Christianity and Its Bible.= By HENRY F. WARING. $1.00 net;
+ postpaid $1.12.
+
+ =Great Men of the Christian Church.= By WILLISTON WALKER. $1.25
+ net; postpaid $1.37.
+
+ =Social Duties.= By CHARLES RICHMOND HENDERSON. $1.25 net;
+ postpaid $1.37.
+
+ =A Handbook of the Life of the Apostle Paul.= By ERNEST D.
+ BURTON. 50 cents net; postpaid 54 cents.
+
+ =A Short Introduction to the Gospels.= By ERNEST D. BURTON.
+ $1.00 net; postpaid $1.07.
+
+ =The Life of Christ.= By ERNEST D. BURTON AND SHAILER MATHEWS.
+ $1.00 net; postpaid $1.14.
+
+ =A Short History of Christianity in the Apostolic Age.= By
+ GEORGE H. GILBERT. $1.00 net; postpaid $1.14.
+
+ =The Priestly Element in the Old Testament.= By WILLIAM R.
+ HARPER. $1.00 net; postpaid $1.12.
+
+ =The Prophetic Element in the Old Testament.= By WILLIAM R.
+ HARPER. $1.00 net; postpaid $1.10.
+
+
+=American Institute of Sacred Literature Series=
+
+ =The Life of the Christ.= By ERNEST D. BURTON. 50 cents net;
+ postpaid 54 cents.
+
+ =The Foreshadowings of the Christ.= By WILLIAM R. HARPER. 50
+ cents net; postpaid 54 cents.
+
+ =The Founding of the Christian Church.= By ERNEST D. BURTON. 50
+ cents net; postpaid 54 cents.
+
+ =The Work of the Old Testament Sages.= By WILLIAM R. HARPER. 50
+ cents net; postpaid 54 cents.
+
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+ 50 cents net; postpaid 54 cents.
+
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+ MATHEWS. 50 cents net; postpaid 54 cents.
+
+ =The Universal Element in the Psalter.= By JOHN M. P. SMITH AND
+ GEORGIA L. CHAMBERLIN. 50 cents net; postpaid 53 cents.
+
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+ WILLIAM R. HARPER. 25 cents net; postpaid 27 cents.
+
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+ postpaid 27 cents.
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+ By GEORGIA L. CHAMBERLIN. 50 cents net; postpaid 54 cents.
+
+
+ =Published by
+ THE UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO PRESS
+ CHICAGO, ILLINOIS=
+
+
+
+ Transcribers Note: skekels changed to shekels Sect. 68 A
+ thuo changed to thou Sect. 68 C
+ Eljiah changed to Elijah Sect. 82 B
+ Scripture references have been standardised as
+ this example (Gen. 21:2, 3; 22:1-19)
+ Punctuation moved inside end quote on the following
+ lines:--
+ "Drink, my lord:" Sect. 9 B
+ "Lest peradventure the people repent when they
+ see war, and they return to Egypt:" Sect. 38 A
+ Word hyphenation has been standardised.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's Heroes of Israel, by Theodore Gerald Soares
+
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+<pre>
+
+The Project Gutenberg EBook of Heroes of Israel, by Theodore Gerald Soares
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: Heroes of Israel
+ Text of the Hero Stories with Notes and Questions for Young Students
+
+Author: Theodore Gerald Soares
+
+Editor: Ernest D. Burton
+
+Release Date: August 3, 2011 [EBook #36956]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK HEROES OF ISRAEL ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Heiko Evermann, Hazel Batey, and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net;
+scanned by Fox in the Stars from the collection of Brays
+Advent Christian Church in Iberia, Missouri
+
+
+
+
+
+
+</pre>
+
+
+
+<br>
+<p class='larger center'><b>CONSTRUCTIVE BIBLE STUDIES</b></p>
+
+<p class='padtop center'><b>EDITED BY<br>
+<span class='larger'>ERNEST D. BURTON</span></b></p>
+
+<h1>HEROES OF ISRAEL</h1>
+
+
+
+<p class='padtop center'><b>THE UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO PRESS<br>
+CHICAGO, ILLINOIS<br>
+<br>
+
+<i>Agents THE BAKER &amp; TAYLOR COMPANY NEW YORK</i><br>
+<br>
+THE CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY PRESS</b><br>
+<span class='smaller'><a name="Map" id="Map"></a><b>LONDON AND EDINBURGH</b></span></p>
+<br>
+
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 450px;">
+<img src="images/il006-n.jpg" width="450" height="340" alt="" title="" >
+</div>
+
+<blockquote class="tbox"><h2>HEROES OF ISRAEL</h2>
+<h3>TEXT OF THE HERO STORIES WITH NOTES AND QUESTIONS FOR YOUNG STUDENTS</h3>
+
+<h3><i>By</i></h3>
+
+<h3><span class="smcap">THEODORE GERALD SOARES</span> </h3>
+<h4><i>Professor of Homiletics and
+Religious Education in the University of Chicago</i></h4>
+
+<h4>THE UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO PRESS</h4>
+<h4>CHICAGO, ILLINOIS</h4></blockquote>
+
+
+<h4><span class="smcap">Copyright 1908 By</span></h4>
+<h4><span class="smcap">The University of Chicago</span></h4>
+
+<h4>All Rights Reserved</h4>
+
+<h4>Published January 1909</h4>
+<h4>Second Impression September 1909</h4>
+<h4>Third Impression December 1909</h4>
+<h4>Second Edition October 1911</h4><br>
+
+<h4>Composed and Printed By</h4>
+<h4>The University of Chicago Press</h4>
+<h4>Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A.</h4><br>
+
+
+
+<h4>TO
+MY FATHER</h4>
+<h4>MY FIRST HERO</h4><br>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+<h3>PREFACE</h3>
+
+
+<p>It is the purpose to present these Hero Studies in two books, one being
+the present volume which is intended as a textbook for the students, the
+other being the teacher's manual with fuller explanations and
+suggestions. The necessary prefatory statements will be found in the
+respective books under the titles<a name="preface" id="preface"></a> <a href="#preface">"Foreword to the Student"</a> and
+"Foreword to the Teacher".</p>
+
+<p>This volume contains the text of the stories, with explanatory notes and
+questions intended to stimulate study. Each lesson consists of a
+complete story arranged in such a way as to impress the main features of
+the narrative clearly upon the student's mind. The explanatory material
+is reduced to the minimum, since the main desire is to let the stories
+speak for themselves and not to burden the student with wearisome
+details. The three reviews divide the course into the three natural
+parts, the first extending to Christmas, the second to the end of March,
+the third, which is shorter, to the middle of June, when it is usually
+wise for the regular courses to end.</p>
+
+<p>The text of the British Revisers is used in the reprint of the stories
+with the consent and approval of the Oxford and Cambridge University
+presses. As the plan of simplifying the narratives involved certain
+verbal changes, it has seemed wise to go a step farther and to use the
+spellings which would be more familiar to American students.</p>
+
+<p>For constant suggestions as to form and method I am greatly indebted to
+my wife, who has taught the lessons from advance sheets to a class of
+boys. It is a pleasure to acknowledge the valuable counsel of Professor
+E. D. Burton, the editor of the series, and especially that of Professor
+J. M. P. Smith, who at Professor Burton's request, and to my own great
+satisfaction, assumed the editorial responsibility of reading the
+manuscript, and gave me the benefit of his ripe scholarship and
+judgment.</p>
+
+<p class="headright">T. G. S.</p>
+
+<p><span style="margin-left: 2em;">July 29, 1908</span>
+</p><br>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2>CONTENTS</h2>
+
+
+
+<div class="center">
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="">
+<tr><td align="right"></td><td align="left"><a href="#FOREWORD_TO_THE_STUDENT">Foreword to the Student</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#ABRAHAM_THE_FATHER_OF_THE_FAITHFUL">I.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Abraham, the Father of the Faithful</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#II_ABRAHAM_THE_MAGNANIMOUS">II.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Abraham, the Magnanimous</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#III_ABRAHAM_AND_ISAAC">III.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Abraham and Isaac</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#IV_JACOB_THE_CLEVER">IV.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Jacob, the Clever</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#V_ISRAEL_THE_GODLY">V.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Israel, the Godly</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#VI_JOSEPH_THE_SLAVE">VI.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Joseph, the Slave</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#VII_JOSEPH_THE_RULER">VII.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Joseph, the Ruler</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#VIII_JOSEPH_THE_GENEROUS">VIII.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Joseph, the Generous</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#IX_MOSES_EARLY_LIFE">IX.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Moses' Early Life</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#X_MOSES_COMMISSION">X.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Moses' Commission</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XI_MOSES_THE_DELIVERER">XI.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Moses, the Deliverer</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XII_MOSES_THE_LAWGIVER">XII.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Moses, the Lawgiver</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XIII_THE_HEROES_OF_ISRAELS">XIII.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Review: The Heroes of Israel's Wanderings</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XIV_JOSHUA_AND_CALEB">XIV.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Joshua and Caleb</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XV_GIDEON_THE_WARRIOR">XV.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Gideon, the Warrior</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XVI_SAMSON_THE_STRONG_MAN">XVI.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Samson, the Strong Man</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XVII_RUTH_THE_FOREIGNER">XVII.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Ruth, the Foreigner</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XVIII_SAMUEL_AND_ELI">XVIII.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Samuel and Eli</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XIX_SAMUEL_AND_SAUL">XIX.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Samuel and Saul</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XX_JONATHANS_VICTORY">XX.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Jonathan's Victory</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXI_DAVID_AND_THE_GIANT">XXI.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">David and the Giant</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXII_THE_HERO_FRIENDS_DAVID_AND">XXII.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">The Hero Friends, David and Jonathan</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXIII_DAVID_THE_OUTLAW">XXIII.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">David, the Outlaw</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXIV_DAVID_THE_KING">XXIV.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">David, the King</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXV_DAVID_AND_HIS_REBEL_SON">XXV.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">David and His Rebel Son</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXVI_TEN_HEROES_OF_ISRAEL">XXVI.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Review: Ten Heroes of Israel</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXVII_SOLOMON_THE_WISE_KING">XXVII.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Solomon, the Wise King</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXVIII_ELIJAH_THE_CHAMPION_OF">XXVIII.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Elijah, the Champion of Pure Religion</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXIX_ELIJAH_THE_CHAMPION_OF">XXIX.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Elijah, the Champion of Justice</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXX_ELISHA_THE_HEALER_AND_COUNSELOR">XXX.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Elisha, the Healer and Counselor</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXXI_NEHEMIAH_THE_BUILDER">XXXI.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Nehemiah, the Builder</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXXIII_JUDAS_THE_HAMMERER">XXXII.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Esther, the Patriot Queen</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXXIII_JUDAS_THE_HAMMERER">XXXIII.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Judas, the Hammerer</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXXIV_DANIEL_AND_HIS_FRIENDS">XXXIV.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Daniel and His Friends</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXXV_SEVEN_HEROIC_NAMES">XXXV.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Review: Seven Heroic Names</span></td></tr>
+</table></div><br>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2>MAPS AND ILLUSTRATIONS</h2>
+
+
+<div class="center">
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="">
+<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap"><a href="#Map">Map of the Semitic World</a></span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap"><a href="#caravan">A Caravan in Palestine</a></span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap"><a href="#il066">Map of Canaan</a></span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap"><a href="#RAMSES086">The Seal of the Grand Vizier of Ramses II</a></span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap"><a href="#RAMSES108">Portrait Statues of Ramses II</a></span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap"><a href="#SANDALS">Oriental Sandals</a></span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap"><a href="#BRICK">Brick-making in Egypt</a></span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap"><a href="#MOSES138">Moses</a></span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap"><a href="#WINNOWING">Winnowing Grain</a></span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap"><a href="#PHILISTINE">A Philistine</a></span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap"><a href="#DAVID246">David</a></span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap"><a href="#CEDARS">Cedars of Lebanon</a></span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap"><a href="#Esther">Esther's Palace</a></span></td></tr>
+</table></div><br>
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+
+<h3><a name="FOREWORD_TO_THE_STUDENT" id="FOREWORD_TO_THE_STUDENT"></a>FOREWORD TO THE STUDENT</h3>
+
+
+<p>1. We are to study the heroes of Israel. What is a hero? We use this
+word of the chief character in a book or of one who does a very noble
+deed. It is also applied to the great men of the past, who have done
+deeds that have made their names famous in story and who have been the
+makers of nations. Call to mind some American heroes.</p>
+
+<p>2. Why should we study the heroes of Israel? For three reasons: (1) The
+stories are very interesting and full of adventure. (2) Israel played a
+most important part in the world's history. The Jews, who now represent
+Israel, are no longer a nation, and unhappily they are often very badly
+treated, but they have many noble qualities. We owe some of the best
+things in our modern civilization to the men of old Israel. We shall
+find a great value in reading their story. (3) The questions of duty and
+religion that often puzzle us are very old questions. They came to these
+men thousands of years ago. We shall find them clearer to us as we read
+how the old heroes struggled with their difficulties.</p>
+
+<p>3. How shall we study? The stories of the heroes are in the Old
+Testament, but in order to bring them together, and to separate them
+from other matter which is less profitable for young people to study
+they have been reprinted in this book. Most of the more difficult names
+have been omitted, together with everything that would take from the
+interest in the story. Each chapter is divided into three parts: The
+Story, The Meaning of the Story, and the Written Review. In preparing
+the lesson, the story should be read through first. It would be a very
+good plan to read it aloud to someone. Then take up the suggestions in
+the second part of the lesson, one at a time, and look up the sections
+of the story to find answers to the questions. When special Scripture
+references are given look them up, and use the maps whenever directions
+are given to that effect. When you have finished the study read the
+whole story through again and be sure that you understand it.</p>
+
+<p>The Written Review is very important. Have a notebook in which you will
+write the review stories every week. The best time to write the review
+story is soon after the meeting of the class, while the lesson is still
+fresh in memory. Always read the story of the hero again before you
+write the review. Keep the notebook neat. It is a good plan to write the
+exercise in pencil first and then copy it into the book in ink. At the
+end of the year you will have a good-sized book full of your own hero
+stories.</p>
+
+<p>A careful study of these lessons will make you acquainted with a score
+of the mighty men of the past. Many of them you will wish to keep as
+life-long friends.</p><br>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2>ABRAHAM</h2>
+
+
+
+
+<div class="center">
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="">
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#ABRAHAM_THE_FATHER_OF_THE_FAITHFUL">I.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Abraham, the Father of the Faithful</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#II_ABRAHAM_THE_MAGNANIMOUS">II.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Abraham, the Magnanimous</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#III_ABRAHAM_AND_ISAAC">III.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Abraham and Isaac</span></td></tr>
+</table></div><br>
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+
+<h2><a name="ABRAHAM_THE_FATHER_OF_THE_FAITHFUL" id="ABRAHAM_THE_FATHER_OF_THE_FAITHFUL"></a>I. ABRAHAM, THE FATHER OF THE FAITHFUL</h2>
+
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+<p class="center"><b>§1. The Old Home of Abraham</b> (Gen. 11:31)</p>
+
+<p>Terah took Abraham his son, and Lot the son of Haran, his son's son, and
+Sarah his daughter-in-law, his son Abraham's wife; and they went forth
+with them from Ur of the Chaldees, to go into the land of Canaan; and
+they came unto Haran, and dwelt there, and Terah died in Haran.</p><br>
+
+<p class="center"><b>§2. The Journey Westward</b> (Gen. 12:1-5)</p>
+
+<p>Now the Lord said unto Abraham, "Get thee out of thy country, and from
+thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto the land that I will show
+thee: and I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and
+make thy name great; and be thou a blessing: and I will bless them that
+bless thee, and him that curseth thee will I curse: and in thee shall
+all the families of the earth be blessed."</p>
+
+<p>So Abraham went, as the Lord had spoken unto him; and Lot went with him:
+and Abraham was seventy and five years old when he departed out of
+Haran. And Abraham took Sarah his wife, and Lot his brother's son, and
+all their substance that they had gathered, and the souls that they had
+gotten in Haran; and they went forth to go into the land of Canaan: and
+into the land of Canaan they came.</p><br>
+
+<p class="center"><b>§3. Abraham's Altars</b> (Gen. 12:6-9)</p>
+
+<p>And Abraham passed through the land unto the place of Shechem, unto the
+oak of Moreh. And the Canaanite was then in the land.</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord appeared unto Abraham and said, "Unto thy seed will I give
+this land." And there built he an altar unto the Lord, who appeared unto
+him.</p>
+
+<p>And he removed from thence unto the mountain on the east of Beth-el, and
+pitched his tent, having Beth-el on the west, and Ai on the east: and
+there he built an altar unto the Lord, and called upon the name of the
+Lord. And Abraham journeyed, going on still toward the South.</p><br>
+
+<p class="center"><b>§4. A Test of Courage</b> (Gen. 12:10-20)</p>
+
+<p>And there was a famine in the land: and Abraham went down into Egypt to
+sojourn there; for the famine was sore in the land. And it came to pass,
+when he was come near to enter into Egypt, that he said unto Sarah his
+wife, "Behold now, I know that thou art a fair woman to look upon: and
+it shall come to pass, when the Egyptians shall see thee, that they
+shall say, 'This is his wife': and they will kill me, but they will
+save thee alive. Say, I pray thee, thou art my sister: that it may be
+well with me for thy sake, and that my soul may live because of thee."</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, that, when Abraham was come into Egypt, the
+Egyptians beheld the woman that she was very fair. And the princes of
+Pharaoh saw her, and praised her to Pharaoh; and the woman was taken
+into Pharaoh's house. And he treated Abraham well for her sake: and he
+had sheep, and oxen, and he-asses, and menservants, and maidservants,
+and she-asses, and camels. And the Lord plagued Pharaoh and his house
+with great plagues because of Sarah Abraham's <a name="caravan" id="caravan"></a>wife.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 348px;">
+<img src="images/il023.jpg" width="348" height="219" alt="" title="" >
+</div>
+
+<p class="ccaption">A CARAVAN IN PALESTINE</p>
+
+<p>And Pharaoh called Abraham, and said, "What is this that thou hast done
+unto me? why didst thou not tell me that she was thy wife? Why saidst
+thou, She is my sister? so that I took her to be my wife: now therefore
+behold thy wife, take her, and go thy way."</p>
+
+<p>And Pharaoh gave men charge concerning him: and they brought him on the
+way, and his wife, and all that he had.</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>1 (§1). We begin with the man to whom Israel looked back as their first
+great hero. What was his name? What was his father's name?</p>
+
+<p>2 (§1). Where did he come from? Look at the map of the Semitic world.
+You will see two great rivers which join and then flow into the Persian
+Gulf. It is not always possible to know where ancient cities were
+located, but it is supposed that Ur may have been on the Euphrates near
+the point where the rivers join. It is called Ur of the Chaldees,
+because people of that name lived there. Terah therefore came from the
+very old country of Babylonia, which was rich and fertile because it was
+in the valley of the two rivers. What American river has a rich country
+in all its wide valley?</p>
+
+<p>3 (§1). What route would be taken to go from Ur to Canaan? If you lay a
+ruler on the map you will see that Jerusalem is almost directly west of
+Ur. They lay about six hundred miles apart. But there was a very good
+reason why they could not travel right across that way. What kind of
+country would they have had to pass through? They had to follow the
+river for nearly the same distance in a northwesterly direction. This
+would bring them to a very rich country where it seems they stopped for
+some time and where Terah died. What was its name?</p>
+
+<p>4 (§2). Evidently most of Terah's tribe were satisfied to stay in Haran,
+but Abraham felt a great stir in him to continue the journey to the West
+land. He believed that God wanted him to go there and to become the
+founder of a great nation that should serve Jehovah. This feeling became
+so strong that at last it was clear to him that the Lord was calling
+him. Learn the beautiful passage of the Call of Abraham (Gen. 12:1-3) so
+that you can recite it.</p>
+
+<p>5(§2). What route would Abraham take from Haran to Canaan? Let us look
+at the map again. There was a caravan road that ran from Haran west
+across the river, then it turned south and came down through the
+country of Syria to a very ancient city. Abraham's chief servant came
+from this city (Gen. 15:2). The road still runs south and then crosses
+the river Jordan into Palestine.</p>
+
+<p>6(§2). How long would such a journey take? There were no railroads and
+there are still very few in that country. Travel was very slow. We have
+an account in Ezra 7:9 of how long it took a company to make the journey
+from Babylon long afterward. But Abraham's company would move more
+slowly, for we must think of him as traveling with a great many animals
+and servants and children. It was very much as the Arab tribes move
+about to-day.</p>
+
+<p>7(§2). Think of what Abraham left behind when he obeyed God's voice and
+came into the strange land. What company of people in American history
+felt that God called them to leave their own country and come into the
+new land? Is it always safe to obey God? Look up Gal. 3:9 and Heb.
+11:8-10 and see why Abraham is called "The Father of the Faithful."</p>
+
+<p>8(§3). What promise did God give Abraham after he came to Canaan? What
+places did Abraham visit? Locate them on the map of Canaan. What
+religious act did he perform wherever he went? What act is the same in
+our lives?</p>
+
+<p>9(§4). Abraham's numerous sheep and cattle required him to journey from
+place to place. Why was this? Why would dry weather cause him trouble?
+Notice on the map that when the famine came he was in the south of
+Palestine. It was only a short journey west to reach a very rich
+country, which lay in the valley of a great river. Name the country and
+its river and explain why there was no drought there.</p>
+
+<p>10 (§4). We shall often notice that the old heroes did wrong. Tell the
+story of Abraham's visit to Egypt. What do you think of his conduct? If
+we knew only this part of Abraham's story we should not call him a hero.
+Ought we then to judge anyone by a single act?</p><br>
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>This story deals with several journeys. Let us get them all before our
+eyes. Turn to the map of the Semitic world at the beginning of the book
+and make a very simple copy of it, according to the following
+directions: Mark the two great rivers in the east. Make the coast line
+of the Mediterranean Sea. Draw the River Nile. Make the coast line of
+the Red Sea. Locate Ur, Haran, Damascus, Canaan, Egypt. Make this map
+first in pencil and then ink it.</p>
+
+
+
+<br><hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="II_ABRAHAM_THE_MAGNANIMOUS" id="II_ABRAHAM_THE_MAGNANIMOUS"></a>II. ABRAHAM, THE MAGNANIMOUS</h2>
+
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+<p class="center"><b>§5. Abraham's Treatment of Lot</b> (Gen. 13)</p>
+
+<p>And Abraham went out of Egypt, he, and his wife, and all that he had,
+and Lot with him, into the South. And Abraham was very rich in cattle,
+in silver, and in gold. And he went on his journeys from the South even
+to Beth-el, unto the place where his tent had been at the beginning,
+between Beth-el and Ai; unto the place of the altar, which he had made
+there at the first: and there Abraham called on the name of the Lord.</p>
+
+<p>And Lot also, who went with Abraham, had flocks, and herds, and tents.
+And the land was not able to bear them, that they might dwell together:
+for their substance was great, so that they could not dwell together.
+And there was a strife between the herdmen of Abraham's cattle and the
+herdmen of Lot's cattle.</p>
+
+<p>And Abraham said unto Lot, "Let there be no strife, I pray thee, between
+me and thee, and between my herdmen and thy herdmen; for we are
+brethren. Is not the whole land before thee? separate thyself, I pray
+thee, from me: if thou wilt take the left hand, then I will go to the
+right; or if thou take the right hand, then I will go to the left."</p>
+
+<p>And Lot lifted up his eyes, and beheld all the Plain of Jordan, that it
+was well watered everywhere, before the Lord destroyed Sodom and
+Gomorrah, like the garden of the Lord, like the land of Egypt, as thou
+goest unto Zoar. So Lot chose him all the Plain of Jordan; and Lot
+journeyed east: and they separated themselves the one from the other.
+Abraham dwelt in the land of Canaan, and Lot dwelt in the cities of the
+Plain, and moved his tent as far as Sodom. Now the men of Sodom were
+wicked and sinners against the Lord exceedingly.</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said unto Abraham, after that Lot was separated from him,
+"Lift up now thine eyes, and look from the place where thou art,
+northward and southward and eastward and westward: for all the land
+which thou seest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed for ever. And
+I will make thy seed as the dust of the earth: so that if a man can
+number the dust of the earth, then shall thy seed also be numbered.
+Arise, walk through the land in the length of it and in the breadth of
+it; for unto thee will I give it."</p>
+
+<p>And Abraham moved his tent, and came and dwelt by the oaks of Mamre,
+which are in Hebron, and built there an altar unto the Lord.</p><br>
+
+<p class="center"><b>§6. Abraham's Deliverance of Lot</b> (Gen. 14:10-24)</p>
+
+<p>And there came five kings from the East and made war against the kings
+of Sodom and Gomorrah. And the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah fled, and
+they fell there, and they that remained fled to the mountain. And they
+took all the goods of Sodom and Gomorrah, and all their victuals, and
+went their way. And they took Lot, Abraham's brother's son, who dwelt in
+Sodom, and his goods, and departed.</p>
+
+<p>And there came one that had escaped, and told Abraham the Hebrew: now he
+dwelt by the oaks of Mamre the Amorite, brother of Eshcol, and brother
+of Aner; and these were confederate with Abraham. And when Abraham heard
+that his brother was taken captive, he led forth his trained men, born
+in his house, three hundred and eighteen, and pursued as far as Dan. And
+he divided himself against them by night, he and his servants, and smote
+them, and pursued them unto Hobah, which is on the left hand of
+Damascus. And he brought back all the goods, and also brought again his
+brother Lot, and his goods, and the women also, and the people.</p>
+
+<p>And the king of Sodom went out to meet him, after his return from the
+slaughter of the kings. And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth
+bread and wine: and he was priest of God Most High. And he blessed him
+and said, "Blessed be Abraham of God Most High, possessor of heaven and
+earth: and blessed be God Most High, which hath delivered thine enemies
+into thy hand." And he gave him a tenth of all.</p>
+
+<p>And the king of Sodom said unto Abraham, "Give me the persons, and take
+the goods to thyself."</p>
+
+<p>And Abraham said to the king of Sodom, "I have lifted up mine hand unto
+the Lord, God Most High, possessor of heaven and earth, that I will not
+take a thread nor a shoelatchet nor aught that is thine, lest thou
+shouldst say, I have made Abraham rich: save only that which the young
+men have eaten, and the portion of the men which went with me; Aner,
+Eshcol, and Mamre, let them take their portion."</p><br>
+
+<p class="center"><b>§7. Abraham's Prayer for Sodom</b> (Gen. 18:17-32; 19:29)</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said, "Shall I hide from Abraham that which I do; seeing
+that Abraham shall surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the
+nations of the earth shall be blessed in him? For I have known him, to
+the end that he may command his children and his household after him,
+that they may keep the way of the Lord, to do righteousness and justice;
+to the end that the Lord may bring upon Abraham that which he hath
+spoken of him."</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said, "Because the cry of Sodom and Gomorrah is great, and
+because their sin is very grievous; I will go down now, and see whether
+they have done altogether according to the cry of it, which is come unto
+me; and if not, I will know."</p>
+
+<p>And Abraham drew near, and said, "Wilt thou consume the righteous with
+the wicked? Peradventure there be fifty righteous within the city: wilt
+thou consume and not spare the place for the fifty righteous that are
+therein? That be far from thee to do after this manner, to slay the
+righteous with the wicked, that so the righteous should be as the
+wicked; that be far from thee: shall not the Judge of all the earth do
+right?"</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said, "If I find in Sodom fifty righteous within the city,
+then I will spare all the place for their sake."</p>
+
+<p>And Abraham answered and said, "Behold now, I have taken upon me to
+speak unto the Lord, which am but dust and ashes: peradventure there
+shall lack five of the fifty righteous: wilt thou destroy all the city
+for lack of five?"</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "I will not destroy it, if I find there forty and five."</p>
+
+<p>And he spake unto him yet again, and said, "Peradventure there shall be
+forty found there."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "I will not do it for the forty's sake."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Oh let not the Lord be angry, and I will speak:
+peradventure there shall thirty be found there."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "I will not do it if I find thirty there."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Behold now, I have taken upon me to speak unto the Lord:
+peradventure there shall be twenty found there."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "I will not destroy it for the twenty's sake."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Oh let not the Lord be angry, and I will speak yet but
+this once: peradventure ten shall be found there."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "I will not destroy it for the ten's sake."</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, when God destroyed the cities of the Plain, that
+God remembered Abraham, and sent Lot out of the midst of the overthrow,
+when he overthrew the cities in which Lot dwelt.</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>11 (§5). Follow Abraham's journey back from Egypt along the coast road.
+He reached the district in Southern Canaan that was called "the South."
+What wealth did he have? What would he need for his cattle? Notice how
+this caused him to journey from place to place.</p>
+
+<p>12 (§5). On the western plains of America there have been disputes
+between the cattle men over the rights of grazing. The big men have
+driven the little men away. Tell the story of this old dispute in
+Canaan. What plan of settlement did Abraham suggest? How did Lot behave
+in the matter? What good result came to Abraham?</p>
+
+<p>13 (§5). Look up the word "magnanimous." Could it be applied to Abraham?
+Have you ever known an act that was magnanimous?</p>
+
+<p>14 (§6). Kings in old times used to make war on their neighbors just for
+the purpose of stealing their goods. This is the story of one of those
+plundering expeditions that was made against the country near the Dead
+Sea. Who had chosen that country for his residence? What was the result
+of the invasion? How did Abraham hear of it? How many young men did he
+have in his service? What does this show of the size of his camp? What
+did Abraham do?</p>
+
+<p>15 (§6). What did Abraham do with the spoil that he captured? Was this
+magnanimous?</p>
+
+<p>16 (§6). Compare Abraham's conduct with that of the United States in
+Cuba.</p>
+
+<p>17 (§6). Abraham gave back the property that he had rescued: what should
+we do with property that we find?</p>
+
+<p>18 (§7). Men of old loved to think of God appearing to them and talking
+to them. It is a beautiful picture of the silent message that comes to
+our hearts. What does Abraham learn is to happen to the wicked city of
+Sodom?</p>
+
+<p>19 (§7). Is Abraham magnanimous in pleading for Sodom? What do the
+Lord's replies to Abraham's prayers teach us?</p>
+
+<p>20 (§7). What happened to Sodom? Was Abraham's prayer answered?</p><br>
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>Think over and write out the three ways in which Abraham was
+<i>magnanimous</i>. If you watch carefully the conduct of the best people you
+know you will be sure to see somebody do a magnanimous act before the
+next lesson. When you see it write it down in your notebook as your
+review work.</p><br>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;"> <h2><a name="III_ABRAHAM_AND_ISAAC" id="III_ABRAHAM_AND_ISAAC"></a>III. ABRAHAM AND ISAAC</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§8. Abraham's Devotion</b> (Gen. 21:2, 3; 22:1-19)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE SACRIFICE OF THE FIRSTBORN</p>
+
+<p>And Sarah bare Abraham a son in his old age, at the set time of which
+God had spoken unto him. And Abraham called the name of his son Isaac.
+And the child grew. And it came to pass, that God did prove Abraham and
+said unto him, "Abraham."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Here am I."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Take now thy son, thine only son, whom thou lovest, even
+Isaac, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a
+burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of."</p>
+
+<p>And Abraham rose early in the morning, and saddled his ass, and took two
+of his young men with him, and Isaac his son; and he clave the wood for
+the burnt offering, and rose up, and went into the place of which God
+had told him. On the third day Abraham lifted up his eyes, and saw the
+place afar off.</p>
+
+<p>And Abraham said unto his young men, "Abide ye here with the ass, and I
+and the lad will go yonder; and we will worship, and come again to you."</p>
+
+<p>And Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering and laid it upon Isaac
+his son; and he took in his hand the fire and the knife; and they went
+both of them together.</p>
+
+<p>And Isaac spake unto Abraham his father, and said, "My father."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Here am I, my son."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Behold, the fire and the wood: but where is the lamb for a
+burnt offering?"</p>
+
+<p>And Abraham said, "God will provide himself the lamb for a burnt
+offering, my son."</p>
+
+<p>So they went both of them together. And they came to the place which God
+had told him of; and Abraham built the altar there, and laid the wood in
+order, and bound Isaac his son, and laid him on the altar, upon the
+wood. And Abraham stretched forth his hand, and took the knife to slay
+his son.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE DIVINE INTERFERENCE</p>
+
+<p>And the angel of the Lord called unto him out of heaven, and said,
+"Abraham."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Here am I."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou anything
+unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not
+withheld thy son, thine only son, from me."</p>
+
+<p>And Abraham lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold, behind him a ram
+caught in the thicket by his horns: and Abraham went and took the ram,
+and offered him up for a burnt offering in the stead of his son. And
+Abraham called the name of that place Jehovah-jireh: as it is said to
+this day, "In the mount of the Lord it shall be provided."</p>
+
+<p>And the angel of the Lord called unto Abraham a second time out of
+heaven, and said, "By myself have I sworn, saith the Lord, because thou
+hast done this thing, and hast not withheld thy son, thine only son:
+that in blessing I will bless thee, and in multiplying I will multiply
+thy seed as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which is upon the
+sea shore; and thy seed shall possess the gate of his enemies; and in
+thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou
+hast obeyed my voice."</p>
+
+<p>So Abraham returned unto his young men, and they rose up and went
+together to Beer-sheba; and Abraham dwelt at Beer-sheba.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§9. The Selection of Isaac's Wife</b> (Gen. 24)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE COMMISSION OF THE SERVANT</p>
+
+<p>And Abraham was old, and well stricken in age: and the Lord had blessed
+Abraham in all things. And Abraham said unto his servant, the elder of
+his house, that ruled over all that he had, "Swear by the Lord, the God
+of heaven and the God of the earth, that thou shalt not take a wife for
+my son of the daughters of the Canaanites, among whom I dwell: but thou
+shalt go unto my country, and to my kindred, and take a wife for my son
+Isaac."</p>
+
+<p>And the servant said unto him, "Peradventure the woman will not be
+willing to follow me unto this land: must I needs bring thy son again
+unto the land from whence thou camest?"</p>
+
+<p>And Abraham said unto him, "Beware thou that thou bring not my son
+thither again. The Lord, the God of heaven, that took me from my
+father's house, and from the land of my nativity, and that spake unto me
+and that sware unto me, saying, 'Unto thy seed will I give this land,'
+he shall send his angel before thee, and thou shalt take a wife for my
+son from thence. And if the woman be not willing to follow thee, thou
+shalt be clear from this my oath; only thou shalt not bring my son
+thither again."</p>
+
+<p>And the servant sware to Abraham his master concerning this matter.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE MEETING WITH REBEKAH</p>
+
+<p>And the servant took ten camels, of the camels of his master, and
+departed; having all goodly things of his master's in his hand: and he
+arose, and went to Mesopotamia, unto the city of Nahor. And he made the
+camels to kneel down without the city by the well of water at the time
+of evening, the time that women go out to draw water.</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "O Lord, the God of my master Abraham, send me, I pray
+thee, good speed this day, and show kindness unto my master Abraham.
+Behold, I stand by the fountain of water; and the daughters of the men
+of the city come out to draw water: and let it come to pass, that the
+damsel to whom I shall say, 'Let down thy pitcher, I pray thee, that I
+may drink;' and she shall say, 'Drink, and I will give thy camels drink
+also': let the same be she that thou hast appointed for thy servant
+Isaac; and thereby shall I know that thou hast showed kindness unto my
+master."</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, before he had done speaking, that, behold, Rebekah
+came out, who was born to Bethuel the son of Milcah, the wife of Nahor,
+Abraham's brother, with her pitcher upon her shoulder. And the damsel
+was very fair to look upon; and she went down to the fountain, and
+filled her pitcher, and came up.</p>
+
+<p>And the servant ran to meet her, and said, "Give me to drink, I pray
+thee, a little water of thy pitcher."</p>
+
+<p>And she said, "<a name="Drink" id="Drink"></a><a href="#Drink_my_lord">Drink, my lord:</a>" and she hasted, and let down her pitcher
+upon her hand, and gave him drink. And when she had done giving him
+drink, she said, "I will draw for thy camels also, until they have done
+drinking." And she hasted, and emptied her pitcher into the trough, and
+ran again unto the well to draw, and drew for all his camels.</p>
+
+<p>And the man looked stedfastly on her; holding his peace, to know whether
+the Lord had made his journey prosperous or not. And it came to pass, as
+the camels had done drinking, that the man took a golden ring of half a
+shekel weight, and two bracelets for her hands of ten shekels weight of
+gold, and said, "Whose daughter art thou? tell me, I pray thee. Is there
+room in thy father's house for us to lodge in?"</p>
+
+<p>And she said unto him, "I am the daughter of Bethuel the son of Milcah,
+which she bare unto Nahor." She said moreover unto him, "We have both
+straw and provender enough, and room to lodge in."</p>
+
+<p>And the man bowed his head, and worshipped the Lord. And he said,
+"Blessed be the Lord, the God of my master Abraham, who hath not
+forsaken his mercy and his truth toward my master: as for me, the Lord
+hath led me in the way to the house of my master's brethren."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. THE BETROTHAL OF ISAAC AND REBEKAH</p>
+
+<p>And the damsel ran, and told her mother's house according to these
+words. And Rebekah had a brother, and his name was Laban: and Laban ran
+out unto the man, unto the fountain. And it came to pass, when he saw
+the ring, and the bracelets upon his sister's hands, and when he heard
+the words of Rebekah his sister, saying, "Thus spake the man unto me;"
+that he came unto the man; and, behold, he stood by the camels at the
+fountain.</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Come in, thou blessed of the Lord; wherefore standest thou
+without? for I have prepared the house, and room for the camels."</p>
+
+<p>And the man came into the house, and he ungirded the camels; and he gave
+straw and provender for the camels, and water to wash his feet and the
+men's feet that were with him. And there was set meat before him to eat.</p>
+
+<p>But he said, "I will not eat, until I have told mine errand."</p>
+
+<p>And Laban said, "Speak on."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "I am Abraham's servant. And the Lord hath blessed my
+master greatly; and he is become great: and he hath given him flocks and
+herds, and silver and gold, and menservants and maidservants, and
+camels, and asses. And Sarah my master's wife bare a son to my master
+when she was old: and unto him hath he given all that he hath. And my
+master made me swear, saying, 'Thou shalt not take a wife for my son of
+the daughters of the Canaanites, in whose land I dwell: but thou shalt
+go unto my father's house, and to my kindred, and take a wife for my
+son.' And I said unto my master, 'Peradventure the woman will not follow
+me.' And he said unto me, 'The Lord, before whom I walk, will send his
+angel with thee, and prosper thy way; and thou shalt take a wife for my
+son of my kindred, and of my father's house: then shalt thou be clear
+from my oath, when thou comest to my kindred; and if they give her not
+to thee, thou shalt be clear from my oath.'</p>
+
+<p>"And I came this day unto the fountain, and said, 'O Lord, the God of my
+master Abraham, if now thou do prosper my way which I go: behold, I
+stand by the fountain of water; and let it come to pass, that the maiden
+which cometh forth to draw, to whom I shall say, Give me, I pray thee a
+little water of thy pitcher to drink; and she shall say to me, Both
+drink thou, and I will also draw for thy camels: let the same be the
+woman whom the Lord hath appointed for my master's son.' And before I
+had done speaking in mine heart, behold, Rebekah came forth with her
+pitcher on her shoulder; and she went down unto the fountain, and drew:
+and I said unto her, 'Let me drink, I pray thee.' And she made haste,
+and let down her pitcher from her shoulder, and said, 'Drink, and I will
+give thy camels drink also.' So I drank, and she made the camels drink
+also. And I asked her and said, 'Whose daughter art thou?' And she said,
+'The daughter of Bethuel, Nahor's son, whom Milcah bare unto him.' And I
+put the ring upon her nose, and the bracelets upon her hands. And I
+bowed my head, and worshipped the Lord, and blessed the Lord, the God of
+my master Abraham, which had led me in the right way to take my master's
+brother's daughter for his son. And now if ye will deal kindly and truly
+with my master, tell me: and if not, tell me; that I may turn to the
+right hand, or to the left."</p>
+
+<p>Then Laban and Bethuel answered and said, "The thing proceedeth from the
+Lord: we cannot speak unto thee bad or good. Behold, Rebekah is before
+thee, take her, and go, and let her be thy master's son's wife, as the
+Lord hath spoken."</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, that, when Abraham's servant heard their words, he
+bowed himself down to the earth unto the Lord. And the servant brought
+forth jewels of silver and jewels of gold, and raiment, and gave them to
+Rebekah: he gave also to her brother and to her mother precious things.
+And they did eat and drink, he and the men that were with him, and
+tarried all night; and they rose up in the morning, and he said,
+"Send me away unto my master."</p>
+
+<p>And her brother and her mother said, "Let the damsel abide with us a few
+days, at the least ten; after that she shall go."</p>
+
+<p>And he said unto them, "Hinder me not, seeing the Lord hath prospered my
+way; send me away that I may go to my master."</p>
+
+<p>And they said, "We will call the damsel, and inquire at her mouth."</p>
+
+<p>And they called Rebekah, and said unto her, "Wilt thou go with this
+man?"</p>
+
+<p>And she said, "I will go."</p>
+
+<p>And they sent away Rebekah their sister, and her nurse, and Abraham's
+servant, and his men. And they blessed Rebekah, and said unto her, "Our
+sister, be thou the mother of thousands of ten thousands, and let thy
+seed possess the gate of those which hate them."</p>
+
+<p>And Rebekah arose, and her damsels, and they rode upon the camels, and
+followed the man: and the servant took Rebekah, and went his way.</p><br>
+
+<p class="center">D. THE MARRIAGE</p>
+
+<p>And Isaac went out to meditate in the field at the eventide: and he
+lifted up his eyes, and saw, and, behold, there were camels coming.</p>
+
+<p>And Rebekah lifted up her eyes, and when she saw Isaac, she lighted off
+the camel. And she said unto the servant, "What man is this that walketh
+in the field to meet us?"</p>
+
+<p>And the servant said, "It is my master." And she took her veil, and
+covered herself.</p>
+
+<p>And the servant told Isaac all the things that he had done. And Isaac
+brought her into his mother Sarah's tent, and took Rebekah, and she
+became his wife; and he loved her: and Isaac was comforted after his
+mother's death.</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>21. What promise had been made repeatedly to Abraham? But he had grown
+old and was still without a son. Yet the Lord repeated the promise and
+Abraham believed. At last to his great joy the son was born. It makes a
+man's life strong to believe that God will fulfil his promise. Faith and
+goodness are very near together (Gen. 15:6). A good boy believes his
+parents: surely he can believe God.</p>
+
+<p>22 (§8A). In order to understand this story we must consider a strange
+and fearful custom of the old times. Read II Kings 3:26, 27, and note
+the awful sacrifice that a king, who was seeking help, made to his
+heathen god. The ancients felt that God ought to have the best that man
+has. They had not learned that he is loving and good, wishing our best
+to be given to him in loving service and not killed in sacrifice.</p>
+
+<p>23 (§8A). Abraham knew that it was the custom of his neighbors to show
+their loyalty to their gods by killing their oldest sons. He was most
+anxious to do what God would wish, so what would he naturally think that
+he ought to do? Is a man wicked if he does what he thinks is right? But
+if he is pure in his motive and is very anxious to know what is right,
+he will often come to the truth. This story shows how God led Abraham to
+know what he really wanted of him.</p>
+
+<p>24 (§8). It is a very striking story. Picture the scenes: (1) The long
+journey: who went? (2) Abraham and Isaac alone: what did Isaac ask? What
+was Abraham's confidence in God? (3) The preparation for the sacrifice.
+(4) The wonderful interference: what did this teach Abraham? What was
+the promise that was repeated?</p>
+
+<p>25 (§8). Men have often used wrong methods, thinking to please God. What
+did the Puritans do to the witches? But the Puritans were good men,
+anxious to do right, and they soon learned that they had been wrong.
+It is not enough for us to be willing to do right. We must try hard to
+find out what is right.</p>
+
+<p>26 (§9A). This section is a long one, but is full of interest and need
+not detain us for special study. It is the charming story of an old-time
+wooing. Parents often arranged the marriages of their children in those
+days as they do in many countries to-day. Abraham had a trusted servant
+who managed his business for him. What did he ask the servant to
+promise?</p>
+
+<p>27 (§9B). Mesopotamia means "between the rivers." Locate it between the
+two rivers of Abraham's old country. Recall Abraham's journey (5, 6, §2)
+and trace the servant's journey.</p>
+
+<p>28 (§9B). Tell the story of the meeting with Rebekah.</p>
+
+<p>29 (§9C). Tell the story of the betrothal. Notice that the betrothal
+took place although Isaac was not there.</p>
+
+<p>30 (§9D). Tell the story of the marriage.</p><br>
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>We have finished the study of the "Father of the Faithful." He was a man
+who trusted God. Think over all that you have learned about him and
+write down in your notebook two or three ways in which you think that he
+showed his trust in God. Think whether there is any way in which you
+would be willing to trust God.</p><br>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2>JACOB-ISRAEL</h2>
+
+
+
+<div class="center">
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="">
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#IV_JACOB_THE_CLEVER">IV.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Jacob, the Clever</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#V_ISRAEL_THE_GODLY">V.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Israel, the Godly</span></td></tr>
+</table></div><br>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="IV_JACOB_THE_CLEVER" id="IV_JACOB_THE_CLEVER"></a>IV. JACOB, THE CLEVER</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§10. The Purchase of the Birthright</b> (Gen. 25:25-34)</p>
+
+<p>Isaac and Rebekah had two sons who were twins. The first was red, all
+over like a hairy garment; and they called his name Esau, and the name
+of his brother was called Jacob.</p>
+
+<p>And the boys grew: and Esau was a cunning hunter, a man of the field;
+and Jacob was a plain man, dwelling in tents. Now Isaac loved Esau,
+because he did eat of his venison: and Rebekah loved Jacob.</p>
+
+<p>And Jacob boiled pottage: and Esau came in from the field, and he was
+faint: and Esau said to Jacob, "Feed me, I pray thee, with that same red
+pottage; for I am faint."</p>
+
+<p>And Jacob said, "Sell me this day thy birthright."</p>
+
+<p>And Esau said, "Behold, I am at the point to die: and what profit shall
+the birthright do to me?"</p>
+
+<p>And Jacob said, "Swear to me this day."</p>
+
+<p>And he sware unto him: and he sold his birthright unto Jacob. And Jacob
+gave Esau bread and pottage of lentils; and he did eat and drink, and
+rose up, and went his way: so Esau despised his birthright.</p><br>
+
+<p class="center"><b>§11. The Deception of Isaac</b> (Gen. 27:1-45)</p>
+
+
+<p class="center">A. ISAAC'S COMMISSION TO ESAU</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, that when Isaac was old, and his eyes were dim, so
+that he could not see, he called Esau his elder son, and said unto him,
+"My son."</p>
+
+<p>And he said unto him, "Here am I."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Behold now, I am old, I know not the day of my death. Now
+therefore take, I pray thee, thy weapons, thy quiver and thy bow, and go
+out to the field, and take me venison; and make me savory meat, such as
+I love, and bring it to me, that I may eat; that my soul may bless thee
+before I die."</p>
+
+<p>And Rebekah heard when Isaac spake to Esau his son. And Esau went to the
+field to hunt for venison, and to bring it.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. REBEKAH'S SCHEME</p>
+
+<p>And Rebekah spake unto Jacob her son, saying, "Behold, I heard thy
+father speak unto Esau thy brother, saying, 'Bring me venison, and make
+me savory meat, that I may eat, and bless thee before the Lord before my
+death.' Now therefore, my son, obey my voice according to that which I
+command thee. Go now to the flock, and fetch me from thence two good
+kids of the goats; and I will make them savory meat for thy father, such
+as he loveth: and thou shalt bring it to thy father, that he may eat, so
+that he may bless thee before his death."</p>
+
+<p>And Jacob said to Rebekah his mother, "Behold, Esau my brother is a
+hairy man, and I am a smooth man. My father peradventure will feel me,
+and I shall seem to him as a deceiver; and I shall bring a curse upon
+me, and not a blessing."</p>
+
+<p>And his mother said unto him, "Upon me be thy curse, my son: only obey
+my voice, and go fetch me them."</p>
+
+<p>And he went, and fetched, and brought them to his mother: and his mother
+made savory meat, such as his father loved. And Rebekah took the goodly
+garments of Esau her elder son, which were with her in the house, and
+put them upon Jacob her younger son: and she put the skins of the kids
+of the goats upon his hands, and upon the smooth of his neck: and she
+gave the savory meat and the bread, which she had prepared, into the
+hand of her son Jacob.</p><br>
+
+
+
+<p class="center">C. Jacob's Deception</p>
+
+<p>And he came unto his father, and said, "My father."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Here am I; who art thou, my son?"</p>
+
+<p>And Jacob said unto his father, "I am Esau thy firstborn; I have done
+according as thou badest me: arise, I pray thee, sit and eat of my
+venison, that thy soul may bless me."</p>
+
+<p>And Isaac said unto his son, "How is it that thou hast found it so
+quickly, my son?"</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Because the Lord thy God sent me good speed."</p>
+
+<p>And Isaac said unto Jacob, "Come near, I pray thee, that I may feel
+thee, my son, whether thou be my very son Esau or not."</p>
+
+<p>And Jacob went near unto Isaac his father; and he felt him, and said,
+"The voice is Jacob's voice, but the hands are the hands of Esau." And
+he discerned him not, because his hands were hairy, as his brother
+Esau's hands: so he blessed him. And he said, "Art thou my very son
+Esau?"</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "I am."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Bring it near to me, and I will eat of my son's venison,
+that my soul may bless thee."</p>
+
+<p>And he brought it near to him, and he did eat: and he brought him wine,
+and he drank. And his father Isaac said unto him, "Come near now, and
+kiss me, my son." And he came near, and kissed him: and he smelled the
+smell of his raiment, and blessed him, and said,</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> <span class="i0">See, the smell of my son<br></span> <span class="i0">Is as the smell of a field which the Lord hath
+blessed:<br></span> <span class="i0">And God give thee of the dew of heaven,<br></span> <span class="i0">And of the fatness of
+the earth,<br></span> <span class="i0">And plenty of corn and wine:<br></span> <span class="i0">Let peoples serve thee,<br></span> <span class="i0">And
+nations bow down to thee:<br></span> <span class="i0">Be lord over thy brethren,<br></span> <span class="i0">And let thy
+mother's sons bow down to thee:<br></span> <span class="i0">Cursed be every one that curseth thee.<br></span>
+<span class="i0">And blessed be every one that blesseth thee.<br></span> </div></div><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">D. ESAU'S DISAPPOINTMENT</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, as soon as Isaac had made an end of blessing Jacob,
+and Jacob was yet scarce gone out from the presence of Isaac his father,
+that Esau his brother came in from his hunting. And he also made savory
+meat, and brought it unto his father; and he said unto his father, "Let
+my father arise, and eat of his son's venison, that thy soul may bless
+me."</p>
+
+<p>And Isaac his father said unto him, "Who art thou?"</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "I am thy son, thy firstborn, Esau."</p>
+
+<p>And Isaac trembled very exceedingly, and said, "Who then is he that hath
+taken venison, and brought it me, and I have eaten of all before thou
+camest, and have blessed him? yea, and he shall be blessed."</p>
+
+<p>When Esau heard the words of his father, he cried with an exceeding
+great and bitter cry, and said unto his father, "Bless me, even me also,
+O my father."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Thy brother came with guile, and hath taken away thy
+blessing."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Is not he rightly named Jacob? for he hath supplanted me
+these two times: he took away my birthright; and, behold, now he hath
+taken away my blessing. Hast thou not reserved a blessing for me?"</p>
+
+<p>And Isaac answered and said unto Esau, "Behold, I have made him thy
+lord, and all his brethren have I given to him for servants; and with
+corn and wine have I sustained him: and what then shall I do for thee,
+my son?"</p>
+
+<p>And Esau said unto his father, "Hast thou but one blessing, my father?
+bless me, even me also, O my father."</p>
+
+<p>And Esau lifted up his voice, and wept. And Isaac his father answered
+and said unto him,</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Behold of the fatness of the earth shall be thy dwelling,<br></span>
+<span class="i0">And of the dew of heaven from above;<br></span>
+<span class="i0">And by thy sword shalt thou live, and thou shalt serve thy brother;<br></span>
+<span class="i0">And it shall come to pass when thou shalt break loose,<br></span>
+<span class="i0">That thou shalt shake his yoke from off thy neck.<br></span>
+</div></div><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">E. ESAU'S HATRED</p>
+
+<p>And Esau hated Jacob because of the blessing
+wherewith his father blessed him: and Esau said in
+his heart, "The days of mourning for my father are
+at hand; then will I slay my brother Jacob."</p>
+
+<p>And the words of Esau her elder son were told to
+Rebekah; and she sent and called Jacob her younger
+son, and said unto him, "Behold, thy brother Esau,
+as touching thee, doth comfort himself, purposing
+to kill thee. Now, therefore, my son, obey my voice;
+and arise, flee thou to Laban my brother to Haran;
+and tarry with him a few days, until thy brother's
+fury turn away; until thy brother's anger turn away
+from thee, and he forget that which thou hast done
+to him: then I will send, and fetch thee from thence:
+why should I be bereaved of you both in one day?"</p><br>
+
+<p class="center"><b>§12. The Dream of the Heavenly Ladder</b> (Gen. 28:10-22)</p>
+
+<p>And Jacob went out from Beer-sheba, and went
+toward Haran. And he lighted upon a certain place,
+and tarried there all night, because the sun was set;
+and he took one of the stones of the place, and put it
+under his head, and lay down in that place to sleep.
+And he dreamed, and behold a ladder set up on the
+earth, and the top of it reached to heaven: and behold
+the angels of God ascending and descending on
+it. And, behold, the Lord stood above it, and said,
+"I am the Lord, the God of Abraham thy father, and
+the God of Isaac: the land whereon thou liest, to thee
+will I give it, and to thy seed; and thy seed shall be
+as the dust of the earth, and thou shalt spread abroad
+to the west, and to the east, and to the north, and to
+the south: and in thee and in thy seed shall all the
+families of the earth be blessed. And, behold, I am
+with thee, and will keep thee whithersoever thou goest,
+and will bring thee again into this land; for I will
+not leave thee, until I have done that which I have
+spoken to thee of."</p>
+
+<p>And Jacob awaked out of his sleep, and he said,
+"Surely the Lord is in this place; and I knew it not."
+And he was afraid, and said, "How dreadful is this
+place! this is none other but the house of God, and
+this is the gate of heaven."</p>
+
+<p>And Jacob rose up early in the morning, and took
+the stone that he had put under his head, and set it
+up for a pillar, and poured oil upon the top of it.
+And he called the name of that place Beth-el. And
+Jacob vowed a vow, saying, "If God will be with
+me, and will keep me in this way that I go, and will
+give me bread to eat, and raiment to put on, so that
+I come again to my father's house in peace, then shall
+the Lord be my God, and this stone, which I have set
+up for a pillar, shall be God's house: and of all that
+thou shalt give me I will surely give the tenth unto
+thee."</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>31. No man is altogether good and no one is wholly bad.
+Good and evil struggle for the mastery in us. Jacob is a man
+in whom this is very clearly seen. He was the twin brother of
+Esau, but Esau had the right of the oldest son. This was
+called the birthright. It was very important in that day.
+It meant that after the father's death Esau would become the
+head of the tribe, and would have twice as much of the property
+as his brother. Jacob did not like this and began to
+scheme to get the better of his brother.</p>
+
+<p>32 (§10). What was the difference between the two men?</p>
+
+<p>33 (§10). Tell the story of the hunting day and how Jacob
+sold the food to his brother.</p>
+
+<p>34 (§10). What do you think of Esau in this affair? He
+gave up a great future for a little satisfaction.</p>
+
+<p>35 (§10). Jacob was "smart" or "clever" in his bargain.
+Was he brotherly? Is it honest to charge all that you can get
+for something that people must have?</p>
+
+<p>36 (§11A). The last solemn blessing of the head of the tribe
+was considered very important. How did Isaac arrange
+that it should be given to Esau?</p>
+
+<p>37 (§11B). There was a wretched favoritism in this family.
+What was Rebekah's scheme to get the blessing for her
+favorite? Tell the story.</p>
+
+<p>38 (§11C). Picture the blind old father and the crafty son
+coming to him. How did he secure the blessing? Notice
+how one wrong leads to another.</p>
+
+<p>39 (§11D). Tell the story of Esau's bitter disappointment.</p>
+
+<p>40 (§11E). What revenge did Esau plan? Rebekah was
+afraid: what advice did she give to Jacob? When the man
+had to flee for his life, how much had he gained by his deception?
+Do the "smart" men always win? If they do is it
+worth while?</p>
+
+<p>41 (§12). The Lord is wonderfully forgiving, and he still
+wanted to lead Jacob to a noble life. Follow the journey on
+the map. What did Jacob do when night overtook him?
+There are great rocks at Beth-el that look something like a
+huge staircase. How did these form themselves in Jacob's
+dream? This is a simple, beautiful story of the old time when
+men thought they saw God in dreams. Tell the whole story
+in your own words.</p>
+
+<p>42 (§12). What promise did the Lord give him? What
+vow did Jacob make?</p><br>
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>Call to mind the meaning of <i>magnanimous</i>. Taking
+advantage of another's need as Jacob took advantage of
+Esau is the opposite of magnanimous. When the earthquake
+occurred in San Francisco some stores that had
+bread put up the price so high that very few could buy it.
+Soldiers compelled them to sell it for the regular price.
+How were those storekeepers like Jacob? Why was their
+conduct wrong? Write the answers to these two questions
+in your notebook.</p><br>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="V_ISRAEL_THE_GODLY" id="V_ISRAEL_THE_GODLY"></a>V. ISRAEL, THE GODLY</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§13. Jacob's Return after Twenty Years</b> (Gen. 29:1,
+16, 23, 28; 30:43; 31:17, 18)</p>
+
+<p>And Jacob came to the land of the children of the East. And he served
+Laban, his mother's brother. And Laban had two daughters: the name of
+the elder was Leah, and the name of the younger was Rachel. And Laban
+gave his two daughters to Jacob to be his wives.</p>
+
+<p>And Jacob increased exceedingly, and had large flocks, and maidservants
+and menservants, and camels and asses.</p>
+
+<p>And after twenty years Jacob rose up, and set his sons and his wives
+upon the camels; and he carried away all his cattle, and all his
+substance which he had gathered to go unto the land of Canaan.</p><br>
+
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§14. Jacob's Fear of Esau</b> (Gen. 32:1-21)</p>
+
+
+<p class="center">A. THE MESSAGE TO ESAU</p>
+
+<p>And Jacob sent messengers before him to Esau his brother unto the land
+of Seir. And he commanded them, saying, "Thus shall ye say unto my lord
+Esau, 'Thus saith thy servant Jacob, I have sojourned with Laban, and
+stayed until now: and I have oxen, and asses and flocks, and menservants
+and maidservants: and I have sent to tell my lord, that I may find grace
+in thy sight.'"</p>
+
+<p>And the messengers returned to Jacob, saying, "We came to thy brother
+Esau, and moreover he cometh to meet thee, and four hundred men with
+him."</p>
+
+<p>Then Jacob was greatly afraid and was distressed: and he divided the
+people that was with him, and the flocks, and the herds, and the camels,
+into two companies; and he said, "If Esau come to the one company, and
+smite it, then the company which is left shall escape."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. JACOB'S PRAYER</p>
+
+<p>And Jacob said, "O God of my father Abraham, and God of my father Isaac,
+O Lord, which saidst unto me, 'Return unto thy country, and to thy
+kindred, and I will do thee good': I am not worthy of the least of all
+the mercies, and of all the truth, which thou hast showed unto thy
+servant; for with my staff I passed over this Jordan; and now I am
+become two companies. Deliver me, I pray thee, from the hand of my
+brother, from the hand of Esau: for I fear him, lest he come and smite
+me, the mother with the children. And thou saidst, 'I will surely do
+thee good, and make thy seed as the sand of the sea, which cannot be
+numbered for multitude.'"</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. THE PRESENT TO ESAU</p>
+
+<p>And he lodged there that night; and took of that which he had with him a
+present for Esau his brother; two hundred she-goats and twenty he-goats,
+two hundred ewes and twenty rams, thirty milch camels and their colts,
+forty kine and ten bulls, twenty she-asses and ten foals. And he
+delivered them into the hand of his servants, every drove by itself; and
+said unto his servants, "Pass over before me, and put a space betwixt
+drove and drove."</p>
+
+<p>And he commanded the foremost, saying, "When Esau my brother meeteth
+thee, and asketh thee, saying, 'Whose art thou? and whither goest thou?
+and whose are these before thee?' then thou shalt say, 'They be thy
+servant Jacob's; it is a present sent unto my lord Esau: and, behold, he
+also is behind us.'"</p>
+
+<p>And he commanded also the second, and the third, and all that followed
+the droves, saying, "On this manner shall ye speak unto Esau, when ye
+find him; and ye shall say, 'Moreover, behold, thy servant Jacob is
+behind us.'" For he said, "I will appease him with the present that
+goeth before me, and afterward I will see his face; peradventure he will
+accept me."</p>
+
+<p>So the present passed over before him: and he himself lodged that night
+in the company.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§15. The Wrestle and the New Name</b> (Gen. 32:22-31)</p>
+
+<p>And he rose up that night, and took his two wives, and his two
+handmaids, and his eleven children, and passed over the ford of Jabbok.
+And he took them, and sent them over the stream, and sent over that he
+had.</p>
+
+<p>And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man with him until the
+breaking of the day. And when he saw that he prevailed not against him,
+he touched the hollow of his thigh; and the hollow of Jacob's thigh was
+strained, as he wrestled with him.</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Let me go, for the day breaketh."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "I will not let thee go, except thou bless me."</p>
+
+<p>And he said unto him, "What is thy name?"</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Jacob."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel: for
+thou hast striven with God and with men, and hast prevailed."</p>
+
+<p>And Jacob asked him, and said, "Tell me, I pray thee, thy name."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Wherefore is it that thou dost ask after my name?" And he
+blessed him there.</p>
+
+<p>And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel: for, said he, "I have
+seen God face to face, and my life is preserved." And the sun rose upon
+him as he passed over Peniel, and he halted upon his thigh.</p><br>
+
+<p class="center"><b>§16. The Meeting With Esau</b> (Gen. 33:1-16)</p>
+
+<p>And Jacob lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold, Esau came, and
+with him four hundred men. And he divided the children unto Leah, and
+unto Rachel, and unto the two handmaids. And he put the handmaids and
+their children foremost, and Leah and her children after, and Rachel and
+Joseph hindermost. And he himself passed over before them, and bowed
+himself to the ground seven times, until he came near to his brother.
+And Esau ran to meet him, and embraced him, and fell on his neck, and
+kissed him: and they wept. And he lifted up his eyes, and saw the women
+and the children; and said, "Who are these with thee?"</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "The children which God has graciously given thy servant."</p>
+
+<p>Then the handmaidens came near, they and their children, and they bowed
+themselves. And Leah also and her children came near, and bowed
+themselves: and after came Joseph near and Rachel, and they bowed
+themselves.</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "What meanest thou by all this company which I met?"</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "To find grace in the sight of my lord."</p>
+
+<p>And Esau said, "I have enough; my brother, let that thou hast be thine."</p>
+
+
+<p>And Jacob said, "Nay, I pray thee, if now I have found grace in thy
+sight, then receive my present at my hand: forasmuch as I have seen thy
+face, as one seeth the face of God, and thou wast pleased with me. Take,
+I pray thee, my gift that is brought to thee; because God hath dealt
+graciously with me, and because I have enough." And he urged him, and he
+took it.</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Let us take our journey, and let us go, and I will go
+before thee."</p>
+
+<p>And he said unto him, "My lord knoweth that the children are tender, and
+that the flocks and herds with me have young: and if they overdrive them
+one day, all the flocks will die. Let my lord, I pray thee, pass over
+before his servant: and I will lead on softly, according to the pace of
+the cattle that is before me and according to the pace of the children,
+until I come unto my lord unto Seir."</p>
+
+<p>And Esau said, "Let me now leave with thee some of the folk that are
+with me."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "What needeth it? let me find grace in the sight of my
+lord."</p>
+
+<p>So Esau returned that day on his way unto Seir.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§17. The Altar of Beth-el</b> (Gen. 35:1-7)</p>
+
+<p>And God said unto Jacob, "Arise, go up to Beth-el, and dwell there: and
+make there an altar unto God, who appeared unto thee when thou fleddest
+from the face of Esau thy brother."</p>
+
+<p>Then Jacob said unto his household, and to all that were with them, "Put
+away the strange gods that are among you, and purify yourselves, and
+change your garments: and let us arise, and go up to Beth-el; and I will
+make there an altar unto God, who answered me in the day of my distress,
+and was with me in the way which <a name="il066" id="il066"></a>I went."</p>
+
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 450px;"> <img src="images/il066.jpg" width="450" height="713" alt="" title="" > </div>
+
+<p>And they gave unto Jacob all the strange gods which were in their hand,
+and the rings which were in their ears; and Jacob hid them under the oak
+which was by Shechem. And they journeyed: and a great terror was upon
+the cities that were round about them, and they did not pursue after the
+sons of Jacob. So Jacob came to Beth-el, he and all the people that were
+with him. And he built there an altar, because there God was revealed
+unto him when he fled from the face of his brother.</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>43 (§13). There is a long and interesting story of Jacob's marriage and
+of his twenty years' service with Laban. It was a hard service, for
+Laban was a hard master and was very jealous of the prosperity of his
+son-in-law. But in spite of difficulty Jacob was successful, though in
+the game of wits he was not always very scrupulous. At last he
+determined to return to his own land, but was obliged to go secretly for
+fear of Laban. Even so, Laban pursued him and there was a hot dispute.
+But at last they made a covenant of peace, and parted. Jacob journeyed
+as far as the brook Jabbok, a stream which flows westward into the
+Jordan, about twenty-five miles north of the Dead Sea. Locate it on the
+map.</p>
+
+<p>44 (§14A). As Jacob returned home, what might he have to fear? The old
+sin comes up after twenty years. Note Jacob's plan. He is very courteous
+to Esau and yet he wants him to know what a great man he has become.
+What would the reply of the messengers indicate about Esau's life for
+the twenty years? How did Jacob feel when he heard of Esau, and what did
+he do?</p>
+
+<p>45 (§14B). Jacob was very shrewd, but there is a better defense than
+cunning. Read the beautiful prayer. How does he think of God? How does
+he think of himself? What does he pray for? What promise does he plead?</p>
+
+<p>46 (§14C). How many animals were there in each of the five droves? How
+many were there altogether? What was Jacob's plan to pacify Esau? Do you
+think this was a shrewd scheme?</p>
+
+<p>47 (§15). In the old days the experiences and feelings of the heart were
+often told as if they were physical events. So we must understand the
+wonderful story of the wrestle. Jacob had been a clever man living by
+his wits. God had in many ways been seeking to bring him to obedience to
+his will. Now when the danger of Esau is upon him, Jacob has the fight
+of his life&mdash;but it is within his own heart.</p>
+
+<p>48 (§15). Picture the loneliness of Jacob and describe how you think he
+felt that night? Did you ever have a great heart struggle about some
+duty, or over some temptation?</p>
+
+<p>49 (§15). Jacob was defeated and yet he was victorious. When we give in
+to God, we are really victors. What was his new name? How are all his
+people called by it? The old name belongs to the clever man: the new
+name belongs to the godly man, who has received God's blessing.</p>
+
+<p>50 (§16). This story may be passed rapidly, though it is full of
+interest. Tell in your own words: (1) what happened when the brothers
+met; (2) how Jacob wisely separated from Esau.</p>
+
+<p>51 (§17). There was one place in Canaan that was very sacred to Jacob.
+What had happened at Beth-el? Why did God tell him to go there? How did
+he prepare his people for the visit? What thoughts do you think came to
+him when he returned to the spot where he had slept as a lonely young
+man twenty years before?</p><br>
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>Tell your parents what you have learned about Jacob, and ask them if
+they ever knew a person who had done wrong and was in danger from it
+years afterward, and who was sorry for the wrong, and was helped by
+God's goodness. Write what they tell you in your notebook.</p>
+
+
+<br>
+<hr style="width: 65%;"> <h2>JOSEPH</h2>
+
+
+
+<div class="center"> <table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary=""> <tr><td align="right"><a href="#VI_JOSEPH_THE_SLAVE">VI.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Joseph, the Slave</span></td></tr> <tr><td align="right"><a href="#VII_JOSEPH_THE_RULER">VII.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Joseph, the Ruler</span></td></tr> <tr><td align="right"><a href="#VIII_JOSEPH_THE_GENEROUS">VIII.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Joseph, the
+Generous</span></td></tr> </table></div><br>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;"> <h2><a name="VI_JOSEPH_THE_SLAVE" id="VI_JOSEPH_THE_SLAVE"></a>VI. JOSEPH, THE SLAVE</h2>
+
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§18. Joseph and His Dreams</b> (Gen. 37:3-11)</p>
+
+<p>Now Israel loved Joseph more than all his children, because he was the
+son of his old age: and he made him a long garment with sleeves. And his
+brethren saw that their father loved him more than all his brethren; and
+they hated him, and could not speak peaceably unto him. And Joseph
+dreamed a dream, and he told it to his brethren: and they hated him yet
+the more.</p>
+
+<p>And he said unto them, "Hear, I pray you, this dream which I have
+dreamed: for, behold, we were binding sheaves in the field, and lo, my
+sheaf arose, and also stood upright; and, behold, your sheaves came
+round about, and made obeisance to my sheaf."</p>
+
+<p>And his brethren said to him, "Shalt thou indeed reign over us? or shalt
+thou indeed have dominion over us?" And they hated him yet the more for
+his dreams, and for his words.</p>
+
+<p>And he dreamed yet another dream, and told it to his brethren, and said,
+"Behold, I have dreamed yet a dream; and, behold, the sun and the moon
+and eleven stars made obeisance to me."</p>
+
+<p>And he told it to his father, and to his brethren; and his father
+rebuked him, and said unto him, "What is this dream that thou hast
+dreamed? Shall I and thy mother and thy brethren indeed come to bow down
+ourselves to thee to the earth?"</p>
+
+<p>And his brethren envied him; and his father kept the saying in mind.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§19. Joseph Sold as a Slave</b> (Gen. 37:12-35)</p>
+
+<p>And his brethren went to feed their father's flock in Shechem. And
+Israel said unto Joseph, "Do not thy brethren feed the flock in Shechem?
+come, and I will send thee unto them."</p>
+
+<p>And he said to him, "Here am I."</p>
+
+<p>And he said to him, "Go now, see whether it be well with thy brethren,
+and well with the flock; and bring me word again."</p>
+
+<p>So he sent him out of the vale of Hebron, and he came to Shechem. And a
+certain man found him, and, behold, he was wandering in the field: and
+the man asked him, saying, "What seekest thou?"</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "I seek my brethren: tell me, I pray thee, where they are
+feeding the flock."</p>
+
+<p>And the man said, "They are departed hence: for I heard them say, 'Let
+us go to Dothan.'"</p>
+
+<p>And Joseph went after his brethren, and found them in Dothan. And they
+saw him afar off, and before he came near unto them, they conspired
+against him to slay him. And they said one to another, "Behold, this
+dreamer cometh. Come now therefore, and let us slay him, and cast him
+into one of the pits, and we will say, 'An evil beast hath devoured
+him': and we shall see what will become of his dreams."</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, when Joseph was come unto his brethren, that they
+stript Joseph of his coat, the long garment with sleeves that was on
+him; and they took him, and cast him into the pit: and the pit was
+empty, there was no water in it. And they sat down to eat bread: and
+they lifted up their eyes and looked, and, behold, a traveling company
+of Ishmaelites came from Gilead, with their camels bearing spicery and
+balm and myrrh, going to carry it down to Egypt. And Judah said unto his
+brethren, "What profit is it if we slay our brother and conceal his
+blood? Come, and let us sell him to the Ishmaelites, and let not our
+hand be upon him; for he is our brother, our flesh."</p>
+
+<p>And his brethren hearkened unto him. And they drew and lifted Joseph out
+of the pit, and sold Joseph to the Ishmaelites for twenty pieces of
+silver. And they brought Joseph into Egypt. And they took Joseph's
+coat, and killed a he-goat, and dipped the coat in the blood; and they
+brought it to their father; and said, "This have we found; know now
+whether it be thy son's coat or not."</p>
+
+<p>And he knew it, and said, "It is my son's coat; an evil beast hath
+devoured him; Joseph is without doubt torn in pieces." And Jacob rent
+his garments, and put sackcloth upon his loins, and mourned for his son
+many days. And all his sons and all his daughters rose up to comfort
+him; but he refused to be comforted; and he said, "For I will go down to
+the grave to my son mourning." And his father wept for him.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§20. Joseph's Faithfulness</b> (Gen. 39:1-6)</p>
+
+<p>And Joseph was brought down to Egypt; and Potiphar, an officer of
+Pharaoh's, the captain of the guard, an Egyptian, bought him of the hand
+of the Ishmaelites, which had brought him down thither.</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man; and he was in
+the house of his master the Egyptian. And his master saw that the Lord
+was with him, and that the Lord made all that he did to prosper in his
+hand. And Joseph found grace in his sight, and he ministered unto him:
+and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he had he put into
+his hand. And it came to pass from the time that he made him overseer in
+his house, and over all that he had, that the Lord blessed the
+Egyptian's house for Joseph's sake; and the blessing of the Lord was
+upon all that he had, in the house and in the field. And he left all
+that he had in Joseph's hand; and he knew not aught that was with him
+save the bread which he did eat.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§21. Joseph in Prison</b> (Gen. 39:17-23)</p>
+
+<p>But Potiphar's wife spoke false words concerning Joseph, and she said
+unto her husband, "The Hebrew servant, which thou hast brought unto us,
+came in unto me to mock me: and it came to pass, as I lifted up my voice
+and cried, that he fled out."</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, when his master heard the words of his wife, which
+she spake unto him, saying, "After this manner did thy servant to me,"
+that his wrath was kindled. And Joseph's master took him, and put him
+into the prison, the place where the king's prisoners were bound: and he
+was there in the prison.</p>
+
+<p>But the Lord was with Joseph, and showed kindness unto him, and gave him
+favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison. And the keeper of the
+prison committed to Joseph's hand all the prisoners that were in the
+prison; and whatsoever they did there, he was the doer of it. The keeper
+of the prison looked not to any thing that was under his hand, because
+the Lord was with him; and that which he did, the Lord made it to
+prosper.</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>52. The story of Joseph is remarkably beautiful and interesting. It is
+more fully told than many of the other stories, and we seem to know
+Joseph better than almost any of the older Bible characters. His life
+was full of startling adventure and shows how a strong, noble young hero
+can meet danger.</p>
+
+<p>53 (§18). Joseph was the youngest but one of Jacob's sons. The others
+were grown up, and many statements show that they were not very good
+men. How did Jacob feel toward Joseph? He gave him a long garment with
+sleeves, which was a mark of distinction. The ordinary working garments
+were short and had no sleeves. How did Joseph's brothers feel toward
+him? What do you think of favoritism in families? Can a father feel the
+same toward good sons and bad sons?</p>
+
+<p>54 (§18). In old times they thought much of dreams and believed they had
+important meanings. Tell Joseph's two dreams. What were they supposed to
+mean? Do boys often dream of their future?</p>
+
+<p>55 (§19). Why do men with large flocks need to move from place to place?
+Locate Hebron on the map. Then note how far the shepherds had wandered
+to Shechem, which is a very rich pasturage. Then notice Dothan, 15 miles
+farther north, where the pasturage is still richer. About how far was
+Dothan from Hebron? (Use the scale on the map to measure.) Tell how
+Joseph found his brothers.</p>
+
+<p>56 (§19). Tell the story of the plot. What had prepared these men for
+the crime they committed? (See I John 3:15.) It is a fearful thing to
+keep hatred in the heart. Shut the book and think for a moment whether
+you really hate anyone. Tell what they did with Joseph. How does one sin
+lead to another? What did they tell Jacob? Notice how sorry the old man
+was and how they showed their sorrow in those days.</p>
+
+<p>57 (§20). What happened to Joseph when he reached Egypt? What is the
+position of a slave?</p>
+
+<p>58 (§20). Notice how Joseph, although he was sold into slavery,
+determined to do his duty to his master. Some people will only do their
+best when they are well paid. How was faithfulness rewarded in this
+case?</p>
+
+<p>59 (§21). This story is full of strange surprises. Just as Joseph was
+enjoying his place as overseer, a new enemy arose. His master's wife
+made false charges against him. She was a wicked woman and wanted Joseph
+to be put out of the way. Her husband believed her. What did he do with
+Joseph?</p>
+
+<p>60 (§21). Joseph might well be discouraged, but even in prison he was
+determined to do his best. Whose favor did he gain? In our prisons they
+call the good prisoners "trusties." The jailer soon found that Joseph
+was a "trusty," and gave him charge of all the other prisoners.</p><br>
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>Bear in mind Joseph's trouble in slavery and in prison, and try to find
+out about someone who has had a very hard time, but who is patiently and
+cheerfully doing his work, trusting in God. Write the account of it.</p>
+
+<br>
+<hr style="width: 65%;"> <h2><a name="VII_JOSEPH_THE_RULER" id="VII_JOSEPH_THE_RULER"></a>VII. JOSEPH, THE RULER</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§22. Joseph's Interpretation of the Dreams</b> (Gen. 40)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. JOSEPH AND THE STATE PRISONERS</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass after these things, that the butler of the king of
+Egypt and his baker offended their lord the king of Egypt. And Pharaoh
+was wroth against his two officers, against the chief of the butlers,
+and against the chief of the bakers. And he put them in the house of the
+captain of the guard, into the prison, the place where Joseph was bound.
+And the captain of the guard charged Joseph with them, and he
+ministered unto them: and they continued a season in prison.</p>
+
+<p>And they dreamed a dream both of them, each man his dream, in one night,
+each man according to the interpretation of his dream, the butler and
+the baker of the king of Egypt, which were bound in the prison.</p>
+
+<p>And Joseph came in unto them in the morning, and saw them, and, behold,
+they were sad. And he asked them, saying, "Wherefore look ye so sadly
+to-day?"</p>
+
+<p>And they said unto him, "We have dreamed a dream, and there is none that
+can interpret it."</p>
+
+<p>And Joseph said unto them, "Do not interpretations belong to God? tell
+it me, I pray you."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE CHIEF BUTLER'S DREAM</p>
+
+<p>And the chief butler told his dream to Joseph, and said to him, "In my
+dream, behold, a vine was before me; and in the vine were three
+branches: and it was as though it budded, and its blossoms shot forth;
+and the clusters thereof brought forth ripe grapes: and Pharaoh's cup
+was in my hand; and I took the grapes, and pressed them into Pharaoh's
+cup, and I gave the cup into Pharaoh's hand."</p>
+
+<p>And Joseph said unto him, "This is the interpretation of it: the three
+branches are three days; within yet three days shall Pharaoh lift up
+thine head, and restore thee unto thine office: and thou shalt give
+Pharaoh's cup into his hand, after the former manner when thou wast his
+butler. But have me in thy remembrance when it shall be well with thee,
+and show kindness, I pray thee, unto me, and make mention of me unto
+Pharaoh, and bring me out of this house: for indeed I was stolen away
+out of the land of the Hebrews: and here also have I done nothing that
+they should put me into the dungeon."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. THE CHIEF BAKER'S DREAM</p>
+
+<p>When the chief baker saw that the interpretation was good, he said unto
+Joseph, "I also was in my dream, and, behold, three baskets of white
+bread were on my head: and in the uppermost basket there was of all
+manner of baked food for Pharaoh; and the birds did eat it out of the
+basket upon my head."</p>
+
+<p>And Joseph answered and said, "This is the interpretation thereof: the
+three baskets are three days; within yet three days shall Pharaoh lift
+up thy head from off thee, and shall hang thee on a tree; and the birds
+shall eat thy flesh from off thee."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">D. THE INTERPRETATION COMES TRUE</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass the third day, which was Pharaoh's birthday, that he
+made a feast unto all his servants: and he lifted up the head of the
+chief butler and the head of the chief baker among his servants. And he
+restored the chief butler unto his butlership again; and he gave the
+cup into Pharaoh's hand: but he hanged the chief baker: as Joseph had
+interpreted to them. Yet did not the chief butler remember Joseph, but
+forgot him.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§23. Joseph's Interpretation of Pharaoh's Dreams</b> (Gen. 41:1-16, 25-36)</p>
+
+
+<p class="center">A. THE KING'S DREAM</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass at the end of two full years, that Pharaoh dreamed:
+and, behold, he stood by the river. And, behold, there came up out of
+the river seven kine, well favored and fatfleshed; and they fed in the
+reed-grass. And, behold, seven other kine came up after them out of the
+river, ill favored and leanfleshed; and stood by the other kine upon the
+brink of the river. And the ill favored and leanfleshed kine did eat up
+the seven well favored and fat kine. So Pharaoh awoke. And he slept and
+dreamed a second time: and, behold, seven ears of corn came up on one
+stalk, rank and good. And, behold, seven ears, thin and blasted with the
+east wind, sprung up after them. And the thin ears swallowed up the
+seven rank and full ears. And Pharaoh awoke, and, behold, it was a
+dream. And it came to pass in the morning that his spirit was troubled;
+and he sent and called for all the magicians of Egypt, and all the wise
+men thereof: and Pharaoh told them his dream: but there was none that
+could interpret them unto Pharaoh.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE BUTLER'S RECOMMENDATION OF JOSEPH</p>
+
+<p>Then spake the chief butler unto Pharaoh, saying, "I do remember my
+faults this day: Pharaoh was wroth with his servants, and put me in
+prison in the house of the captain of the guard, me and the chief baker:
+and we dreamed a dream in one night, I and he; we dreamed each man
+according to the interpretation of his dream. And there was with us
+there a young man, an Hebrew, servant to the captain of the guards; and
+we told him, and he interpreted to us our dreams; to each man according
+to his dream he did interpret. And it came to pass, as he interpreted to
+us, so it was; I was restored unto mine office, and he was hanged."</p><br>
+
+<p class="center">C. JOSEPH INTERPRETS PHARAOH'S DREAM</p>
+
+<p>Then Pharaoh sent and called Joseph, and they brought him hastily out of
+the dungeon: and he shaved himself, and changed his raiment, and came in
+unto Pharaoh.</p>
+
+<p>And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, "I have dreamed a dream, and there is none
+that can interpret it: and I have heard say of thee, that when thou
+hearest a dream thou canst interpret it."</p>
+
+<p>And Joseph answered Pharaoh, saying, "It is not in me: God shall give
+Pharaoh an answer of peace."</p>
+
+<p>And Pharaoh told Joseph his dreams.</p>
+
+<p>And Joseph said unto Pharaoh, "The dream of Pharaoh is one: what God is
+about to do he hath declared unto Pharaoh. The seven good kine are
+seven years; and the seven good ears are seven years: the dream is one.
+And the seven lean and ill favored kine that came up after them are
+seven years, and also the seven empty ears blasted with the east wind;
+they shall be seven years of famine. That is the thing which I spake
+unto Pharaoh: what God is about to do he hath showed unto Pharaoh.
+Behold, there come seven years of great plenty throughout all the land
+of Egypt: and there shall arise after them seven years of famine; and
+all the plenty shall be forgotten in the land of Egypt; and the famine
+shall consume the land; and the plenty shall not be known in the land by
+reason of that famine which followeth; for it shall be very grievous.
+And for that the dream was doubled unto Pharaoh twice, it is because the
+thing is established by God, and God will shortly bring it to pass. Now
+therefore let Pharaoh look out a man discreet and wise, and set him over
+the land of Egypt. Let Pharaoh do this, and let him appoint overseers
+over the land, and take up the fifth part of the land of Egypt in the
+seven plenteous years. And let them gather all the food of these good
+years that come, and lay up grain under the hand of Pharaoh for food in
+the cities, and let them keep it. And the food shall be for a store to
+the land against the seven years of famine, which shall be in the land
+of Egypt; that the land perish not through the famine."</p><br>
+
+<p class="center"><b>§24. Joseph Made Ruler of Egypt</b> (Gen. 41:37-45, 47-57)</p>
+
+
+<p class="center">A. JOSEPH HONORED BY PHARAOH</p>
+
+<p>And the thing was good in the eyes of Pharaoh, and in the eyes of all
+his servants. And Pharaoh said unto his servants, "Can we find such a
+one as this, a man in whom the spirit of God is?" And Pharaoh said unto
+Joseph, "Forasmuch as God hath showed thee all this, there is none so
+discreet and wise as thou: thou shalt be over my house, and according
+unto thy word shall all my people be ruled: only in the throne will I be
+greater than thou." And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, "See, I have set thee
+over all the land of <a name="RAMSES086" id="RAMSES086"></a>Egypt."</p>
+
+<div class="figleft" style="width: 150px;"> <img src="images/il086.jpg" width="150" height="106" alt="THE SEAL OF THE
+GRAND VIZIER OF RAMSES II" title="" > <span class="caption">THE SEAL OF THE GRAND VIZIER OF
+RAMSES II</span> </div>
+
+<p>And Pharaoh took off his signet ring from his hand, and put it upon
+Joseph's hand, and arrayed him in vestures of fine linen, and put a gold
+chain about his neck; and he made him to ride in the second chariot
+which he had; and they cried before him, "Bow the knee," and he set him
+over all the land of Egypt. And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, "I am Pharaoh,
+and without thee shall no man lift up his hand or his foot in all the
+land of Egypt."</p>
+
+<p>And he gave him to wife Asenath the daughter of Poti-phera priest of On.
+And Joseph went out over the land of Egypt.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. JOSEPH'S PROSPERITY</p>
+
+<p>And in the seven plenteous years the earth brought forth by handfuls.
+And he gathered up all the food of the seven years which were in the
+land of Egypt, and laid up the food in the cities: the food of the
+field, which was round about every city, laid he up in the same. And
+Joseph laid up grain as the sand of the sea, very much, until he left
+numbering; for it was without number.</p>
+
+<p>And unto Joseph were born two sons before the year of famine came. And
+Joseph called the name of the firstborn Manasseh: "For God hath made me
+forget all my toil, and all my father's house." And the name of the
+second called he Ephraim: "For God hath made me fruitful in the land of
+my affliction."</p>
+
+<p>And the seven years of plenty, that was in the land of Egypt, came to an
+end. And the seven years of famine began to come, according as Joseph
+had said: and there was famine in all lands; but in all the land of
+Egypt there was bread. And when all the land of Egypt was famished, the
+people cried to Pharaoh for bread: and Pharaoh said unto all the
+Egyptians, "Go unto Joseph; what he saith to you, do."</p>
+
+<p>And the famine was over all the face of the earth: and Joseph opened all
+the storehouses, and sold unto the Egyptians; and the famine was sore in
+the land of Egypt. And all countries came into Egypt to Joseph to buy
+grain; because the famine was sore in all the earth.</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>61. Recall rapidly the story of Joseph as far as we have studied it.
+Read §21 and consider the situation of the young prisoner.</p>
+
+<p>62 (§22A). Who were these two great men that were sent to prison? It was
+a high office to be cupbearer to the king. The butler's speech later
+shows that it was his duty to squeeze the grapes into a goblet of water,
+making the refreshing drink for his royal master. The officer who had
+charge of the kitchen in a great palace would also be an important man.
+In our time a French "chef" sometimes has a salary of $25,000. Why were
+these men in prison? What did Joseph have to do with them?</p>
+
+<p>63 (§22A). This was three days before the king's birthday and on that
+day it was customary to decide the fate of state prisoners. How would
+the two men feel as the day drew near? Would they be likely to dream
+about their former occupations? Tell the conversation that took place
+between them and Joseph in the morning.</p>
+
+<p>64 (§22B). Tell the story. Note how natural it was for the butler to
+dream that he was again preparing the king's grape juice. What do you
+think of Joseph's request? Was it a reasonable request?</p>
+
+<p>65 (§22C, D). Tell the story of the baker's dream and the
+interpretation. What happened on the king's birthday? How was it that
+the chief butler was so ungrateful?</p>
+
+<p>66 (§23A). Pharaoh was the title given to all the kings of Egypt, as
+Czar is given to the Russian emperors, Sultan to the rulers of Turkey,
+and President to our own chief executive. The most important thing in
+Egypt is its famous river. (What is its name?) It was natural for the
+king to dream of it. Tell the story of his dream.</p>
+
+<p>67 (§23B). We have already noted how much significance was attached to
+dreams. A king would have a company of learned men who were supposed to
+be able to interpret his dreams. How was it in this case? What did the
+chief butler do? How long had he forgotten Joseph?</p>
+
+<p>68 (§23C). How did they get Joseph ready to appear before the king? If
+you look at Egyptian pictures you will see that the great men never
+wore beards. The Egyptians were also very cleanly and particular about
+white garments. What did Pharaoh say to Joseph? Note Joseph's modesty.</p>
+
+<p>69 (§23C). Tell Joseph's interpretation of the dreams. Of course we
+naturally ask how Joseph could know these things. But we can only say
+that it is part of the story, and our interest is in finding just what
+these beautiful old tales of the heroes have to say to us. What advice
+did Joseph give to the king? Famines were rare in Egypt, because the
+country is not dependent upon rainfall but upon the overflow of the
+Nile. Occasionally, though very seldom, the water does not come from the
+upper river in sufficient quantity; then there is no inundation and the
+crops fail.</p>
+
+<p>70 (§24A). What did Pharaoh think of Joseph's interpretation? What did
+he think of his advice? What did he decide to do with him. Note the six
+distinctions he gave him and explain what they meant? In England one of
+the highest officers is the Keeper of the Great Seal. And there the
+aldermen wear gold chains round their necks. It was a notable honor to
+be married to the daughter of the high priest, who was a great
+dignitary.</p>
+
+<p>71 (§24B). What did Joseph do during the seven prosperous years? How
+many sons were born to him? What did he do when the famine came?</p>
+
+<p>72. When Joseph was in the pit in slavery, and in the prison, whom did
+he trust? Did he ever think the happy dreams of youth were hopeless?
+What is the best way to meet bad fortune? Now note how he meets good
+fortune. Read Rom. 8:28.</p><br>
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>Like Joseph, you doubtless have some tasks put upon you that are
+unpleasant. Note one of those tasks this week. Do it as Joseph would
+have done. You will feel after you have done your best that it was worth
+while. Then think again how Joseph behaved. Write out in your notebook
+why Joseph always did his duty.</p><br>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;"> <h2><a name="VIII_JOSEPH_THE_GENEROUS" id="VIII_JOSEPH_THE_GENEROUS"></a>VIII. JOSEPH, THE GENEROUS</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§25. Joseph and the Guilty Brothers</b> (Gen. 42)</p>
+
+
+<p class="center">A. THE FIRST JOURNEY OF THE BROTHERS</p>
+
+<p>Now Jacob saw that there was grain in Egypt, and Jacob said unto his
+sons, "Why do ye look one upon another? Behold, I have heard that there
+is grain in Egypt: get you down thither, and buy for us from thence;
+that we may live, and not die."</p>
+
+<p>And Joseph's ten brethren went down to buy grain from Egypt. But
+Benjamin, Joseph's brother, Jacob sent not with his brethren; for he
+said, "Lest peradventure mischief befall him."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. JOSEPH'S TREATMENT OF HIS BROTHERS</p>
+
+<p>And Joseph was the governor over the land; he it was that sold to all
+the people of the land: and Joseph's brethren came, and bowed down
+themselves to him with their faces to the earth. And Joseph saw his
+brethren, and he knew them, but made himself strange unto them, and
+spake roughly with them; and he said unto them, "Whence come ye?" And
+they said, "From the land of Canaan to buy food."</p>
+
+<p>And Joseph remembered the dreams which he dreamed of them, and said unto
+them, "Ye are spies; to see the nakedness of the land ye are come."</p>
+
+<p>And they said unto him, "Nay, my lord, but to buy food are thy servants
+come. We are all one man's sons; we are true men, thy servants are no
+spies."</p>
+
+<p>And he said unto them, "Nay, but to see the nakedness of the land ye are
+come."</p>
+
+<p>And they said, "We thy servants are twelve brethren, the sons of one man
+in the land of Canaan; and, behold, the youngest is this day with our
+father, and one is not."</p>
+
+<p>And Joseph said unto them, "Ye are spies." And he put them all together
+into prison three days. And Joseph said unto them the third day, "This
+do, and live; for I fear God: if ye be true men, let one of your
+brethren be bound in your prison house; but go ye, carry grain for the
+famine of your houses: and bring your youngest brother unto me; so shall
+your words be verified, and ye shall not die."</p>
+
+<p>And they said one to another, "We are verily guilty concerning our
+brother, in that we saw the distress of his soul, when he besought us,
+and we would not hear; therefore is this distress come upon us."</p>
+
+<p>And they knew not that Joseph understood them; for there was an
+interpreter between them. And he turned himself about from them, and
+wept; and he returned to them, and spake to them, and took Simeon from
+among them, and bound him before their eyes.</p><br>
+
+<p class="center">C. THE RETURN TO JACOB</p>
+
+<p>Then Joseph commanded to fill their vessels with grain, and to restore
+every man's money into his sack, and to give them provision for the way:
+and thus was it done unto them.</p>
+
+<p>And they laded their asses with their grain and departed thence. And as
+one of them opened his sack to give his ass provender in the lodging
+place, he espied his money; and, behold, it was in the mouth of his
+sack. And he said unto his brethren, "My money is restored; and, lo, it
+is even in my sack." And their heart failed them, and they turned
+trembling one to another, saying, "What is this that God hath done unto
+us?"</p>
+
+<p>And they came unto Jacob their father unto the land of Canaan, and told
+him all that had befallen them. And it came to pass as they emptied
+their sacks, that, behold, every man's bundle of money was in his sack;
+and when they and their father saw their bundles of money, they were
+afraid.</p>
+
+<p>And Jacob their father said unto them, "Me have ye bereaved of my
+children: Joseph is not, and Simeon is not, and ye will take Benjamin
+away: all these things are against me."</p>
+
+<p>And Reuben spake unto his father, saying, "Slay my two sons, if I bring
+him not to thee: deliver him into my hand, and I will bring him to thee
+again."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "My son shall not go down with you; for his brother is
+dead, and he only is left: if mischief befall him by the way in the
+which ye go, then shall ye bring down my gray hairs with sorrow to the
+grave."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§26. Joseph and Benjamin</b> (Gen. 43)</p>
+
+
+<p class="center">A. THE SECOND JOURNEY TO EGYPT</p>
+
+<p>And the famine was sore in the land. And it came to pass, when they had
+eaten up the grain which they had brought out of Egypt, their father
+said unto them, "Go again, buy us a little food."</p>
+
+<p>And Judah spake unto him, saying, "The man did solemnly protest unto us,
+saying, 'Ye shall not see my face, except your brother be with you.' If
+thou wilt send our brother with us, we will go down and buy thee food:
+but if thou wilt not send him, we will not go down."</p>
+
+<p>And Israel said, "Wherefore dealt ye so ill with me, as to tell the man
+whether ye had yet a brother?"</p>
+
+<p>And they said, "The man asked straitly concerning ourselves, and
+concerning our kindred, saying, 'Is your father yet alive? have ye
+another brother?' and we told him according to the tenor of these words:
+could we in any wise know that he would say, 'Bring your brother down'?"
+And Judah said unto Israel his father, "Send the lad with me, and we
+will arise and go; that we may live, and not die, both we, and thou, and
+also our little ones. I will be surety for him; of my hand shalt thou
+require him: if I bring him not unto thee, and set him before thee, then
+let me bear the blame for ever: for except we had lingered, surely we
+had now returned a second time."</p>
+
+<p>And their father Israel said unto them, "If it be so now, do this; take
+of the choice fruits of the land in your vessels, and carry down the man
+a present, a little balm, and a little honey, spicery and myrrh, nuts,
+and almonds: and take double money in your hand; and the money that was
+returned in the mouth of your sacks carry again in your hand;
+peradventure it was an oversight: take also your brother, and arise, go
+again unto the man: and God Almighty give you mercy before the man, that
+he may release unto you your other brother and Benjamin. And if I be
+bereaved of my children, I am bereaved."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE KIND RECEPTION</p>
+
+<p>And the men took that present, and they took double money in their hand,
+and Benjamin; and rose up, and went down to Egypt, and stood before
+Joseph. And when Joseph saw Benjamin with them, he said to the steward
+of his house, "Bring the men into the house, and slay, and make ready;
+for the men shall dine with me at noon."</p>
+
+<p>And the man did as Joseph bade; and the man brought the men into
+Joseph's house. And the men were afraid because they were brought into
+Joseph's house; and they said, "Because of the money that was returned
+in our sacks at the first time are we brought in; that he may seek
+occasion against us, and fall upon us, and take us for bondmen, and our
+asses."</p>
+
+<p>And they came near to the steward of Joseph's house; and they spake unto
+him at the door of the house, and said, "Oh my lord, we came indeed down
+at the first time to buy food: and it came to pass, when we came to the
+lodging place, that we opened our sacks, and, behold, every man's money
+was in the mouth of his sack, our money in full weight: and we have
+brought it again in our hand. And other money have we brought down in
+our hand to buy food: we know not who put our money in our sacks."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Peace be to you, fear not: your God, and the God of your
+father, hath given you treasure in your sacks: I had your money."</p>
+
+<p>And he brought Simeon out unto them. And the man brought the men into
+Joseph's house, and gave them water, and they washed their feet; and he
+gave their asses provender. And they made ready the present against
+Joseph came at noon: for they heard that they should eat bread there.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. THE FEAST</p>
+
+<p>And when Joseph came home, they brought him the present which was in
+their hand into the house, and bowed down themselves to him to the
+earth. And he asked them of their welfare, and said, "Is your father
+well, the old man of whom ye spake? Is he yet alive?" And they said,
+"Thy servant our father is well, he is yet alive." And they bowed the
+head, and made obeisance.</p>
+
+<p>And he lifted up his eyes, and saw Benjamin his brother, his mother's
+son, and said, "Is this your youngest brother, of whom ye spake unto
+me?" And he said, "God be gracious unto thee, my son."</p>
+
+<p>And Joseph made haste; for his heart yearned over his brother: and he
+sought where to weep; and he entered into his chamber, and wept there.
+And he washed his face, and came out; and he refrained himself, and
+said, "Set on bread."</p>
+
+<p>And they set on for him by himself, and for them by themselves, and for
+the Egyptians, which did eat with him, by themselves: because the
+Egyptians might not eat bread with the Hebrews; for that is an
+abomination unto the Egyptians. And they sat before him, the firstborn
+according to his birthright, and the youngest according to his youth:
+and the men marvelled one with another. And he took and sent messes unto
+them from before him: but Benjamin's mess was five times so much as any
+of theirs. And they drank, and were merry with him.</p>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§27. Joseph's Forgiveness</b> (Gen. 44; 45:1-15)</p>
+
+
+<p class="center">A. THE HARD TEST</p>
+
+<p>And he commanded the steward of his house, saying, "Fill the men's sacks
+with food, as much as they can carry, and put every man's money in his
+sack's mouth. And put my cup, the silver cup, in the sack's mouth of the
+youngest, and his grain money."</p>
+
+<p>And he did according to the word that Joseph had spoken. As soon as the
+morning was light, the men were sent away, they and their asses. And
+when they were gone out of the city, and were not yet far off, Joseph
+said unto his steward, "Up, follow after the men; and when thou dost
+overtake them, say unto them, 'Wherefore have ye rewarded evil for good?
+Is not this it in which my lord drinketh, and whereby he indeed
+divineth? ye have done evil in so doing.'"</p>
+
+<p>And he overtook them, and he spake unto them these words. And they said
+unto him, "Wherefore speaketh my lord such words as these? God forbid
+that thy servants should do such a thing. Behold, the money, which we
+found in our sacks' mouths, we brought again unto thee out of the land
+of Canaan: how then should we steal out of thy lord's house silver or
+gold? With whomsoever of thy servants it be found, let him die, and we
+also will be my lord's bondmen."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Now also let it be according unto your words: he with whom
+it is found shall be my bondman; and ye shall be blameless."</p>
+
+<p>Then they hasted, and took down every man his sack to the ground, and
+opened every man his sack. And he searched, and began at the eldest, and
+left at the youngest: and the cup was found in Benjamin's sack. Then
+they rent their clothes, and laded every man his ass, and returned to
+the city. And Judah and his brethren came to Joseph's house; and he was
+yet there: and they fell before him on the ground.</p>
+
+<p>And Joseph said unto them, "What deed is this that ye have done? know ye
+not that such a man as I can indeed divine?"</p>
+
+<p>And Judah said, "What shall we say unto my lord? what shall we speak? or
+how shall we clear ourselves? God hath found out the iniquity of thy
+servants: behold, we are my lord's bondmen, both we, and he also in
+whose hand the cup is found."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "God forbid that I should do so: the man in whose hand the
+cup is found, he shall be my bondman; but as for you, get you up in
+peace unto your father."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. JUDAH'S NOBLE OFFER</p>
+
+<p>Then Judah came near unto him, and said, "Oh my lord, let thy servant, I
+pray thee, speak a word in my lord's ears, and let not thine anger burn
+against thy servant: for thou art even as Pharaoh. My lord asked his
+servants, saying, 'Have ye a father, or a brother?' And we said unto my
+lord, 'We have a father, an old man, and a child of his old age, a
+little one; and his brother is dead, and he alone is left of his mother,
+and his father loveth him.' And thou saidst unto thy servants, 'Bring
+him down unto me, that I may set mine eyes upon him.' And we said unto
+my lord, 'The lad cannot leave his father: for if he should leave his
+father, his father would die.' And thou saidst unto thy servants,
+'Except your youngest brother come down with you, ye shall see my face
+no more.' And it came to pass when we came up unto my father, we told
+him the words of my lord. And our father said, 'Go again, buy us a
+little food.' And we said, 'We cannot go down: if our youngest brother
+be with us, then will we go down; for we may not see the man's face,
+except our youngest brother be with us.' And my father said unto us, 'Ye
+know that my wife bare me two sons: and the one went out from me, and I
+said, Surely he is torn in pieces; and I have not seen him since: and
+if ye take this one also from me, and mischief befall him, ye shall
+bring down my gray hairs with sorrow to the grave.' Now therefore when I
+come to my father, and the lad be not with us; seeing that his life is
+bound up in the lad's life; it shall come to pass, when he seeth that
+the lad is not with us, that he will die: and thy servants shall bring
+down the gray hairs of our father with sorrow to the grave. For thy
+servant became surety for the lad unto my father, saying, 'If I bring
+him not unto thee, then shall I bear the blame to my father for ever.'
+Now therefore, let thy servant, I pray thee, abide instead of the lad a
+bondman to my lord; and let the lad go up with his brethren. For how
+shall I go up to my father, and the lad be not with me? lest I see the
+evil that shall come on my father."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. THE FORGIVENESS</p>
+
+<p>Then Joseph could not refrain himself before all them that stood by him;
+and he cried, "Cause every man to go out from me." And there stood no
+man with him, while Joseph made himself known unto his brethren. And he
+wept aloud.</p>
+
+<p>And Joseph said unto his brethren, "I am Joseph; doth my father yet
+live?" And his brethren could not answer him; for they were troubled at
+his presence. And Joseph said unto his brethren, "Come near to me, I
+pray you." And they came near. And he said, "I am Joseph your brother,
+whom ye sold into Egypt. And now be not grieved, nor angry with
+yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to
+preserve life. For these two years hath the famine been in the land: and
+there are yet five years, in the which there shall be neither plowing
+nor harvest. And God sent me before you to preserve you a remnant in the
+earth, and to save you alive by a great deliverance. So now it was not
+you that sent me hither, but God: and he hath made me a father to
+Pharaoh, and lord of all his house, and ruler over all the land of
+Egypt. Haste ye, and go up to my father, and say unto him, 'Thus saith
+thy son Joseph, God hath made me lord of all Egypt: come down unto me,
+tarry not: and thou shalt dwell in the land of Goshen, and thou shalt be
+near unto me, thou, and thy children, and thy children's children, and
+thy flocks, and thy herds, and all that thou hast: and there will I
+nourish thee; for there are yet five years of famine; lest thou come to
+poverty, thou, and thy household, and all that thou hast.' And, behold,
+your eyes see, and the eyes of my brother Benjamin, that it is my mouth
+that speaketh unto you. And ye shall tell my father of all my glory in
+Egypt, and of all that ye have seen and ye shall haste and bring down my
+father hither."</p>
+
+<p>And he fell upon his brother Benjamin's neck, and wept; and Benjamin
+wept upon his neck. And he kissed all his brethren, and wept upon them:
+and after that his brethren talked with him.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§28. Joseph and His Father</b> (Gen. 45:25-28; 46:28-30; 47:7-11)</p>
+
+<p>And they went up out of Egypt, and came into the land of Canaan unto
+Jacob their father. And they told him, saying, "Joseph is yet alive, and
+he is ruler over all the land of Egypt."</p>
+
+<p>And his heart fainted, for he believed them not. And they told him all
+the words of Joseph, which he had said unto them: and when he saw the
+wagons which Joseph had sent to carry him, the spirit of Jacob their
+father revived: and Israel said, "It is enough; Joseph my son is yet
+alive: I will go and see him before I die."</p>
+
+<p>And he sent Judah before him unto Joseph, to show the way before him
+unto Goshen; and they came unto the land of Goshen. And Joseph made
+ready his chariot, and went up to meet Israel his father, to Goshen. And
+he presented himself unto him, and fell on his neck, and wept on his
+neck a good while.</p>
+
+<p>And Israel said unto Joseph, "Now let me die, since I have seen thy
+face, that thou art yet alive."</p>
+
+<p>And Joseph brought in Jacob his father, and set him before Pharaoh: and
+Jacob blessed Pharaoh. And Pharaoh said unto Jacob, "How many are the
+days of the years of thy life?"</p>
+
+<p>And Jacob said unto Pharaoh, "The days of the years of my pilgrimage are
+an hundred and thirty years: few and evil have been the days of the
+years of my life, and they have not attained unto the days of the years
+of the life of my fathers in the days of their pilgrimage."</p>
+
+<p>And Jacob blessed Pharaoh, and went out from the presence of Pharaoh.
+And Joseph placed his father and his brethren, and gave them a
+possession in the land of Egypt, in the best of the land.</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>73. This a rather long chapter, but it is so full of interest that it
+would not be well to divide it. Recall the last chapter and tell what
+was the condition in Egypt and what was Joseph's position.</p>
+
+<p>74 (§25A). We turn back in our story to what persons? What was happening
+to them? What was this journey, who went, why did they go, who remained
+behind? Compare this with Abraham's journey (§4).</p>
+
+
+<p>75 (§25B). How did Joseph feel when he saw his brothers after so many
+years? How did he recognize them, while they did not know him? Notice
+how roughly he treats them. He is going to see whether they care for the
+youngest brother Benjamin. How does he do this? We saw in the life of
+Jacob how an old sin comes back. So it is here, as the brothers realize.
+How does the interview end?</p>
+
+<p>76 (§25C). What happened about the money? Describe the report that they
+made to Jacob.</p>
+
+<p>77 (§26A). Why did they need to go to Egypt again? What did Judah say to
+his father? How did Jacob at last consent?</p>
+
+<p>78 (§26B). Joseph is not yet ready to tell them of his forgiveness,
+because he wants them to be really repentant. He has a very good plan in
+his mind. What took place between the brothers and the steward?</p>
+
+<p>79 (§26C). This description is very beautiful. What were Joseph's
+feelings when he saw Benjamin? How was the feast arranged? Notice that
+Joseph ate apart as the Egyptian custom required. How surprised they
+were that they should be seated according to their ages!</p>
+
+<p>80 (§27A). What was Joseph's plan about the cup? Tell the story of the
+arrest. Notice the custom of expressing sorrow. The brothers find
+themselves in a hard case. Once, when they were guilty, they had been
+able to escape detection; now, when they are innocent, they cannot
+escape. What was Joseph's harsh decision?</p>
+
+<p>81 (§27B). The brothers had not cared that Joseph should be sold as a
+slave and Jacob should be heartbroken. But now when Benjamin is to be a
+slave they feel different. Why is this? Tell in your own words Judah's
+noble speech. See how completely Joseph has brought his brothers to
+repentance.</p>
+
+<p>82 (§27C). Notice (1) Joseph's loving words, (2) his faith in God's
+providence, (3) his message to his father, (4) his affection for his
+brothers. Have you ever known forgiveness to do any good?</p>
+
+<p>83 (§28). How did Jacob receive the good news that Joseph was alive?
+Goshen was a fertile part of Egypt in which the Hebrews were to live.
+Describe the meeting of the father and son. Notice the formal
+presentation of Jacob to the king, and how stately is the old patriarch
+as he blesses the king.</p><br>
+
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>Remember how happy Joseph was in forgiving his brethren. Read Rom.
+12:20, 21. If anybody should annoy or anger you this week, try Joseph's
+plan. Instead of getting even with your enemy, be kind to him. See if
+you do not feel happier about it. Write in your notebook your own idea
+of whether Joseph was right in his forgiveness.</p>
+<br>
+<hr style="width: 65%;"> <h2>MOSES</h2>
+
+
+
+
+<div class="center"> <table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary=""> <tr><td align="right"><a href="#IX_MOSES_EARLY_LIFE">IX.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Moses' Early Life</span></td></tr> <tr><td align="right"><a href="#X_MOSES_COMMISSION">X.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Moses' Commission</span></td></tr> <tr><td align="right"><a href="#XI_MOSES_THE_DELIVERER">XI.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Moses, the Deliverer</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XII_MOSES_THE_LAWGIVER">XII. </a></td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Moses, the Lawgiver</span></td></tr> </table></div>
+
+<br>
+<hr style="width: 65%;"> <h2><a name="IX_MOSES_EARLY_LIFE" id="IX_MOSES_EARLY_LIFE"></a>IX. MOSES' EARLY LIFE</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§29. The Oppression of the Hebrews</b> (Exod. 1:6-12, 22)</p>
+
+<p>And Joseph died, and all his brethren, and all that generation. And the
+children of Israel were fruitful, and increased abundantly, and
+multiplied, and waxed exceeding mighty; and the land was filled with
+them.</p>
+
+<p>Now there arose a new king over Egypt, which knew not Joseph. And he
+said unto his people, "Behold, the people of the children of Israel are
+more and mightier than we: come, let us deal wisely with them; lest they
+multiply, and it come to pass, that, when there falleth out any war,
+they also join themselves unto our enemies, and fight against us, and
+get them up out of the land."</p>
+
+<p>Therefore, they did set over them taskmasters to afflict them with their
+burdens. And they built for Pharaoh store cities, Pithom and Raamses.
+But the more they afflicted them, the more they multiplied and the more
+they spread abroad. And they were grieved because of the children of
+Israel.</p>
+
+<p>And Pharaoh charged all his people, saying, "Every son that is born ye
+shall cast into the river, and every daughter ye shall save alive."</p><br>
+
+<p class="center"><b>§30. The Birth and Adoption of Moses</b> <a name="RAMSES108" id="RAMSES108"></a>(Exod. 2:1-10)</p>
+
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 348px;"> <img src="images/il108.jpg" width="348" height="364" alt="Copyright 1904
+by Underwood and Underwood THE SIXTY-FIVE-FOOT PORTRAIT STATUES OF
+RAMSES II " title="" > </div> <p class="center">Copyright 1904 by Underwood and Underwood</p> <p class="ccaption">THE
+SIXTY-FIVE-FOOT PORTRAIT STATUES OF RAMSES II</p>
+
+<p>And there went a man of the house of Levi, and took to wife a daughter
+of Levi. And the woman bare a son: and when she saw him that he was a
+goodly child, she hid him three months. And when she could not longer
+hide him, she took for him an ark of bulrushes, and daubed it with slime
+and with pitch: and she put the child therein, and laid it in the flags
+by the river's brink. And his sister stood afar off, to know what would
+be done to him. And the daughter of Pharaoh came down to bathe at the
+river; and her maidens walked along by the river side; and she saw the
+ark among the flags, and sent her handmaid to fetch it. And she opened
+it, and saw the child: and, behold, the babe wept.</p>
+
+<p>And she had compassion on him, and said, "This is one of the Hebrews'
+children."</p>
+
+<p>Then said his sister to Pharaoh's daughter, "Shall I go and call thee a
+nurse of the Hebrew women, that she may nurse the child for thee?"</p>
+
+<p>And Pharaoh's daughter said to her, "Go."</p>
+
+<p>And the maid went and called the child's mother. And Pharaoh's daughter
+said unto her, "Take this child away, and nurse it for me, and I will
+give thee thy wages."</p>
+
+<p>And the woman took the child, and nursed it. And the child grew, and she
+brought him unto Pharaoh's daughter, and he became her son. And she
+called his name Moses.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§31. The Young Man's Unwise Methods</b> (Exod. 2:11-15)</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass in those days, when Moses was grown up, that he
+went out unto his brethren, and looked on their burdens: and he saw an
+Egyptian smiting a Hebrew, one of his brethren. And he looked this way
+and that way, and when he saw that there was no man, he smote the
+Egyptian, and hid him in the sand. And he went out the second day, and,
+behold, two men of the Hebrews strove together: and he said to him that
+did the wrong, "Wherefore smitest thou thy fellow?" And he said, "Who
+made thee a prince and a judge over us? thinkest thou to kill me, as
+thou killedst the Egyptian?" And Moses feared, and said, "Surely the
+thing is known." Now when Pharaoh heard this thing, he sought to slay
+Moses.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§32. Moses in Midian</b> (Exod. 2:16-22)</p>
+
+<p>Moses fled from the face of Pharaoh, and dwelt in the land of Midian:
+and he sat down by a well. Now the priest of Midian had seven daughters:
+and they came and drew water, and filled the trough to water their
+father's flock. And the shepherds came and drove them away: but Moses
+stood up and helped them, and watered their flock. And when they came to
+Reuel their father, he said, "How is it that ye are come so soon
+to-day?" And they said, "An Egyptian delivered us out of the hands of
+the shepherds, and moreover he drew water for us, and watered the
+flock." And he said unto his daughters, "And where is he? why is it that
+ye have left the man? call him, that he may eat bread." And Moses was
+content to dwell with the man: and he gave Moses Zipporah his daughter,
+and she bare a son, and he called his name Gershom: for he said, "I have
+been a sojourner in a strange land."</p><br>
+
+<p class="center"><b>§33. The Unhappy Hebrews</b> (Exod. 2:23-25)</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass in the course of those many days, that the king of
+Egypt died: and the children of Israel sighed by reason of the bondage,
+and they cried, and their cry came up unto God by reason of the bondage.
+And God heard their groaning, and God remembered his covenant with
+Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob. And God saw the children of Israel,
+and God took knowledge of them.</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>84. In any nation one of the greatest heroes is the man who was the
+founder of the national life. The Italians look to the great Garibaldi,
+who delivered them from their enemies and brought about a united Italy.
+Americans call Washington the father of his country, because he was the
+leader in the great struggle to make America a nation. The Hebrews
+always looked back to Moses as their great deliverer, who brought them
+out of Egypt and made them a nation. The study of this hero takes us to
+the second book of the Bible, which is called Exodus, meaning "Going
+out," because it gives the story of the escape of the Hebrews from
+Egypt.</p>
+
+<p>85 (§29). In the last chapter we were studying about a small tribe of
+people. Now we find that a long time has passed and the people have
+greatly increased in numbers. Consider how the negroes have increased in
+numbers since the War. There were then four millions. How many are there
+now?</p>
+
+<p>86 (§29). There probably arose a new dynasty, or line of kings. What did
+the king fear might happen if the Hebrews grew too numerous? These
+Pharaohs were mighty builders. What great objects had some of the
+earlier Pharaohs built? They loved to have splendid palaces and temples
+and strong fortifications. As there was no machinery, this work required
+great numbers of men. In the wars of those days all prisoners were made
+slaves and compelled to work. So the Egyptians treated the Hebrews as if
+they were prisoners. What kind of labor were they compelled to do?</p>
+
+<p>87 (§29). We get a glimpse into the awful harshness of that old slavery.
+As we see the pictures of the magnificent structures of those days we
+remember that they cost the lives of millions of human beings. We have
+done away with slavery, but are not people still compelled to work in
+awful conditions? There are very many occupations where the health of
+the laborers is broken down and their lives shortened. We have still a
+great deal to learn about how men ought to labor.</p>
+
+<p>88 (§29). When the harsh slavery did not prevent the increase of the
+Hebrews, it was brutally determined to murder them. What was the plan?
+The girls were saved because they could not fight.</p>
+
+<p>89 (§30). Doubtless many of the Hebrew children were drowned, but one
+mother was determined to save her boy. Tell the story of how he was
+hidden and found and saved.</p>
+
+<p>90 (§30). By the happy plan of the mother and sister the boy could be
+brought up safely in his own home. But he was also to have the
+opportunity of training in the royal palace. What did it mean that he
+was adopted by the princess?</p>
+
+<p>91 (§31). Which people would it have been most profitable for Moses to
+belong to&mdash;the Egyptians or the Hebrews? Sometimes we see a boy who
+is clever and fortunate separating himself from his family. How did
+Moses feel when he grew up and saw the sad condition of his people? What
+hasty thing did he do? Was Moses justified in that act? Let us see how
+it turned out.</p>
+
+<p>92 (§31). The young man was not only anxious to save his people from
+tyranny but also from quarreling among themselves. What happened the
+next day? People are not always willing to take good advice. What danger
+was Moses in?</p>
+
+<p>93 (§32). What was Moses obliged to do because he had killed the
+Egyptian overseer? Locate Midian. When Moses was off in the desert, a
+fugitive from justice, could he help his people? Was not his hasty act
+unwise? Do you remember someone attacking saloons with a hatchet? Can we
+often do good by violence? Sometimes we are very indignant because we
+see injustice, but in the long run we shall gain all good ends by
+peaceful means. Lynching is a poor way to secure justice.</p>
+
+<p>94 (§32). Notice that the girls were in charge of the flocks. What did
+the rude shepherds do? Again Moses interferes to help the weak, but this
+time he seems to have done it without fighting. Why did the girls think
+Moses was an Egyptian? How did it all turn out?</p>
+
+<p>95 (§33). Meantime everything looked very dark for the Hebrews. But God
+was preparing a man to save them. Would it have been a good thing for
+the Hebrews to have been happy in Egypt and to have stayed there and
+become Egyptians? Would it have been well if the Pilgrims had been well
+treated in England and had stayed there? Are our troubles ever good for
+us? Who is watching all the time?</p><br>
+
+
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>Moses was obliged to be a shepherd instead of a wealthy Egyptian. So
+sometimes our plans are changed. But often it turns out for good. Ask
+your parents, or your pastor, or some friend, to tell you if anything
+ever happened to them that seemed at the time to upset all their plans
+of life, but which turned out to be of great value in their training.
+Write an account of it in your notebook.</p><br>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;"> <h2><a name="X_MOSES_COMMISSION" id="X_MOSES_COMMISSION"></a>X. MOSES' COMMISSION</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§34. The Call in the Wilderness</b> (Exod. 3:1-11; 4:1-17)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE BURNING BUSH</p>
+
+<p>Now Moses was keeping the flock of Jethro his father-in-law, the priest
+of Midian: and he led the flock to the back of the wilderness, and came
+to the mountain of God, unto Horeb. And the angel of the Lord appeared
+unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush: and he looked,
+and, behold, the bush burned with fire, and the bush was not consumed.</p>
+
+<p>And Moses said, "I will turn aside now, and see this great sight, why
+the bush is not burnt."</p>
+
+<p>And when the Lord saw that he turned aside to see, God called unto him
+out of the midst of the bush, and said, "Moses, Moses."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Here am I."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Draw not nigh hither: put off thy shoes from off thy feet,
+for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground. I am the God of thy
+father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob."</p>
+
+<p>And Moses hid his face; for he was afraid to look upon God. And the Lord
+said, "I have surely seen the affliction of my people which are in
+Egypt, and have heard their cry by reason of their taskmasters; for I
+know their sorrows; and I am come down to deliver them out of the hand
+of the Egyptians, and to bring them up out of that land unto a good land
+and a large, unto a land flowing with milk and honey. Come now
+therefore, and I will send thee unto Pharaoh, that thou mayest bring
+forth my people the children of Israel out of <a name="SANDALS" id="SANDALS"></a>Egypt."</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 300px;"> <img src="images/il115.jpg" width="300" height="219" alt="ORIENTAL
+SANDALS" title="" > <span class="caption">ORIENTAL SANDALS</span> </div><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. MOSES' HESITATION</p>
+
+<p>And Moses said unto God, "Who am I, that I should go unto Pharaoh, and
+that I should bring forth the children of Israel out of Egypt? Behold,
+they will not believe me, nor hearken unto my voice: for they will say,
+'The Lord hath not appeared unto thee.'"</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said unto him, "What is that in thine hand?"</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "A rod."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Cast it on the ground."</p>
+
+<p>And he cast it on the ground, and it became a serpent; and Moses fled
+from before it.</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said unto Moses, "Put forth thine hand and take it by the
+tail."</p>
+
+<p>And he put forth his hand, and laid hold of it, and it became a rod in
+his hand.</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said furthermore unto him, "Put now thine hand into thy
+bosom."</p>
+
+<p>And he put his hand into his bosom: and when he took it out, behold, his
+hand was leprous, as white as snow.</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Put thine hand into thy bosom again."</p>
+
+<p>And he put his hand into his bosom again; and when he took it out of his
+bosom, behold, it was turned again as his other flesh.</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said, "It shall come to pass, if they will not believe
+thee, neither hearken to the voice of the first sign, that they will
+believe the voice of the latter sign."</p>
+
+<p>And Moses said unto the Lord, "Oh Lord, I am not eloquent, neither
+heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy servant: for I am slow
+of speech, and of a slow tongue."</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said unto him, "Who hath made man's mouth? or who maketh a
+man dumb, or deaf, or seeing, or blind? is it not I the Lord? Now
+therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou
+shalt speak."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Oh Lord, send, I pray thee, by the hand of another whom
+thou wilt choose."</p>
+
+<p>And the anger of the Lord was kindled against Moses, and he said, "Is
+there not Aaron thy brother? I know that he can speak well. And also,
+behold, he cometh forth to meet thee: and when he seeth thee, he will be
+glad in his heart. And thou shalt speak unto him, and put the words in
+his mouth: and I will be with thy mouth, and with his mouth, and will
+teach you what ye shall do. And he shall be thy spokesman unto the
+people. And thou shalt take in thine hand this rod, wherewith thou shalt
+do the signs."</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said to Aaron, "Go into the wilderness to meet Moses."</p>
+
+<p>And he went, and met him in the mountain of God, and kissed him. And
+Moses told Aaron all the words of the Lord wherewith he had sent him,
+and all the signs wherewith he had charged him.</p><br>
+
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§35. The Return to Egypt</b> (Exod. 4:18, 20, 27-31)</p>
+
+<p>And Moses went and returned to Jethro his father-in-law, and said unto
+him, "Let me go, I pray thee, and return unto my brethren which are in
+Egypt, and see whether they be yet alive."</p>
+
+<p>And Jethro said to Moses, "Go in peace."</p>
+
+<p>And Moses took his wife and his sons, and set them upon an ass, and he
+returned to the land of Egypt.</p>
+
+<p>And Moses and Aaron went and gathered together all the elders of the
+children of Israel: and Aaron spake all the words which the Lord had
+spoken unto Moses, and did the signs in the sight of the people. And the
+people believed: and when they heard that the Lord had visited the
+children of Israel, and that he had seen their affliction, then they
+bowed their heads and worshipped.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§36. Pharaoh's Harshness</b> (Exod. 5:1-6:1)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE CHALLENGE</p>
+
+<p>And afterward Moses and Aaron came, and said unto Pharaoh, "Thus saith
+the Lord, the God of Israel, 'Let my people go, that they may hold a
+feast unto me in the wilderness.'"</p>
+
+<p>And Pharaoh said, "Who is the Lord, that I should hearken unto his voice
+to let Israel go? I know not the Lord, and moreover I will not let
+Israel go."</p>
+
+<p>And they said, "The God of the Hebrews hath met with us: let us go, we
+pray thee, three days' journey into the wilderness, and sacrifice unto
+the Lord our God."</p>
+
+<p>And the king of Egypt said unto them, "Wherefore do ye, Moses and Aaron,
+loose the people from their work? get you unto your burdens. Behold, the
+people of the land are now many, and ye make them rest from their
+burdens."</p><br>
+
+<p class="center">B. THE BITTER BONDAGE</p>
+
+<p>And the same day Pharaoh commanded the taskmasters of the people, and
+their officers, saying, "Ye shall no more give the people straw to make
+brick, as heretofore: let them go and gather straw for themselves. And
+the number of the bricks, which they did make heretofore, ye shall lay
+upon them; ye shall not diminish aught thereof: for they be idle;
+therefore they cry, saying, 'Let us go and sacrifice to our God.' Let
+heavier work be laid upon the men, that they may labor therein; and let
+them not regard lying words."</p>
+
+<p>And the taskmasters of the people went out, and their officers, and they
+spake to the people, saying, "Thus saith Pharaoh, 'I will not give you
+straw. Go yourselves, get you straw where ye can find it: for nought of
+your work shall be diminished.'"</p>
+
+<p>So the people were scattered abroad throughout all the land of Egypt to
+gather stubble for straw. And the taskmasters were urgent, saying,
+"Fulfil your works, your daily tasks, as when there was straw." And the
+officers of the children of Israel, which Pharaoh's taskmasters had set
+over them, were beaten, and demanded, "Wherefore have ye not fulfilled
+your task both yesterday and to-day, in making brick as heretofore?"</p>
+
+<p>Then the officers of the children of Israel came and cried unto Pharaoh,
+saying, "Wherefore dealest thou thus with thy servants? There is no
+straw given unto thy servants, and they say to us, 'Make brick': and
+behold, thy servants are beaten; but the fault is in thine own people."</p>
+
+<p>But he said, "Ye are idle, ye are idle: therefore ye say, 'Let us go and
+sacrifice to the Lord.' Go therefore now, and work; for there shall no
+straw be given you, yet shall ye deliver the number of bricks."</p>
+
+<p>And the officers of the children of Israel did see that they were in
+evil case, and they met Moses and Aaron, who stood in the way, as they
+came forth from Pharaoh: and they said unto them, "The Lord look upon
+you, and judge; because ye have made us to be abhorred in the eyes of
+Pharaoh, and in the eyes of his servants, to put a sword in their hand
+to slay us."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. THE PROMISE OF THE LORD</p>
+
+<p>And Moses returned unto the Lord, and said, "Lord, wherefore hast thou
+evil entreated this people? why is it that thou hast sent me? For since
+I came to Pharaoh to speak in thy name, he hath evil entreated this
+people; neither hast thou delivered thy people at all."</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said unto Moses, "Now shalt thou see what I will do to
+Pharaoh: for by a strong hand shall he let them go, and by a strong hand
+shall he drive them out of his land."</p>
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>96 (§34A). We left Moses in Midian. Locate it again on the map. With
+whom did he live? What was his occupation? Notice that he came to Mt.
+Horeb, which is also called Mt. Sinai. Locate it on the map.</p>
+
+<p>97 (§34A). As Moses was alone in the wilderness, his thoughts would
+naturally turn to his people. What would he wish for them? How greatly
+they needed a leader! If ever the thought occurred to him that he ought
+to be their leader, how would he feel about it? At last God's message
+came to him. It is one of the beautiful stories of God speaking to man.
+How was Moses told to show his reverence? It is the custom in the East.
+How could they take off their shoes so easily? (See illustration of the
+sandal.) What custom do we have to show reverence? How did Moses show a
+still deeper reverence?</p>
+
+<p>98 (§34A). What did God tell Moses? It might have seemed to the lonely
+exile that the Lord had forgotten all about the people in bondage. A
+commission is a duty given to a man: what was Moses' commission? At last
+God's plan for poor Israel was clear. The deliverer had been found.</p>
+
+<p>99 (§34B). It was a startling commission for Moses. He remembered how
+the people had treated him when he had tried to help them. (Recall §31.)
+What was he now afraid of? Tell the story of the signs with which the
+Lord gave him confidence. People were always anxious for something
+wonderful in those old days.</p>
+
+<p>100 (§34B). Moses had another reason for hesitation. Is humility a good
+preparation for a great work or is confidence better? How does the Lord
+fit an earnest man for his work? Humility is not good when it is through
+lack of faith. "The anger of the Lord" means his displeasure at what is
+not right. Who was sent with Moses?</p>
+
+<p>101 (§35). How did Moses act after receiving the commission. Did he tell
+his father-in-law his plans? Describe the meeting, as you may imagine
+it, between the two brothers and the Hebrew <a name="BRICK" id="BRICK"></a>people.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 348px;"> <img src="images/il122.jpg" width="348" height="366" alt="Copyright 1904
+by Underwood and Underwood" title="" > </div> <p class="center">Copyright 1904 by Underwood and
+Underwood</p> <p class="ccaption">BRICK-MAKING IN EGYPT</p>
+
+<p>102 (§36A). It was a bold thing to go to the king. What did Moses and
+Aaron demand? What did the king say about the Lord? What did he say
+Moses and Aaron were doing?</p>
+
+<p>103 (§36B). Brick was made from the black Nile mud mixed with sand and
+with chopped straw. There are pictures in Egypt of captives making these
+bricks with overseers guarding them. The soft mud would be put into a
+wooden mold, which would then be lifted off and the brick left to dry in
+the sun. Sometimes the captives had to gather waste material or stubble
+instead of straw. Why was this such a hardship to the Hebrews?</p>
+
+<p>104 (§36B). Note how the orders were carried out. There are two classes
+of officials mentioned: the Egyptian taskmasters and the Hebrew
+officers. The latter were responsible for the full work being done by
+their countrymen. Tell the whole story of the bondage.</p>
+
+<p>105 (§36B). Describe the interview of the officers with Pharaoh. How did
+they feel toward Moses and Aaron?</p>
+
+<p>106 (§36C). How did all this affect Moses? It is often darkest just
+before day. What did the Lord promise?</p><br>
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>Think over the story carefully and prepare for a debate, the students
+taking different sides on the question: Resolved that Moses was wrong in
+settling down in Midian and leaving his people so long without help.</p>
+
+
+<br>
+<hr style="width: 65%;"> <h2><a name="XI_MOSES_THE_DELIVERER" id="XI_MOSES_THE_DELIVERER"></a>XI. MOSES, THE DELIVERER</h2>
+
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+<p class="center"><b>§37. The Plagues of Egypt</b> (Exod. 7:14-18, 25; 8:1-4, 6, 8, 13, 15-17,
+20-24, 28, 31, 32; 9:1-6, 8, 9, 22-28, 33, 34; 10:3-6, 14, 19-23, 28,
+29; 11:4-8; 12:29-36)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE NILE TURNED TO BLOOD</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said unto Moses, "Pharaoh's heart is stubborn, he refuseth
+to let the people go. Get thee unto Pharaoh in the morning; lo, he goeth
+out unto the water; and thou shalt stand by the river's brink to meet
+him; and the rod which was turned to a serpent shalt thou take in thine
+hand. And thou shalt say unto him, 'The Lord, the God of the Hebrews,
+hath sent me unto thee, saying, Let my people go, that they may serve me
+in the wilderness: and, behold hitherto thou hast not hearkened. Thus
+saith the Lord, In this thou shalt know that I am the Lord: behold, I
+will smite with the rod that is in mine hand upon the waters which are
+in the river and they shall be turned to blood. And the fish that is in
+the river shall die, and the river shall be polluted; and the Egyptians
+shall loathe to drink water from the river.'"</p><br>
+
+<p class="center">B. THE SWARMS OF FROGS</p>
+
+<p>And seven days were fulfilled, after that the Lord had smitten the
+river. And the Lord spake unto Moses, "Go in unto Pharaoh, and say unto
+him, 'Thus saith the Lord, Let my people go, that they may serve me. And
+if thou refuse to let them go, behold, I will smite all thy borders with
+frogs: and the river shall swarm with frogs, which shall go up and come
+into thine house, and into thy bedchamber, and upon thy bed, and into
+the house of thy servants, and upon thy people, and into thine ovens,
+and into thy kneading-troughs: and the frogs shall come up both upon
+thee, and upon thy people, and upon all thy servants.'"</p>
+
+<p>And the frogs came up, and covered the land of Egypt. Then Pharaoh
+called for Moses and Aaron, and said, "Entreat the Lord, that he take
+away the frogs from me, and from my people; and I will let the people
+go, that they may sacrifice unto the Lord."</p>
+
+<p>And the frogs died, but when Pharaoh saw that there was respite, he
+hardened his heart.</p><br>
+
+<p class="center">C. THE STINGING GNATS AND SWARMS OF FLIES</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said unto Moses, "Stretch out thy rod, and smite the dust
+of the earth, that it may become stinging gnats throughout all the land
+of Egypt." And there were gnats upon man, and upon beast; all the dust
+of the earth became gnats throughout all the land of Egypt.</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said unto Moses, "Rise up early in the morning, and stand
+before Pharaoh; and say unto him, 'Thus saith the Lord, Let my people
+go, that they may serve me. Else, if thou wilt not let my people go,
+behold, I will send swarms of flies upon thee, and upon thy servants,
+and upon thy people, and into thy houses: and the houses of the
+Egyptians shall be full of swarms of flies, and also the ground whereon
+they are. And I will separate in that day the land of Goshen, in which
+my people dwell, that no swarms of flies shall be there; to the end thou
+mayest know that I am the Lord in the midst of the earth.'"</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord did so; and there came grievous swarms of flies into all
+the land of Egypt. And Pharaoh said, "I will let you go, that ye may
+sacrifice to the Lord your God in the wilderness."</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord removed the swarms of flies from Pharaoh, from his
+servants, and from his people; there remained not one. And Pharaoh
+hardened his heart this time also, and he did not let the people go.</p><br>
+
+<p class="center">D. THE CATTLE PESTILENCE AND THE BOILS</p>
+
+<p>Then the Lord said unto Moses, "Go in unto Pharaoh, and tell him, 'Thus
+saith the Lord, the God of the Hebrews, Let my people go, that they may
+serve me. For if thou refuse to let them go, and wilt hold them still,
+behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thy cattle which is in the field,
+upon the horses, upon the asses, upon the camels, upon the herds, and
+upon the flocks: there shall be a very grievous pestilence. And the Lord
+shall separate between the cattle of Israel and the cattle of Egypt: and
+there shall nothing die of all that belongeth to the children of
+Israel.'"</p>
+
+<p>And on the morrow all the cattle of Egypt died:
+but of the cattle of the children of Israel died not one.</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said unto Moses and unto Aaron,
+"Take handfuls of ashes, and let Moses sprinkle it
+toward the heaven in the sight of Pharaoh. And it
+shall become small dust over all the land of Egypt,
+and shall be a boil breaking forth with blains upon
+man and upon beast, throughout all the land of
+Egypt."</p><br>
+
+<p class="center">E. THE HAIL, THE LOCUSTS, AND THE DARKNESS</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said unto Moses, "Stretch forth
+thine hand toward heaven, that there may be hail
+in all the land of Egypt, upon man, and upon beast,
+and upon every herb of the field." So there was
+hail, and fire mingled with the hail, very grievous,
+such as had not been in all the land of Egypt since
+it became a nation. And the hail smote all that
+was in the field, both man and beast; and the hail
+smote every herb of the field, and brake every tree
+of the field. Only in the land of Goshen, where the
+children of Israel were, was there no hail. And
+Pharaoh sent, and called for Moses and Aaron, and
+said unto them, "I have sinned this time. I will let
+you go, and ye shall stay no longer."</p>
+
+<p>And the thunders and hail ceased, and the rain was
+not poured upon the earth. And when Pharaoh saw
+that the rain and the hail and the thunders were
+ceased, he sinned yet more, and hardened his heart,
+he and his servants.</p>
+
+<p>And Moses and Aaron went in unto Pharaoh, and
+said unto him, "Thus saith the Lord, the God of the
+Hebrews, 'How long wilt thou refuse to humble thyself
+before me? let my people go, that they may serve
+me. Else, if thou refuse to let my people go, behold,
+to-morrow I will bring locusts into thy border: and
+they shall cover the face of the earth, that one shall
+not be able to see the earth: and they shall eat that
+which remaineth unto you from the hail, and shall
+eat every tree which groweth for you out of the field:
+and thy houses shall be filled, and the houses of all
+thy servants, and the houses of all the Egyptians; as
+neither thy fathers nor thy fathers' fathers have seen,
+since the day that they were upon the earth unto
+this day.'"</p>
+
+<p>And Moses stretched forth his rod over the land
+of Egypt, and the Lord brought an east wind upon
+the land all that day, and all the night; and when it
+was morning, the east wind brought the locusts.
+And they did eat every herb of the land, and all the
+fruit of the trees which the hail had left.</p>
+
+<p>Then Pharaoh called for Moses and Aaron in
+haste; and he said, "I have sinned against the Lord
+your God, and against you."</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord turned an exceeding strong west
+wind, which took up the locusts, and drove them into
+the Red Sea; there remained not one locust in all
+the border of Egypt. But Pharaoh did not let the
+children of Israel go.</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said unto Moses, "Stretch out thine
+hand toward heaven, that there may be darkness
+over the land of Egypt, even darkness which may be
+felt."</p>
+
+<p>And Moses stretched forth his hand toward heaven,
+and there was a thick darkness in all the land of
+Egypt three days; they saw not one another, neither
+rose any from his place for three days: but all the
+children of Israel had light in their dwellings.</p><br>
+
+<p class="center">F. THE LAST PLAGUE</p>
+
+<p>And Pharaoh said unto Moses, "Get thee from
+me, take heed to thyself, see my face no more; for in
+the day thou seest my face thou shalt die."</p>
+
+<p>And Moses said, "Thus saith the Lord, 'About
+midnight will I go out into the midst of Egypt: and
+all the firstborn in the land of Egypt shall die, from
+the firstborn of Pharaoh that sitteth upon his throne,
+even unto the firstborn of the maidservant that is
+behind the mill; and all the firstborn of cattle. And
+there shall be a great cry throughout all the land of
+Egypt, such as there hath been none like it, nor shall
+be like it any more.' But against any of the children
+of Israel shall not a dog move his tongue, against man
+or beast: that ye may know how that the Lord doth
+put a difference between the Egyptians and Israel.
+And all these thy servants shall come down unto me,
+and bow down themselves unto me, saying, 'Get
+thee out, and all the people that follow thee': and
+after that I will go out." And he went out from
+Pharaoh in hot anger.</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass at midnight, that the Lord
+smote all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, from the
+firstborn of Pharaoh that sat on his throne unto the
+firstborn of the captive that was in the dungeon;
+and all the firstborn of cattle. And Pharaoh rose
+up in the night, he, and all his servants, and all the
+Egyptians; and there was a great cry in Egypt; for
+there was not a house where there was not one dead.
+And he called for Moses and Aaron by night, and
+said, "Rise up, get you forth from among my people,
+both ye and the children of Israel; and go, serve the
+Lord, as ye have said. Take both your flocks and
+your herds, as ye have said, and be gone; and bless
+me also."</p>
+
+<p>And the Egyptians were urgent upon the people, to
+send them out of the land in haste; for they said,
+"We be all dead men."</p>
+
+<p>And the children of Israel did according to the
+word of Moses; and they asked of the Egyptians
+jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and raiment:
+and the Lord gave the people favor in the sight of the
+Egyptians, so that they let them have what they asked.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§38. The Great Deliverance</b> (Exod. 13:17, 18, 21, 22;
+14:5-7, 10-14, 19-27)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE FLIGHT AND PURSUIT</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, when Pharaoh had let the
+people go, that God led them not by the way of the
+land of the Philistines, although that was near; for
+God said, <a name="Lest_2" id="Lest_2"></a>"<a href="#Lest">Lest peradventure the people repent
+when they see war, and they return to Egypt:</a>" but
+God led the people about, by the way of the wilderness
+by the Red Sea: and the children of Israel went
+up armed out of the land of Egypt.</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar
+of cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a
+pillar of fire, to give them light; that they might go
+by day and by night: the pillar of cloud by day, and
+the pillar of fire by night, departed not from before
+the people.</p>
+
+<p>And it was told the king of Egypt that the people
+were fled: and the heart of Pharaoh and of his servants
+was changed towards the people, and they said,
+"What is this we have done, that we have let Israel
+go from serving us?" And he made ready his
+chariot, and took his people with him: and he took
+six hundred chosen chariots, and all the chariots of
+Egypt, and captains over all of them.</p>
+
+<p>And when Pharaoh drew nigh, the children of
+Israel lifted up their eyes, and, behold, the Egyptians
+marched after them; and they were sore afraid: and
+the children of Israel cried out unto the Lord. And
+they said unto Moses, "Because there were no
+graves in Egypt, hast thou taken us away to die
+in the wilderness? wherefore hast thou dealt thus
+with us, to bring us forth out of Egypt? Is not this
+the word that we spake unto thee in Egypt, saying,
+'Let us alone, that we may serve the Egyptians'?
+For it were better for us to serve the Egyptians,
+than that we should die in the wilderness."</p>
+
+<p>And Moses said unto the people, "Fear ye not,
+stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which
+he will work for you to-day: for the Egyptians whom
+ye have seen to-day, ye shall see them again no more
+for ever. The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall
+hold your peace."</p><br>
+
+<p class="center">B. THE PASSAGE OF THE RED SEA</p>
+
+<p>And the angel of God, which went before the camp
+of Israel, removed and went behind them; and the
+pillar of cloud removed from before them, and stood
+behind them: and it came between the camp of
+Egypt and the camp of Israel; and there was the
+cloud and the darkness, yet gave it light by night: and
+the one came not near the other all the night. And
+Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the
+Lord caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind
+all the night, and made the sea dry land. And the
+children of Israel went into the midst of the sea upon
+the dry ground. And the Egyptians pursued, and
+went in after them into the midst of the sea, all Pharaoh's
+horses, his chariots, and his horsemen. And
+it came to pass in the morning watch, that the Lord
+looked forth upon the host of the Egyptians through
+the pillar of fire and of cloud, and discomfited the
+host of the Egyptians. And he took off their chariot
+wheels, that they drove them heavily: so that the
+Egyptians said, "Let us flee from the face of
+Israel; for the Lord fighteth for them against the
+Egyptians."</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said unto Moses, "Stretch out thine
+hand over the sea, that the waters may come again
+upon the Egyptians, upon their chariots, and upon
+their horsemen." And Moses stretched forth his hand
+over the sea, and the sea returned to its strength when
+the morning appeared; and the Egyptians fled
+against it; and the Lord overthrew the Egyptians in
+the midst of the sea.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§39. The Song of the Exodus</b> (Exod. 14:30, 31;
+15:1, 2, 20, 21)</p>
+
+<p>Thus the Lord saved Israel that day out of the
+hand of the Egyptians; and Israel saw the Egyptians
+dead upon the sea shore. And Israel saw the
+great work which the Lord did upon the Egyptians,
+and the people feared the Lord: and they believed
+in the Lord, and in his servant Moses.</p>
+
+<p>Then sang Moses and the children of Israel this
+song unto the Lord, and spake, saying,</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">I will sing unto the Lord, for he hath triumphed gloriously:<br></span>
+<span class="i0">The horse and his rider hath he thrown into the sea.<br></span>
+<span class="i0">The Lord is my strength and song,<br></span>
+<span class="i0">And he is become my salvation:<br></span>
+<span class="i0">This is my God and I will praise him;<br></span>
+<span class="i0">My father's God, and I will exalt him.<br></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>And Miriam the prophetess, the sister of Aaron,
+took a timbrel in her hand; and all the women
+went out after her with timbrels and with dances.
+And Miriam answered them,</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Sing ye to the Lord, for he hath triumphed gloriously;<br></span>
+<span class="i0">The horse and his rider hath he thrown into the sea.<br></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>107. The story of the deliverance from Egypt makes a
+long chapter, but it is full of exciting interest and shows the
+fearless character of the great leader who trusted in his God.
+It was a bold thing for Moses to return to Egypt and try to
+persuade the king to let Israel go. But when he was sent to
+threaten Pharaoh it was indeed a task requiring courage.
+Imagine a single man to-day demanding of the sultan of Turkey
+that he should free his slaves.</p>
+
+<p>108 (§37). Moses was sent to tell the king that terrible
+plagues would come upon his people if he refused to let the
+Hebrews go. Ten plagues are mentioned. Nine of them were
+as follows: (1) the water of the Nile turned to blood-red color
+and made undrinkable; (2) enormous numbers of frogs; (3)
+swarms of stinging insects, perhaps gnats or mosquitoes; (4)
+swarms of flies, which would be terrible in a hot country; (5)
+a cattle pestilence; (6) fearful boils on men and cattle; (7)
+destructive hail; (8) locusts that ate vegetation; (9) the awful
+hot desert wind filling the air with fine sand and causing
+darkness.</p>
+
+<p>109 (§37). When Pharaoh was frightened by each of the
+plagues, what did he promise? What made him break his
+promise? Did you ever know anyone who was sorry for
+doing wrong when the punishment came, but forgot his
+promises afterward?</p>
+
+<p>110 (§37F). What did Pharaoh threaten Moses after the
+ninth plague? What did Moses say should be the last
+plague? Probably some sudden terrible pestilence came
+upon Egypt. Tell the story of that night.</p>
+
+<p>111 (§38A). Study the map and notice what a short journey
+it would be from Egypt along the coast to the Philistine
+country. But the borders of Egypt were strongly guarded,
+so that was a dangerous way to go. What might have happened
+if the Hebrews had seen that they would have to fight?</p>
+
+<p>112 (§38A). Moses was a wise leader. He knew he had
+a host of slaves, who had not learned courage. So he led
+them southward toward the Red Sea. There was a road
+leading to the wilderness near the Bitter Lakes. Locate
+this.</p>
+
+<p>113 (§38A). What happened when the Egyptians found
+that the people had actually gone? What did the Hebrews
+say when they learned that Pharaoh was following them?
+How did Moses encourage them?</p>
+
+<p>114 (§38B). The Hebrews were in a very difficult situation.
+They had come to a place where the water from the Red Sea
+ran far up the low-lying sands. What great canal has since
+been dug there? The water was too deep for the Hebrews
+to cross. Pharaoh's army was coming up behind. The only
+thing that could save Israel would be a strong wind that
+should drive the waters back and leave the sands clear. How
+often God's great Providence helps his people in trouble!
+Moses bravely encouraged them.</p>
+
+<p>115 (§38B). What separated the Israelites from the Egyptians?
+What made the crossing possible? What trouble
+did the Egyptians experience? What would naturally
+happen if the high wind stopped after the Israelites had
+crossed? Tell the story of the deliverance.</p>
+
+<p>116 (§39). What do you think were the feelings of Israel
+when they found themselves safe? Recite the song in which
+they celebrated their escape? What does "Exodus" mean?</p><br>
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>Let us try to see just what happened to the Hebrews.
+Draw a map of Egypt and the Sinai peninsula on a larger
+scale than that in your book. Mark Goshen, the region
+where the Hebrews lived. Mark the bitter lakes coming
+nearly to the Gulf of Suez. Connect these with a wavy
+line showing the shallow waters which were driven back
+for the passage of the Hebrews. Mark with a red line the
+road which the Hebrews might have taken along the coast
+road straight to Canaan and the road which they actually
+took south of the bitter lakes. Continue this last line into
+the Sinai peninsula, noting that the people were led into
+the wilderness.</p>
+
+
+<br>
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="XII_MOSES_THE_LAWGIVER" id="XII_MOSES_THE_LAWGIVER"></a>XII. MOSES, THE LAWGIVER</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§40. The Law at Sinai</b> (Exod. 15:22-25, 27; 19:1)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE MARCH AND THE MURMURING</p>
+
+<p>And Moses led Israel onward from the Red Sea,
+and they went three days in the wilderness, and found
+no water. And when they came to Marah, they
+could not drink of the waters for they were bitter.
+And the people murmured against Moses, saying,
+"What shall we drink?" And he cried unto the
+Lord; and the Lord showed him a tree, and he cast
+it into the waters, and the waters were made sweet.</p>
+
+<p>And they came to Elim, where were twelve springs
+of water, and threescore and ten palm trees: and they
+encamped there by the waters. And they took their
+journey from Elim, and in the third month they came
+to the wilderness of Sinai; and there Israel encamped
+before the <a name="MOSES138" id="MOSES138"></a>mount.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 348px;">
+<img src="images/il138.jpg" width="348" height="526" alt="MOSES" title="" >
+<span class="caption">MOSES</span>
+</div><br>
+
+<p class="center">B. THE TEN COMMANDMENTS</p>
+
+<p>And Moses went up unto God, and the Lord called
+unto him out of the mountain, saying, "Thus shalt
+thou say to the house of Jacob, and tell the children
+of Israel;</p>
+
+<blockquote Class="tbox"><p><b>I am the Lord thy God, which brought thee out of the
+land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.</b></p>
+
+<p><b>Thou shalt have none other gods before me.</b></p>
+
+<p><b>Thou shalt not make unto thee a graven image, nor the
+likeness of any form that is in heaven above, or that is in
+the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth;
+thou shalt not bow down thyself unto them, nor serve them:
+for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity
+of the fathers upon the children, upon the third and
+upon the fourth generation of them that hate me; and
+showing mercy unto thousands of them that love me and
+keep my commandments.</b></p>
+
+<p><b>Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in
+vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh
+his name in vain.</b></p>
+
+<p><b>Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days
+shalt thou labor, and do all thy work: but the seventh day
+is a sabbath unto the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do
+any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant,
+nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger
+that is within thy gates: for in six days the Lord made heaven
+and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the
+seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day,
+and hallowed it.</b></p>
+
+<p><b>Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may
+be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth
+thee.</b></p>
+
+<p><b>Thou shalt do no murder.</b></p>
+
+<p><b>Thou shalt not commit adultery.</b></p>
+
+<p><b>Thou shalt not steal.</b></p>
+
+<p><b>Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.</b></p>
+
+<p><b>Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's house, thou shalt not
+covet thy neighbor's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant,
+nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy
+neighbor's.</b></p></blockquote>
+
+<p>And all the people saw the thunderings, and the
+lightnings, and the voice of the trumpet, and the
+mountain smoking: and when the people saw it,
+they trembled, and stood afar off. And they said
+unto Moses, "Speak thou with us, and we will hear:
+but let not God speak with us, lest we die."</p>
+
+<p>And Moses said unto the people, "Fear not: for
+God is come to prove you, and that his fear may be
+before you, that ye sin not."</p>
+
+<p>And the people stood afar off, and Moses drew
+near unto the thick darkness where God was.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§41. The Great Rebellion</b> (Exod. 24:13, 18;
+32:1-8, 15-20, 30-35)</p>
+
+
+<p class="center">A. THE GOLDEN CALF</p>
+
+<p>And Moses and Joshua his minister went up into
+the mount of God. And Moses was in the mount
+forty days and forty nights. And when the people
+saw that Moses delayed to come down from the
+mount, the people gathered themselves together unto
+Aaron, and said unto him, "Up, make us gods,
+which shall go before us; for as for this Moses, the
+man that brought us up out of the land of Egypt, we
+know not what is become of him."</p>
+
+<p>And Aaron said unto them, "Break off the golden
+rings, which are in the ears of your wives, of your
+sons, and of your daughters, and bring them unto me."</p>
+
+<p>And all the people brake off the golden rings which
+were in their ears, and brought them unto Aaron.
+And he received it at their hand, and fashioned it
+with a graving tool, and made it a molten calf: and
+they said, "These be thy gods, O Israel, which
+brought thee up out of the land of Egypt."</p>
+
+<p>And when Aaron saw this, he built an altar before
+it; and Aaron made proclamation, and said, "To-morrow
+shall be a feast to the Lord."</p>
+
+<p>And they rose up early on the morrow, and offered
+burnt offerings, and brought peace offerings; and
+the people sat down to eat and to drink, and rose
+up to play.</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord spake unto Moses, "Go, get thee
+down; for thy people, which thou broughtest up out
+of the land of Egypt, have corrupted themselves:
+they have turned aside quickly out of the way which
+I commanded them: they have made them a molten
+calf, and have worshipped it, and have sacrificed
+unto it."</p>
+
+<p>And Moses turned and went down from the mount
+with the two tables in his hand. And when Joshua
+heard the noise of the people as they shouted, he
+said unto Moses, "There is a noise of war in the
+camp."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "It is not the voice of them that shout
+for mastery, neither is it the voice of them that cry
+for being overcome: but the noise of them that sing
+do I hear."</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, as soon as he came nigh unto
+the camp, that he saw the calf and the dancing: and
+Moses' anger waxed hot, and he cast the tables out
+of his hands, and brake them beneath the mount.
+And he took the calf which they had made, and
+burnt it with fire, and ground it to powder, and
+strewed it upon the water, and made the children of
+Israel drink of it.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. MOSES' PRAYER</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass on the morrow, that Moses
+said unto the people, "Ye have sinned a great sin:
+and now I will go up unto the Lord; peradventure
+I shall make atonement for your sin."</p>
+
+<p>And Moses returned unto the Lord, and said, "Oh,
+this people have sinned a great sin, and have made
+them gods of gold. Yet now, if thou wilt forgive
+their sin&mdash;; and if not, blot me, I pray thee, out of
+thy book which thou hast written."</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said unto Moses, "Whosoever hath
+sinned against me, him will I blot out of my book.
+And now go, lead the people unto the place of which
+I have spoken unto thee: behold, mine angel shall
+go before thee: nevertheless in the day when I visit,
+I will visit their sin upon them."</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord smote the people, because they
+made the calf, which Aaron made.</p>
+
+<p>[The people were forgiven, but again and again
+they rebelled. Moses prayed for them, but the Lord
+said they must wander in the wilderness forty years.
+At last Moses led them to the plains of Moab and to
+the river Jordan, where he made his farewell speech.]</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§42.</b> <b>The Last Days of Moses</b> (Deut. 31:1-3,
+6-8; 34)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE FAREWELL SPEECH</p>
+
+<p>And Moses spake these words unto all Israel,
+"I am a hundred and twenty years old this day; I
+can no more go out and come in: and the Lord hath
+said unto me, 'Thou shalt not go over this Jordan.'
+The Lord thy God, he will go over before thee; he
+will destroy these nations from before thee, and thou
+shalt possess them: and Joshua, he shall go over
+before thee, as the Lord hath spoken. Be strong and
+of a good courage, fear not, nor be affrighted at them:
+for the Lord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee;
+he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee."</p>
+
+<p>And Moses called unto Joshua, and said unto him
+in the sight of all Israel, "Be strong and of a good
+courage: for thou shalt go with this people into the
+land which the Lord hath sworn unto their fathers to
+give them; and thou shalt cause them to inherit it.
+And the Lord, he it is that doth go before thee; he
+will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake
+thee: fear not, neither be dismayed."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE DEATH OF MOSES</p>
+
+<p>And Moses went up from the plains of Moab unto
+mount Nebo, to the top of Pisgah, that is over against
+Jericho. And the Lord showed him all the land.</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said unto him, "This is the land
+which I sware unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto
+Jacob, saying, I will give it unto thy seed: I have
+caused thee to see it with thine eyes, but thou shalt
+not go over thither."</p>
+
+<p>So Moses the servant of the Lord died there in the
+land of Moab, according to the word of the Lord.
+And he buried him in the valley in the land of Moab,
+but no man knoweth of his sepulchre unto this day.
+And Moses was a hundred and twenty years old
+when he died: his eye was not dim, nor his natural
+force abated. And the children of Israel wept for
+Moses in the plains of Moab thirty days.</p>
+
+<p>And there hath not arisen a prophet since in Israel
+like unto Moses, whom the Lord knew face to face;
+in all the signs and the wonders, which the Lord sent
+him to do in the land of Egypt, to Pharaoh, and to
+all his land; and in all the mighty hand, and in all
+the great terror, which Moses wrought in the sight
+of all Israel.</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>117. After the Revolutionary War, the thirteen American
+states adopted a constitution. Washington was the great
+leader. We all honor him now, but during his life many were
+jealous of him and the people often found fault with him and
+lost confidence in him. He was greatly tried and would have
+given up the presidency but for his sense of duty. So it was
+with Moses. He brought deliverance to the people and gave
+them their first great laws, but they constantly murmured
+against him and against God. The long story of his leadership
+of Israel during forty years in the wilderness is told in the
+books of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.
+We shall study a few of the main incidents.</p>
+
+<p>118 (§40A). After the victory over the Egyptians, Moses
+led the people toward Mt. Sinai. Notice on the map the
+mountain range in the Sinai Peninsula. What difficulty soon
+arose? How did the people meet it? This was the beginning
+of a number of trials that Moses had in his leadership.</p>
+
+<p>119 (§40A). How long did it take to reach Mt. Sinai?
+The gathering at the mountain was a very solemn occasion.
+Israel was to receive a constitution. Think of the solemn
+time when the constitution of the United States was adopted.</p>
+
+<p>120 (§40B). What do we call these great words? Every
+student should know them by heart. If they were learned in
+the Primary Department it would be well to recall them.</p>
+
+<p>121 (§40B). How were the people impressed by the holy
+law? Let us understand that when we speak of "the fear of
+the Lord" it does not mean that we are afraid of him, but that
+we have a great reverence for him.</p>
+
+<p>122 (§41A). How long had Moses remained in the mountain
+to which he had gone to receive the laws? The people
+could not understand a God whom they could not see. They
+wanted an idol such as the Egyptians had. Tell the story of
+the golden calf.</p>
+
+<p>123 (§41A). How did Moses learn of what had happened?
+What did Moses bring down from the mountain? What
+did Joshua hear? What did Moses do when he found what
+had happened? Is it ever right to be angry?</p>
+
+<p>124 (§41B). The people had greatly disappointed Moses,
+but he was very sorry for their sin. He went to pray for them.
+Read carefully his wonderful prayer. Moses well knew God's
+love, but he knew also that wickedness must be punished.</p>
+
+<p>125. We shall consider another great rebellion in connection
+with the next two heroes whom we study. It resulted
+in the Hebrews being sentenced to travel about for forty years.
+Moses led them. He was their chief, ruling over them, and
+their general, enabling them to conquer their enemies.</p>
+
+<p>126 (§42A). Moses had led the people for forty years. At
+last the grand old man brought them to the very border of the
+Promised Land. What river was all that separated them
+from Canaan? Locate the place of the last camp just opposite
+Jericho. The book of Deuteronomy gives the farewell
+speeches of Moses. This section is a part of what he said to
+them. Tell it in your own words. What great American
+gave a Farewell Message to his countrymen?</p>
+
+<p>127 (§42B). It was a great disappointment to Moses that
+he could not lead the people into Canaan, but he cheerfully
+accepted God's will. It must have been a wonderful sight
+that the old man saw from the mountain. Imagine yourself
+on Mt. Nebo. Look over Canaan and tell what Moses saw.
+Where did Moses die? How did Israel mourn for him?
+What did the writer of the last verses think of this great man?
+Learn Mrs. Alexander's beautiful poem.</p>
+
+
+<p class="center">THE BURIAL OF MOSES</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">By Nebo's lonely mountain,<br></span>
+<span class="i2">On this side Jordan's wave,<br></span>
+<span class="i0">In a vale in the land of Moab,<br></span>
+<span class="i2">There lies a lonely grave;<br></span>
+<span class="i0">But no man dug that sepulchre,<br></span>
+<span class="i2">And no man saw it e'er,<br></span>
+<span class="i0">For the angels of God upturned the sod,<br></span>
+<span class="i2">And laid the dead man there.<br></span>
+</div><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">That was the grandest funeral<br ></span>
+<span class="i2">That ever passed on earth;<br></span>
+<span class="i0">But no man heard the tramping,<br></span>
+<span class="i2">Or saw the train go forth.<br></span>
+<span class="i0">Noiselessly as the daylight<br ></span>
+<span class="i2">Comes when the night is done,<br></span>
+<span class="i0">And the crimson streak on ocean's cheek<br ></span>
+<span class="i2">Grows into the great sun,<br></span>
+</div><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Noiselessly as the springtime<br ></span>
+<span class="i2">Her crown of verdure weaves,<br></span>
+<span class="i0">And all the trees on all the hills<br ></span>
+<span class="i2">Open their thousand leaves,<br></span>
+<span class="i0">So, without sound of music,<br></span>
+<span class="i2">Or voice of them that wept,<br></span>
+<span class="i0">Silently down from the mountain crown<br ></span>
+<span class="i2">The great procession swept.<br></span>
+</div><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">This was the bravest warrior<br></span>
+<span class="i2">That ever buckled sword;<br></span>
+<span class="i0">This the most gifted poet<br ></span>
+<span class="i2">That ever breathed a word;<br></span>
+<span class="i0">And never earth's philosopher<br ></span>
+<span class="i2">Traced, with his golden pen,<br></span>
+<span class="i0">On the deathless page, truths half so sage<br ></span>
+<span class="i2">As he wrote down for men.<br></span>
+</div><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">And had he not high honor?<br></span>
+<span class="i2">The hillside for his pall;<br></span>
+<span class="i0">To lie in state while angels wait,<br></span>
+<span class="i2">With stars for tapers tall;<br></span>
+<span class="i0">And the dark rock-pines, like tossing plumes,<br></span>
+<span class="i2">Over his bier to wave;<br></span>
+<span class="i0">And God's own hand, in that lonely land,<br></span>
+<span class="i2">To lay him in the grave.<br></span>
+</div></div><br>
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>Draw a picture of two large tables of stone. Write the first
+five commandments on one, using just the first sentence of
+each commandment. Write the last five commandments on
+the other in full, except that for the tenth commandment use
+only its first four words. Do this very neatly.</p>
+<br>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2>REVIEW</h2>
+
+
+<div class="center">
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="">
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XIII_THE_HEROES_OF_ISRAELS">XIII.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">The Heroes of Israel's Wanderings</span></td></tr>
+</table></div><br>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="XIII_THE_HEROES_OF_ISRAELS" id="XIII_THE_HEROES_OF_ISRAELS"></a>XIII. THE HEROES OF ISRAEL'S WANDERINGS</h2>
+
+<p>128. Our studies have brought us to the time when
+the Hebrews were about to enter the land of Canaan.
+Up to that time they were a wandering people going
+from place to place, seeking pasture for their flocks
+or refuge from famine. After they settled down
+they used to tell the stories of the heroes of the old
+wandering days. We have studied five of these.
+Who was called the Father of the Faithful? Who
+was his son? Who was the man who gave his name
+to the nation? Which of his sons became the ruler
+of Egypt? Who was the deliverer of the people
+from Egypt? Let us recall some of the stories of
+these five heroes.</p>
+
+<p>129 (5-7, §2). Tell the story of Abraham's journey
+westward to the new land. Who did he believe
+called him and led him? What people in our own
+history did we compare with him?</p>
+
+<p>130 (12, 13, §5). Abraham had a nephew with
+him: what was his name? What great wealth did
+these two men have? What trouble was caused
+by the increase of their wealth? How did Abraham
+settle the matter? Why did we call him "magnanimous"?</p>
+
+<p>131 (23, 24, §8). Abraham was most anxious to
+do what he thought was right. Tell the wonderful
+story of how God showed him that he need not
+sacrifice his son.</p>
+
+<p>132. Read §11A and see if you can recall the story
+of Jacob's deception of Isaac.</p>
+
+<p>133 (50, §16). After many years and after Jacob
+had learned many hard lessons he turned back to his
+own land. Tell the story of his meeting with the
+brother whom he had wronged.</p>
+
+<p>134 (§19). How many sons had Jacob? Who
+was his favorite? Why did his brothers hate him?
+Tell the story of how they sold him as a slave.</p>
+
+<p>135 (§23C). Joseph prospered in Egypt, but
+through false accusation was thrown into prison.
+Here he interpreted the dreams of two men: who
+were they? which of the men was pardoned by the
+king and forgot Joseph? The king dreamed: how
+did this lead to Joseph's promotion?</p>
+
+<p>136 (§27C). There were seven years of good
+crops followed by seven years of famine. How did
+the famine bring Joseph's brothers to Egypt? Why
+did they not recognize him when he knew them?
+What plan did he use to make them sorry for their
+unkindness and to make one of them willing to be a
+slave to save his youngest brother? Tell the story
+of the forgiveness.</p>
+
+<p>137 (84, 89, 90, §30). After the Hebrews had
+been a long time in Egypt they became very numerous.
+Pharaoh was alarmed at their numbers. What
+order did he give so that there should be no more
+men? Tell the story of Moses' safety and adoption.</p>
+
+<p>138 (97, 98, §34A). Moses had been obliged to
+flee from Egypt and had lived a long time in the
+wilderness thinking about how his people could be
+saved. Perhaps sometimes he thought that he
+ought to deliver them, but he hesitated. Tell the
+story of the Burning Bush and how God encouraged
+him to go back to Egypt and be the deliverer.</p>
+
+<p>139 (114, §38B). Moses boldly went back and
+told the king he must let the people go. After ten
+awful plagues Pharaoh let them go. But no sooner
+were they gone than he repented and followed after
+them. How did Moses lead them into safety by
+God's good providence?</p>
+
+<p>140 (127, §42B). How many years did Moses
+lead his people in the wilderness? To what point
+did he bring them at last? There he made them a
+noble farewell speech of encouragement. Tell the
+story of how he saw Canaan, and of his death.
+What did the writer of the Book of Deuteronomy
+think of Moses?</p><br>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2>WAR HEROES</h2>
+
+
+
+<div class="center">
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="">
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XIV_JOSHUA_AND_CALEB">XIV.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Joshua and Caleb</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XV_GIDEON_THE_WARRIOR">XV.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Gideon, the Warrior</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XVI_SAMSON_THE_STRONG_MAN">XVI.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Samson, the Strong Man</span></td></tr>
+</table></div><br>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="XIV_JOSHUA_AND_CALEB" id="XIV_JOSHUA_AND_CALEB"></a>XIV. JOSHUA AND CALEB</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§43.</b> <b>The Twelve Spies</b> (Num. 13:1, 2, 17-21, 25-28,
+30-33; 14:1-10, 26-33)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE MISSION OF THE SPIES</p>
+
+<p>The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, "Send thou
+men, that they may spy out the land of Canaan,
+which I give unto the children of Israel: of every
+tribe of their fathers shall ye send a man, every one
+a prince among them."</p>
+
+<p>And Moses sent twelve men of the tribes of Israel,
+and of them Caleb was of the tribe of Judah and
+Joshua of the tribe of Ephraim. And Moses sent
+them to spy out the land of Canaan, and said unto
+them, "Get you up this way by the South, and go
+up into the mountains: and see the land, what it is;
+and the people that dwelleth therein, whether they
+be strong or weak, whether they be few or many;
+and what the land is that they dwell in, whether it
+be good or bad; and what cities they be that they
+dwell in, whether in camps, or in strongholds; and
+what the land is, whether it be fat or lean, whether
+there be wood therein, or not. And be ye of good
+courage, and bring of the fruit of the land."</p>
+
+<p>Now the time was the time of the first-ripe grapes.
+So they went up, and spied out the land. And they
+came unto the valley of Eshcol, and cut down from
+thence a branch with one cluster of grapes, and they
+bare it upon a staff between two; they brought also
+of the pomegranates, and of the figs.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE REPORT OF THE COWARDS</p>
+
+<p>And they returned from spying out the land at
+the end of forty days. And they went and came to
+Moses, and to the children of Israel, and showed
+them the fruit of the land. And they told him, and
+said, "We came unto the land whither thou sentest
+us, and surely it floweth with milk and honey; and
+this is the fruit of it. Howbeit the people that dwell
+in the land are strong, and the cities are fenced, and
+very great: and moreover we saw the giants, the
+children of Anak, there."</p>
+
+<p>And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and
+said, "Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we
+are well able to overcome it."</p>
+
+<p>But the men that went up with him said, "We
+are not able to go up against the people; for they
+are stronger than we." And they brought up an evil
+report of the land which they had spied out unto
+the children of Israel, saying, "The land, through
+which we have gone to spy it out, is a land that eateth
+up the inhabitants thereof; and all the people that
+we saw in it are men of great stature. And there
+we saw the giants, the sons of Anak: and we were
+in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so we were
+in their sight."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. THE DISCOURAGEMENT</p>
+
+<p>And all the congregation lifted up their voice, and
+cried; and the people wept that night. And all the
+children of Israel murmured against Moses and
+against Aaron: and said unto them, "Would God
+that we had died in the land of Egypt! or would God
+we had died in this wilderness! And wherefore
+doth the Lord bring us unto this land, to fall by the
+sword? Our wives and our little ones shall be a
+prey: were it not better for us to return into
+Egypt?"</p>
+
+<p>And they said one to another, "Let us make a
+captain, and let us return into Egypt."</p>
+
+<p>Then Moses and Aaron fell on their faces before
+all the assembly of the children of Israel.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">D. THE ADVICE OF THE HEROES</p>
+
+<p>And Joshua and Caleb, which were of them that
+spied out the land, rent their clothes: and they spake
+unto all the children of Israel, saying, "The land,
+which we passed through to spy it out, is an exceeding
+good land. If the Lord delight in us, then he will
+bring us into this land, and give it unto us; a land
+which floweth with milk and honey. Only rebel not
+against the Lord, neither fear ye the people of the
+land; for they are bread for us: their defence is
+removed from over them, and the Lord is with us:
+fear them not."</p>
+
+<p>But all the people cried to stone them with stones.</p><br>
+
+<p class="center">E. THE SENTENCE OF THE LORD</p>
+
+<p>And the glory of the Lord appeared in the tent
+of meeting unto all the children of Israel. And the
+Lord spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying,
+"I have heard the murmurings of the children of
+Israel, which they murmur against me. Say unto
+them, 'As I live, saith the Lord, surely as ye have
+spoken in mine ears, so will I do to you: your carcases
+shall fall in this wilderness; and all that were
+numbered of you, according to your whole number,
+from twenty years old and upward, which have
+murmured against me, surely ye shall not come into
+the land, concerning which I lifted up my hand that I
+would make you dwell therein, save Caleb and
+Joshua. But your little ones, which ye said should
+be a prey, them will I bring in, and they shall know
+the land which ye have rejected. But as for you,
+your carcases shall fall in this wilderness. And your
+children shall be wanderers in the wilderness forty
+years.'"</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§44.</b> <b>After the Forty Years</b> (Josh. 1:1-11;
+11:16-18; 14:6-13)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. JOSHUA'S REWARD</p>
+
+<p>Now it came to pass after the death of Moses the
+servant of the Lord, that the Lord spake unto Joshua,
+Moses' minister, saying, "Moses my servant is dead;
+now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and
+all this people, unto the land which I do give to them,
+even to the children of Israel. Every place that the
+sole of your foot shall tread upon, to you have I given
+it, as I spake unto Moses. From the wilderness,
+and this Lebanon, even unto the great river, the
+river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites, and unto
+the great sea toward the going down of the sun, shall
+be your border. There shall not any man be able
+to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was
+with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail
+thee, nor forsake thee. Be strong and of a good
+courage: for thou shalt cause this people to inherit
+the land which I sware unto their fathers to give them.
+Only be strong and very courageous, to observe to
+do according to all the law, which Moses my servant
+commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand
+or to the left, that thou mayest have good success
+whithersoever thou goest. This book of the law
+shall not depart out of thy mouth, but thou shalt
+meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest
+observe to do according to all that is written therein:
+for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and
+then thou shalt have good success. Have not I
+commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage;
+be not affrighted, neither be thou dismayed: for the
+Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou
+goest."</p>
+
+<p>Then Joshua commanded the officers of the people,
+saying, "Pass through the midst of the camp, and
+command the people, saying, 'Prepare you victuals;
+for within three days ye are to pass over this Jordan,
+to go in to possess the land, which the Lord your
+God giveth you to possess it.'"</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. JOSHUA'S CONQUESTS</p>
+
+<p>So Joshua took all that land, the hill country, and
+all the South, and the lowland, and the hill country
+of Israel, and the lowland of the same; and all their
+kings he took, and smote them, and put them to
+death. Joshua made war a long time with all those
+kings. So Joshua took the whole land, according to
+all that the Lord spake unto Moses; and Joshua
+gave it for an inheritance unto Israel according to
+their divisions by their tribes.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. CALEB'S REWARD</p>
+
+<p>Then the children of Judah drew nigh unto Joshua:
+and Caleb said unto him, "Thou knowest the thing
+that the Lord spake unto Moses the man of God
+concerning me and concerning thee in Kadesh-barnea.
+Forty years old was I when Moses the servant
+of the Lord sent me from Kadesh-barnea to spy out
+the land; and I brought him word again as it was
+in mine heart. Nevertheless my brethren that went
+up with me made the heart of the people melt: but
+I wholly followed the Lord my God. And Moses
+sware on that day, saying, 'Surely the land whereon
+thy foot hath trodden shall be an inheritance to thee
+and to thy children for ever, because thou hast wholly
+followed the Lord my God.' And now, behold, the
+Lord hath kept me alive, as he spake, these forty
+and five years, from the time that the Lord spake this
+word unto Moses, while Israel walked in the wilderness:
+and now, lo, I am this day fourscore and
+five years old. As yet I am as strong this day as I
+was in the day that Moses sent me: as my strength
+was then, even so is my strength now, for war, and
+to go out and to come in. Now, therefore, give me
+this mountain, whereof the Lord spake in that day;
+for thou heardest in that day how the giants, the sons
+of Anak, were there, and cities great and fenced: it
+may be that the Lord will be with me, and I shall
+drive them out, as the Lord spake."</p>
+
+<p>And Joshua blessed him; and he gave Hebron
+unto Caleb for an inheritance. And the land had
+rest from war.</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>141. We have followed the story of Moses to the time of his
+death. Now we shall go back to notice the part that two other
+heroes played in the wilderness. It was at the time when
+Moses had led the people from Mount Sinai toward the southern
+part of Canaan. Locate this journey on the map.</p>
+
+<p>142 (§43A). Notice that we take up the Book of Numbers,
+which is so called because it tells of the census of the people
+in the wilderness. Try to imagine the feelings of the people
+who had come from slavery in Egypt and had reached the
+borders of the strange new land. They would wish to know
+what was before them. What plan was to be used to find
+out?</p>
+
+<p>143 (§43A). The southern part of Canaan was called "the
+South." Locate it. They were to go through there and then
+to the higher country where the vineyards were planted on the
+hills. What seven different things were these men to find out?
+What were they to bring back with them? What time of the
+year was it? We can imagine how the settlers in the early
+history of our country might have sent scouts to go through
+the Indian lands to find out what they were and what kind
+of people the Indian tribes were.</p>
+
+<p>144 (§43A). These twelve men went all through the land.
+What did they get as a sample of the fruit? Why did two men
+have to carry it? What does this show of the character of the
+land?</p>
+
+<p>145 (§43B). How long did it take them to find out about
+the country? What did they do when they came back. What
+report did they give? The children of Anak were very tall
+men. It seems that there must have been a tribe of exceedingly
+big men in Canaan. These frightened the spies.</p>
+
+<p>146 (§43B). There was one of the committee who spoke out
+a bold word. Who was he and what did he say? But what
+did the others reply? Notice that at first they said they saw
+some tall men. Soon they began to think that all the Canaanites
+were giants. So difficulties grow in our minds when we
+are cowardly.</p>
+
+<p>147 (§43C). What happened when the people heard the
+discouraging report? It shows how a few men can discourage
+a whole army. What rebellion did they plan?
+Would it have been wise to go back to Egypt?</p>
+
+<p>148 (§43D). Moses and Aaron were very much troubled.
+But the two heroes out of the twelve spies made a great speech.
+They were troubled so they tore their clothes. But what did
+they say about the land? Who did they say would bless the
+people if they would be faithful and brave? How did the
+people respond? Think of the two noble men standing
+against the great crowd.</p>
+
+<p>149 (§43E). The message of the Lord tells of the punishment
+for the rebellion. What was to happen to all the grown
+men? What two men were to be an exception? What was
+to happen to the children? Notice that the punishment is
+that they shall not go into the land. But they did not want to
+go. Sometimes the worst punishment is to take a person at
+his word.</p>
+
+<p>150 (§44A). Now imagine forty years to pass. All the
+old men are gone. The great leader is gone. Let us see what
+became of the two brave men. We turn to a new book, the
+sixth in our Bible, which is called after the name of the hero.
+Who was chosen to succeed Moses? Was not this an honor
+and reward? What was to be his duty for the people?
+What spirit was he to have? What was to be his guide?
+Who promised to be with him? What did he immediately
+do as the first act of his leadership?</p>
+
+<p>151 (§44B). The first eleven chapters of this book give
+the account of Joshua's wars to gain the land for his people.
+This passage tells how he succeeded. Tell it in your own
+words.</p>
+
+<p>152 (§44C). The old hero Caleb comes up to get his share
+of the new land. Tell what he says to Joshua. As he states
+that it is forty-five years since Moses gave him the promise,
+there must have been five years spent in conquering the
+land. It was a long time to wait for his reward, but at last
+the old man receives it. It is interesting to note that he chooses
+his own reward. He asks to be given the very highland
+country that the spies were so much afraid of. He expects
+the Lord to help him to drive the giants out. One would think
+that an old man would ask for an easy place. Caleb asks for
+a hard one. What do you think of Caleb? What kind of a
+place do you want in the world&mdash;an easy place with plenty
+to get or a hard place with plenty of chance to do good?
+Think about that question and then answer it to yourself.</p><br>
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>This week you will undoubtedly have some difficult
+lessons assigned in school. It will seem that they are too
+hard and you will feel inclined to give them up. Do not
+be afraid of the giants, be like Joshua and Caleb and you
+can conquer if you are brave enough. Make up your mind
+to conquer some hard task each day. When you are sure
+you have really conquered a difficulty think how those
+heroes must have felt about the giants. Write in your
+notebook the reason why Caleb and Joshua wanted to do
+the hard duty.</p><br>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="XV_GIDEON_THE_WARRIOR" id="XV_GIDEON_THE_WARRIOR"></a>XV. GIDEON, THE WARRIOR</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3>
+
+<br>
+<p class="center"><b>§45.</b> <b>The Call of Gideon</b> (Judg. 6:2-6, 11-24, 36-40)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE OPPRESSION OF THE MIDIANITES</p>
+
+<p>The hand of Midian prevailed against Israel: and
+because of Midian the children of Israel made them
+the dens which are in the mountains, and the caves,
+and the strongholds. And so it was, when Israel
+had sown, that the Midianites came up and
+encamped against them, and destroyed the increase
+of the earth, and left no sustenance in Israel,
+neither sheep, nor ox, nor ass. For they came up
+with their cattle and their tents, they came in as
+locusts for multitude; both they and their camels
+were without number: and they came into the land
+to destroy it. And Israel was brought very low because
+of Midian; and the children of Israel cried
+unto the Lord.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE ANGEL'S VISIT TO GIDEON</p>
+
+<p>And the angel of the Lord came, and sat under the
+oak that belonged unto Joash the Abiezrite: and his
+son Gideon was beating out wheat in the winepress,
+to hide it from the Midianites. And the angel of
+the Lord appeared unto him, and said unto him,
+"The Lord is with thee, thou mighty man of valor."</p>
+
+<p>And Gideon said unto him, "Oh my lord, if the
+Lord be with us, why then is all this befallen us?
+and where are all his wondrous works which our
+fathers told us of, saying, 'Did not the Lord bring
+us up from Egypt?' but now the Lord hath cast us
+off, and delivered us into the hand of Midian."</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord looked upon him, and said, "Go
+in this thy might, and save Israel from the hand of
+Midian: have not I sent thee?"</p>
+
+<p>And he said unto him, "Oh Lord, wherewith shall
+I save Israel? behold, my family is the poorest in
+Manasseh, and I am the least in my father's house."</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said unto him, "Surely I will be
+with thee, and thou shalt smite the Midianites as
+one man."</p>
+
+<p>And he said unto him, "If now I have found
+grace in thy sight, then show me a sign that it is thou
+that talkest with me. Depart not hence, I pray thee,
+until I come unto thee, and bring forth my present,
+and lay it before thee."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "I will tarry until thou come again."</p>
+
+<p>And Gideon went in, and made ready a kid, and
+unleavened cakes of an ephah of meal: the flesh he
+put in a basket, and he put the broth in a pot, and
+brought it out unto him under the oak, and presented
+it.</p>
+
+<p>And the angel of God said unto him, "Take the
+flesh and the unleavened cakes, and lay them upon
+this rock, and pour out the broth."</p>
+
+<p>And he did so. Then the angel of the Lord put
+forth the end of the staff that was in his hand, and
+touched the flesh and the unleavened cakes; and
+there went up fire out of the rock, and consumed the
+flesh and the unleavened cakes; and the angel of
+the Lord departed out of his sight. And Gideon
+saw that he was the angel of the Lord; and Gideon
+said, "Alas, O Lord God! forasmuch as I have
+seen the angel of the Lord face to face."</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said unto him, "Peace be unto thee;
+fear not: thou shalt not die."</p>
+
+<p>Then Gideon built an altar there unto the
+Lord.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. THE SIGN OF THE FLEECE</p>
+
+<p>And Gideon said unto God, "If thou wilt save
+Israel by mine hand, as thou hast spoken, behold, I
+will put a fleece of wool on the threshing-floor: if
+there be dew on the fleece only, and it be dry upon
+all the ground, then shall I know that thou wilt save
+Israel by mine hand, as thou hast spoken."</p>
+
+<p>And it was so: for he rose up early on the morrow,
+and pressed the fleece together, and wrung the dew
+out of the fleece, a bowlful of water. And Gideon
+said unto God, "Let not thine anger be kindled
+against me, and I will speak but this once: let me
+prove, I pray thee, but this once with the fleece;
+let it now be dry only upon the fleece, and upon all
+the ground let there be dew."</p>
+
+<p>And God did so that night: for it was dry upon
+the fleece only, and there was dew on all the ground.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§46.</b> <b>The Defeat of the Midianites</b> (Judg. 6:33-35;
+7:2-24; 8:4, 10-12, 21)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE GATHERING OF THE TRIBES</p>
+
+<p>Then all the Midianites assembled themselves
+together; and they passed over, and pitched in the
+valley of Jezreel. But the spirit of the Lord came
+upon Gideon; and he blew a trumpet; and Abiezer
+was gathered together after him. And he sent messengers
+throughout all Manasseh; and they also
+were gathered together after him: and he sent messengers
+unto Asher, and unto Zebulun, and unto
+Naphtali; and they came up to meet them.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE CHOICE OF THE WARRIORS</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said unto Gideon, "The people
+that are with thee are too many for me to give the
+Midianites into their hand, lest Israel vaunt themselves
+against me, saying, 'Mine own hand hath
+saved me.' Now therefore go to, proclaim in the
+ears of the people, saying, 'Whosoever is fearful and
+trembling, let him return and depart from mount
+Gilead.'"</p>
+
+<p>And there returned of the people twenty and two
+thousand; and there remained ten thousand. And
+the Lord said unto Gideon, "The people are yet too
+many; bring them down unto the water, and I will
+try them for thee there: and it shall be, that of whom
+I say unto thee, 'This shall go with thee,' the same
+shall go with thee; and of whomsoever I say unto
+thee, 'This shall not go with thee,' the same shall
+not go."</p>
+
+<p>So he brought down the people unto the water:
+and the Lord said unto Gideon, "Every one that
+lappeth of the water with his tongue, as a dog lappeth,
+him shalt thou set by himself; likewise every one
+that boweth down upon his knees to drink."</p>
+
+<p>And the number of them that lapped, putting their
+hand to their mouth, was three hundred men: but
+all the rest of the people bowed down upon their
+knees to drink water.</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said unto Gideon, "By the three
+hundred men that lapped will I save you, and deliver
+the Midianites into thine hand: and let all the people
+go every man unto his place."</p>
+
+<p>So the people took victuals in their hand, and their
+trumpets: and he sent all the men of Israel every
+man unto his tent, but retained the three hundred
+men: and the camp of Midian was beneath him in
+the valley.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. THE DREAM OF THE ENEMY</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass the same night, that the Lord
+said unto him, "Arise, get thee down into the camp;
+for I have delivered it into thine hand. But if thou
+fear to go down, go thou with Purah thy servant
+down to the camp: and thou shalt hear what they
+say; and afterward shall thine hands be strengthened
+to go down into the camp."</p>
+
+<p>Then went he down with Purah his servant unto
+the outermost part of the armed men that were in the
+camp. And the Midianites lay along in the valley
+like locusts for multitude; and their camels were
+without number, as the sand which is upon the sea
+shore for multitude.</p>
+
+<p>And when Gideon was come, behold, there was a
+man that told a dream unto his fellow, and said,
+"Behold, I dreamed a dream, and, lo, a cake of
+barley bread tumbled into the camp of Midian, and
+came unto the tent, and smote it that it fell, and
+turned it upside down, so that the tent lay flat."</p>
+
+<p>And his fellow answered and said, "This is nothing
+else save the sword of Gideon the son of Joash, a
+man of Israel: into his hand God hath delivered
+Midian, and all the host."</p>
+
+<p>And it was so, when Gideon heard the telling of the
+dream, and the interpretation thereof, that he worshipped;
+and he returned into the camp of Israel,
+and said, "Arise; for the Lord hath delivered into
+your hand the host of Midian."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">D. THE PLAN OF THE BATTLE</p>
+
+<p>And he divided the three hundred men into three
+companies, and he put into the hands of all of them
+trumpets, and empty pitchers, with torches within
+the pitchers. And he said unto them, "Look on me,
+and do likewise: and, behold, when I come to the
+outermost part of the camp, it shall be that, as I do,
+so shall ye do. When I blow the trumpet, I and all
+that are with me, then blow ye the trumpets also on
+every side of all the camp, and say, 'For the Lord
+and for Gideon.'"</p>
+
+<p>So Gideon, and the hundred men that were with
+him, came unto the outermost part of the camp in
+the beginning of the middle watch, when they had
+but newly set the watch: and they blew the trumpets,
+and brake in pieces the pitchers that were in their
+hands. And the three companies blew the trumpets,
+and brake the pitchers, and held the torches in their
+left hands, and the trumpets in their right hands to
+blow withal: and they cried, "The sword of the
+Lord and of Gideon."</p>
+
+<p>And they stood every man in his place round about
+the camp: and all the host ran; and they shouted,
+and put them to flight. And they blew the three
+hundred trumpets, and the Lord set every man's
+sword against his fellow, and against all the host:
+and the host fled and the men of Israel pursued after
+Midian.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">E. THE PURSUIT AND THE VICTORY</p>
+
+<p>And Gideon sent messengers throughout all the
+hill country of Ephraim, saying, "Come down
+against Midian and take the Jordan before them."
+So they came down.</p>
+
+<p>And Gideon came to the Jordan, and passed over,
+he, and the three hundred men that were with him,
+faint, yet pursuing.</p>
+
+<p>Now the two kings of Midian had with them about
+fifteen thousand men, all that were left of the host.
+And Gideon smote the host. And the two kings of
+Midian fled. And Gideon pursued after them and
+took them. And he slew them, and took the crescents
+that were on their camels' necks.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§47.</b> <b>The Result of the Victory</b> (Judg. 8:22-27)</p>
+
+<p>Then the men of Israel said unto Gideon, "Rule
+thou over us, both thou, and thy son, and thy son's
+son also: for thou hast saved us out of the hand of
+Midian."</p>
+
+<p>And Gideon said unto them, "I will not rule over
+you, neither shall my son rule over you: the Lord
+shall rule over you."</p>
+
+<p>And Gideon said unto them, "I would desire and
+request of you, that ye would give me every man the
+earrings of his spoil."</p>
+
+<p>And they answered, "We will willingly give them."</p>
+
+<p>And they spread a garment, and did cast therein
+every man the earrings of his spoil. And the weight
+of the golden earrings that he requested was a thousand
+and seven hundred shekels of gold; beside the
+crescents, and the pendants, and the purple raiment
+that was on the kings of Midian, and beside the
+chains that were about their camels' necks. And
+Gideon made an idol thereof, and put it in his city,
+even in Ophrah: and all Israel went after it there:
+and it became a snare unto Gideon, and to his house.</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>153. After the death of Joshua, the Hebrews had a hard
+time from their many enemies. Just as our forefathers were
+constantly in danger from the Indians, so the Hebrew settlers
+were often attacked and their goods taken from them. But
+in their case it was worse, because their enemies often came
+against them in great armies and conquered them. Israel
+had no king or governor, but from time to time some hero
+rose up to deliver them. These men were called "judges,"
+because in addition to leading the people in war they decided
+matters of dispute. Their stories are told in the Book of
+Judges. Gideon was one of these military heroes.</p>
+
+<p>154 (§45A). The Midianites were a wandering people of
+the desert. They wandered on the borders of Edom and
+Moab. Find these places on the map, southeast of Canaan.
+As they raised no crops themselves they delighted to attack
+the agricultural people after the crops were harvested and
+steal all the result of the year's work. That is the meaning
+of the fear of the Hebrews that is described. Where did the
+Hebrews hide? How many were there of the enemy?</p>
+
+<p>155 (§45B). Notice that Gideon was afraid to thresh his
+wheat in the open place, so he was beating out a few sheaves
+in the hollow where they pressed the grapes. What did the
+angel say to him when he saw his powerful frame and how
+vigorously he was beating his wheat? Tell the conversation,
+showing how the angel encouraged Gideon. He was a brave
+man, but like everyone else he had lost heart. What sign
+was given to Gideon? It was such a solemn thing to be
+called by God to deliver the people that Gideon was afraid,
+but God encouraged him. What did Gideon build there?
+What did that mean?</p>
+
+<p>156 (§45C). What further sign was given to Gideon to
+make him sure that the Lord was with him?</p>
+
+<p>157 (§46A). There were twelve tribes in Israel and each
+tribe consisted of a number of clans. Gideon was of the clan
+of Abiezer, which was part of the tribe of Manasseh. Look
+at the map of Canaan and note the names of the Twelve Tribes.
+In the tribe of Issachar is the Plain of Esdraelon. That was
+the great plain where many of the battles of Israel were
+fought. If you can look at a relief map you will see how this
+great plain lay. The enemy had crossed the Jordan and
+camped on this plain. When Gideon heard it, he was stirred
+to the heart. What did he do? First his own clan followed
+him. Then he called his own tribe to follow him. Then
+he sent to three of the northern tribes. Find all these on
+the map. Try to imagine the Israelites all gathering together
+at the call of the hero.</p>
+
+<p>158 (§46B). Here we have a strange story. It would seem
+as if the army ought to be as large as possible, but the Lord
+told Gideon that he did not want the people to boast of the
+victory. Who were told to go home? How large was the
+army? How many went home? How many remained?
+But still the numbers were too large: what was the second
+plan to reduce them? How many at last were left?</p>
+
+<p>159 (§46C). What did Gideon do in order to find out about
+the enemy? Tell the dream that he heard explained.</p>
+
+<p>160 (§46D). Read carefully and explain what Gideon told
+his men. He had a stratagem in mind to frighten the enemy.
+It is to be noted that the men who went home left their provisions
+and their trumpets, so Gideon had as many trumpets
+in his little army as in the big army. What would the Midianites
+think when they heard three hundred trumpets blowing?
+The night was divided into three watches. The sentries had
+just been set for the second watch when the attack was made.
+Describe the actions of the Israelites. What did they shout?
+The Midianites killed one another in the confusion.</p>
+
+<p>161 (§46E). Gideon wanted the great tribe of Ephraim to
+help in the fight, so he asked them to go down to the river
+Jordan to cut off the flying enemy. What did Gideon do
+himself? What happened to the kings of Midian and the
+host?</p>
+
+<p>162 (§47). What did the grateful people offer Gideon?
+Why did he refuse? What great American refused to be a
+king? The story closes in disappointment. Is it not strange
+that after the great victory Gideon should forget God? Tell
+the story of making the idol.</p><br>
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>Make a search during the next week for an example of
+some brave person standing up like Gideon for a good
+cause when others hold back. There is sure to be someone
+if you are keen enough to find him. It may be at school
+or in the city, or you may hear of someone in the newspapers.
+Talk it over with your companions until you
+have found the best example. Write about it in your
+notebook.</p><br>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="XVI_SAMSON_THE_STRONG_MAN" id="XVI_SAMSON_THE_STRONG_MAN"></a>XVI. SAMSON, THE STRONG MAN</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§48.</b> <b>The Birth of Samson</b> (Judg. 13:2-6, 24)</p>
+
+<p>There was a certain man of the Danites, whose
+name was Manoah; and his wife bare no child.
+And the angel of the Lord appeared unto the woman,
+and said unto her, "Behold now, thou shalt bear a
+son. Now therefore beware, I pray thee, and drink
+no wine nor strong drink, and eat not any unclean
+thing: for, lo, thou shalt bear a son; and no razor
+shall come upon his head: for the child shall be a
+Nazirite unto God from his birth: and he shall begin
+to save Israel out of the hand of the Philistines."</p>
+
+<p>Then the woman came and told her husband.</p>
+
+<p>And the woman bare a son and called his name
+Samson: and the child grew and the Lord blessed
+him.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§49.</b> <b>The Riddle at the Wedding Feast</b> (Judg. 14)</p>
+
+<p>And Samson went down to Timnah, and saw a
+woman in Timnah of the daughters of the Philistines.
+And he came up, and told his father and his mother,
+and said, "I have seen a woman in Timnah of the
+daughters of the Philistines: now therefore get her
+for me to wife."</p>
+
+<p>Then his father and his mother said unto him, "Is
+there never a woman among the daughters of thy
+brethren, or among all my people, that thou goest to
+take a wife of the Philistines?"</p>
+
+<p>And Samson said unto his father, "Get her for
+me; for she pleaseth me well."</p>
+
+<p>Then went Samson down, and his father and his
+mother, to Timnah, and came to the vineyards of
+Timnah: and, behold, a young lion roared against
+him. And the spirit of the Lord came mightily upon
+him, and he rent him as he would have rent a kid,
+and he had nothing in his hand: but he told not his
+father or his mother what he had done. And he
+went down, and talked with the woman; and she
+pleased Samson well.</p>
+
+<p>And after a while he returned to take her, and
+he turned aside to see the carcase of the lion: and,
+behold, there was a swarm of bees in the body of the
+lion, and honey. And he took it into his hands, and
+went on, eating as he went, and he came to his father
+and mother, and gave unto them, and they did eat:
+but he told them not that he had taken the honey out
+of the body of the lion. And his father went down
+unto the woman: and Samson made there a feast;
+for so used the young men to do. And it came to
+pass, when they saw him, that they brought thirty
+companions to be with him.</p>
+
+<p>And Samson said unto them, "Let me now put
+forth a riddle unto you: if ye can declare it me within
+the seven days of the feast, and find it out, then I will
+give you thirty linen garments and thirty changes of
+raiment: but if ye cannot declare it me, then shall
+ye give me thirty linen garments and thirty changes
+of raiment."</p>
+
+<p>And they said unto him, "Put forth thy riddle,
+that we may hear it."</p>
+
+<p>And he said unto them,</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">"Out of the eater came forth meat,<br></span>
+<span class="i0">And out of the strong came forth sweetness."<br></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>And they could not in three days declare the
+riddle.</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass on the seventh day, that they
+said unto Samson's wife, "Entice thy husband, that
+he may declare unto us the riddle, lest we burn thee
+and thy father's house with fire: have ye called us
+to impoverish us? is it not so?"</p>
+
+<p>And Samson's wife wept before him, and said,
+"Thou dost but hate me, and lovest me not: thou
+hast put forth a riddle unto the children of my
+people, and hast not told it me."</p>
+
+<p>And he said unto her, "Behold, I have not told
+it my father nor my mother, and shall I tell thee?"</p>
+
+<p>And she wept before him the seven days, while
+their feast lasted: and it came to pass on the seventh
+day, that he told her, because she pressed him sore:
+and she told the riddle to the children of her people.
+And the men of the city said unto him on the seventh
+day before the sun went down, "What is sweeter
+than honey? and what is stronger than a lion?"</p>
+
+<p>And he said unto them,</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">"If ye had not plowed with my heifer,<br></span>
+<span class="i0">Ye had not found out my riddle."<br></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>And the spirit of the Lord came mightily upon him,
+and he went down to Ashkelon, and smote thirty
+men of them, and took their spoil, and gave the
+changes of raiment unto them that declared the riddle.
+And his anger was kindled, and he went up to
+his father's house. But Samson's wife was given to
+his companion, whom he had used as his friend.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§50.</b> <b>Samson's Strength</b> (Judg. 15:1-17; 16:1-3)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE STORY OF THE FOXES</p>
+
+<p>But it came to pass after a while, in the time of
+wheat harvest, that Samson visited his wife with a
+kid; and he said, "I will go in to my wife into the
+chamber."</p>
+
+<p>But her father would not suffer him to go in. And
+her father said, "I verily thought that thou hadst
+utterly hated her; therefore I gave her to thy companion:
+is not her younger sister fairer than she?
+take her, I pray thee, instead of her."</p>
+
+<p>And Samson said unto them, "This time shall I
+be blameless in regard to the Philistines, when I do
+them a mischief."</p>
+
+<p>And Samson went and caught three hundred foxes,
+and took firebrands, and turned tail to tail, and put
+a firebrand in the midst between every two tails.
+And when he had set the brands on fire, he let them
+go into the standing grain of the Philistines, and
+burnt up both the shocks and the standing grain, and
+also the oliveyards.</p>
+
+<p>Then the Philistines said, "Who hath done
+this?"</p>
+
+<p>And they said, "Samson, the son-in-law of the
+Timnite, because he hath taken his wife, and given
+her to his companion."</p>
+
+<p>And the Philistines came up, and burnt her and
+her father with fire.</p>
+
+<p>And Samson said unto them, "If ye do after this
+manner, surely I will be avenged of you, and after
+that will I cease."</p>
+
+<p>And he smote them hip and thigh with a great
+slaughter: and he went down and dwelt in the cleft
+of the rock of Etam.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE STORY OF THE JAWBONE</p>
+
+<p>Then the Philistines went up, and pitched in
+Judah, and spread themselves in Lehi. And the men
+of Judah said, "Why are ye come up against us?"</p>
+
+<p>And they said, "To bind Samson are we come up,
+to do to him as he hath done to us."</p>
+
+<p>Then three thousand men of Judah went down to
+the cleft of the rock of Etam, and said to Samson,
+"Knowest thou not that the Philistines are rulers
+over us? what then is this that thou hast done unto
+us?"</p>
+
+<p>And he said unto them, "As they did unto me, so
+have I done unto them."</p>
+
+<p>And they said unto him, "We are come down to
+bind thee, that we may deliver thee into the hand of
+the Philistines."</p>
+
+<p>And Samson said unto them, "Swear unto me,
+that ye will not fall upon me yourselves."</p>
+
+<p>And they spake unto him, saying, "No; but we
+will bind thee fast, and deliver thee into their hand:
+but surely we will not kill thee."</p>
+
+<p>And they bound him with two new ropes, and
+brought him up from the rock. When he came unto
+Lehi, the Philistines shouted as they met him: and
+the spirit of the Lord came mightily upon him, and
+the ropes that were upon his arms became as flax
+that was burnt with fire, and his bands dropped from
+off his hands. And he found a new jawbone of an
+ass, and put forth his hand, and took it, and smote
+a thousand men therewith. And Samson said,</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">"With the jawbone of an ass, heaps upon heaps,<br></span>
+<span class="i0">With the jawbone of an ass have I smitten a thousand men."<br></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, when he had made an end of
+speaking, that he cast away the jawbone out of his
+hand.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. THE STORY OF THE GATES OF GAZA</p>
+
+<p>And Samson went to Gaza. And it was told the
+Gazites, saying, "Samson is come hither." And
+they compassed him in, and laid wait for him all
+night in the gate of the city, and were quiet all the
+night, saying, "Let be till morning light, then we
+will kill him."</p>
+
+<p>And Samson lay till midnight, and arose at midnight,
+and laid hold of the doors of the gate of the
+city, and the two posts, and plucked them up, bar
+and all, and put them upon his shoulders, and carried
+them up to the top of the mountain that is before
+Hebron.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§51.</b> <b>Samson's Weakness</b> (Judg. 16:4-22)</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass afterward, that he loved a
+woman, whose name was Delilah. And the lords of
+the Philistines came up unto her, and said unto her,
+"Entice him, and see wherein his great strength
+lieth, and by what means we may prevail against
+him, that we may bind him to afflict him: and we
+will give thee every one of us eleven hundred pieces
+of silver."</p>
+
+<p>And Delilah said to Samson, "Tell me, I pray
+thee, wherein thy great strength lieth, and wherewith
+thou mightest be bound to afflict thee."</p>
+
+<p>And Samson said unto her, "If they bind me with
+seven new bowstrings that were never dried, then
+shall I become weak, and be as another man."</p>
+
+<p>Then the lords of the Philistines brought up to her
+seven new bowstrings which had not been dried, and
+she bound him with them. Now she had liers in
+wait abiding in the inner chamber. And she
+said unto him, "The Philistines be upon thee,
+Samson."</p>
+
+<p>And he brake the bowstrings as a string of tow is
+broken when it touches the fire. So his strength
+was not known.</p>
+
+<p>And Delilah said unto Samson, "Behold, thou
+hast mocked me, and told me lies: now tell me, I
+pray thee, wherewith thou mightest be bound."</p>
+
+<p>And he said unto her, "If they only bind me
+with new ropes wherewith no work hath been done,
+then shall I become weak, and be as another
+man."</p>
+
+<p>So Delilah took new ropes, and bound him therewith,
+and said unto him, "The Philistines be upon
+thee, Samson."</p>
+
+<p>And the liers in wait were abiding in the inner
+chamber. And he brake them from off his arms
+like a thread.</p>
+
+<p>And Delilah said unto Samson, "Hitherto thou
+hast mocked me, and told me lies: tell me wherewith
+thou mightest be bound."</p>
+
+<p>And he said unto her, "If thou weavest the seven
+locks of my head with the web."</p>
+
+<p>And she fastened it with the pin, and said unto him,
+"The Philistines be upon thee, Samson."</p>
+
+<p>And he awaked out of his sleep, and plucked away
+the pin of the beam, and the web.</p>
+
+<p>And she said unto him, "How canst thou say, 'I
+love thee,' when thine heart is not with me? thou
+hast mocked me these three times, and hast not told
+me wherein thy great strength lieth."</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, when she pressed him daily
+with her words, and urged him, that his soul was
+vexed unto death. And he told her all his heart, and
+said unto her, "There hath not come a razor upon
+mine head: for I have been a Nazirite unto God
+from my birth: if I be shaven, then my strength will
+go from me, and I shall become weak, and be like
+any other man."</p>
+
+<p>And when Delilah saw that he had told her all his
+heart, she sent and called for the lords of the Philistines,
+saying, "Come up this once, for he hath told
+me all his heart."</p>
+
+<p>Then the lords of the Philistines came up unto
+her, and brought the money in their hand. And she
+made him sleep upon her knees: and she called for a
+man, and shaved off the seven locks of his head; and
+she began to afflict him, and his strength went from
+him. And she said, "The Philistines be upon thee,
+Samson."</p>
+
+<p>And he awoke out of his sleep, and said, "I will
+go out as at other times, and shake myself."</p>
+
+<p>But he wist not that the Lord was departed
+from him.</p>
+
+<p>And the Philistines laid hold on him, and put out
+his eyes; and they brought him down to Gaza, and
+bound him with fetters of brass; and he did grind in
+the prison house. Howbeit the hair of his head
+began to grow again after he was shaven.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§52. Samson's Vengeance</b> (Judg. 16:23-31)</p>
+
+<p>And the lords of the Philistines gathered them
+together to offer a great sacrifice unto Dagon their
+god, and to rejoice: for they said, "Our god hath
+delivered Samson our enemy into our hand." And
+when the people saw him, they praised their god:
+for they said, "Our god hath delivered into our hand
+our enemy, and the destroyer of our country, which
+hath slain many of us." And it came to pass, when
+their hearts were merry, that they said, "Call for
+Samson, that he may make us sport."</p>
+
+<p>And they called for Samson out of the prison house;
+and he made sport before them: and they set him
+between the pillars. And Samson said unto the lad
+that held him by the hand, "Suffer me that I may
+feel the pillars whereupon the house resteth, that I
+may lean upon them."</p>
+
+<p>Now the house was full of men and women; and
+all the lords of the Philistines were there; and there
+were upon the roof about three thousand men and
+women, that beheld while Samson made sport.</p>
+
+<p>And Samson called unto the Lord, and said, "O
+Lord God, remember me, I pray thee, and strengthen
+me, I pray thee, only this once. O God, that I may
+be at once avenged of the Philistines for my two
+eyes."</p>
+
+<p>And Samson took hold of the two middle pillars
+upon which the house rested, and leaned upon them,
+the one with his right hand, and the other with his
+left. And Samson said, "Let me die with the Philistines."
+And he bowed himself with all his might;
+and the house fell upon the lords, and upon all the
+people that were therein. So the dead which he
+slew at his death were more than they which he slew
+in his life.</p>
+
+<p>Then his brethren and all the house of his father
+came down, and took him, and brought him up, and
+buried him in the burying-place of Manoah his father.</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>163. All peoples have their old stories of heroes who had
+great strength. The Greeks had their Hercules and the
+Hebrews had their Samson. In reading his story we must
+remember that it belongs to a rude age, when men's passions
+were strong and they had not learned the gentler ways of life.
+The story is full of adventure; it is very well told; it shows us
+much of the old Hebrew life; and it helps us to see how hard
+the lot of the people must have been under their oppressors.
+Of course they remembered any strong man of those days,
+and his story grew as it was told from generation to generation.</p>
+
+<p>164 (§48). The first thing that we learn about the hero is
+that he was a promised child. He was set apart from his
+birth to the Lord. Such persons were called Nazirites.
+They had to abstain from wine, and their hair was not to
+be cut.</p>
+
+<p>165 (§49). With whom did Samson fall in love? The
+Philistines were the oppressors of his people. What did his
+parents think of it? It would seem that they all went down
+to make the betrothal feast. What great feat of strength
+did Samson perform on the way? Then there was a second
+visit for the marriage itself. What did Samson find this time
+on his way?</p>
+
+<p>166 (§49). The story describes some of the old customs.
+What was Samson expected to provide for the wedding?
+How many young men were there? What bet did he make
+with them? What was the riddle? Could you have
+guessed it?</p>
+
+<p>167 (§49). How did the young men find out the riddle?
+How did Samson pay his bet? Consider what rude times
+those must have been.</p>
+
+<p>168 (§50A). We have a number of the old stories of Samson's
+strength. Consider what injury was done to Samson.
+What humorous and savage revenge did Samson take upon
+his enemies? It was considered a great insult to burn the
+standing grain. What horrible vengeance did the Philistines
+take on the bride's family?</p>
+
+<p>169 (§50B). Tell what Samson's own people did to him.
+Why did they do it? What was Samson's great feat? Notice
+how big they made the stories&mdash;one man killing a thousand.</p>
+
+<p>170 (§50C). They loved the stories of Samson's clever
+escapes. How did the men of Gaza think he was caught?
+How did Samson escape?</p>
+
+<p>171 (§51). This strong man was not really a great man.
+After he had lost his first Philistine wife he fell in love with
+another woman of the same race. She proved as deceitful
+as the first. Note the enormous bribe that the Philistine lords
+offered Delilah. What was the first trial of Samson's strength?
+The new bowstrings were probably cords made from the
+intestines of animals. If they were not dried they would be
+tougher.</p>
+
+<p>172 (§51). Tell the story of the second trial. The story of
+the third trial is not quite so plain. It means that his long
+hair was to be woven in with a piece of stuff that was being
+woven in the loom. When he woke up he walked off with the
+whole heavy loom.</p>
+
+<p>173 (§51). Notice how he let the wicked woman tease him.
+Was he strong or weak? Is it the part of a strong man to go
+into temptation or to run away from it? What was done to
+Samson? He makes us think of many a big strong man
+who was weak when it came to a question of goodness. Most
+of the big prize fighters are so weak that they become drunkards.
+Think of this hero doing the work of a slave.</p>
+
+<p>174 (§52). Notice how delighted the Philistines were that
+they had overcome their great enemy. Imagine the crowd
+gathered in a temple, the roof of which rested upon two
+central pillars. When they were very merry they sent for the
+poor blind Samson to make fun of him. What happened?</p>
+
+<p>175. Do you think Samson was a great man?</p><br>
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>Discuss the question whether Samson ought to have
+been put among the heroes of Israel. Read over the story
+carefully and see why the Hebrews would have wished to
+class him with their heroes. Read it again to see what
+there is against giving him that distinction. Prepare for
+a debate upon the question.</p><br>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2>A HEROINE</h2>
+
+
+<div class="center">
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="">
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XVII_RUTH_THE_FOREIGNER">XVII.</a> </td><td align="right"><span class="smcap">Ruth, the Foreigner</span></td></tr>
+</table></div><br>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="XVII_RUTH_THE_FOREIGNER" id="XVII_RUTH_THE_FOREIGNER"></a>XVII. RUTH, THE FOREIGNER</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§53. The Three Widows</b> (Ruth 1:1-5)</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass in the days when the judges judged, that there was a
+famine in the land. And a certain man of Bethlehem went to sojourn in
+the country of Moab, he, and his wife, and his two sons. And the name of
+the man was Elimelech, and the name of his wife Naomi, and the name of
+his two sons Mahlon and Chilion. And they came into the country of Moab,
+and continued there.</p>
+
+<p>And Elimelech, Naomi's husband died; and she was left, and her two sons.
+And they took them wives of the women of Moab; the name of the one was
+Orpah, and the name of the other Ruth: and they dwelt there about ten
+years. And Mahlon and Chilion died both of them; and the woman was left
+of her two children and of her husband.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§54.</b> <b>The Return to Bethlehem</b> (Ruth 1:6-22)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE TWO DAUGHTERS-IN-LAW</p>
+
+<p>Then she arose with her daughters-in-law, that she might return from the
+country of Moab: for she had heard in the country of Moab how that the
+Lord had visited his people in giving them bread. And she went forth out
+of the place where she was, and her two daughters-in-law with her; and
+they went on the way to return unto the land of Judah.</p>
+
+<p>And Naomi said unto her two daughters-in-law, "Go, return each of you to
+her mother's house: the Lord deal kindly with you, as ye have dealt
+with the dead, and with me. The Lord grant you that ye may find rest,
+each of you in the house of her husband." Then she kissed them, and they
+lifted up their voice, and wept.</p>
+
+<p>And they said unto her, "Nay, but we will return with thee unto thy
+people."</p>
+
+<p>And Naomi said, "Turn again, my daughters: why will ye go with me? have
+I yet sons that they may be your husbands? Turn again, my daughters, go
+your way; for I am too old to have a husband. If I should say, I have
+hope, if I should even have a husband, and should also bear sons; would
+ye therefore tarry till they were grown? would ye therefore stay from
+having husbands? nay, my daughters: for it grieveth me much for your
+sakes, for the hand of the Lord is gone forth against me." And they
+lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her
+mother-in-law; but Ruth clave unto her.</p>
+
+<p>And she said, "Behold thy sister-in-law is gone back unto her people,
+and unto her god: return thou after thy sister-in-law."</p>
+
+<p>And Ruth said, "Entreat me not to leave thee, and to return from
+following after thee; for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou
+lodgest, I will lodge; thy people shall be my people, and thy God my
+God; where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the Lord
+do so to me, and more also, if aught but death part thee and me." And
+when she saw that she was stedfastly minded to go with her, she left off
+speaking unto her.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE ARRIVAL IN BETHLEHEM</p>
+
+<p>So they two went until they came to Bethlehem. And it came to pass, when
+they were come to Bethlehem, that all the city was moved about them, and
+the women said, "Is this Naomi?"</p>
+
+<p>And she said unto them, "Call me not Naomi, call me Mara; for the
+Almighty hath dealt very bitterly with me. I went out full, and the Lord
+hath brought me home again empty; why call ye me Naomi, seeing the Lord
+hath testified against me, and the Almighty hath afflicted me?"</p>
+
+<p>So Naomi returned, and Ruth the Moabitess, her daughter-in-law, with
+her; and they came to Bethlehem in the beginning of barley harvest.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§55.</b> <b>In the Barley Field</b> (Ruth 2)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE GLEANERS</p>
+
+<p>And Naomi had a kinsman of her husband's, a mighty man of wealth; and
+his name was Boaz.</p>
+
+<p>And Ruth the Moabitess said unto Naomi, "Let me now go to the field, and
+glean among the ears of grain after him in whose sight I shall find
+favor."</p>
+
+<p>And she said unto her, "Go, my daughter."</p>
+
+<p>And she went, and came and gleaned in the field after the reapers: and
+she happened to light on the portion of the field belonging unto Boaz.</p>
+
+
+<p>And, behold, Boaz came from Bethlehem, and said unto the reapers, "The
+Lord be with you."</p>
+
+<p>And they answered him, "The Lord bless thee."</p>
+
+<p>Then said Boaz unto his servant that was set over the reapers, "Whose
+damsel is this?"</p>
+
+<p>And he answered, "It is the Moabitish damsel that came back with Naomi
+out of the country of Moab: and she said, 'Let me glean, I pray you,
+and gather after the reapers among the sheaves.' So she came, and hath
+continued even from the morning until now, save that she tarried a
+little in the house."</p>
+
+<p>Then said Boaz unto Ruth, "Hearest thou not, my daughter? Go not to
+glean in another field, neither pass from hence, but abide here fast by
+my maidens. Let thine eyes be on the field that they do reap, and go
+thou after them: have I not charged the young men that they shall not
+touch thee? and when thou art athirst, go unto the vessels, and drink of
+that which the young men have drawn."</p>
+
+<p>Then she fell on her face, and bowed herself to the ground, and said
+unto him, "Why have I found favor in thy sight, that thou shouldst take
+knowledge of me, seeing I am a foreigner?"</p>
+
+<p>And Boaz answered and said unto her, "It hath fully been showed me, all
+that thou hast done unto thy mother-in-law since the death of thy
+husband; and how thou hast left thy father and thy mother, and the land
+of thy nativity, and art come unto a people that thou knewest not
+heretofore. The Lord recompense thy work, and a full reward be given
+thee of the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings thou art come to
+take refuge."</p>
+
+<p>Then she said, "Let me find favor in thy sight, my lord; for that thou
+hast comforted me, and for that thou hast spoken kindly unto thy
+handmaid, though I be not as one of thy handmaidens."</p>
+
+<p>And at meal-time Boaz said unto her, "Come hither, and eat of the bread,
+and dip thy morsel in the vinegar."</p>
+
+<p>And she sat beside the reapers; and they reached her parched grain, and
+she did eat, and was sufficed, and left thereof.</p>
+
+<p>And when she was risen up to glean, Boaz commanded his young men,
+saying, "Let her glean even among the sheaves, and reproach her not. And
+also pull out some for her from the bundles, and leave it, and let her
+glean, and rebuke her not."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE HUMBLE AND HAPPY HOME</p>
+
+<p>So she gleaned in the field until even; and she beat out that which she
+had gleaned, and it was about a bushel of barley. And she took it up,
+and went into the city; and her mother-in-law saw what she had gleaned:
+and she brought forth and gave to her that which she had left after she
+was sufficed.</p>
+
+<p>And her mother-in-law said unto her, "Where hast thou gleaned to-day? and
+where hast thou wrought? blessed be he that did take knowledge of thee."</p>
+
+<p>And she showed her mother-in-law with whom she had wrought, and said,
+"The man's name with whom I wrought to-day is Boaz."</p>
+
+<p>And Naomi said unto her daughter-in-law, "Blessed be he of the Lord,
+who hath not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead." And
+Naomi said unto her, "The man is nigh of kin unto us, one of our near
+kinsmen."</p>
+
+<p>And Ruth the Moabitess said, "Yea, he said unto me, 'Thou shalt keep
+fast by my young men, until they have ended all my harvest.'"</p>
+
+<p>And Naomi said unto Ruth her daughter-in-law, "It is good, my daughter,
+that thou go out with his maidens, and that they meet thee not in any
+other field."</p>
+
+<p>So she kept fast by the maidens of Boaz, to glean unto the end of barley
+harvest and of wheat harvest; and she dwelt with her mother-in-law.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§56.</b> <b>At the Threshing Floor</b> (Ruth 3)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE PLAN</p>
+
+<p>And Naomi her mother-in-law said unto her, "My daughter, shall I not
+seek rest for thee, that it may be well with thee? And now is not Boaz
+our kinsman, with whose maidens thou wast? Behold, he winnoweth barley
+to-night in the threshing-floor. Wash thyself therefore, and anoint thee,
+and put thy raiment upon thee, and get thee down to the threshing-floor;
+but make not thyself known unto the man, until he shall have done eating
+and drinking. And it shall be, when he lieth down, that thou shalt mark
+the place where he shall lie, and thou shalt go in, and uncover his
+feet, and lay thee down: and he will tell thee what thou shalt do."</p>
+
+<p>And she said unto her, "All that thou sayest I
+will <a name="WINNOWING" id="WINNOWING"></a>do."</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 348px;">
+<img src="images/il199.jpg" width="348" height="365" alt="Copyright 1904 by Underwood and Underwood WINNOWING GRAIN" title="" >
+<span class="caption">Copyright 1904 by Underwood and Underwood</span><br>
+<span class="caption">WINNOWING GRAIN</span>
+</div><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE DUTY OF THE KINSMAN</p>
+
+<p>And she went down unto the threshing-floor, and
+did according to all that her mother-in-law bade
+her. And when Boaz had eaten and drunk, and his
+heart was merry, he went to lie down at the end of
+the heap of grain: and she came softly, and uncovered
+his feet, and laid her down. And it came to
+pass at midnight, that the man was afraid, and
+turned himself; and, behold, a woman lay at his
+feet.</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Who art thou?"</p>
+
+<p>And she answered, "I am Ruth thy handmaid:
+spread therefore thy skirt over thy handmaid; for
+thou art a near kinsman."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Blessed be thou of the Lord, my
+daughter: thou hast showed more kindness in the
+latter end than at the beginning, inasmuch as thou
+followedst not young men, whether poor or rich.
+And now, my daughter, fear not; I will do to thee
+all that thou sayest; for all the city of my people
+doth know that thou art a worthy woman. And
+now it is true that I am a near kinsman; howbeit
+there is a kinsman nearer than I. Tarry this night,
+and it shall be in the morning, that if he will perform
+unto thee the part of a kinsman, well; but
+if he will not, then will I do the part of a kinsman to
+thee, as the Lord liveth: lie down until the morning."</p>
+
+<p>And she lay at his feet until the morning: and
+she rose up before one could discern another. For
+he said, "Let it not be known that the woman came
+to the threshing-floor."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Bring the mantle that is upon thee,
+and hold it," and she held it; and he measured six
+measures of barley, and laid it on her: and he went
+into the city.</p>
+
+<p>And when she came to her mother-in-law, she
+said, "How hast thou fared, my daughter?"</p>
+
+<p>And she told her all that the man had done to her.
+And she said, "These six measures of barley gave
+he me; for he said, 'Go not empty unto thy mother-in-law.'"</p>
+
+<p>Then she said, "Sit still, my daughter, until thou
+know how the matter will fall; for the man will not
+rest, until he have finished the thing this day."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§57.</b> <b>At the City Gate</b> (Ruth 4:1-17)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE PURCHASE</p>
+
+<p>Now Boaz went up to the gate, and sat him down
+there: and, behold, the near kinsman of whom Boaz
+spake came by: unto whom he said, "Ho, such a
+one! turn aside, sit down here." And he turned
+aside, and sat down.</p>
+
+<p>And he took ten men of the elders of the city, and
+said, "Sit ye down here." And they sat down.</p>
+
+<p>And he said unto the near kinsman, "Naomi, that
+is come again out of the country of Moab, selleth
+the parcel of land, which was our brother Elimelech's:
+and I thought to disclose it unto thee, saying,
+'Buy it before them that sit here, and before
+the elders of my people.' If thou wilt redeem it, redeem
+it: but if thou wilt not redeem it, then tell
+me, that I may know; for there is none to redeem
+it besides thee; and I am after thee."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "I will redeem it."</p>
+
+<p>Then said Boaz, "What day thou buyest the field
+of the hand of Naomi, thou must buy also Ruth the
+Moabitess, the wife of the dead, to raise up the name
+of the dead upon his inheritance."</p>
+
+<p>And the near kinsman said, "I cannot redeem it
+for myself, lest I mar mine own inheritance: take
+thou my right of redemption on thee; for I cannot
+redeem it."</p>
+
+<p>Now this was the custom in former time in Israel
+concerning redeeming and concerning exchanging,
+to confirm all things; a man drew off his shoe, and
+gave it to his neighbor; and this was the manner
+of witness in Israel.</p>
+
+<p>So the near kinsman said unto Boaz, "Buy it for
+thyself." And he drew off his shoe.</p>
+
+<p>And Boaz said unto the elders, and unto all the
+people, "Ye are witnesses this day, that I have
+bought all that was Elimelech's, and all that was
+Chilion's and Mahlon's, of the hand of Naomi.
+Moreover Ruth the Moabitess, the wife of Mahlon,
+have I purchased to be my wife, to raise up the
+name of the dead upon his inheritance, that the
+name of the dead be not cut off from among his
+brethren, and from the gate of his place; ye are
+witnesses this day."</p>
+
+<p>And all the people that were in the gate, and the
+elders, said, "We are witnesses. The Lord make
+the woman that is come into thy house like Rachel
+and like Leah, which two did build the house of
+Israel: and do thou worthily in Ephrathah, and be
+famous in Bethlehem."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE HAPPY MARRIAGE</p>
+
+<p>So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife, and
+she bare a son.</p>
+
+<p>And the women said unto Naomi, "Blessed be
+the Lord, who hath not left thee this day without a
+near kinsman; and let his name be famous in Israel.
+And he shall be unto thee a restorer of life, and a
+nourisher of thine old age; for thy daughter-in-law,
+who loveth thee, who is better to thee than seven
+sons, hath borne him."</p>
+
+<p>And Naomi took the child, and laid it in her
+bosom, and became nurse unto it.</p>
+
+<p>And the women her neighbors gave it a name,
+saying, "There is a son born to Naomi." And they
+called his name Obed. He is the father of Jesse,
+the father of David.</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>176. We study one of the heroines of Israel. She was a
+foreigner of the country of Moab, but held a most important
+place in Israel's history as the great-grandmother of King
+David. The story tells of her devotion and of its reward.</p>
+
+<p>177 (§53). Notice the time in which the story is placed.
+The town which is mentioned is well known to us because of
+one who was born there long afterward: who was he? The
+farmer with his wife and two sons went over to the rich high
+country of Moab. Locate it on the map, east of the Jordan.
+What happened in Moab?</p>
+
+<p>178 (§54A). What did Naomi decide to do? These three
+women loved one another very dearly, but Naomi thought
+that the young women ought to marry again, so she told them
+to stay in their own land as they would not be likely to find
+husbands among strangers.</p>
+
+<p>179 (§54A). According to the Hebrew custom, if a man
+died his brother would marry the widow, but Naomi had no
+sons who could marry these young widows. Why did Orpah
+return? Why did Ruth refuse to leave her mother-in-law?
+Note how beautifully Ruth spoke. Love does not count the
+cost. What do we mean by Ruth's devotion?</p>
+
+<p>180 (§54B). Why were the Bethlehem women so surprised
+at Naomi's appearance? Naomi means "Pleasant." Perhaps
+the name had been given to her because of her beauty.
+Mara, the same as our name Mary, means "Bitter." Explain
+what Naomi meant by her speech to the women. What
+time of year was it when they returned?</p>
+
+<p>181 (§55A). The principal man of the story is introduced
+to us. The two women had nothing to live on, but the
+Hebrew law permitted the poor to follow the reapers and to
+gather up the stalks that were dropped or left. This was
+called gleaning. Where did Ruth go to glean? This young
+woman did not leave her mother to do the work. Her love
+expressed itself in deeds.</p>
+
+<p>182 (§55A). Tell the conversation between Boaz and the
+foreman. Note the kindness of this Bethlehem gentleman to
+the stranger. It is the mark of a gentleman to be kind. It
+was not usual to invite the gleaners to share the lunch with the
+farm hands, but Boaz was especially kind to Ruth. What
+directions did he give to the young men? How would this
+help her in gleaning?</p>
+
+<p>183 (§55B). Notice that she beat out the ears of barley,
+so as not to carry home the straw. How much did she have?
+This was a good day's gleaning. How surprised Naomi was
+that she had secured so much! Tell their conversation in
+your own words. They were poor, but they were happy all
+that harvest time: why?</p>
+
+<p>184 (§56A). Remember that it was the Hebrew custom for
+a man's widow to be married by his brother. If he had no
+brother his nearest relative was expected to marry her. So
+Naomi hoped that Boaz, who was related to her dead husband,
+would marry Ruth. She plans a little scheme to let him know
+privately that he is a near relative who ought to do this honor
+for those who were dead. There would be a great feast at
+the time the barley was threshed, and then all the men would
+go to sleep in the open air on the smooth floor where the threshing
+was done. Ruth was instructed to let Boaz know the plan
+when the others were asleep.</p>
+
+<p>185 (§56B). Tell the story in your own words. Notice
+especially that Boaz explains that there is a nearer relative
+who ought to marry Ruth. What did Boaz give to Ruth to
+take to her mother-in-law? Tell the conversation of the two
+women.</p>
+
+<p>186 (§57A). The Gate was the place where all the business
+was done. Note how the business was begun, and how
+arrangements were made for the bargain to be witnessed.
+The conversation refers to the Hebrew laws of real estate.
+It is enough for us to see that the kinsman was not willing to
+marry Ruth. What interesting old custom is shown? They
+were sitting on the ground cross-legged, so one could easily
+pull off his shoe or sandal. What other story have we had
+in which the sandal was easily taken off? (See 97 and illustration.)
+Note Boaz' solemn statement of the agreement.
+How did all the people congratulate Boaz?</p>
+
+<p>187 (§57B). It is interesting to see that the people congratulated
+Naomi when Ruth's baby was born, because there was
+again a son for her family. This grandson would take the
+place of the sons whom she had lost. What did the women
+think of Ruth? What relation was Ruth to David?</p>
+
+<p>188. What do you think of Ruth? Look up I Cor. 13:13
+in the Revised Version and see what it says about the greatest
+thing in the world. Can everybody have this greatest thing?
+How much does it cost? Think whether you are bringing
+that into your home.</p><br>
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>We do not always see the heroism that is just about us.
+The only women whom we think about as heroines are those
+who have done some great public work, but there is many
+a heroine who is quietly giving up her ambitions to make
+the home happy as Ruth gave up herself to go with Naomi.
+Ask your mother to tell you about some young woman
+who gave up opportunity of education, or ease, or pleasure,
+in order to help the family. Write about it in your notebook.</p>
+
+
+<br>
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2>THE FOUNDERS OF THE KINGDOM</h2>
+
+
+
+<div class="center">
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="">
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XVIII_SAMUEL_AND_ELI">XVIII.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Samuel and Eli</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XIX_SAMUEL_AND_SAUL">XIX.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Samuel and Saul</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XX_JONATHANS_VICTORY">XX.</a> <td align="left"><span class="smcap">Johnathan's Victory</span></td></tr>
+</table></div><br>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="XVIII_SAMUEL_AND_ELI" id="XVIII_SAMUEL_AND_ELI"></a>XVIII. SAMUEL AND ELI</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§58. The Birth of Samuel</b> (I Sam. 1:1-4, 8-28; 2:11)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. HANNAH'S GRIEF</p>
+
+<p>Now there was a certain man of the hill country
+of Ephraim, and his name was Elkanah. And the
+name of his wife was Hannah and she had no children.
+And this man went up out of his city from
+year to year to worship and to sacrifice unto the Lord
+of hosts in Shiloh. And the two sons of Eli, Hophni
+and Phinehas, priests unto the Lord, were there.
+And when the day came that Elkanah sacrificed,
+Hannah wept, and did not eat.</p>
+
+<p>And Elkanah her husband said unto her, "Hannah,
+why weepest thou? and why eatest thou not?
+and why is thy heart grieved? am I not better to
+thee than ten sons?"</p>
+
+<p>So Hannah rose up after they had eaten in Shiloh,
+and after they had drunk. Now Eli the priest sat
+upon his seat by the door post of the temple of the
+Lord. And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed
+unto the Lord, and wept sore. And she vowed a
+vow, and said, "O Lord of hosts, if thou wilt indeed
+look on the affliction of thine handmaid, and remember
+me, and not forget thine handmaid, but wilt
+give unto thine handmaid a man child, then I will
+give him unto the Lord all the days of his life, and
+there shall no razor come upon his head."</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, as she continued praying
+before the Lord, that Eli marked her mouth. Now
+Hannah, she spake in her heart; only her lips
+moved, but her voice was not heard: therefore Eli
+thought she had been drunken. And Eli said unto
+her, "How long wilt thou be drunken? put away
+thy wine from thee."</p>
+
+<p>And Hannah answered and said, "No, my lord,
+I am a woman of a sorrowful spirit: I have drunk
+neither wine nor strong drink, but I poured out my
+soul before the Lord. Count not thine handmaid
+for a wicked woman: for out of the abundance
+of my complaint have I spoken."</p>
+
+<p>Then Eli answered and said, "Go in peace: and
+the God of Israel grant thy petition that thou hast
+asked of him."</p>
+
+<p>And she said, "Let thy servant find grace in thy
+sight."</p>
+
+<p>So the woman went her way, and did eat, and her
+countenance was no more sad. And they rose up in
+the morning early, and worshipped before the Lord,
+and returned, and came to their house to Ramah.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE DEDICATION OF SAMUEL</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, that Hannah bare a son; and
+she called his name Samuel. And the man Elkanah
+went up to offer unto the Lord the yearly sacrifice,
+and his vow. But Hannah went not up; for she said
+unto her husband, "I will not go up until the child
+be weaned, and then I will bring him, that he may
+appear before the Lord, and there abide for ever."</p>
+
+<p>And Elkanah her husband said unto her, "Do
+what seemeth thee good; tarry until thou hast
+weaned him; only the Lord establish his word."</p>
+
+<p>So the woman tarried until she weaned him. And
+when she had weaned him, she took him up with
+her, with three bullocks, and one ephah of meal, and
+a bottle of wine, and brought him unto the house of
+the Lord in Shiloh: and the child was young. And
+they slew the bullock, and brought the child to Eli.
+And she said, "Oh my lord, as thy soul liveth, my
+lord, I am the woman that stood by thee here, praying
+unto the Lord. For this child I prayed; and the
+Lord hath given me my petition which I asked of
+him: therefore I also have granted him to the Lord;
+as long as he liveth he is granted to the Lord."</p>
+
+<p>And Elkanah went to Ramah to his house. And
+the child did minister unto the Lord before Eli
+the priest.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§59. The Wicked Priests</b> (I Sam. 2:12-17,
+22-25, 18, 19, 26)</p>
+
+<p>Now the sons of Eli were wicked men; they knew
+not the Lord. And the custom of the priests with
+the people was, that, when any man offered sacrifice,
+the priest's servant came, while the flesh was being
+boiled, with a fleshhook of three teeth in his hand;
+and he struck it into the kettle; all that the fleshhook
+brought up the priest took. So they did in
+Shiloh unto all the Israelites that came thither. Yea,
+before they burnt the fat, the priest's servant came,
+and said to the man that sacrificed, "Give flesh
+to roast for the priest; for he will not have boiled
+flesh of thee, but raw." And if the man said
+unto him, "They will surely burn the fat presently,
+and then take as much as thy soul desireth;" then
+he would say, "Nay, but thou shalt give it to me
+now: and if not, I will take it by force." And the sin
+of the young men was very great before the Lord;
+for they despised the offering of the Lord.</p>
+
+<p>Now Eli was very old; and he heard all that his
+sons did unto all Israel. And he said unto them,
+"Why do ye such things? for I hear of your evil
+dealings from all this people. Nay, my sons; for
+it is no good report that I hear: ye make the Lord's
+people to transgress. If one man sinned against
+another, God shall judge him: but if a man sin
+against the Lord, who shall entreat for him?"</p>
+
+<p>Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto the
+voice of their father.</p>
+
+<p>But Samuel ministered before the Lord, being a
+child, girded with a linen ephod. Moreover his
+mother made him a little robe, and brought it to
+him from year to year, when she came up with her
+husband to offer the yearly sacrifice. And Eli blessed
+Elkanah and his wife. And the child Samuel grew
+on, and was in favor both with the Lord, and also
+with men.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§60. The Call of Samuel</b> (I Sam. 3:1-18)</p>
+
+<p>And the child Samuel ministered unto the Lord
+before Eli. And it came to pass at that time, when
+Eli was laid down in his place, (now his eyes had
+begun to wax dim, that he could not see,) and the
+lamp of God was not yet gone out, and Samuel
+was laid down to sleep, in the temple of the Lord,
+where the ark of God was; that the Lord called
+Samuel: and he said, "Here am I." And he
+ran unto Eli, and said, "Here am I; for thou
+calledst me." And he said, "I called not; lie down
+again."</p>
+
+<p>And he went and lay down. And the Lord called
+yet again, "Samuel."</p>
+
+<p>And Samuel arose and went to Eli, and said, "Here
+am I; for thou calledst me."</p>
+
+<p>And he answered, "I called not, my son; lie
+down again."</p>
+
+<p>Now Samuel did not yet know the Lord, neither
+was the word of the Lord yet revealed unto him.
+And the Lord called Samuel again the third time.
+And he arose and went to Eli, and said, "Here am
+I; for thou calledst me."</p>
+
+<p>And Eli perceived that the Lord had called the
+child. Therefore Eli said unto Samuel, "Go, lie
+down: and it shall be, if he call thee, that thou shalt
+say, 'Speak, Lord; for thy servant heareth.'"</p>
+
+<p>So Samuel went and lay down in his place. And
+the Lord came, and stood, and called as at other
+times, "Samuel, Samuel."</p>
+
+<p>Then Samuel said, "Speak; for thy servant heareth."</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said to Samuel, "Behold, I will
+do a thing in Israel, at which both the ears of every
+one that heareth it shall tingle. In that day I will
+perform against Eli all that I have spoken concerning
+his house, from the beginning even unto the end. For
+I have told him that I will judge his house for ever,
+for the iniquity which he knew, because his sons did
+bring a curse upon themselves, and he restrained
+them not."</p>
+
+<p>And Samuel lay until the morning, and opened
+the doors of the house of the Lord. And Samuel
+feared to show Eli the vision.</p>
+
+<p>Then Eli called Samuel, and said, "Samuel, my
+son."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Here am I."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "What is the thing that the Lord hath
+spoken unto thee? I pray thee hide it not from me:
+God do so to thee, and more also, if thou hide any
+thing from me of all the things that he spake unto
+thee."</p>
+
+<p>And Samuel told him every whit, and hid nothing
+from him. And he said, "It is the Lord: let him
+do what seemeth him good."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§61. The Punishment of the Wicked Priests</b> (I Sam. 4:1-18)</p>
+
+
+<p class="center">A. ISRAEL'S DOUBLE DEFEAT</p>
+
+<p>Now Israel went out against the Philistines to
+battle. And the Philistines put themselves in array
+against Israel: and when they joined battle, Israel
+was smitten before the Philistines: and they slew
+of the army in the field about four thousand men.
+And when the people were come into the camp, the
+elders of Israel said, "Wherefore hath the Lord
+smitten us to-day before the Philistines? Let us
+fetch the ark of the covenant of the Lord out of
+Shiloh unto us, that it may come among us, and save
+us out of the hand of our enemies."</p>
+
+<p>So the people sent to Shiloh, and they brought from
+thence the ark of the covenant of the Lord of hosts;
+and the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, were
+there with the ark. And when the ark of the
+covenant of the Lord came into the camp, all Israel
+shouted with a great shout, so that the earth rang
+again.</p>
+
+<p>And when the Philistines heard the noise of the
+shout, they said, "What meaneth the noise of this
+great shout in the camp of the Hebrews?" And
+they understood that the ark of the Lord was come
+into the camp. And the Philistines were afraid,
+for they said, "God is come into the camp." And
+they said, "Woe unto us! for there hath not been
+such a thing heretofore. Woe unto us! who shall
+deliver us out of the hand of these mighty gods?
+these are the gods that smote the Egyptians with all
+manner of plagues in the wilderness. Be strong, and
+quit yourselves like men, O ye Philistines, that ye be
+not servants unto the Hebrews, as they have been to
+you: quit yourselves like men, and fight."</p>
+
+<p>And the Philistines fought, and Israel was smitten,
+and they fled every man to his tent: and there was
+a very great slaughter; for there fell of Israel thirty
+thousand footmen. And the ark of God was taken;
+and the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, were
+slain.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE DEATH OF THE OLD PRIEST</p>
+
+<p>And there ran a man of Benjamin out of the army,
+and came to Shiloh the same day with his clothes
+rent, and with earth upon his head. And when
+he came, lo, Eli sat upon his seat by the wayside
+watching: for his heart trembled for the ark of God.
+And when the man came into the city, and told it,
+all the city cried out.</p>
+
+<p>And when Eli heard the noise of the crying, he
+said, "What meaneth the noise of this tumult?"</p>
+
+<p>And the man hasted, and came and told Eli.
+Now Eli was ninety and eight years old; and his
+eyes were set, that he could not see. And the man
+said unto Eli, "I am he that came out of the army,
+and I fled to-day out of the army."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "How went the matter, my son?"</p>
+
+<p>And he that brought the tidings answered and said,
+"Israel is fled before the Philistines, and there hath
+been also a great slaughter among the people, and
+thy two sons also, Hophni and Phinehas, are dead,
+and the ark of God is taken."</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, when he made mention of the
+ark of God, that he fell from off his seat backward
+by the side of the gate, and his neck brake, and he
+died: for he was an old man, and heavy. And he
+had judged Israel forty years.</p>
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>189. We turn to the Books of Samuel, which take their
+name from one of the great heroes of Israel. He did not
+write the books, for they contain the story of what happened
+long after his death, but as he was the noblest character in
+the books they were named after him.</p>
+
+<p>190 (§58A). At the beginning of this story we learn that
+Elkanah the husband and Hannah his wife had no children.
+They had gone up to Shiloh to the sacred building that
+was called the house of God, and had celebrated a sacred
+feast. But Hannah was greatly troubled that she had no
+child. What did she do? What did she promise if she
+could have a son? We remember from the story of Samson
+that leaving the hair uncut was a mark that the child was to
+serve God.</p>
+
+<p>191 (§58A). When Hannah prayed, did she speak aloud?
+What did Eli, the old priest, think about her? Tell in your
+own words their conversation.</p>
+
+<p>192 (§58B). The boy whom Hannah longed for was born.
+What was his name? It was the custom to kill animals at
+the house of God as a sign of thanksgiving: what did Hannah
+take with her for this sacrifice? What did she say to Eli?
+Note that she brings the boy to the old priest to learn the duties
+of the house of God.</p>
+
+<p>193 (§59). Perhaps the wrong-doing of the priests seems
+rather difficult to understand. Eli, the old priest, was assisted
+by his two sons. Their duty was to offer the sacrifices for the
+people, and they would be allowed part of the meat as their
+pay. That was one of the ways in which a priest had his
+living. But these young priests would send their servants
+to stick a large fork into the pot where the meat was boiling
+and whatever came out they would take. Or they would
+take the meat first, before the offering to the Lord had been
+made, and this was considered a dishonor to the sacrifice. It
+often happens that public officers are more anxious to get what
+they can than to do their duty.</p>
+
+<p>194 (§59). How did the father feel about his sons? What
+did he say to them? What ought he to have done to them?
+Why did he not do so?</p>
+
+<p>195 (§59). What was happening to Samuel all this time?
+The linen ephod was a white dress such as a priest would
+wear. Who made the boy's garments? Think what those
+happy meetings of the parents and boy once a year must have
+been.</p>
+
+<p>196 (§60). Imagine how the little church, or temple, was
+at night. There was a room in which the sacred box called
+the ark was kept. A lamp burned in this room all night.
+Samuel had a room near by, where he slept, and old Eli had
+another. What wonderful thing happened to Samuel one
+night? Tell it in your own words. Nearly all men and
+women who have become great have heard calls in some
+manner in their youth. Joan of Arc, the young girl who
+saved France from her enemies, thought that she heard God
+calling to her, though she was only thirteen years of age.
+This was a vision that Samuel saw in the night. Do you
+remember the dreams of Joseph? It is often in conscience
+and in times of thoughtfulness that God speaks to us.</p>
+
+<p>197 (§60). How did Samuel do as Eli had told him? Note
+that God tells the boy that a great punishment will come upon
+Eli's family. How was Eli to blame for the wickedness of his
+sons?</p>
+
+<p>198 (§60). What did Samuel do as soon as he got up in the
+morning? What does this show us regarding his duties?
+What did he think about the vision? But old Eli knew that
+there was something very important that had happened. Tell
+in your own words the conversation between them. Note
+that the poor old man can simply say that he must bear what
+comes upon him. What do you think of Eli?</p>
+
+<p>199 (§61A). With whom did Israel go to war? Locate
+the country of these enemies on the map. How did the battle
+come out? The people thought that if they could have the
+ark with them they could conquer. They thought the Lord
+would fight for them. Where did they go to get the ark?
+Who were with the ark?</p>
+
+<p>200 (§61A). When the two priests brought the ark to the
+camp, what happened? What effect did this have upon the
+Philistines? What was the result? What happened to the
+two priests? What happened to the ark?</p>
+
+<p>201 (§61B). When a Hebrew felt very sad he covered his
+head with dust and tore his dress. Tell the story of how the
+news of the defeat was brought to Eli. How old was the
+priest? What was he doing? Why did he care so much
+about the ark of God? What happened to him? Eli was a
+noble man himself, but could he not have done better for
+Israel than he did? Remember that young Samuel was
+growing up while these things were going on.</p><br>
+
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>Think of what paragraph 196 means to you. It is at
+Samuel's age that most young people come into the full membership
+of the church. Write what you think that means.</p><br>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="XIX_SAMUEL_AND_SAUL" id="XIX_SAMUEL_AND_SAUL"></a>XIX. SAMUEL AND SAUL</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§62. The Meeting of Samuel and Saul</b> (I Sam. 9:1-25)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. SAUL SEEKING THE DONKEYS</p>
+
+<p>Now there was a man of Benjamin, whose name
+was Kish, a mighty man of valor. And he had a
+son, whose name was Saul, a young man and a goodly:
+and there was not among the children of Israel
+a goodlier person than he: from his shoulders and
+upward he was higher than any of the people. And
+the asses of Kish, Saul's father, were lost. And Kish
+said to Saul his son, "Take now one of the servants
+with thee, and arise, go seek the asses."</p>
+
+<p>And he passed through the hill country of Ephraim,
+and there they were not: and he passed through
+the land of the Benjamites, but they found them
+not. When they were come to the land of Zuph,
+Saul said to his servant that was with him, "Come
+and let us return; lest my father cease caring for the
+asses, and take thought for us."</p>
+
+<p>And he said unto him, "Behold now, there is in
+this city a man of God, and he is a man that is held
+in honor; all that he saith cometh surely to pass:
+now let us go thither; peradventure he can tell us
+concerning our journey whereon we go."</p>
+
+<p>Then said Saul to his servant, "But, behold, if we
+go, what shall we bring the man? for the bread is
+spent in our vessels, and there is not a present to
+bring to the man of God: what have we?"</p>
+
+<p>And the servant answered Saul again, and said,
+"Behold, I have in my hand the fourth part of a
+shekel of silver: that will I give to the man of God,
+to tell us our way."</p>
+
+<p>Then said Saul to his servant, "Well said; come,
+let us go."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. SAUL ENTERTAINED BY SAMUEL</p>
+
+<p>So they went unto the city where the man of God
+was. As they went up the ascent to the city, they
+found young maidens going out to draw water, and
+said unto them, "Is the seer here?"</p>
+
+<p>And they answered them, and said, "He is; behold,
+he is before thee: make haste now, for he is
+come to-day into the city; for the people have a
+sacrifice to-day in the high place: as soon as ye be
+come into the city, ye shall straightway find him,
+before he go up to the high place to eat: for the
+people will not eat until he come, because he doth
+bless the sacrifice; and afterwards they eat that be
+bidden. Now therefore get you up; for at this time
+ye shall find him."</p>
+
+<p>And they went up to the city; and as they came
+within the city, behold, Samuel came out toward
+them, to go up to the high place.</p>
+
+<p>Now the Lord had revealed unto Samuel a day
+before Saul came, saying, "To-morrow about this
+time I will send thee a man out of the land of Benjamin,
+and thou shalt anoint him to be prince over
+my people Israel, and he shall save my people out of
+the hand of the Philistines: for I have looked upon
+my people, because their cry is come unto me."</p>
+
+<p>And when Samuel saw Saul, the Lord said unto
+him, "Behold the man of whom I spake to thee!
+this same shall have authority over my people."</p>
+
+<p>Then Saul drew near to Samuel in the gate, and
+said, "Tell me, I pray thee, where the seer's house
+is."</p>
+
+<p>And Samuel answered Saul, and said, "I am the
+seer; go up before me unto the high place, for ye
+shall eat with me to-day: and in the morning I will
+let thee go, and will tell thee all that is in thine
+heart. And as for thine asses that were lost three
+days ago, set not thy mind on them; for they are
+found. And on whom is all the desire of Israel?
+Is it not on thee, and for all thy father's house?"</p>
+
+<p>And Saul answered and said, "Am not I a Benjamite,
+of the smallest of the tribes of Israel? and
+my family the least of all the families of the tribe of
+Benjamin? wherefore then speakest thou to me
+after this manner?"</p>
+
+<p>And Samuel took Saul and his servant, and brought
+them into the guest-chamber, and made them sit
+in the chiefest place among them that were bidden,
+which were about thirty persons. And Samuel said
+unto the cook, "Bring the portion which I gave thee,
+of which I said unto thee, 'Set it by thee.'"</p>
+
+<p>And the cook took up the thigh, and that which
+was upon it, and set it before Saul.</p>
+
+<p>And Samuel said, "Behold that which hath been
+reserved! set it before thee and eat; because unto
+the appointed time hath it been kept for thee, for I
+said, 'I have invited the people.'"</p>
+
+<p>So Saul did eat with Samuel that day. And when
+they were come down from the high place into the
+city, he communed with Saul upon the housetop.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§63. Saul Anointed by Samuel</b> (I Sam. 9:26-10:7)</p>
+
+<p Class="center"><span class="smcap">A. THE PROMISE OF THE KINGDOM</span></p>
+
+<p>And they arose early: and it came to pass about
+the spring of the day, that Samuel called to Saul
+on the housetop, saying, "Up, that I may send thee
+away."</p>
+
+<p>And Saul arose, and they went out both of them,
+he and Samuel, abroad. As they were going down
+at the end of the city, Samuel said to Saul, "Bid
+the servant pass on before us, (and he passed on,)
+but stand thou still at this time, that I may cause
+thee to hear the word of God." Then Samuel took
+the vial of oil, and poured it upon his head, and
+kissed him, and said, "Is it not that the Lord hath
+anointed thee to be prince over his inheritance?
+When thou art departed from me to-day, then thou
+shalt find two men by Rachel's sepulchre, in the
+border of Benjamin; and they will say unto thee,
+'The asses which thou wentest to seek are found:
+and lo, thy father hath left the care of the asses, and
+taketh thought for you, saying, What shall I do for my
+son?' Then shalt thou go on forward from thence,
+and thou shalt come to the oak of Tabor, and there
+shall meet thee there three men going up to God to
+Beth-el, one carrying three kids, and another carrying
+three loaves of bread, and another carrying a
+bottle of wine: and they will salute thee, and give
+thee two loaves of bread; which thou shalt receive
+of their hand. After that thou shalt come to the
+hill of God, where is the garrison of the Philistines:
+and it shall come to pass, when thou art come thither
+to the city, that thou shalt meet a band of prophets
+coming down from the high place with a psaltery,
+and a timbrel, and a pipe, and a harp, before them;
+and they shall be prophesying: and the spirit of the
+Lord will come mightily upon thee, and thou shalt
+prophesy with them, and shalt be turned into another
+man. And let it be, when these signs are come unto
+thee, that thou do as occasion serve thee: for God
+is with thee."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. SAUL'S RETURN HOME</p>
+
+<p>And it was so, that when he had turned his back
+to go from Samuel, God gave him another heart:
+and all those signs came to pass that day. And
+when they came thither to the hill, behold, a band
+of prophets met him; and the spirit of God came
+mightily upon him, and he prophesied among them.
+And it came to pass, when all that knew him before-time
+saw that, behold, he prophesied with the prophets,
+then the people said one to another, "What is
+this that is come unto the son of Kish? Is Saul also
+among the prophets?"</p>
+
+<p>And when he had made an end of prophesying,
+he came to the high place. And Saul's uncle said
+unto him and to his servant, "Whither went ye?"</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "To seek the asses: and when we
+saw that they were not found, we came to Samuel."</p>
+
+<p>And Saul's uncle said, "Tell me, I pray thee,
+what Samuel said unto you."</p>
+
+<p>And Saul said unto his uncle, "He told us plainly
+that the asses were found." But concerning the
+matter of the kingdom, whereof Samuel spake, he
+told him not.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§64. Saul's Opportunity</b> (I Sam. 11:1-11, 15)</p>
+
+<p>Then Nahash the Ammonite came up, and encamped
+against Jabesh-gilead: and all the men of
+Jabesh said unto Nahash, "Make a covenant with
+us, and we will serve thee."</p>
+
+<p>And Nahash the Ammonite said unto them, "On
+this condition will I make it with you, that all your
+right eyes be put out; and I will lay it for a reproach
+upon all Israel."</p>
+
+<p>And the elders of Jabesh said unto him, "Give
+us seven days' respite, that we may send messengers
+unto all the borders of Israel: and then,
+if there be none to save us, we will come out to
+thee."</p>
+
+<p>Then came the messengers to Gibeah of Saul, and
+spake these words in the ears of the people: and all
+the people lifted up their voice, and wept. And,
+behold, Saul came following the oxen out of the field;
+and Saul said, "What aileth the people that they
+weep?"</p>
+
+<p>And they told him the words of the men of Jabesh.
+And the spirit of God came mightily upon Saul when
+he heard those words, and his anger was kindled
+greatly. And he took a yoke of oxen, and cut them
+in pieces, and sent them throughout all the borders
+of Israel by the hand of messengers, saying, "Whosoever
+cometh not forth after Saul and after Samuel,
+so shall it be done unto his oxen."</p>
+
+<p>And the dread of the Lord fell on the people, and
+they came out as one man. And he numbered them
+in Bezek; and the children of Israel were three hundred
+thousand, and the men of Judah thirty thousand.
+And they said unto the messengers that came,
+"Thus shall ye say unto the men of Jabesh-gilead,
+'To-morrow, by the time the sun is hot, ye shall
+have deliverance.'"</p>
+
+<p>And the messengers came and told the men of
+Jabesh; and they were glad. Therefore the men
+of Jabesh said, "To-morrow we will come out unto
+you, and ye shall do with us all that seemeth good
+unto you."</p>
+
+<p>And it was so on the morrow, that Saul put the
+people in three companies; and they came into the
+midst of the camp in the morning watch, and smote
+the Ammonites until the heat of the day: and it came
+to pass, that they which remained were scattered,
+so that two of them were not left together.</p>
+
+<p>And all the people went to Gilgal; and there they
+made Saul king before the Lord in Gilgal; and
+there they sacrificed sacrifices of peace offerings before
+the Lord; and there Saul and all the men of
+Israel rejoiced greatly.</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>202 (§62A). Look at the map of Canaan and find the tribe
+of Benjamin. Is it a very large tribe? The tribes occupied
+separate districts, something like our states. This story is
+going to tell us about how the first king was chosen, so it is
+particular to tell us where he came from and how it happened.
+What kind of man was Saul? Some animals that
+are used very much in Palestine had strayed: tell about them.</p>
+
+<p>203 (§62A). Saul and the servant had wandered a long way
+looking for the donkeys, probably spending several days in
+the hunt. At last Saul made up his mind to do something:
+what was it? But the servant thought of a plan to help them
+in their search. The man of God was one who could help
+people in their troubles. They were supposed to bring him
+a present. What did Saul do about the present?</p>
+
+<p>204 (§62B). Try to imagine the whole scene. Think what
+Saul and the servant were doing: whom did they meet and
+what did they ask? We must understand that a feast was
+to be held. The people were going to cook a whole animal.
+They would pour out the blood and burn the fat, which was
+called a sacrifice and was part of their religion; then they
+would eat the rest of the animal with great joy. It happened
+that the two men reached the city just as the feast was to be
+held. And Samuel would be there to ask the blessing. The
+girls told the two men all this. What happened just as they
+reached the city?</p>
+
+<p>205 (§62B). The Philistines were enemies of Israel who
+greatly troubled them. Samuel had been wondering how the
+people could be saved from their enemies. What had the
+Lord told him? What did Samuel feel just as soon as he
+saw Saul?</p>
+
+<p>206 (§62B). Try to imagine the meeting. What did Saul
+say? What did Samuel answer? Notice the invitation, the
+information about the donkeys, and especially the hint of
+some great thing. Saul is surprised: what does he say to
+Samuel?</p>
+
+<p>207 (§62B). What did Samuel do for Saul? What plan
+had Samuel made so that a good piece of meat could be kept?
+Note the part of the animal that they thought best is the same
+that we like: it is the leg of lamb or the second joint of the
+turkey. What did Samuel say to Saul?</p>
+
+<p>208 (§62B). Evidently Samuel took Saul to his own house.
+What part of the house did they use in those days for visiting?
+How could they do so? What do you think they talked about?
+Once during the Civil War Abraham Lincoln went to visit
+Henry Ward Beecher: what do you think they talked of?
+Samuel had great hopes that Saul was the man to save
+Israel.</p>
+
+<p>209 (§63A). After the conversation they went to bed.
+Then they talked again early in the morning. Then Samuel
+walked with Saul out of the city. What plan did Samuel
+use to be alone with Saul? Picture the scene to yourself:
+the old man with the flask of olive oil in his hand, the tall
+young man wondering about his future, the anointing, the
+solemn kiss, the promise.</p>
+
+<p>210 (§63A). What signs was Saul to have? Samuel's last
+word meant that Saul was to wait until some great opportunity
+should arise and then to do as God led him. We shall see how
+the opportunity came.</p>
+
+<p>211 (§63B). Tell the story of what happened to Saul after
+he left Samuel. What was the conversation between Saul
+and his uncle? What did Saul keep silent about? Why do
+you think he did so? He was modest; he did not want to
+boast. It seems that he went quietly to work on his father's
+farm and waited for something to happen that should show
+him what to do.</p>
+
+<p>212 (§64). The scene of the story changes. Locate
+Ammon on the map, east of the Jordan. The Ammonites
+were old enemies of Israel. Locate Jabesh-Gilead, the town
+which they attacked. The people were afraid and begged for
+mercy. What terms did the cruel king offer them? He was
+so sure that no one in Israel could save them that he let them
+send messengers asking for help. The messengers came to the
+town where Saul lived. Locate Gibeah in Saul's tribe. How
+did the people feel when they heard the news? What had
+Saul been doing since his return from Samuel? Tell the
+story of how he came home on the day the messengers arrived.</p>
+
+<p>213 (§64). How did the news affect Saul? This was the
+opportunity that Samuel had told him to wait for. What
+striking thing did he do to gather an army? Tell the story of
+the successful march to relieve Jabesh-Gilead.</p>
+
+<p>214 (§64). What did the people think of the hero who had
+saved them? What did they do? Who was the first president
+of the United States? Why was he elected? Who was
+the first king of Israel? Why was he chosen?</p><br>
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>Consider which man you would rather have been: A
+wise, good man who was magnanimous enough to see that
+a king was needed and to choose him, or the vigorous man
+who could conquer the enemies and win the kingship.
+Think carefully of the heroic qualities of each of them.
+Write down which you admire the most and why you would
+rather be that one.</p><br>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="XX_JONATHANS_VICTORY" id="XX_JONATHANS_VICTORY"></a>XX. JONATHAN'S VICTORY</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§65. The New King and the Old Foes</b> (I Sam. 13:2-7,
+15-17; 14:1-23)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE OUTBREAK OF WAR</p>
+
+<p>When Saul had reigned two years over Israel, he
+chose him three thousand men of Israel; whereof
+two thousand were with him in Michmash and in the
+mount of Beth-el, and a thousand were with Jonathan
+in Gibeah of Benjamin: and the rest of the
+people he sent every man to his tent. And Jonathan
+smote the garrison of the Philistines that was in
+Geba, and the Philistines heard of it.</p>
+
+<p>And Saul blew the trumpet throughout all the land,
+saying, "Let the Hebrews hear."</p>
+
+<p>And all Israel heard say that Saul had smitten the
+garrison of the Philistines, and that Israel also was
+had in abomination with the Philistines. And the
+people were gathered together after Saul.</p>
+
+<p>And the Philistines assembled themselves together
+to fight with Israel, thirty thousand chariots, and six
+thousand horsemen, and people as the sand which is
+on the sea shore in multitude: and they came up, and
+pitched in Michmash, eastward of Beth-aven. When
+the men of Israel saw that they were in a strait, (for
+the people were distressed,) then the people did hide
+themselves in caves, and in thickets, and in rocks,
+and in holds, and in <a name="PHILISTINE" id="PHILISTINE"></a>pits.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 252px;">
+<img src="images/il232.jpg" width="252" height="325" alt="A PHILISTINE" title="" >
+<span class="caption">A PHILISTINE</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>Now some of the Hebrews had gone over Jordan
+to the land of Gad and Gilead. And Saul numbered
+the people that were present with him, about six
+hundred men. And Saul, and Jonathan his son, and
+the people that were present with them, abode in
+Geba of Benjamin: but the Philistines encamped
+in Michmash. And the spoilers came out of the
+camp of the Philistines.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. JONATHAN'S BOLD ATTACK</p>
+
+<p>Now it fell upon a day, that Jonathan the son of
+Saul said unto the young man that bare his armor,
+"Come and let us go over to the Philistines' garrison,
+that is on yonder side." But he told not his father.</p>
+
+<p>And Saul abode in the uttermost part of Gibeah
+under the pomegranate tree which is in Migron: and
+the people that were with him were about six hundred
+men. And the people knew not that Jonathan
+was gone. And between the passes, by which Jonathan
+sought to go over unto the Philistines' garrison,
+there was a rocky crag on the one side, and a rocky
+crag on the other side. The one crag rose up on the
+north in front of Michmash, and the other on the
+south in front of Geba.</p>
+
+<p>And Jonathan said to the young man that bare his
+armor, "Come and let us go over unto the garrison:
+it may be that the Lord will work for us: for there
+is not restraint to the Lord to save by many or by
+few."</p>
+
+<p>And his armorbearer said unto him, "Do all that
+is in thine heart: turn thee, behold I am with thee
+according to thy heart."</p>
+
+<p>Then said Jonathan, "Behold, we will pass over
+unto the men, and we will discover ourselves unto
+them. If they say thus unto us, 'Tarry until we
+come to you;' then we will stand still in our place,
+and will not go up unto them. But if they say thus,
+'Come up unto us,' then we will go up: for the Lord
+hath delivered them into our hand: and this shall be
+the sign unto us."</p>
+
+<p>And both of them discovered themselves unto the
+garrison of the Philistines: and the Philistines said,
+"Behold, the Hebrews come forth out of the holes
+where they had hid themselves." And the men of the
+garrison answered Jonathan and his armorbearer,
+and said, "Come up to us, and we will show you a
+thing." And Jonathan said unto his armorbearer,
+"Come up after me: for the Lord hath delivered them
+into the hand of Israel."</p>
+
+<p>And Jonathan climbed up upon his hands and
+upon his feet, and his armorbearer after him: and
+they fell before Jonathan; and his armorbearer
+slew them after him. And that first slaughter, which
+Jonathan and his armorbearer made, was about
+twenty men, within as it were half an acre of land.
+And there was a trembling in the camp, in the field,
+and among all the people; the garrison, and the
+spoilers, they also trembled: and the earth quaked;
+so there was an exceeding great trembling.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. THE GENERAL BATTLE</p>
+
+<p>And the watchmen of Saul in Gibeah of Benjamin
+looked; and, behold, the multitude melted away, and
+they went hither and thither.</p>
+
+<p>Then said Saul unto the people that were with
+him, "Number now, and see who is gone from
+us."</p>
+
+<p>And when they had numbered, behold, Jonathan
+and his armorbearer were not there. And Saul
+said unto Ahijah the priest, "Bring hither the ark of
+God." For the ark of God was there at that time
+with the children of Israel.</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, while Saul talked unto the
+priest, that the tumult that was in the camp of the
+Philistines went on and increased: and Saul said
+unto the priest, "Withdraw thine hand."</p>
+
+<p>And Saul and all the people that were with him
+were gathered together, and came to the battle: and,
+behold, every man's sword was against his fellow,
+and there was a very great discomfiture. Now the
+Hebrews that were with the Philistines as before-time,
+which went up with them into the camp from
+the country round about, even they also turned to be
+with the Israelites that were with Saul and Jonathan.
+Likewise all the men of Israel which had hid themselves
+in the hill country of Ephraim, when they
+heard that the Philistines fled, even they also followed
+hard after them in the battle. So the Lord
+saved Israel that day: and the battle passed over
+by Beth-aven.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§66. Saul's Oath and Jonathan's Danger</b> (I Sam.
+14:24-46)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE OATH OF ABSTINENCE</p>
+
+<p>And the men of Israel were distressed that day:
+for Saul had adjured the people, saying, "Cursed
+be the man that eateth any food until it be evening,
+and I be avenged on mine enemies."</p>
+
+<p>So none of the people tasted food. And all the
+people came into the forest; and there was honey
+upon the ground. And when the people were come
+unto the forest, behold, the honey dropped: but no
+man put his hand to his mouth; for the people feared
+the oath. But Jonathan heard not when his father
+charged the people with the oath: wherefore he put
+forth the end of the rod that was in his hand, and
+dipped it in the honeycomb, and put his hand to his
+mouth; and his eyes were enlightened.</p>
+
+<p>Then answered one of the people, and said, "Thy
+father straitly charged the people with an oath, saying,
+'Cursed be the man that eateth food this day.'"
+And the people were faint.</p>
+
+<p>Then said Jonathan, "My father hath troubled
+the land: see, I pray you, how mine eyes have been
+enlightened, because I tasted a little of this honey.
+How much more, if haply the people had eaten freely
+to-day of the spoil of their enemies which they found?
+for had there not been now a much greater slaughter
+among the Philistines?"</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE HUNGRY WARRIORS</p>
+
+<p>And they smote of the Philistines that day from
+Michmash to Aijalon: and the people were very
+faint. And the people flew upon the spoil, and
+took sheep, and oxen, and calves, and slew them
+on the ground: and the people did eat them with
+the blood.</p>
+
+<p>Then they told Saul, saying, "Behold, the people
+sin against the Lord, in that they eat with the blood."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Ye have dealt treacherously: roll
+a great stone unto me this day." And Saul said,
+"Disperse yourselves among the people, and say
+unto them, 'Bring me hither every man his ox,
+and every man his sheep, and slay them here, and
+eat; and sin not against the Lord in eating with
+the blood.'"</p>
+
+<p>And all the people brought every man his ox with
+him that night, and slew them there. And Saul
+built an altar unto the Lord: the same was the first
+altar that he built unto the Lord.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. JONATHAN'S DANGER AND RESCUE</p>
+
+<p>And Saul said, "Let us go down after the Philistines
+by night, and spoil them until the morning
+light, and let us not leave a man of them."</p>
+
+<p>And they said, "Do whatsoever seemeth good
+unto thee."</p>
+
+<p>Then said the priest, "Let us draw near hither
+unto God." And Saul asked counsel of God,
+"Shall I go down after the Philistines? wilt thou
+deliver them into the hand of Israel?" But he answered
+him not that day.</p>
+
+<p>And Saul said, "Draw nigh hither, all ye chiefs
+of the people: and know and see wherein this sin
+hath been this day. For, as the Lord liveth, which
+saveth Israel, though it be in Jonathan my son, he
+shall surely die." But there was not a man among
+all the people that answered him.</p>
+
+<p>Then said he unto all Israel, "Be ye on one side,
+and I and Jonathan my son will be on the other side."</p>
+
+<p>And the people said unto Saul, "Do what seemeth
+good unto thee."</p>
+
+<p>Therefore Saul said unto the Lord, the God of
+Israel, "Show the right." And Jonathan and Saul
+were taken by lot: but the people escaped.</p>
+
+<p>And Saul said, "Cast lots between me and Jonathan
+my son." And Jonathan was taken.</p>
+
+<p>Then Saul said to Jonathan, "Tell me what thou
+hast done."</p>
+
+<p>And Jonathan told him, and said, "I did certainly
+taste a little honey with the end of the rod that was
+in mine hand; and, lo, I must die."</p>
+
+<p>And Saul said, "God do so and more also: for
+thou shalt surely die, Jonathan."</p>
+
+<p>And the people said unto Saul, "Shall Jonathan
+die, who hath wrought this great salvation in Israel?
+God forbid: as the Lord liveth, there shall not one
+hair of his head fall to the ground; for he hath
+wrought with God this day."</p>
+
+<p>So the people rescued Jonathan, that he died not.
+Then Saul went up from following the Philistines:
+and the Philistines went to their own place.</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>215 (§65A). There was a strong enemy on the western
+coast that was the most serious trouble to Israel. It was to
+save themselves from these people that the Hebrews had
+longed for a king. Imagine how we should feel if some foreign
+nation should capture New York and Chicago and St. Louis
+and San Francisco and should compel us to give up a large
+part of our crops every year. We should look for a great
+general to lead us to turn them out. What then did Saul
+feel was his first duty as king? He had with him his noble
+son: what was his name? The first blow was struck at the
+town of Geba: what followed at once?</p>
+
+<p>216 (§65A). Note the great force of the Philistines. What
+do you think they expected to do with the Hebrews? How
+did the Hebrews behave? We have seen before how the
+people would hide from their enemies. How many warriors
+did Saul have left? Notice that the two forces were drawn
+up on opposite sides of a valley. Each was on a height which
+it was difficult to attack. The reference to "the spoilers"
+means that the Philistines determined to destroy all the Hebrew
+country. The little army of Saul was unable to prevent the
+raids.</p>
+
+<p>217 (§65B). Evidently some bold deed had to be done. We
+find that the king had a hero son. The knights in Europe
+used to have their squires: Jonathan had his armorbearer.
+Why did he not tell his father of his plan? At the battle of
+Santiago in the Cuban war Lieutenant Hobson wanted to do a
+very bold deed, but it was so dangerous that he had difficulty
+in getting permission. Jonathan was afraid his father would
+think his plan foolhardy. Study the description of the place.
+There was a narrow pass between two rocky crags. In order
+to reach the Philistines, Jonathan would have to climb the
+steep rock. Note that Jonathan hopes for the Lord to be with
+him. How does the armorbearer respond?</p>
+
+<p>218 (§65B). Jonathan proposes to go into the open at the
+bottom of the valley and call to the Philistine sentinels, and
+then to decide whether to attack according to their reply. He
+thinks that they will make one of two replies: what were
+they? Tell what happened. How do you think the sudden
+attack of two men could have frightened the Philistines?</p>
+
+<p>219 (§65C). The Hebrew sentinels on their crag suddenly
+saw a great disturbance on the opposite height, which the
+Philistines held. What did Saul do? The king intended to
+consult God through the priest, but the confusion in the
+enemy's camp grew so great that he decided to attack at once.
+Three causes helped to put the Philistines to flight: what were
+they?</p>
+
+<p>220 (§66A). In the old time it was thought to be very
+religious to make solemn vows to God. Saul felt that the
+Lord was saving Israel from the oppression: what oath did he
+put upon the people? What did the hungry people find in
+the forest? How did they act? How did Jonathan act?
+The little food was so refreshing that he seemed to see clearly
+again, so it is said "his eyes were enlightened." Tell what
+conversation took place about the honey.</p>
+
+<p>221 (§66B). In order to understand this story, we must
+remember that it was considered wrong to eat meat unless it
+had been properly killed so that the blood could run off. The
+blood was thought to be an offering to God. The Jews still
+keep up the same custom, and their meat is always specially
+killed. When the Philistines fled, what property did they
+leave behind? How did the hungry Hebrews behave? How
+did Saul secure an altar where the animals could be properly
+killed? Saul was very careful to do everything that was considered
+right.</p>
+
+<p>222 (§66C). The king thought that the victory should be
+followed up, so that the Philistines could not return to trouble
+them. They had a custom of seeking to find out God's will
+about any matter through the priest, just as people do in the
+temples of Japan to-day. But there was some difficulty in
+securing an answer, so Saul felt sure that someone had broken
+the oath. It was a most solemn matter to him. What did
+he say to the leaders of the people? Tell how they found out
+that Jonathan was guilty.</p>
+
+<p>223 (§66C). When a man was found out by the lot, he was
+expected to confess. What did Jonathan confess? Do you
+think that he had done wrong? Evidently Saul thought so,
+because at that time it seemed terrible to break a solemn
+oath. Picture the scene to yourself and see how nobly
+Jonathan was ready to bear the punishment.</p>
+
+<p>224 (§66C). It seems to us most strange that the king should
+think so much of the matter as to feel that his son must die, but
+we must remember that it was part of their religion. It makes
+us very glad that we know God so much better, and that we
+can see that he must have been pleased with the hero who had
+risked his life to save his people from their enemies. Indeed
+we find that Jonathan's noble conduct was so clear that the
+people decided that the old custom must be broken. What
+did they say? Why did they think the Lord would not wish
+Jonathan to die?</p><br>
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>Imagine that you were Jonathan's armorbearer. Write
+a letter home, just as the young man might, telling what happened
+that day. Make it as full of description as possible.</p>
+
+
+<br>
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2>DAVID</h2>
+
+
+
+<div class="center">
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="">
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXI_DAVID_AND_THE_GIANT">XXI.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">David and the Giant</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXII_THE_HERO_FRIENDS_DAVID_AND">XXII.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">The Hero Friends, David and Jonathan</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXIII_DAVID_THE_OUTLAW">XXIII.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">David, the Outlaw</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXIV_DAVID_THE_KING">XXIV.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">David, the King</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXV_DAVID_AND_HIS_REBEL_SON">XXV.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">David and His Rebel Son</span></td></tr>
+</table></div><br>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="XXI_DAVID_AND_THE_GIANT" id="XXI_DAVID_AND_THE_GIANT"></a>XXI. DAVID AND THE GIANT</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§67. The Anointing of David</b> (I Sam. 16:1-13)</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said unto Samuel, "I have rejected
+Saul from being king over Israel. Fill thine horn
+with oil, and go, I will send thee to Jesse the Bethlehemite:
+for I have provided me a king among his
+sons."</p>
+
+<p>And Samuel said, "How can I go? if Saul hear
+it, he will kill me."</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said, "Take an heifer with thee,
+and say, 'I am come to sacrifice to the Lord.' And
+call Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will show thee what
+thou shalt do: and thou shalt anoint unto me him
+whom I name unto thee."</p>
+
+<p>And Samuel did that which the Lord spake, and
+came to Bethlehem. And the elders of the city came
+to meet him trembling, and said, "Comest thou
+peaceably?"</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Peaceably: I am come to sacrifice unto
+the Lord: sanctify yourselves, and come with me to
+the sacrifice." And he sanctified Jesse and his sons,
+and called them to the sacrifice. And it came to
+pass, when they were come, that he looked on Eliab,
+and said, "Surely the Lord's anointed is before him."</p>
+
+<p>But the Lord said unto Samuel, "Look not on
+his countenance, or on the height of his stature;
+because I have rejected him: for the Lord seeth not
+as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance,
+but the Lord looketh on the <a name="DAVID246" id="DAVID246"></a>heart."</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 348px;">
+<img src="images/il246.jpg" width="348" height="461" alt="DAVID" title="" >
+<span class="caption">DAVID</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>Then Jesse called Abinadab, and made him pass
+before Samuel. And he said, "Neither hath the
+Lord chosen this."</p>
+
+<p>Then Jesse made Shammah to pass by. And he
+said, "Neither hath the Lord chosen this."</p>
+
+<p>And Jesse made seven of his sons to pass before
+Samuel. And Samuel said unto Jesse, "The Lord
+hath not chosen these." And Samuel said unto
+Jesse, "Are here all thy children?"</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "There remaineth yet the youngest,
+and, behold, he keepeth the sheep."</p>
+
+<p>And Samuel said unto Jesse, "Send and fetch
+him: for we will not sit down till he come hither."</p>
+
+<p>And he sent, and brought him in. Now he was
+ruddy, and withal of a beautiful countenance, and
+goodly to look upon. And the Lord said, "Arise,
+anoint him: for this is he."</p>
+
+<p>Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed
+him in the midst of his brethren: and the spirit of
+the Lord came mightily upon David from that day
+forward.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§68. David and Goliath</b> (I Sam. 17:1-14, 16-52)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. GOLIATH'S CHALLENGE</p>
+
+<p>Now the Philistines gathered together their armies
+to battle, and they were gathered together at Socoh,
+which belongeth to Judah. And Saul and the men
+of Israel were gathered together, and pitched in the
+vale of Elah, and set the battle in array against the
+Philistines. And the Philistines stood on the mountain
+on the one side, and Israel stood on the mountain
+on the other side: and there was a valley between
+them.</p>
+
+<p>And there went out a champion out of the camp
+of the Philistines, named Goliath, of Gath, whose
+height was six cubits and a span. And he had an
+helmet of brass upon his head, and he was clad with
+a coat of mail; and the weight of the coat was five
+thousand shekels of brass. And he had greaves of
+brass upon his legs, and a javelin of brass between
+his shoulders. And the staff of his spear was like
+a weaver's beam; and his spear's head weighed six
+hundred <a name="shekels" id="shekels"></a><a href="#skekels">shekels</a> of iron: and his shield-bearer went
+before him. And he stood and cried unto the armies
+of Israel, and said unto them, "Why are ye come out
+to set your battle in array? am not I a Philistine,
+and ye servants to Saul? choose you a man for you,
+and let him come down to me. If he be able to
+fight with me, and kill me, then will we be your
+servants: but if I prevail against him, and kill him,
+then shall ye be our servants, and serve us." And
+the Philistine said, "I defy the armies of Israel this
+day, give me a man, that we may fight together."</p>
+
+<p>And when Saul and all Israel heard those words of
+the Philistine, they were dismayed, and greatly
+afraid, and the Philistine drew near morning and
+evening, and presented himself forty days.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. DAVID'S VISIT TO THE ARMY</p>
+
+<p>Now Jesse had eight sons: and the man was an
+old man in the days of Saul, stricken in years among
+men. And the three eldest sons of Jesse had gone
+after Saul to the battle: and the names of his three
+sons that went to the battle were Eliab the firstborn,
+and next unto him Abinadab, and the third Shammah.
+And David was the youngest: and the three eldest
+followed Saul.</p>
+
+<p>And Jesse said unto David his son, "Take now for
+thy brethren an ephah of this parched corn, and these
+ten loaves, and carry them quickly to the camp to
+thy brethren; and bring these ten cheeses unto the
+captain of their thousand, and look how thy brethren
+fare."</p>
+
+<p>And David rose up early in the morning, and left
+the sheep with a keeper, and took, and went, as
+Jesse had commanded him; and he came to the place
+of the wagons, as the host which was going forth to
+the fight shouted for the battle. And Israel and the
+Philistines put the battle in array, army against
+army. And David left his baggage in the hand of
+the keeper of the baggage, and ran to the army, and
+came and saluted his brethren. And as he talked
+with them, behold, there came up the champion,
+the Philistine of Gath, Goliath by name, out of the
+ranks of the Philistines, and spake according to the
+same words: and David heard them. And all the
+men of Israel, when they saw the man, fled from
+him, and were sore afraid. And the men of Israel
+said, "Have ye seen this man that is come up?
+surely to defy Israel is he come up: and it shall be,
+that the man who killeth him, the king will enrich
+him with great riches, and will give him his daughter,
+and make his father's house free in Israel."</p>
+
+<p>And David spake to the men that stood by him,
+saying, "What shall be done to the man that killeth
+this Philistine, and taketh away the reproach from
+Israel? for who is this Philistine, that he should
+defy the armies of the living God?"</p>
+
+<p>And the people answered him after this manner,
+saying, "So shall it be done to the man that killeth
+him."</p>
+
+<p>And Eliab his eldest brother heard when he spake
+unto the men; and Eliab's anger was kindled against
+David, and he said, "Why art thou come down?
+and with whom hast thou left those few sheep in the
+wilderness? I know thy pride, and the naughtiness
+of thine heart; for thou art come down that <a name="thou" id="thou"></a><a href="#thuo">thou</a>
+mightest see the battle."</p>
+
+<p>And David said, "What have I now done? Is
+there not a cause?" And he turned away from him
+toward another, and spake after the same manner:
+and the people answered him again after the former
+manner.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. THE ACCEPTANCE OF THE CHALLENGE</p>
+
+<p>And when the words were heard which David
+spake, they rehearsed them before Saul; and he sent
+for him. And David said to Saul, "Let no man's
+heart fail because of him; thy servant will go and
+fight with this Philistine."</p>
+
+<p>And Saul said to David, "Thou art not able to
+go against this Philistine to fight with him: for thou
+art but a youth, and he a man of war from his
+youth."</p>
+
+<p>And David said unto Saul, "Thy servant kept his
+father's sheep; and when there came a lion, or a
+bear, and took a lamb out of the flock, I went out
+after him, and smote him, and delivered it out of his
+mouth: and when he arose against me, I caught him
+by his beard, and smote him, and slew him. Thy
+servant smote both the lion and the bear: and this
+Philistine shall be as one of them, seeing he hath
+defied the armies of the living God." And David
+said, "The Lord that delivered me out of the paw
+of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will
+deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine."</p>
+
+<p>And Saul said unto David, "Go, and the Lord
+shall be with thee." And Saul clad David with his
+apparel, and he put an helmet of brass upon his
+head, and he clad him with a coat of mail. And
+David girded his sword upon his apparel, and he
+essayed to go; for he had not proved it.</p>
+
+<p>And David said unto Saul, "I cannot go with
+these; for I have not proved them." And David
+put them off him.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">D. THE COMBAT</p>
+
+<p>And he took his staff in his hand, and chose him
+five smooth stones out of the brook, and put them in
+the shepherd's bag which he had, even in his scrip;
+and his sling was in his hand: and he drew near to
+the Philistine. And the Philistine came on and
+drew near unto David; and the man that bare the
+shield went before him. And when the Philistine
+looked about, and saw David, he disdained him:
+for he was but a youth, and ruddy, and withal of a
+fair countenance. And the Philistine said unto
+David, "Am I a dog, that thou comest to me with
+staves?" And the Philistine cursed David by his
+gods. And the Philistine said to David, "Come
+to me, and I will give thy flesh unto the fowls of the
+air, and to the beasts of the field."</p>
+
+<p>Then said David to the Philistine, "Thou comest
+to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a
+javelin: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord
+of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, which thou
+hast defied. This day will the Lord deliver thee into
+mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine
+head from off thee; and I will give the carcases of
+the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of
+the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all
+the earth may know that there is a God in Israel:
+and that all this assembly may know that the Lord
+saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the
+Lord's, and he will give you into our hand."</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, when the Philistine arose,
+and came and drew nigh to meet David, that David
+hastened, and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine.
+And David put his hand in his bag, and
+took thence a stone, and slang it, and smote the
+Philistine in his forehead; and the stone sank into
+his forehead, and he fell upon his face to the earth.
+So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling
+and with a stone, and smote the Philistine, and slew
+him; but there was no sword in the hand of David.
+Then David ran, and stood over the Philistine, and
+took his sword, and drew it out of the sheath thereof,
+and slew him, and cut off his head therewith.</p>
+
+<p>And when the Philistines saw that their champion
+was dead, they fled. And the men of Israel and of
+Judah arose, and shouted, and pursued the Philistines,
+until thou comest to Gath, and to the gates of
+Ekron.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§69. David before Saul</b> (I Sam. 17:15-18:5)</p>
+
+<p>And when Saul saw David go forth against the
+Philistine, he said unto Abner, the captain of the
+host, "Abner, whose son is this youth?"</p>
+
+<p>And Abner said, "As thy soul liveth, O king, I
+cannot tell."</p>
+
+<p>And the king said, "Inquire thou whose son the
+stripling is."</p>
+
+<p>And as David returned from the slaughter of the
+Philistine, Abner took him, and brought him before
+Saul with the head of the Philistine in his hand.
+And Saul said to him, "Whose son art thou, thou
+young man?"</p>
+
+<p>And David answered, "I am the son of thy
+servant Jesse the Bethlehemite."</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, when he had made an end
+of speaking unto Saul, that the soul of Jonathan was
+knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him
+as his own soul. And Saul took him that day, and
+would let him go no more home to his father's house.
+Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because
+he loved him as his own soul. And Jonathan
+stripped himself of the robe that was upon him, and
+gave it to David, and his apparel, even to his sword,
+and to his bow, and to his girdle.</p>
+
+<p>And David went out whithersoever Saul sent him,
+and behaved himself wisely: and Saul set him over
+the men of war, and it was good in the sight of all
+the people, and also in the sight of Saul's servants.</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>225 (§67). It is a surprise to read that Saul who had begun
+his reign so well had made a failure so early. But he was a
+headstrong man. He would not take Samuel's advice, and
+the old prophet realized that a new king would have to be
+chosen. We have now the interesting story of how David
+was given his first knowledge of the great future that was
+before him.</p>
+
+<p>226 (§67). Tell the story of the plan for a visit to Bethlehem.
+What did Samuel think when he saw Jesse's oldest son? What
+did the Lord tell him about the way to judge of men? Saul
+was a man of noble appearance, but sometimes such men
+are disappointing. What occurred regarding the other sons?
+Tell the story of the anointing of David. Compare this with
+the anointing of Saul.</p>
+
+<p>227 (§68A). We hear again of the same old enemies of
+Israel. Who were they and where did they live? Who was
+their champion? Six cubits and a span would be at least
+ten feet, so we may suppose that as this story was told over
+and over again they came to exaggerate the height of the
+giant. But he must have been a very big man. He had heavy
+bronze armor. How many pieces? Five thousand shekels
+would be about 150 lbs.&mdash;a heavy coat of mail. Who was
+with him? Tell the story of his challenge.</p>
+
+<p>228 (§68B). How many of David's brothers were in the
+army? Why did Jesse send David to the army and what
+presents did he send with him? Tell the story of David's
+inquiry about the Philistine. What did his brother say to
+him? What did David think of the challenge?</p>
+
+<p>229 (§68C). Tell the story of David's interview with Saul.
+What kind of a young man was he? What had he been able
+to do in his shepherd life? How did he get along with Saul's
+armor?</p>
+
+<p>230 (§68D). There was one weapon with which David was
+very skilful. Some of the Israelites could do wonders with
+this simple weapon: read Judg. 20:16. Try to imagine what
+the two men looked like when they met. Describe the meeting.</p>
+
+<p>231 (§68D). What did Goliath say to David? The young
+man knew that the safety of his people depended upon this
+fight. What noble words did he say? Did he boast of his
+own skill? Tell the story of the combat.</p>
+
+<p>232 (§69). What conversation took place regarding David?
+What did Saul do for the young victor?</p>
+
+<p>233 (§69). Jonathan comes out nobly in the story. We
+might think that he would be jealous of David's success, but
+instead of that, he was delighted with his fine appearance and
+his courage. How did Jonathan show his pleasure in David?
+There began that day a great friendship that lasted till death.
+There can be no jealousy between friends. It is one of the
+noblest feelings, when one friend can be glad of another's
+advancement.</p><br>
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>When David was practicing with his sling and keeping
+his flocks he little thought that he would ever be king of
+Israel. We do not know how our common duties are getting
+us ready for a greater work. Make a list of the principal
+things that you will have to do this week. Write
+them down in your notebook. Then write down what
+good you think they will do to prepare you for your work
+when you are grown up.</p><br>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="XXII_THE_HERO_FRIENDS_DAVID_AND" id="XXII_THE_HERO_FRIENDS_DAVID_AND"></a>XXII. THE HERO FRIENDS, DAVID AND
+JONATHAN</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§70. Saul's Jealousy of David</b> (I Sam. 18:6-9,
+27-29; 19:1-18)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE BEGINNING OF THE JEALOUSY</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass as they came, when David
+returned from the slaughter of the Philistine, that
+the women came out of all the cities of Israel, singing
+and dancing, to meet king Saul, with timbrels, with
+joy, and with instruments of music. And the women
+sang one to another as they played, and said,</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Saul hath slain his thousands,<br></span>
+<span class="i0">And David his ten thousands.<br></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>And Saul was very wroth, and this saying displeased
+him; and he said, "They have ascribed unto David
+ten thousands, and to me they have ascribed but
+thousands: and what can he have more but the
+kingdom?" And Saul eyed David from that day
+and forward.</p>
+
+<p>And Saul gave him Michal his daughter to wife.
+And Saul saw and knew that the Lord was with
+David; and Michal Saul's daughter loved him.
+And Saul was yet the more afraid of David; and
+Saul was David's enemy continually.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. JONATHAN THE PEACEMAKER</p>
+
+<p>And Saul spake to Jonathan his son, and to
+all his servants, that they should slay David.
+But Jonathan, Saul's son, delighted much in
+David.</p>
+
+<p>And Jonathan told David, saying, "Saul my father
+seeketh to slay thee: now therefore, I pray thee,
+take heed to thyself in the morning, and abide in a
+secret place, and hide thyself: and I will go out and
+stand beside my father in the field where thou art,
+and I will commune with my father of thee; and if
+I see ought, I will tell thee."</p>
+
+<p>And Jonathan spake good of David unto Saul his
+father, and said unto him, "Let not the king sin
+against his servant, against David; because he hath
+not sinned against thee, and because his works have
+been very good toward thee: for he put his life in
+his hand, and smote the Philistine, and the Lord
+wrought a great victory for all Israel: thou sawest
+it, and didst rejoice: wherefore then wilt thou sin
+against innocent blood, to slay David without a
+cause?"</p>
+
+<p>And Saul hearkened unto the voice of Jonathan:
+and Saul sware, "As the Lord liveth, he shall not
+be put to death."</p>
+
+<p>And Jonathan called David, and Jonathan showed
+him all those things. And Jonathan brought David
+to Saul, and he was in his presence, as before-time.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. SAUL'S ATTEMPTS TO KILL DAVID</p>
+
+<p>And there was war again: and David went out,
+and fought with the Philistines, and slew them with
+a great slaughter; and they fled before him. And an
+evil spirit from the Lord was upon Saul, as he sat
+in his house with his spear in his hand; and David
+played with his hand. And Saul sought to smite
+David even to the wall with the spear; but he slipped
+away out of Saul's presence, and he smote the spear
+into the wall: and David fled, and escaped that
+night. And Saul sent messengers unto David's
+house, to watch him, and to slay him in the morning:
+and Michal David's wife told him, saying, "If
+thou save not thy life to-night, to-morrow thou shalt
+be slain." So Michal let David down through the
+window: and he went, and fled, and escaped.</p>
+
+<p>And Michal took the teraphim, and laid it in the
+bed, and put a pillow of goats' hair at the head thereof,
+and covered it with the clothes. And when Saul sent
+messengers to take David, she said, "He is sick."</p>
+
+<p>And Saul sent the messengers to see David, saying,
+"Bring him up to me in the bed, that I may slay
+him." And when the messengers came in, behold, the
+teraphim was in the bed, with the pillow of goats'
+hair at the head thereof. And Saul said unto
+Michal, "Why hast thou deceived me thus, and let
+mine enemy go, that he is escaped?"</p>
+
+<p>And Michal answered Saul, "He said unto me,
+'Let me go; why should I kill thee?'"</p>
+
+<p>Now David fled, and escaped, and came to Samuel
+to Ramah, and told him all that Saul had done to
+him. And he and Samuel went and dwelt in Naioth.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§71. The Two Friends</b> (I Sam. 20:1-39)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE COVENANT OF THE FRIENDS</p>
+
+<p>And David fled from Naioth in Ramah, and came
+and said before Jonathan, "What have I done?
+what is mine iniquity? and what is my sin before
+thy father, that he seeketh my life?"</p>
+
+<p>And he said unto him, "God forbid; thou shalt
+not die: behold, my father doeth nothing either
+great or small, but that he discloseth it unto me
+and why should my father hide this thing from me?
+it is not so."</p>
+
+<p>And David sware moreover, and said, "Thy
+father knoweth well that I have found grace in thine
+eyes; and he saith, 'Let not Jonathan know this,
+lest he be grieved': but truly as the Lord liveth, and
+as thy soul liveth, there is but a step between me and
+death."</p>
+
+<p>Then said Jonathan unto David, "Whatsoever
+thy soul desireth, I will even do it for thee."</p>
+
+<p>And David said unto Jonathan, "Behold, to-morrow
+is the new moon, and I should not fail to sit with
+the king at meat: but let me go, that I may hide
+myself in the field unto the third day at even. If thy
+father miss me at all, then say, 'David earnestly
+asked leave of me that he might run to Bethlehem
+his city: for it is the yearly sacrifice there for all
+the family.' If he say thus, 'It is well;' thy servant
+shall have peace: but if he be wroth, then know
+that evil is determined by him. Therefore deal
+kindly with thy servant; for thou hast brought thy
+servant into a covenant of the Lord with thee: but if
+there be in me iniquity, slay me thyself; for why
+shouldest thou bring me to thy father?"</p>
+
+<p>And Jonathan said, "Far be it from thee: for if
+I should at all know that evil were determined by
+my father to come upon thee, then would not I tell
+it thee?"</p>
+
+<p>Then said David to Jonathan, "Who shall tell me
+if perchance thy father answer thee roughly?"</p>
+
+<p>And Jonathan said unto David, "Come and let
+us go out into the field." And they went out both
+of them into the field.</p>
+
+<p>And Jonathan said unto David, "The Lord, the
+God of Israel, be witness; when I have sounded my
+father about this time to-morrow, or the third day,
+behold, if there be good toward David, shall I not
+then send unto thee, and disclose it unto thee? The
+Lord do so to Jonathan, and more also, should it
+please my father to do thee evil, if I disclose it not
+unto thee, and send thee away, that thou mayest
+go in peace: and the Lord be with thee, as he hath
+been with my father. And thou shalt not only while
+yet I live show me the kindness of the Lord, that I
+die not: but also thou shalt not cut off thy kindness
+from my house for ever: no, not when the Lord hath
+cut off the enemies of David every one from the face
+of the earth."</p>
+
+<p>And Jonathan caused David to swear again, for
+the love that he had to him: for he loved him as he
+loved his own soul. Then Jonathan said unto him,
+"To-morrow is the new moon: and thou shalt be
+missed, because thy seat will be empty. And when
+thou hast stayed three days, thou shalt go down
+quickly, and come to the place where thou didst hide
+thyself when the business was in hand, and shalt
+remain by the stone Ezel. And I will shoot three
+arrows on the side thereof, as though I shot at a
+mark. And behold, I will send the lad, saying, 'Go,
+find the arrows.' If I say unto the lad, 'Behold, the
+arrows are on this side of thee': take them, and
+come; for there is peace to thee and no hurt, as the
+Lord liveth. But if I say thus unto the boy, 'Behold,
+the arrows are beyond thee'; go thy way; for the
+Lord hath sent thee away. And as touching the
+matter which thou and I have spoken of, behold,
+the Lord is between thee and me for ever."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. SAUL'S DEADLY ANGER</p>
+
+<p>So David hid himself in the field: and when the
+new moon was come, the king sat him down to eat
+meat. And the king sat upon his seat, as at other
+times, even upon the seat by the wall; and Jonathan
+stood up, and Abner sat by Saul's side: but David's
+place was empty. Nevertheless Saul spake not any
+thing that day; for he thought, "Something hath
+befallen him, he is not clean; surely he is not
+clean." And it came to pass on the morrow after
+the new moon, which was the second day, that
+David's place was empty: and Saul said unto Jonathan
+his son, "Wherefore cometh not the son of
+Jesse to meat, neither yesterday, nor to-day?"</p>
+
+<p>And Jonathan answered Saul, "David earnestly
+asked leave of me to go to Bethlehem: and he said
+'Let me go, I pray thee; for our family hath a sacrifice
+in the city; and my brother, he hath commanded
+me to be there: and now, if I have found favor in
+thine eyes, let me get away, I pray thee, and see my
+brethren.' Therefore he is not come unto the
+king's table."</p>
+
+<p>Then Saul's anger was kindled against Jonathan,
+and he said unto him, "Thou son of a perverse rebellious
+woman, do not I know that thou hast chosen
+the son of Jesse to thine own shame? For as long
+as the son of Jesse liveth upon the ground, thou shalt
+not be established, nor thy kingdom. Wherefore now
+send and fetch him unto me, for he shall surely die."</p>
+
+<p>And Jonathan answered Saul his father, and said
+unto him, "Wherefore should he be put to death?
+what hath he done?"</p>
+
+<p>And Saul cast his spear at him to smite him:
+whereby Jonathan knew that it was determined of
+his father to put David to death. So Jonathan arose
+from the table in fierce anger, and did eat no meat
+the second day of the month: for he was grieved for
+David, because his father had done him shame.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. THE PARTING OF THE FRIENDS</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass in the morning, that Jonathan
+went out into the field at the time appointed with
+David, and a little lad with him. And he said unto
+his lad, "Run, find now the arrows which I shoot."
+And as the lad ran, he shot an arrow beyond him.
+And when the lad was come to the place of the arrow
+which Jonathan had shot, Jonathan cried after the
+lad, and said, "Is not the arrow beyond thee?"
+And Jonathan cried after the lad, "Make speed,
+haste, stay not." And Jonathan's lad gathered up
+the arrows, and came to his master. But the lad
+knew not any thing: only Jonathan and David
+knew the matter.</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>234. When David returned victorious from the fight with
+Goliath, Jonathan, the king's son, made a fast friendship with
+him. Read §69. What do you think each of these young
+men would admire in the other? There was the beginning
+that day of a life-long friendship.</p>
+
+<p>235 (§70A). It is still the custom among the Arabs for the
+women to go dancing and singing to meet the warriors returning
+from a fight. The women of Israel had the simplest
+musical instrument, the tambourine, such as the Salvation
+Army women use. They composed a little verse to sing:
+what was it? How did Saul feel when he heard it? Was it
+natural for him to have this feeling? It was a very sad thing
+connected with the Spanish War, that after the battle of
+Santiago there was a bitter jealousy between the two American
+admirals. It is a most pitiful thing when great men are
+jealous. Recall why we called Abraham "magnanimous."
+What would have been magnanimous conduct in Saul? Was
+Jonathan jealous?</p>
+
+<p>236 (§70B). There are a number of stories of Saul's enmity<br>
+against David. We shall study a few of them. How did
+Jonathan try to be the peacemaker? How did he praise
+David to the king? What effect did it have? Evidently
+Saul had a better nature, to which Jonathan could appeal, but
+there was always danger that the fit of jealousy would return.</p>
+
+<p>237 (§70C). David had been appointed to a high command
+in the army. He seems always to have been successful
+against the Philistines. But it made Saul jealous. Saul had
+been subject to fits of melancholy, which was explained in
+those days as caused by an evil spirit. David, who was a
+skilful player on the harp, had often been able to soothe the
+king. So, when the jealousy made him moody, David tried
+to cheer him with music. But a sudden fit of rage came upon
+Saul. What happened?</p>
+
+<p>238 (§70C). David had married Michal, the daughter of
+the king. What plan of Saul's did she discover? How did
+she help her husband to escape? The teraphim was an idol
+about the size of a man: how did Michal use it to deceive
+Saul's messengers? But when Saul was determined to have
+David brought to him even if he were sick in bed, how was the
+deceit discovered? What did Saul say to his daughter?
+Notice that she told her father a falsehood, saying that David
+had threatened to kill her. Where did David flee?</p>
+
+<p>239 (§71A). This is another story of how Jonathan helped
+David when he first found out his father's jealousy. Note
+that Jonathan feels sure that Saul will not do evil to David,
+but David is certain of his danger. A plan is thought of to
+find out whether the king is really David's enemy. There
+was to be the regular monthly religious feast at the time of the
+new moon and it was David's duty to be present. What was
+the plan that he suggested to test the king? What appeal does
+David make to Jonathan? The two friends go out into the
+field where they can talk unobserved.</p>
+
+<p>240 (§71A). This is the story of the covenant or agreement.
+If Jonathan finds that Saul is well disposed to David, what
+does he promise to do? If Saul is evil disposed, what does he
+agree to do? He is sure that David will succeed to the throne;
+what therefore does he ask of him in the future? We are
+glad to know that David remembered this promise long after
+and took care of Jonathan's lame son.</p>
+
+<p>241 (§71A). Jonathan knows that it will be dangerous for
+him to tell David the result of his observation of the king as
+he would probably be watched, so he arranges to tell him by
+signal. Read the story carefully, and then tell in your own
+words how David was to know if he could return safely, and
+how he was to know if he must escape.</p>
+
+<p>242 (§71B). Tell the story of the Feast of the New Moon.
+Notice that Saul did not object to David's absence the first
+day, thinking that there might be some religious cleansing
+that was necessary. What excuse did Jonathan make?
+The king thought that Jonathan could not understand that
+David would get the throne, and he was angry with him for
+being so foolish as to be friends with him. Do you think
+Jonathan knew that David was to be king? What was the
+end of the discussion between the king and his son?</p>
+
+<p>243 (§71C). How did Jonathan inform David that the king
+was his enemy? Why did he say to the boy, "Make speed,
+haste, stay not"? So these two friends parted, each trusting
+the other.</p><br>
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>Have you known a friend who was magnanimous when he
+might have been jealous? Write about it in your notebook.</p>
+
+
+<br>
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="XXIII_DAVID_THE_OUTLAW" id="XXIII_DAVID_THE_OUTLAW"></a>XXIII. DAVID, THE OUTLAW</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§72. The Band of Outlaws</b> (I Sam. 22:1, 2;
+23:1-8, 13, 14; 25:2-42)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE GATHERING OF THE BAND</p>
+
+<p>David arose and fled for fear of Saul, and escaped
+to the cave of Adullam: and when his brethren and
+all his father's house heard it, they went down
+thither to him. And every one that was in distress,
+and every one that was in debt, and every one that
+was discontented, gathered themselves unto him;
+and he became captain over them: and there were
+with him about four hundred men.</p>
+
+<p>And they told David, saying, "Behold, the Philistines
+are fighting against Keilah, and they rob the
+threshing-floors."</p>
+
+<p>Therefore David enquired of the Lord, saying,
+"Shall I go and smite these Philistines?"</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said unto David, "Go, and smite
+the Philistines, and save Keilah."</p>
+
+<p>And David's men said unto him, "Behold, we be
+afraid here in Judah: how much more then if we go
+to Keilah against the armies of the Philistines?"</p>
+
+<p>Then David enquired of the Lord yet again. And
+the Lord answered him and said, "Arise, go down
+to Keilah; for I will deliver the Philistines into thine
+hand."</p>
+
+<p>And David and his men went to Keilah, and fought
+with the Philistines, and brought away their cattle,
+and slew them with a great slaughter. So David
+saved the inhabitants of Keilah.</p>
+
+<p>And it was told Saul that David was come to
+Keilah. And Saul summoned all the people to war,
+to go down to Keilah, to besiege David and his men.
+Then David and his men, which were about six hundred,
+arose and departed out of Keilah, and went
+whithersoever they could go. And it was told Saul
+that David was escaped from Keilah; and he forbare
+to go forth.</p>
+
+<p>And David abode in the wilderness in the strongholds,
+and remained in the hill country.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. DAVID'S REQUEST OF NABAL</p>
+
+<p>And there was a man in Maon, whose possessions
+were in Carmel; and the man was very great, and he
+had three thousand sheep, and a thousand goats:
+and he was shearing his sheep in Carmel. Now the
+name of the man was Nabal; and the name of his
+wife Abigail: and the woman was of good understanding,
+and of a beautiful countenance: but the
+man was churlish and evil in his doings.</p>
+
+<p>And David heard in the wilderness that Nabal did
+shear his sheep. And David sent ten young men,
+and David said unto the young men, "Get you up
+to Carmel, and go to Nabal, and greet him in my
+name: and thus shall ye say to him that liveth in
+prosperity, 'Peace be both unto thee, and peace be
+to thine house, and peace be unto all that thou hast.
+And now I have heard that thou hast shearers: thy
+shepherds have now been with us, and we did them
+no hurt, neither was there aught missing unto them,
+all the while they were in Carmel. Ask thy young
+men, and they will tell thee: wherefore let the young
+men find favor in thine eyes; for we come in a good
+day: give, I pray thee, whatsoever cometh to thine
+hand, unto thy servants, and to thy son David.'"</p>
+
+<p>And when David's young men came, they spake
+to Nabal according to all those words in the name of
+David. And Nabal answered David's servants, and
+said, "Who is David? and who is the son of Jesse?
+there be many servants now-a-days that break away
+every man from his master. Shall I then take my
+bread, and my water, and my flesh that I have killed
+for my shearers, and give it unto men of whom I know
+not whence they be?"</p>
+
+<p>So David's young men turned on their way, and
+went back, and came and told him according to all
+these words. And David said unto his men, "Gird
+ye on every man his sword." And they girded on
+every man his sword; and David also girded on his
+sword: and there went up after David about four
+hundred men; and two hundred abode by the
+stuff.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. ABIGAIL'S PEACEMAKING</p>
+
+<p>But one of the young men told Abigail, Nabal's
+wife, saying, "Behold, David sent messengers out
+of the wilderness to salute our master; and he flew
+upon them. But the men were very good unto us,
+and we were not hurt, neither missed we anything,
+as long as we were with them, when we were in the
+fields: they were a wall unto us both by night and
+by day, all the while we were with them keeping
+the sheep. Now therefore know and consider
+what thou wilt do; for evil is determined against
+our master, and against all his house: for he is
+such a worthless fellow, that one cannot speak to
+him."</p>
+
+<p>Then Abigail made haste, and took two hundred
+loaves, and two bottles of wine, and five sheep ready
+dressed, and five measures of parched corn, and a
+hundred clusters of raisins, and two hundred cakes
+of figs, and laid them on asses. And she said unto
+her young men, "Go on before me; behold, I come
+after you." But she told not her husband Nabal.
+And it was so, as she rode on her ass, and came down
+by the covert of the mountain, that, behold, David
+and his men came down against her; and she met
+them. Now David had said, "Surely in vain have
+I kept all that this fellow hath in the wilderness, so
+that nothing was missed of all that belonged unto
+him: and he hath returned me evil for good. God
+do so unto David, and more also, if I leave of all that
+pertain to him by the morning light so much as one
+man child."</p>
+
+<p>And when Abigail saw David, she hasted, and
+lighted off her ass, and fell before David on her face,
+and bowed herself to the ground. And she fell at his
+feet, and said, "Upon me, my lord, upon me be the
+iniquity: and let thine handmaid, I pray thee, speak
+in thine ears, and hear thou the words of thine handmaid.
+Let not my lord, I pray thee, regard this
+worthless fellow, even Nabal: for as his name is,
+so is he; Nabal, fool, is his name, and folly is with
+him: but I thine handmaid saw not the young men
+of my lord, whom thou didst send. Now therefore,
+this present which thy servant hath brought unto my
+lord, let it be given unto the young men that follow
+my lord. Forgive, I pray thee, the trespass of thine
+handmaid: for the Lord will certainly make my
+lord a sure house, because my lord fighteth the battles
+of the Lord; and evil shall not be found in thee
+all thy days. And though man be risen up to pursue
+thee, and to seek thy life, yet the life of my lord
+shall be bound in the bundle of life with the Lord
+thy God; and the lives of thine enemies, them shall
+he sling out, as from the hollow of a sling. And it
+shall come to pass, when the Lord shall have done
+to my lord according to all the good that he hath
+spoken concerning thee, and shall have appointed
+thee prince over Israel; that this shall be no grief unto
+thee, nor offence of heart unto my lord, either that
+thou hast shed blood causeless, or that my lord hath
+avenged himself: and when the Lord shall have
+dealt well with my lord, then remember thine handmaid."</p>
+
+<p>And David said to Abigail, "Blessed be the Lord,
+the God of Israel, which sent thee this day to meet
+me: and blessed be thy wisdom, and blessed be
+thou, which hast kept me this day from bloodguiltiness,
+and from avenging myself with mine own hand.
+For in very deed, as the Lord, the God of Israel,
+liveth, which hath withholden me from hurting
+thee, except thou hadst hasted and come to
+meet me, surely there had not been left unto
+Nabal by the morning light so much as one man
+child."</p>
+
+<p>So David received of her hand that which she had
+brought him: and he said unto her, "Go up in peace
+to thine house; see, I have hearkened to thy voice,
+and have accepted thy person."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">D. THE END OF NABAL</p>
+
+<p>And Abigail came to Nabal; and, behold, he held
+a feast in his house, like the feast of a king; and
+Nabal's heart was merry within him, for he was very
+drunken: wherefore she told him nothing, less or
+more, until the morning light. And it came to pass
+in the morning, when the wine was gone out of
+Nabal, that his wife told him these things, and his
+heart died within him, and he became as a stone.
+And it came to pass about ten days after, that the
+Lord smote Nabal, that he died.</p>
+
+<p>And when David heard that Nabal was dead, he
+said, "Blessed be the Lord, that hath pleaded the
+cause of my reproach from the hand of Nabal, and
+hath kept back his servant from evil; and the evil-doing
+of Nabal hath the Lord returned upon his own
+head."</p>
+
+<p>And David sent and spake concerning Abigail, to
+take her to him to wife. And when the servants of
+David were come to Abigail to Carmel, they spake
+unto her, saying, "David hath sent us unto thee, to
+take thee to him to wife."</p>
+
+<p>And she arose, and bowed herself with her face
+to the earth, and said, "Behold, thine handmaid is a
+servant to wash the feet of the servants of my lord."
+And Abigail hasted, and arose, and rode upon an
+ass, with five damsels of hers that followed her;
+and she went after the messengers of David, and
+became his wife.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§73. David's Generosity to Saul</b> (I Sam.
+26:2-25; 27:1-4)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE SLEEPING ENEMY</p>
+
+<p>And Saul arose, and went down to the wilderness,
+having three thousand chosen men of Israel with
+him, to seek David. David therefore sent out spies
+and knew where Saul was come. And David arose,
+and came to the place where Saul had pitched: and
+David beheld the place where Saul lay, and Abner,
+the captain of his host: and Saul lay within the place
+of the wagons, and the people pitched round about
+him. Then answered David and said to Ahimelech
+the Hittite, and to Abishai, "Who will go down with
+me to Saul to the camp?"</p>
+
+<p>And Abishai said, "I will go down with thee."</p>
+
+<p>So David and Abishai came to the people by night:
+and, behold, Saul lay sleeping within the place of the
+wagons, with his spear stuck in the ground at his
+head: and Abner and the people lay round about
+him.</p>
+
+<p>Then said Abishai to David, "God hath delivered
+up thine enemy into thine hand this day: now therefore
+let me smite him, I pray thee, with the spear to
+the earth at one stroke, and I will not smite him the
+second time."</p>
+
+<p>And David said to Abishai, "Destroy him not:
+for who can put forth his hand against the Lord's
+anointed, and be guiltless?" And David said, "As
+the Lord liveth, either the Lord shall smite him; or
+his day shall come to die; or he shall go down into
+battle, and perish. The Lord forbid that I should
+put forth mine hand against the Lord's anointed:
+but now take, I pray thee, the spear that is at his
+head, and the cruse of water, and let us go."</p>
+
+<p>So David took the spear and the cruse of water
+from Saul's head; and they gat them away, and no
+man saw it, nor knew it, neither did any awake:
+for they were all asleep; because a deep sleep from
+the Lord was fallen upon them.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. SAUL'S REPENTANCE</p>
+
+<p>Then David went over to the other side, and stood
+on the top of the mountain afar off; a great space
+being between them: and David cried to the people,
+and to Abner, saying, "Answerest thou not, Abner?"</p>
+
+<p>Then Abner answered and said, "Who art thou
+that criest to the king?"</p>
+
+<p>And David said to Abner, "Art not thou a valiant
+man? and who is like to thee in Israel? wherefore
+then hast thou not kept watch over thy lord the king?
+for there came one of the people in to destroy the
+king thy lord. This thing is not good that thou hast
+done. As the Lord liveth, ye are worthy to die, because
+ye have not kept watch over your lord, the
+Lord's anointed. And now, see, where the king's
+spear is, and the cruse of water that was at his
+head."</p>
+
+<p>And Saul knew David's voice, and said, "Is this
+thy voice, my son David?"</p>
+
+<p>And David said, "It is my voice, my lord, O king.
+Wherefore doth my lord pursue after his servant?
+for what have I done? or what evil is in mine hand?
+for the king of Israel is come out to seek a flea, as
+when one doth hunt a partridge in the mountains."</p>
+
+<p>Then said Saul, "I have sinned: return, my son
+David: for I will no more do thee harm, because
+my life was precious in thine eyes this day: behold,
+I have played the fool, and have erred exceedingly."</p>
+
+<p>And David answered and said, "Behold the
+spear, O king! let then one of the young men come
+over and fetch it. And the Lord shall render to
+every man his righteousness and his faithfulness:
+forasmuch as the Lord delivered thee into my hand
+to-day, and I would not put forth mine hand against
+the Lord's anointed. And, behold, as thy life was
+much set by this day in mine eyes, so let my life be
+much set by in the eyes of the Lord, and let him
+deliver me out of all tribulation."</p>
+
+<p>Then Saul said to David, "Blessed be thou, my
+son David: thou shalt both do mightily, and shalt
+surely prevail." So David went his way, and Saul
+returned to his place.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. DAVID'S FLIGHT FROM ISRAEL</p>
+
+<p>And David said in his heart, "I shall now perish
+one day by the hand of Saul: there is nothing better
+for me than that I should escape into the land of the
+Philistines; and Saul shall despair of me, to seek me
+any more in all the borders of Israel: so shall I
+escape out of his hand."</p>
+
+<p>And David arose, and passed over, he and the six
+hundred men that were with him, unto Achish the
+king of Gath. And David dwelt with Achish at
+Gath, he and his men. And it was told Saul that
+David was fled to Gath: and he sought no more again
+for him.</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>244. It was clear to David that Saul had determined to kill
+him. He therefore decided to flee to his own tribe of Judah
+and to dwell in the mountains where it would be hard for Saul
+to reach him. The caves in the Judean hills have been the
+refuge all through the centuries for those who were in danger
+from the government. In thus fleeing from the king, David
+became an outlaw, that is, one who refuses to be under the
+law. Of course he was obliged to do so by the king's tyranny.</p>
+
+<p>245 (§72A). Adullam was probably about twelve miles
+from Bethlehem. David would have friends near his own
+town. He gathered to him all his own relatives, who otherwise
+might have been killed by the king. Three classes of people
+are mentioned as joining him: who are they? The first would
+be those who were oppressed, the second those who were likely
+to be sold as slaves for debt, the third those who had some
+grievance. It has often happened in countries where there
+was no free government that men have banded together in
+sufficient strength to defy the rulers. In English history we
+read of Robin Hood and his outlaws, who made the rich pay
+tribute, when they caught them in the forest. Of course in
+our modern free states there is no excuse for any such life,
+and we rightly put down all bandits as criminals. How many
+men did David have at the first?</p>
+
+<p>246 (§72A). News soon came to David that the people of
+Keilah, a few miles south of Adullam, were being robbed by
+the old enemies, the Philistines. They had come when the
+people were threshing the grain, and intended to steal it.
+How did David use his band of adventurers against the Philistines?
+What food supply did he secure?</p>
+
+<p>247 (§72A). How was David's expedition brought to an
+end? How large had his band grown to be? He must have
+been an able chieftain to attract these men to him. The next
+story shows how he provided for them.</p>
+
+<p>248 (§72B). Find Maon and Carmel on the map, just south
+of Hebron. Who was the rich sheep owner? What kind of
+man was he and what kind of wife had he? It is evident that
+David's men had protected the shepherds. What request
+did he make at the time of the shearing feast? Was this a
+reasonable request? There were so many bands of robbers
+abroad that it was a great advantage to the Judean shepherds
+to have David's protection. Of course he in turn needed
+supplies for his men.</p>
+
+<p>249 (§72B). What answer did Nabal send back? How
+did he sneer at David's band? What did David decide to
+do? How did he divide his men?</p>
+
+<p>250 (§72C). What report was brought to Abigail? What
+did the shepherds think of David? What did Abigail immediately
+do? David was in a great rage with Nabal, though
+of course he really had no right to any pay from the man.
+What vengeance had he decided to take? What do you think
+of that? How thankful it makes us feel that we live in times
+when we have strong laws, and no man is permitted to take
+the law in his own hands.</p>
+
+<p>251 (§72C). Notice how beautifully Abigail speaks to
+David, telling him that she knows he will never be sorry that
+he was merciful. How does David respond? What do you
+think of a man who gives up his purpose so suddenly?</p>
+
+<p>252 (§72D). Note the character of the drunken fellow and
+his cowardice when he learned of his escape. Probably his
+drunkenness and the shock of his terror seriously affected
+him. How long afterward did he die? When David heard
+the news, what message did he send to the beautiful Abigail?
+How did she reply?</p>
+
+<p>253 (§73A). Saul had not given up his determination to
+kill David. He had made several unsuccessful attempts to
+capture him. At last he heard of David's hiding-place. How
+many men did he take with him? But David was ever on the
+watch. How did he discover that Saul was coming?</p>
+
+<p>254 (§73A). Tell the story of the sleeping camp, of David's
+stealthy approach with a single companion, of the proposal
+of Abishai, of David's reply, of the spear and the jug of water.
+What did we mean when we said Abraham was "magnanimous"?
+Would you say that David was magnanimous?
+Read Rom. 12:19-21. Where does David appear best&mdash;when
+he threatens Nabal or when he spares Saul?</p>
+
+<p>255 (§73B). Tell the story of the conversation with Saul:
+David's summons to the sleepers, his reproach of the captain,
+Saul's recognition, David's appeal, Saul's repentance, the
+peaceful separation.</p>
+
+<p>256 (§73C). David knew that he could not trust Saul.
+There was constant danger from the jealous king, so he decided
+to leave the country. We are surprised to find that he
+found refuge with Israel's enemies. Where did he go?
+Locate the city on the map. How was he received? What
+did Saul decide? But David could afford to wait. In a little
+while everything was going to turn to his advantage.</p><br>
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>Imagine that you were Abishai. Write the story as though
+you were telling your brother Joab about that night when
+you crept with David to the sleeping camp. Describe all that
+happened and tell what you thought of David.</p><br>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="XXIV_DAVID_THE_KING" id="XXIV_DAVID_THE_KING"></a>XXIV. DAVID, THE KING</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§74. The Way to the Throne</b> (I Sam. 31:1-6; II Sam.
+1:1-4, 17, 19, 20, 23, 24, 26, 27; 2:1-4,
+8-11; 3:1; 5:1-3)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE BATTLE OF GILBOA</p>
+
+<p>Now the Philistines fought against Israel: and
+the men of Israel fled from before the Philistines,
+and fell down slain in mount Gilboa. And the Philistines
+followed hard upon Saul and upon his sons;
+and the Philistines slew Jonathan, and Abinadab,
+and Malchi-shua, the sons of Saul. And the battle
+went sore against Saul, and the archers overtook
+him; and he was greatly distressed by reason of
+the archers. Then said Saul to his armorbearer,
+"Draw thy sword, and thrust me through therewith;
+lest these Philistines come and thrust me through,
+and abuse me."</p>
+
+<p>But his armorbearer would not; for he was
+sore afraid. Therefore Saul took his sword, and
+fell upon it. And when his armorbearer saw that
+Saul was dead, he likewise fell upon his sword, and
+died with him. So Saul died, and his three sons, and
+his armorbearer, and all his men, that same day
+together.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. DAVID'S DIRGE OVER SAUL AND JONATHAN</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass after the death of Saul, that
+a man came out of the camp from Saul with his
+clothes rent, and earth upon his head: and so it
+was, when he came to David, that he fell to the earth,
+and did obeisance. And David said unto him,
+"From whence comest thou?"</p>
+
+<p>And he said unto him, "Out of the camp of Israel
+am I escaped."</p>
+
+<p>And David said unto him, "How went the matter?
+I pray thee, tell me."</p>
+
+<p>And he answered, "The people are fled from
+the battle, and many of the people also are fallen and
+dead; and Saul and Jonathan his son are dead also."</p>
+
+<p>And David lamented with this lamentation over
+Saul and over Jonathan his son:</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Thy glory, O Israel, is slain upon thy high places!<br></span>
+<span class="i0">How are the mighty fallen!<br></span>
+</div><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Tell it not in Gath,<br></span>
+<span class="i0">Publish it not in the streets of Ashkelon;<br></span>
+<span class="i0">Lest the daughters of the Philistines rejoice,<br></span>
+<span class="i0">Lest the daughters of the enemy triumph.<br></span>
+</div><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Saul and Jonathan were lovely and pleasant in their lives,<br></span>
+<span class="i0">And in their death they were not divided;<br></span>
+<span class="i0">They were swifter than eagles,<br></span>
+<span class="i0">They were stronger than lions.<br></span>
+</div><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Ye daughters of Israel, weep over Saul,<br></span>
+<span class="i0">Who clothed you in scarlet delicately,<br></span>
+<span class="i0">Who put ornaments of gold upon your apparel.<br></span>
+</div><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">I am distressed for thee, my brother Jonathan:<br></span>
+<span class="i0">Very pleasant hast thou been unto me:<br></span>
+<span class="i0">Thy love to me was wonderful,<br></span>
+<span class="i0">Passing the love of women.<br></span>
+</div><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">How are the mighty fallen,<br></span>
+<span class="i0">And the weapons of war perished!<br></span>
+</div></div><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. DAVID MADE KING</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass after this, that David enquired
+of the Lord, saying, "Shall I go up into any of the
+cities of Judah?"</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said unto him, "Go up."</p>
+
+<p>And David said, "Whither shall I go up?"</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Unto Hebron."</p>
+
+<p>So David went up thither, and his men that were
+with him did David bring up: and they dwelt in the
+cities of Hebron. And the men of Judah came, and
+there they anointed David king over the house of
+Judah.</p>
+
+<p>Now Abner, the captain of Saul's host, had taken
+Ish-bosheth the son of Saul, and made him king
+over Israel. But the house of Judah followed David.
+And the time that David was king in Hebron over
+the house of Judah was seven years and six months.</p>
+
+<p>Now there was long war between the house of Saul
+and the house of David: and David waxed stronger
+and stronger, but the house of Saul waxed weaker
+and weaker, and when Ish-bosheth was dead, then
+came all the tribes of Israel to David unto Hebron,
+and spake, saying, "Behold, we are thy bone and
+thy flesh. In times past, when Saul was king over
+us, it was thou that leddest out and broughtest in
+Israel: and the Lord said to thee, 'Thou shalt feed
+my people Israel, and thou shalt be prince over
+Israel.'"</p>
+
+<p>So all the elders of Israel came to the king to
+Hebron; and king David made a covenant with them
+in Hebron before the Lord: and they anointed
+David king over Israel.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§75. David's Great Reign</b> (I Chron. 11:4-9; II Sam.
+5:17-25; 8:2-6, 13, 14; 10:6, 17-19; 11:1;
+12:29-31; 5:11, 12; 23:14-17)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE NEW CAPITAL</p>
+
+<p>And David and all Israel went to Jerusalem, where
+the Jebusites were, the inhabitants of the land. And
+the inhabitants said to David, "Thou shalt not
+come hither."</p>
+
+<p>Nevertheless David took the stronghold of Zion.
+And David said, "Whosoever smiteth the Jebusites
+first shall be chief and captain."</p>
+
+<p>So Joab the son of Zeruiah went up first, and was
+chief. And David dwelt in the stronghold; therefore
+they called it the city of David. And he built
+the city round about, from Millo, even round about:
+and Joab repaired the rest of the city. So David
+waxed greater and greater: for the Lord of hosts
+was with him.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. DAVID'S WARS OF DEFENSE</p>
+
+<p>And when the Philistines heard that they had
+anointed David king over Israel, they went up and
+spread themselves in the valley of Rephaim.</p>
+
+<p>And David enquired of the Lord, saying, "Shall
+I go up against the Philistines? wilt thou deliver
+them into my hand?"</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said unto David, "Go up; for
+I will certainly deliver the Philistines into thy
+hand."</p>
+
+<p>And David went up and smote them; and he said,
+"The Lord hath broken down mine enemies before
+me like the breaking of waters."</p>
+
+<p>And the Philistines came up yet again, and spread
+themselves in the valley of Rephaim. And when
+David enquired of the Lord, he said, "Thou shalt
+not go up. Go about to their rear and come upon
+them opposite the mulberry trees. And it shall be,
+when thou hearest the sound of marching in the tops
+of the mulberry trees, that then thou shalt bestir
+thyself; for then is the Lord gone out before thee
+to smite the host of the Philistines."</p>
+
+<p>And David did so as the Lord commanded him,
+and smote the Philistines, and subdued them.</p>
+
+<p>And he smote Moab. And the Moabites became
+servants to David and brought tribute.</p>
+
+<p>And David put garrisons in Damascus; and the
+Syrians became servants to David, and brought
+tribute. And the Lord gave victory to David whithersoever
+he went.</p>
+
+<p>And David got him a name when he returned from
+smiting Edom in the valley of salt, even eighteen
+thousand men. And he put garrisons in Edom;
+and all the Edomites became servants to David.</p>
+
+<p>And the children of Ammon hired the Syrians.
+And it was told David; and he gathered all Israel
+together, and passed over the Jordan. And the
+Syrians set themselves in array against David, and
+fought with him. And the Syrians fled before Israel;
+and David slew the men of seven hundred
+chariots of the Syrians, and forty thousand horsemen,
+and smote the captain of their host.</p>
+
+<p>And when all the kings saw that they were smitten
+before Israel, they made peace with Israel, and
+served them. So the Syrians feared to help the
+children of Ammon any more.</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, at the return of the year, that
+David sent Joab, and his servants with him, and all
+Israel; and they destroyed the children of Ammon.
+And David went to Rabbah, and fought against it,
+and took it. And he brought forth the spoil of the
+city exceeding much. And thus did he unto all the
+cities of the children of Ammon.</p>
+
+<p>And Hiram king of Tyre sent messengers to David,
+and cedar trees, and carpenters, and masons: and
+they built David a house. And David perceived
+that the Lord had established him king over Israel,
+and that he had exalted his kingdom for his people
+Israel's sake.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. DAVID'S KNIGHTS</p>
+
+<p>And at one time David was in the stronghold, and
+the garrison of the Philistines was then in Bethlehem.
+And David longed, and said, "Oh that one would
+give me drink of the water of the well of Bethlehem,
+which is by the gate!"</p>
+
+<p>And the three mighty men brake through the
+host of the Philistines, and drew water out of the
+well of Bethlehem, that was by the gate, and took it,
+and brought it to David: nevertheless he would
+not drink thereof, but poured it out unto the Lord.
+And he said, "Be it far from me, O Lord, that I
+should do this: shall I drink the blood of the men
+that went in jeopardy of their lives?" therefore he
+would not drink it.</p>
+
+<p>These things did these three mighty men.</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>257. David spent many years as captain of his outlaw
+band, first in the mountains of Judah and then in Philistia.
+The Philistines thought he had given up his own people and
+become one of them. Fortunately, however, they did not
+wish him to fight against Saul, so he was not obliged to meet
+that difficulty. He had simply to wait till the end of Saul's
+reign. It came very tragically.</p>
+
+<p>258 (§74A). The battles of Israel were generally fought
+on the broad plain of Esdraelon. Find it on the map southeast
+of Mt. Carmel. In this case, however, Saul had entrenched
+his army on the high ground to the south of the plain.
+But the terrible enemies who had troubled Israel so long were
+too strong for him. How did the battle result? Who were
+killed? How did Saul die?</p>
+
+<p>259 (§74B). David was still in the Philistine town of Ziklag.
+He had been fighting the Amalekites who had attacked him.
+How was the news of the battle of Gilboa brought to him?
+How would you expect him to feel about Saul's death? how
+about Jonathan's? As a matter of fact he forgot all his wrongs,
+and remembered only how he had loved Saul and honored
+him in the early days, and of course he remembered his great
+friendship with Jonathan. Was this "magnanimous"?</p>
+
+<p>260 (§74B). A dirge means a song for the dead. David
+was a fine poet and he sang this beautiful song of lamentation
+over the king and the prince. Notice the six stanzas. The
+first and the last are a refrain. The second is a hope that the
+Philistines will not know the sad news. The third is a praise
+of Saul and Jonathan. The fourth is a special praise of Saul,
+whose victories had brought spoil to Israel. The fifth is the
+tender lament of the singer for his friend. This would be a
+noble poem to learn by heart.</p>
+
+<p>261 (§74C). After Saul's death, it was a question whether
+David should return home. Tell what happened. Find
+Hebron on the map in the south. But Saul's general had
+another policy. What did he do? So there was war between
+the north and south. At last Ish-bosheth, Saul's son, was
+murdered by two men who thought they would get reward
+from David. He punished them of course, but the way was
+open for David to be king of the whole land. Tell how David
+was elected king.</p>
+
+<p>262 (§75A). When the thirteen American colonies adopted
+the Constitution and became the United States, it was necessary
+to have a capital that should not be in any one state. So two
+of the states gave a piece of land, which was called a District:
+what is its full name? What is the name of the city that was
+built to be the capital of our country? Does it belong to any
+one of the states in particular? Saul had not had a definite
+capital, except his own town. David had his headquarters
+at the old town of Hebron. But it would not do to have a
+town of Judah as capital of all Israel. There was a strong
+town that had never been conquered and occupied by the
+Israelites, but was still inhabited by the old Jebusites. David
+decided to capture this city and make it his capital. What
+is the name of the city that is still after 3,000 years the chief
+city in Palestine? Find it on the map. The fortress was
+so strong that there was a proverb that it could be defended
+even by the blind and the lame. Tell the story of the
+capture.</p>
+
+<p>263 (§75B). The first necessity was to prevent the enemies
+all around Israel from interfering with the new kingdom.
+Who was the first enemy subdued? Locate their territory.
+In several campaigns these old enemies were prevented from
+giving any more trouble. The next enemy was in the southeast:
+who were they? Locate their territory. The next was
+an old city in the north, then a people in the south, then a
+nation to the east who hired northern allies. Locate all these,
+and note that David subdued all his troublesome neighbors.
+One people was left on the northwest coast, but they were
+a commercial and not a military people. What alliance did
+David make with them?</p>
+
+<p>264 (§75C). David was able to conquer all these enemies
+because he had a noble company of knights about him. They
+were brave and loyal to their king. We study one fine passage
+that tells of a heroic deed during one of the Philistine campaigns.
+What do you think of the bravery of the heroes and
+the conduct of the king?</p><br>
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>Draw an outline map of Canaan. Mark Jerusalem
+which David made his capital. Mark the territory of each
+of the enemies whom David conquered. You will find
+that you will have to go all around the map showing that
+David had to defend his people on every side.</p><br>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="XXV_DAVID_AND_HIS_REBEL_SON" id="XXV_DAVID_AND_HIS_REBEL_SON"></a>XXV. DAVID AND HIS REBEL SON</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§76. The Treacherous Son and the Loyal Friends</b> (II Sam. 14:25, 26; 15:1-15, 18-37)</p>
+
+
+<p class="center">A. ABSALOM'S BEAUTY AND TREACHERY</p>
+
+<p>Now in all Israel there was none to be so much
+praised as Absalom for his beauty: from the sole of
+his foot even to the crown of his head there was no
+blemish in him. And when he cut the hair of his
+head, (now it was at every year's end that he cut it:
+because the hair was heavy on him, therefore he
+cut it:) he weighed the hair of his head at two
+hundred shekels, after the king's weight.</p>
+
+<p>And Absalom prepared him a chariot and horses,
+and fifty men to run before him. And Absalom rose
+up early, and stood beside the way of the gate: and
+it was so, that when any man had a suit which should
+come to the king for judgment, then Absalom called
+unto him, and said, "Of what city art thou?"</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Thy servant is of one of the tribes
+of Israel."</p>
+
+<p>And Absalom said unto him, "See, thy matters
+are good and right; but there is no man deputed of
+the king to hear thee." Absalom said moreover,
+"Oh that I were made judge in the land, that every
+man which hath any suit or cause might come unto
+me, and I would do him justice!"</p>
+
+<p>And it was so, that when any man came nigh to do
+him obeisance, he put forth his hand, and took hold
+of him, and kissed him. And on this manner did
+Absalom to all Israel that came to the king for judgment:
+so Absalom stole the hearts of the men of
+Israel.</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass at the end of four years, that
+Absalom said unto the king, "I pray thee, let me
+go and pay my vow, which I have vowed unto the
+Lord, in Hebron."</p>
+
+<p>And the king said unto him, "Go in peace."</p>
+
+<p>So he arose, and went to Hebron. But Absalom
+sent spies throughout all the tribes of Israel, saying,
+"As soon as ye hear the sound of the trumpet, then
+ye shall say, 'Absalom is king in Hebron.'"</p>
+
+<p>And with Absalom went two hundred men out of
+Jerusalem, that were invited, and went in their simplicity;
+and they knew not any thing. And Absalom
+sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David's counselor,
+from his city, even from Giloh, while he
+offered the sacrifices. And the conspiracy was
+strong; for the people increased continually with
+Absalom.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. DAVID'S FLIGHT</p>
+
+<p>And there came a messenger to David, saying,
+"The hearts of the men of Israel are after Absalom."</p>
+
+<p>And David said unto all his servants that were with
+him at Jerusalem, "Arise, and let us flee; for else
+none of us shall escape from Absalom: make speed
+to depart, lest he overtake us quickly, and bring
+down evil upon us, and smite the city with the edge
+of the sword."</p>
+
+<p>And the king's servants said unto the king, "Behold,
+thy servants are ready to do whatsoever my
+lord the king shall choose."</p>
+
+<p>And the king went forth, and all his household
+after him. And all his servants passed on beside
+him; and all the Cherethites, and all the Pelethites,
+and all the Gittites, six hundred men which came
+after him from Gath, passed on before the king.</p>
+
+<p>Then said the king to Ittai the Gittite, "Wherefore
+goest thou also with us? return, and abide with
+the king: for thou art a stranger, and also an exile;
+return to thine own place. Whereas thou camest
+but yesterday, should I this day make thee go up and
+down with us, seeing I go whither I may? return
+thou, and take back thy brethren; mercy and truth
+be with thee."</p>
+
+<p>And Ittai answered the king, and said, "As the
+Lord liveth, surely in what place my lord the king
+shall be, whether for death or for life, even there also
+will thy servant be."</p>
+
+<p>And David said to Ittai, "Go and pass over."</p>
+
+<p>And Ittai the Gittite passed over, and all his men,
+and all the little ones that were with him. And all
+the country wept with a loud voice, and all the
+people passed over: the king also himself passed
+over the brook Kidron, and all the people passed
+over, toward the way of the wilderness.</p>
+
+<p>And, lo, Zadok also came, and all the Levites with
+him, bearing the ark of the covenant of God; and
+they set down the ark of God, until all the people
+had done passing out of the city.</p>
+
+<p>And the king said unto Zadok, "Carry back the
+ark of God into the city: if I shall find favor in the
+eyes of the Lord, he will bring me again, and show
+me both it, and his habitation: but if he say thus, 'I
+have no delight in thee;' behold, here am I, let him
+do to me as seemeth good unto him."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. DAVID'S PLAN</p>
+
+<p>The king said unto Zadok the priest, "Return into
+the city in peace. See, I will tarry at the fords of the
+wilderness, until there come word from you." Zadok
+therefore carried the ark of God again to Jerusalem:
+and they abode there.</p>
+
+<p>And David went up by the ascent of the mount
+of Olives, and wept as he went up; and he had
+his head covered, and went barefoot: and all
+the people that were with him covered every man
+his head, and they went up, weeping as they
+went up.</p>
+
+<p>And one told David, saying, "Ahithophel is among
+the conspirators with Absalom."</p>
+
+<p>And David said, "O Lord, I pray thee, turn the
+counsel of Ahithophel into foolishness."</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, that when David was
+come to the top of the ascent, behold, Hushai
+came to meet him with his coat rent, and earth
+upon his head: and David said unto him, "If
+thou passest on with me, then thou shalt be a
+burden unto me: but if thou return to the city, and
+say unto Absalom, 'I will be thy servant, O king; as
+I have been thy father's servant in time past, so will
+I now be thy servant': then shalt thou defeat for me
+the counsel of Ahithophel. And hast thou not there
+with thee Zadok and Abiathar the priests? therefore
+it shall be, that what thing soever thou shalt hear
+out of the king's house, thou shalt tell it to Zadok
+and Abiathar the priests. Behold, they have there
+with them their two sons; and by them ye shall send
+unto me everything that ye shall hear."</p>
+
+<p>So Hushai, David's friend, came into the city.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§77. The Folly and Fate of Absalom</b> (II Sam. 16:15,
+16, 20; 17:1-16, 22, 24; 18:1-17, 21,
+24, 25, 31-33)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. ABSALOM'S COUNCIL OF WAR</p>
+
+<p>And Absalom, and all the people, the men of
+Israel, came to Jerusalem, and Ahithophel with him.
+And it came to pass, when Hushai, David's friend,
+was come unto Absalom, that Hushai said unto Absalom,
+"God save the king, God save the king."</p>
+
+<p>Then said Absalom to Ahithophel, "Give your
+counsel what we shall do."</p>
+
+<p>And Ahithophel said unto Absalom, "Let me now
+choose out twelve thousand men, and I will arise and
+pursue after David this night: and I will come upon
+him while he is weary and weak-handed, and will
+make him afraid: and all the people that are with
+him shall flee; and I will smite the king only: and
+I will bring back all the people unto thee: so all the
+people shall be in peace."</p>
+
+<p>And the saying pleased Absalom well, and all the
+elders of Israel.</p>
+
+<p>Then said Absalom unto Hushai, "Ahithophel
+hath spoken after this manner: shall we do after his
+saying? if not, speak thou."</p>
+
+<p>And Hushai said unto Absalom, "The counsel
+that Ahithophel hath given this time is not good.
+Thou knowest thy father and his men, that they be
+mighty men, and they be chafed in their minds,
+as a bear robbed of her whelps in the field: and
+thy father is a man of war, and will not lodge
+with the people. Behold, he is hid now in some
+pit, or in some other place: and it will come to
+pass, when some of them be fallen at the first,
+that whosoever heareth it will say, 'There is a
+slaughter among the people that follow Absalom.'
+And even he that is valiant, whose heart is as the
+heart of a lion, shall utterly melt: for all Israel
+knoweth that thy father is a mighty man, and they
+which be with him are valiant men. But I counsel
+that all Israel be gathered together unto thee, from
+Dan even to Beer-sheba, as the sand that is by the
+sea for multitude; and that thou go to battle in thine
+own person. So shall we come upon him in some
+place where he shall be found, and we will light upon
+him as the dew falleth on the ground: and of him
+and of all the men that are with him we will not
+leave so much as one. Moreover, if he be gotten
+into a city, then shall all Israel bring ropes to that
+city, and we will draw it into the river, until there
+be not one small stone found there."</p>
+
+<p>And Absalom and all the men of Israel said, "The
+counsel of Hushai is better than the counsel of
+Ahithophel."</p>
+
+<p>Then said Hushai unto Zadok and to Abiathar the
+priests, "Thus and thus did Ahithophel counsel
+Absalom and the elders of Israel; and thus and thus
+have I counselled. Now therefore send quickly, and
+tell David, saying, 'Lodge not this night at the fords
+of the wilderness, but in any wise pass over; lest
+the king be swallowed up, and all the people that are
+with him.'"</p>
+
+<p>Then David arose, and all the people that were
+with him, and they passed over Jordan: by the
+morning light there lacked not one of them that was
+not gone over Jordan. And when Ahithophel saw
+that his counsel was not followed, he saddled his ass,
+and arose, and gat him home, unto his city, and set
+his house in order, and hanged himself; and he died,
+and was buried in the sepulchre of his father.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE BATTLE AND THE DEATH OF ABSALOM</p>
+
+<p>And David numbered the people that were with
+him, and set captains of thousands and captains of
+hundreds over them. And David sent forth the
+people, a third part under the hand of Joab, and a
+third part under the hand of Abishai, Joab's brother,
+and a third part under the hand of Ittai the Gittite.
+And the king said unto the people, "I will surely go
+forth with you myself also."</p>
+
+<p>But the people said, "Thou shalt not go forth:
+for if we flee away, they will not care for us; neither
+if half of us die, will they care for us: but thou art
+worth ten thousand of us: therefore now it is better
+that thou be ready to succor us out of the city."</p>
+
+<p>And the king said unto them, "What seemeth
+you best I will do."</p>
+
+<p>And the king stood by the gate side, and all the
+people went out by hundreds and by thousands.
+And the king commanded Joab and Abishai and
+Ittai, saying, "Deal gently for my sake with the
+young man, even with Absalom."</p>
+
+<p>And all the people heard when the king gave all
+the captains charge concerning Absalom. So the
+people went out into the field against Israel: and the
+battle was in the forest of Ephraim. And the people
+of Israel were smitten there before the servants of
+David, and there was a great slaughter there that
+day of twenty thousand men. For the battle was
+there spread over the face of all the country: and
+the forest devoured more people that day than the
+sword devoured. And Absalom chanced to meet
+the servants of David. And Absalom rode upon
+his mule, and the mule went under the thick boughs
+of a great oak, and his head caught hold of the oak,
+and he was taken up between the heaven and the
+earth; and the mule that was under him went on.</p>
+
+<p>And a certain man saw it, and told Joab, and said,
+"Behold, I saw Absalom hanging in an oak."</p>
+
+<p>And Joab said unto the man that told him, "And,
+behold, thou sawest it, and why didst thou not smite
+him there to the ground? and I would have given
+thee ten pieces of silver, and a girdle."</p>
+
+<p>And the man said unto Joab, "Though I should
+receive a thousand pieces of silver in mine hand, yet
+would I not put forth mine hand against the king's
+son: for in our hearing the king charged thee and
+Abishai and Ittai, saying, 'Beware that none touch
+the young man Absalom.' Otherwise if I had
+dealt falsely against his life, (and there is no matter
+hid from the king,) then thou thyself wouldest have
+set thyself against me."</p>
+
+<p>Then said Joab, "I may not tarry thus with thee."
+And he took three darts in his hand, and thrust them
+through the heart of Absalom, while he was yet alive
+in the midst of the oak. And ten young men that
+bare Joab's armor compassed about and smote
+Absalom, and slew him. And Joab blew the trumpet,
+and the people returned from pursuing after
+Israel: for Joab held back the people. And they
+took Absalom, and cast him into the great pit in
+the forest, and raised over him a very great heap
+of stones: and all Israel fled every one to his tent.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. DAVID'S GRIEF</p>
+
+<p>Then said Joab to the Cushite, "Go tell the king
+what thou hast seen." And the Cushite bowed
+himself unto Joab, and ran.</p>
+
+<p>Now David sat between the two gates: and the
+watchman went up to the roof of the gate unto the
+wall, and lifted up his eyes, and looked, and, behold,
+a man running alone. And the watchman cried, and
+told the king. And the king said, "If he be alone,
+there is tidings in his mouth." And, behold, the
+Cushite came; and the Cushite said, "Tidings for
+my lord the king: for the Lord hath avenged thee
+this day of all them that rose up against thee."</p>
+
+<p>And the king said unto the Cushite, "Is it well
+with the young man Absalom?"</p>
+
+<p>And the Cushite answered, "The enemies of my
+lord the king, and all that rise up against thee to do
+thee hurt, be as that young man is."</p>
+
+<p>And the king was much moved, and went up to
+the chamber over the gate, and wept: and as he
+went, thus he said, "O my son Absalom, my son,
+my son Absalom! would God I had died for thee,
+O Absalom, my son, my son!"</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>265. David did not bring up his sons well and there were
+very bad family quarrels. At last Absalom murdered one of
+his brothers and was obliged to flee. The king allowed him
+to return, but the wicked young man planned to rebel against
+his father.</p>
+
+<p>266 (§76A). What are we told of this handsome young
+man? Beauty of face and figure is very desirable, but it
+frequently makes a person vain and selfish. Probably Absalom
+had been admired and spoiled, and had come to think
+only of himself.</p>
+
+<p>267 (§76A). How did the young prince make a fine appearance?
+We see that people were accustomed to come to the
+king to have their matters of law decided. He was the supreme
+court. Of course it was not always possible to hear all the
+cases at once. How did Absalom persuade the people that he
+would make a better king than his father? Note how the
+prince pretended to be democratic. What do you think of
+all this conduct?</p>
+
+<p>268 (§76A). This deceitful conduct continued for four
+years until Absalom thought he was ready to strike the blow.
+He decided to make Hebron the headquarters of his rebellion.
+Locate Hebron. It was where David had his capital when he
+was king of Judah. Can you think of any reason why that
+city might have been dissatisfied? What excuse did Absalom
+give for a journey to Hebron? How did he plan to gather
+an army? How many innocent men went with him? What
+wise man did Absalom get on his side?</p>
+
+<p>269 (§76B). What did David decide upon as soon as he
+heard the news? Notice that he had a body guard of 600
+Philistine soldiers. The old enemies were good warriors and
+he had taken them into his service. David had a wonderful
+way of gaining friends. Tell the story of Ittai. How did the
+people feel about the flight of the old king?</p>
+
+<p>270 (§76B). It was customary for the ark to be taken when
+the army went to battle (§61A). So the priest thought he ought
+to carry it with David. But the king sent it back again, saying
+that he would trust in the Lord. Moreover he was glad
+to have a friend in the city. How did he arrange with Zadok
+to have news sent to him? Describe the sad journey up the
+Mount of Olives. What signs of grief did they show?</p>
+
+<p>271 (§76C). Whom did David hear had joined Absalom?
+How did he plan that bad advice might be given to Absalom?
+How did he arrange for news to be brought to him? Let us
+get the movement of the story before us. Absalom is marching
+from Hebron with his counselor and his army; David is
+in flight with his 600 guards and some faithful friends, but he
+has left some friends in the city to send him news; presently
+Absalom marches into the city.</p>
+
+<p>272 (§77A). The first act of the new king is to decide what
+to do. Ahithophel advised immediate pursuit of David. Tell
+what he said. Absalom decided to ask the wise old Hushai
+his advice also. Whose side was Hushai really on? What
+advice did he give? How did he frighten Absalom and how
+did he flatter him? Why was this advice good for David?
+What was decided?</p>
+
+<p>273 (§77A). How was David informed of the council?
+He decided to cross the river at once, so as to have the swift
+stream between himself and his pursuers. Locate the Jordan.
+Did he succeed in getting his whole company over? What
+became of Ahithophel? Meantime Absalom was gathering
+a considerable army. After a lapse of a little time he followed
+his father, who had been gathering all the people that were
+loyal to him. The matter could only be settled by battle.</p>
+
+<p>274 (§77B). How many divisions were there of David's
+army? Why did he not go himself to battle? Notice how
+he reviewed the troops as they went forth. What special
+command did he give to the captains? Why did he do this?
+Give an account of the battle.</p>
+
+<p>275 (§77B). In the battle, which was going against him,
+Absalom met David's guards. What accident happened to
+him as he was trying to escape? What dispute took place
+between the soldier and Joab? What did Joab do? There
+was no need for further pursuit, so Joab called back his troops.
+What was done with Absalom? We see that with the death
+of the leader the rebels fled to their homes. Joab called a
+Cushite, that is a negro slave: what command did he give
+him?</p>
+
+<p>276 (§77C). Where was David during the battle? What
+conversation took place between the king and the Cushite?
+How was David affected? What do you think of David in
+all this matter?</p>
+
+
+<p>A REVIEW OF DAVID</p>
+
+<p>David was one of those men who loved others and could
+make them love him. It will be interesting to make a list of
+all those of whom we have studied who felt the influence of
+his winning disposition. Read I Sam. 16:12, 21; 18:1,
+20; 24:16; 25:42; II Sam. 1:26; 2:4; 5:3; 15:21, 32;
+18:3; 23:15, 16. Write a little paper telling of all the people
+who loved David.</p>
+
+<br>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2>REVIEW</h2>
+
+
+<div class="center">
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="">
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXVI_TEN_HEROES_OF_ISRAEL">XXVI.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Ten Heroes of Israel</span></td></tr>
+</table></div><br>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="XXVI_TEN_HEROES_OF_ISRAEL" id="XXVI_TEN_HEROES_OF_ISRAEL"></a>XXVI. TEN HEROES OF ISRAEL</h2>
+
+
+<p>After we had studied the heroes of Israel's wanderings
+we looked back over the stories and tried
+to remember the great characters we had learned
+to know. Now we have added ten more heroes to
+our acquaintance since Moses. Let us look back
+over the stories of these ten, and see if we can remember
+about them.</p>
+
+<p>277. Moses brought the people near to Canaan
+and then sent twelve spies into the land to find out
+about it. Ten of the men were afraid, and said that
+the Hebrews could not conquer it, but two men were
+brave, and told their countrymen to trust in the
+Lord and go up. Tell the story of these two and
+what happened to them later. (§44; Josh. 1:1, 2;
+14:13.<a name="FNanchor_1_1" id="FNanchor_1_1"></a><a href="#Footnote_1_1" class="fnanchor">[1]</a>)</p>
+
+<p>278. After the Hebrews had settled in Canaan
+they were greatly troubled by enemies. Many heroes
+arose who delivered them. One, who was called by
+the Lord, gathered a large army, then sent home
+all who were not fit and reduced his army to 300
+men. He then devised a strange plan to frighten
+the enemy. Tell the story. (§46; Judg. 7:19, 20.)</p>
+
+<p>What reward did this hero refuse? (§47; Judg.
+8:22, 23.)</p>
+
+<p>279. One of the heroes of Israel was a man of
+enormous strength. What were some of the stories
+told about him? How did he foolishly sin and lose
+his strength? (§51; Judg. 15:14, 15; 16:18, 19.)</p>
+
+<p>280. Who was the heroine of whom we studied?
+Tell what you remember of her. (§54.)</p>
+
+<p>281. Do you remember the story of the good old
+priest who had two wicked sons, and of the little
+boy who came to live with him? Tell the story of
+how the boy came, and what happened one special
+night, and how the old priest died. (§§60, 61;
+I Sam. 3:10, 11; 4:18.)</p>
+
+<p>282. The little boy grew up to be a great prophet.
+He saw that the people could never be saved from
+their enemies without a strong king. One day a
+young man who was seeking some straying animals
+came to see him. Tell the story of what happened.
+What great blow for liberty did this young man
+strike and so become king? (§64; I Sam. 11:6-11.)</p>
+
+<p>283. The new king had a brave son. This young
+man determined to help free his people from their
+oppressors. Tell the story of his bold attack upon
+the Philistines. (§65; I Sam. 14:13.) How did
+Saul follow up the attack?</p>
+
+<p>284. The young man who was to be the great
+king of Israel performed a wonderful feat of arms.
+One of the Philistine heroes challenged the Hebrews
+to send a single man against him. Who accepted
+the challenge and how did the combat turn out?
+(§68; I Sam. 17:48,49.)</p>
+
+<p>285. Who were the two hero friends? Tell the
+story of their parting. (§71; I Sam. 20:35-39.)</p>
+
+<p>286. Why was David an outlaw? Tell the story
+of his sparing the king's life. (§73; I Sam. 26:9-12.)</p>
+
+<p>287. David had a company of heroes about him.
+Tell the story of the knights who brought him the
+drink of water. (§75C; II Sam. 23:14-17.)</p>
+
+<p>288. David had a bitter trial in his wicked son
+who rebelled against him. But many loyal friends
+stood by him: who were these, and how did they
+show their loyalty? (§76; II Sam. 15:19-34.)</p>
+
+<p>289. Write down the names of the ten heroes in a
+column. How many were great patriots? How
+many trusted God? How many showed fine leadership?
+How many showed weakness of character?
+Who showed a great love? How many were unselfish?
+Which of them do you think the greatest?</p><br>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2>SOLOMON</h2>
+
+
+<div class="center">
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="">
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXVII_SOLOMON_THE_WISE_KING">XXVII.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Solomon, the Wise King</span></td></tr>
+</table></div>
+<br>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="XXVII_SOLOMON_THE_WISE_KING" id="XXVII_SOLOMON_THE_WISE_KING"></a>XXVII. SOLOMON, THE WISE KING</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§78. Solomon's Wise Choice</b> (I Kings 2:12; 3:3-15)</p>
+
+<p>Solomon sat upon the throne of David his father;
+and his kingdom was established greatly. And Solomon
+loved the Lord, walking in the statutes of
+David his father.</p>
+
+<p>And the king went to Gibeon to sacrifice there;
+for that was the great high place: a thousand burnt
+offerings did Solomon offer upon that altar. In
+Gibeon the Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream
+by night: and God said, "Ask what I shall give
+thee."</p>
+
+<p>And Solomon said, "Thou hast showed unto thy
+servant David my father great kindness, according as
+he walked before thee in truth, and in righteousness,
+and in uprightness of heart with thee; and thou hast
+kept for him this great kindness, that thou hast given
+him a son to sit on his throne, as it is this day. And
+now, O Lord my God, thou hast made thy servant
+king instead of David my father: and I am but a little
+child; I know not how to go out or come in. And
+thy servant is in the midst of thy people which thou
+hast chosen, a great people, that cannot be numbered
+nor counted for multitude. Give thy servant
+therefore an understanding heart to judge thy people,
+that I may discern between good and evil; for
+who is able to judge this thy great people?"</p>
+
+<p>And the speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon
+had asked this thing. And God said unto him,
+"Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not
+asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches
+for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies,
+but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern
+justice; behold, I have done according to thy word:
+lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding
+heart; so that there hath been none like thee before
+thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee.
+And I have also given thee that which thou hast not
+asked, both riches and honor, so that there shall not
+be any among the kings like unto thee, all thy days.
+And if thou wilt walk in my ways, to keep my statutes
+and my commandments, as thy father David did
+walk, then I will lengthen thy days."</p>
+
+<p>And Solomon awoke, and, behold, it was a dream:
+and he came to Jerusalem, and stood before the ark
+of the covenant of the Lord, and offered up burnt
+offerings, and offered peace offerings, and made a
+feast to all his servants.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§79. Solomon and the Temple</b> (I Kings 5:1-12; 6:1, 2,
+7, 15, 16, 19, 21, 22, 38; 8:1, 6, 10, 11, 22,
+23, 26, 27, 30, 54-58, 62)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. PREPARATIONS FOR THE TEMPLE</p>
+
+<p>And Hiram king of Tyre sent his servants unto
+Solomon; for he had heard that they had anointed
+him king in the room of his father: for Hiram was
+ever a lover of David.</p>
+
+<p>And Solomon sent to Hiram, saying, "Thou
+knowest how that David my father could not
+build a house for the name of the Lord his God
+for the wars which were about him on every side,
+until the Lord put them under the soles of his feet.
+But now the Lord my God hath given me rest on
+every side, so that there is neither adversary nor evil
+occurrence. And, behold, I purpose to build a
+house for the name of the Lord my God, as the
+Lord spake unto David my father, saying, 'Thy
+son, whom I will set upon thy throne in thy room,
+he shall build a house for my name.' Now therefore
+command thou that they cut me cedar trees
+out of Lebanon; and my servants shall be with thy
+servants: and I will give thee hire for thy servants
+according to all that thou shalt say: for thou knowest
+that there is not among us any that knoweth how
+to cut timber like unto the Sidonians."</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, when Hiram heard the words
+of Solomon, that he rejoiced greatly, and said,
+"Blessed be the Lord this day, which hath given unto
+David a wise son over this great people."</p>
+
+<p>And Hiram sent to Solomon, saying, "I have
+heard the message which thou hast sent unto me:
+I will do all thy desire concerning timber of cedar,
+and concerning timber of fir. My servants shall
+bring them down from Lebanon unto the sea: and I
+will make them into rafts to go by sea unto the place
+that thou shalt appoint me, and will cause them to
+be broken up there, and thou shalt receive them,
+and thou shalt accomplish my desire, in giving food
+for my <a name="CEDARS" id="CEDARS"></a>household."</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 348px;">
+<img src="images/il314.jpg" width="348" height="506" alt="CEDARS OF LEBANON" title="" >
+<span class="caption">CEDARS OF LEBANON</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>So Hiram gave Solomon timber of cedar and timber
+of fir according to all his desire. And Solomon
+gave Hiram twenty thousand measures of wheat for
+food to his household, and twenty measures of pure
+oil: thus gave Solomon to Hiram year by year.</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord gave Solomon wisdom, as he
+promised him; and there was peace between Hiram
+and Solomon; and they two made a league together.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE BUILDING OF THE TEMPLE</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass in the fourth year of Solomon's
+reign, in the second month, that he began to build
+the house of the Lord. And the house was sixty
+cubits in length, twenty cubits in breadth, and thirty
+cubits in height. And the house was built of stone
+made ready at the quarry; and there was neither
+hammer nor axe nor any tool of iron heard in the
+house, while it was in building.</p>
+
+<p>And he built the walls of the house within with
+boards of cedar: and he covered the floor of the
+house with boards of fir.</p>
+
+<p>And he built an oracle, even the most holy place,
+in the midst of the house within, to set there the ark
+of the covenant of the Lord. Solomon overlaid the
+house within with pure gold: and he drew chains
+of gold across before the oracle; and he overlaid it
+with gold. Also the whole altar that belonged to
+the oracle he overlaid with gold.</p>
+
+<p>And in the eleventh year, in the eighth month,
+was the house finished throughout all the parts
+thereof, and according to all the fashion of it. So
+was he seven years in building it.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. THE DEDICATION OF THE TEMPLE</p>
+
+<p>Then Solomon assembled the elders of Israel, and
+all the heads of the tribes, the princes of the children
+of Israel, to bring up the ark of the covenant of the
+Lord. And the priests brought in the ark of the
+covenant of the Lord unto its place, into the oracle
+of the house, to the most holy place. And it came
+to pass, when the priests were come out of the holy
+place, that the cloud filled the house of the Lord so
+that the priests could not stand to minister by reason
+of the cloud; for the glory of the Lord filled the
+house.</p>
+
+<p>Then Solomon stood before the altar of the Lord
+in the presence of all the assembly of Israel, and
+spread forth his hands toward heaven; and he said,
+"O Lord, the God of Israel, who keepest covenant
+and lovingkindness with thy servants, that walk
+before thee with all their heart, let thy word, I pray
+thee, be verified, which thou spakest unto thy
+servant David my father. But will God in very
+deed dwell on the earth? behold heaven and the
+heaven of heavens cannot contain thee; how much
+less this house that I have builded! Yet hearken
+thou to the supplication of thy servant, and of thy
+people Israel, when they shall pray toward this place:
+yea, hear thou in heaven thy dwelling place; and
+when thou hearest, forgive."</p><br>
+
+<p class="center">D. THE BENEDICTION</p>
+
+<p>And it was so, that when Solomon had made an
+end of praying all this prayer and supplication unto
+the Lord, he arose from before the altar of the Lord,
+from kneeling on his knees with his hands spread
+forth toward heaven. And he stood, and blessed all
+the congregation of Israel with a loud voice, saying,
+"Blessed be the Lord, that hath given rest unto his
+people Israel, according to all that he promised:
+there hath not failed one word of all his good promise,
+which he promised by Moses his servant. The Lord
+our God be with us, as he was with our fathers: let
+him not leave us, nor forsake us: that he may
+incline our hearts unto him, to walk in all his ways,
+and to keep his commandments, and his statutes,
+and his ordinances, which he commanded our
+fathers."</p>
+
+<p>And the king, and all Israel with him, offered
+sacrifice before the Lord.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§80. The Greatness of Solomon</b> (I Kings
+10:1-10, 13, 23-25)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE VISIT OF THE QUEEN OF SHEBA</p>
+
+<p>And when the queen of Sheba heard of the fame
+of Solomon concerning the name of the Lord, she
+came to prove him with hard questions.</p>
+
+<p>And she came to Jerusalem with a very great train,
+with camels that bare spices, and very much gold,
+and precious stones: and when she was come to
+Solomon, she communed with him of all that was
+in her heart. And Solomon told her all her questions:
+there was not anything hid from the king,
+which he told her not.</p>
+
+<p>And when the queen of Sheba had seen all Solomon's
+wisdom, and the house that he had built,
+and the food of his table, and the sitting of his
+servants, and the attendance of his ministers, and
+their apparel, and his cupbearers, and his ascent
+by which he went up unto the house of the Lord;
+there was no more spirit in her. And she said to the
+king, "It was a true report that I heard in mine
+own land of thy acts and of thy wisdom. Howbeit
+I believed not the words, until I came, and mine
+eyes had seen it: and, behold, the half was not told
+me: thy wisdom and prosperity exceed the fame
+which I heard. Happy are thy men, happy are
+these thy servants, which stand continually before
+thee, and that hear thy wisdom. Blessed be the
+Lord thy God, which delighted in thee, to set thee on
+the throne of Israel: because the Lord loved Israel for
+ever, therefore he made thee king, to do justice and
+righteousness."</p>
+
+<p>And she gave the king a hundred and twenty
+talents of gold, and of spices very great store, and
+precious stones: there came no more such abundance
+of spices as these which the queen of Sheba gave to
+king Solomon.</p>
+
+<p>And king Solomon gave unto the queen of Sheba
+all her desire, whatsoever she asked, besides that
+which Solomon gave her of his royal bounty. So
+she turned and went to her own country, she and
+her servants.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. HIS WEALTH AND WISDOM</p>
+
+<p>So king Solomon exceeded all the kings of the
+earth in riches and wisdom. And all the earth
+sought the presence of Solomon, to hear his wisdom,
+which God had put in his heart. And they brought
+every man his tribute, vessels of silver, and vessels
+of gold, and raiment, and armor and spices,
+horses, and mules, a rate year by year.</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+
+<p>290. We are to study the story of the man whom the
+Hebrews loved to think of as one of their heroes, because of
+his great wisdom and wealth. He was the most splendid of
+all their kings. To be sure he laid very heavy taxes upon the
+people to raise money for his magnificence, but the later ages
+forgot all that in admiration of his glory.</p>
+
+<p>291 (§78). When David died he left a throne to his son
+that was secure from all enemies. The young king had a great
+opportunity to be a noble ruler. Read carefully the story of
+the young man's dream. What offer did God make to him
+in the dream? In what spirit did Solomon reply? When he
+says he is a little child he means that he is young and inexperienced.
+Remember that one of the important duties of an
+eastern king was to hear cases, as a kind of chief justice. What
+quality did Solomon ask for? Why was the Lord pleased?
+What did he give Solomon?</p>
+
+<p>292 (§78). It is often true that the young man who desires
+above all things to fit himself to do his duty, without thinking
+of honor or wealth, actually obtains those also. Washington
+never sought greatness, but what do we think of him? Tennyson
+wrote of the great Duke of Wellington,</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Not once or twice in our fair island story<br ></span>
+<span class="i0">The path of duty was the way to glory.<br></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>Learn these lines.</p>
+
+<p>293 (§79A). One of David's great hopes was that he could
+build a noble house of worship. He had been unable to do so,
+partly because of his many wars. Solomon therefore decided
+to carry out his father's plan. But the Hebrews were not
+skilful as artists or mechanics. They were at that time mostly
+farmers and shepherds. Solomon therefore decided to secure
+the help of the people of Phoenicia, called the Sidonians, who
+lived on his northwest border. Locate the country. What
+are its two chief cities? Who was the king who sent to congratulate
+Solomon on his succession to the throne?</p>
+
+<p>294 (§79A). Read carefully Solomon's message to Hiram.
+What proof does he give that he is able to build the temple?
+What trees does he ask for? These were the noble trees that
+grew in the mountains of Lebanon. Locate this region to the
+north of Israel. What reason does Solomon give why the
+Sidonians (that is, the people of Sidon) should cut the trees?</p>
+
+<p>295 (§79A). Read Hiram's reply. Notice the plan of getting
+the timber to Jerusalem. The lumbermen from Tyre
+and Sidon would cut it in the mountains. It would be hauled
+by the nearest route to the sea. Note on the map where that
+would be. Then how was it to be taken by sea to the port
+nearest to Jerusalem? This port was probably Joppa. Locate
+it. What then was to be done with it before it was
+hauled up the steep roads to Jerusalem? It was a hard job
+in those days when they had no railways. How different
+from the way our lumber trains carry the great timbers!
+What was Solomon to give Hiram in exchange? This is a
+very old story of trade between nations.</p>
+
+<p>296 (§79B). When did Solomon begin to build? The
+building itself was not very large. A cubit is rather less than
+two feet, so the structure was about 100 feet long, 35 feet wide,
+and 50 feet high. Do you know any building about that
+size? Inside, one-third of the space was partitioned off for
+the ark. How was this room ornamented? How long did
+it take to finish the work?</p>
+
+<p>297 (§79C). What solemn procession was held? How was
+the glory of the Lord shown? Read carefully the prayer of
+Solomon and see that it is reverent and trustful. What is his
+great hope that God will do for the people when they pray?
+We are quite sure that God will do that. Read I John 1:9.</p>
+
+<p>298 (§79D). Who pronounced the benediction upon the
+people? What does he feel that God has done for them?
+What does he hope that God will do for them?</p>
+
+<p>299 (§80A). This is one of the stories showing the fame of
+Solomon. Sheba was in Arabia. Note how much information
+the story gives us of the products of those times. Tell the
+story of the visit.</p>
+
+<p>300 (§80B). What does the story tell us finally of Solomon's
+wealth and wisdom?</p><br>
+
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>Recall the lines about the Duke of Wellington and write
+them in your notebook. Find out if there is any man in
+your own state of whom that would be true. Find someone
+in politics or business or in one of the professions who
+has been more anxious to do his duty than for anything
+else and to whom reward has come. Write an account of it.</p>
+
+<br>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2>TWO PROPHETS</h2>
+
+
+
+<div class="center">
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="">
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXVIII_ELIJAH_THE_CHAMPION_OF">XXVIII.</a></td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Elijah, the Champion of Pure Religion</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXIX_ELIJAH_THE_CHAMPION_OF">XXIX.</a></td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Elijah, the Champion of Justice</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXX_ELISHA_THE_HEALER_AND_COUNSELOR">XXX.</a></td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Elisha, the Healer and Counselor</span></td></tr>
+</table></div><br>
+
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="XXVIII_ELIJAH_THE_CHAMPION_OF" id="XXVIII_ELIJAH_THE_CHAMPION_OF"></a>XXVIII. ELIJAH, THE CHAMPION OF PURE RELIGION</h2>
+
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+<p class="center"><b>§81. Elijah and the Drought</b> (I Kings 16:30-17:24)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE STARTLING PROPHECY</p>
+
+
+<p>Ahab the son of Omri did that which was evil in
+the sight of the Lord above all that were before him.
+And it came to pass, that he took to wife Jezebel the
+daughter of Ethbaal king of the Sidonians, and went
+and served Baal, and worshipped him. And he
+reared up an altar for Baal in the house of Baal,
+which he had built in Samaria. And Ahab did yet
+more to provoke the Lord, the God of Israel, to
+anger than all the kings of Israel that were before
+him.</p>
+
+<p>And Elijah the Tishbite, who was of the sojourners
+of Gilead, said unto Ahab, "As the Lord, the God
+of Israel, liveth, before whom I stand, there shall not
+be dew nor rain these years, but according to my
+word."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. ELIJAH AT THE BROOK</p>
+
+<p>And the word of the Lord came unto him, saying,
+"Get thee hence, and turn thee eastward, and hide
+thyself by the brook Cherith, that is before Jordan.
+And it shall be, that thou shalt drink of the brook;
+and I have commanded the ravens to feed thee
+there."</p>
+
+<p>So he went and did according unto the word of
+the Lord: for he went and dwelt by the brook
+Cherith, that is before Jordan. And the ravens
+brought him bread and flesh in the morning, and
+bread and flesh in the evening; and he drank of the
+brook. And it came to pass after a while, that the
+brook dried up, because there was no rain in the land.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. THE WIDOW'S CAKE</p>
+
+<p>And the word of the Lord came unto him, saying,
+"Arise, get thee to Zarephath, which belongeth to
+Sidon, and dwell there: behold, I have commanded
+a widow woman there to sustain thee."</p>
+
+<p>So he arose and went to Zarephath; and when he
+came to the gate of the city, behold, a widow woman
+was there gathering sticks: and he called to her, and
+said, "Fetch me, I pray thee, a little water in a
+vessel, that I may drink."</p>
+
+<p>And as she was going to fetch it, he called to her,
+and said, "Bring me, I pray thee, a morsel of bread
+in thine hand."</p>
+
+<p>And she said, "As the Lord thy God liveth, I
+have not a cake, but an handful of meal in the barrel,
+and a little oil in the cruse: and, behold, I am
+gathering two sticks, that I may go in and dress it
+for me and my son, that we may eat it, and die."</p>
+
+<p>And Elijah said unto her, "Fear not; go and do
+as thou hast said: but make me thereof a little cake
+first, and bring it forth unto me, and afterward make
+for thee and for thy son. For thus saith the Lord,
+the God of Israel, 'The barrel of meal shall not
+waste, neither shall the cruse of oil fail, until the day
+that the Lord sendeth rain upon the earth.'"</p>
+
+<p>And she went and did according to the saying of
+Elijah: and she, and he, and her house, did eat many
+days. The barrel of meal wasted not, neither did the
+cruse of oil fail, according to the word of the Lord,
+which he spake by Elijah.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">D. THE WIDOW'S SON</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass after these things, that the son
+of the woman, the mistress of the house, fell sick;
+and his sickness was so sore, that there was no breath
+left in him. And she said unto Elijah, "O thou
+man of God? thou art come unto me to bring my
+sin to my remembrance, and to slay my son!"</p>
+
+<p>And he said unto her, "Give me thy son."</p>
+
+<p>And he took him out of her bosom, and carried
+him up into the chamber, where he abode, and laid
+him upon his own bed. And he cried unto the Lord,
+and said. "O Lord my God, hast thou also brought
+evil upon the widow with whom I sojourn, by slaying
+her son?" And he stretched himself upon the child
+three times, and cried unto the Lord, and said, "O
+Lord my God, I pray thee, let this child's soul come
+into him again."</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord hearkened unto the voice of Elijah;
+and the soul of the child came into him again, and
+he revived. And Elijah took the child, and brought
+him down out of the chamber into the house, and
+delivered him unto his mother: and Elijah said,
+"See, thy son liveth."</p>
+
+<p>And the woman said to Elijah, "Now I know that
+thou art a man of God, and that the word of the Lord
+in thy mouth is truth."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§82. Elijah's Victory</b> (I Kings 18:1-46)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE SEARCH FOR PASTURAGE</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass after many days, that the
+word of the Lord came to Elijah, in the third year,
+saying, "Go, show thyself unto Ahab; and I will
+send rain upon the earth." And Elijah went to show
+himself unto Ahab.</p>
+
+<p>And the famine was sore in Samaria. And Ahab
+called Obadiah, who was over the household.
+(Now Obadiah feared the Lord greatly: for it was so,
+when Jezebel cut off the prophets of the Lord, that
+Obadiah took a hundred prophets, and hid them
+by fifty in a cave, and fed them with bread and
+water.) And Ahab said unto Obadiah, "Go
+through the land, unto all the fountains of water,
+and unto all the brooks: peradventure we may find
+grass and save the horses and mules alive, that we
+lose not all the beasts."</p>
+
+<p>So they divided the land between them to pass
+throughout it: Ahab went one way by himself, and
+Obadiah went another way by himself.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. ELIJAH'S CHALLENGE TO THE KING</p>
+
+<p>And as Obadiah was in the way, behold, Elijah
+met him: and he knew him, and fell on his face, and
+said, "Is it thou, my lord Elijah?"</p>
+
+<p>And he answered him, "It is I: go, tell thy lord,
+'Behold, Elijah is here.'"</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Wherein have I sinned, that thou
+wouldest deliver thy servant into the hand of Ahab,
+to slay me? As the Lord thy God liveth, there is
+no nation or kingdom, whither my lord hath not sent
+to seek thee: and when they said, 'He is not here,'
+he took an oath of the kingdom and nation, that they
+found thee not. And now thou sayest, 'Go, tell
+thy lord, Behold, <a name="Elijah" id="Elijah" href="#Eljiah">Elijah</a> is here.' And it shall come
+to pass, as soon as I am gone from thee, that the
+spirit of the Lord shall carry thee whither I know
+not; and so when I come and tell Ahab, and he cannot
+find thee, he shall slay me: but I thy servant fear
+the Lord from my youth. Was it not told my lord
+what I did when Jezebel slew the prophets of the Lord,
+how I hid a hundred men of the Lord's prophets
+by fifty in a cave, and fed them with bread
+and water? And now thou sayest, 'Go, tell thy
+lord, Behold Elijah is here': and he shall slay
+me."</p>
+
+<p>And Elijah said, "As the Lord of hosts liveth,
+before whom I stand, I will surely show myself unto
+him to-day."</p>
+
+<p>So Obadiah went to meet Ahab, and told him: and
+Ahab went to meet Elijah. And it came to pass,
+when Ahab saw Elijah, that Ahab said unto him,
+"Is it thou, thou troubler of Israel?"</p>
+
+<p>And he answered, "I have not troubled Israel;
+but thou, and thy father's house, in that ye have
+forsaken the commandments of the Lord, and thou
+hast followed the Baalim. Now therefore send, and
+gather to me all Israel unto mount Carmel, and the
+prophets of Baal four hundred and fifty, which eat
+at Jezebel's table."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. THE TEST AT CARMEL</p>
+
+<p>So Ahab sent unto all the children of Israel, and
+gathered the prophets together unto mount Carmel.</p>
+
+<p>And Elijah came near unto all the people, and said,
+"How long halt ye between two opinions? if the
+Lord be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow
+him." And the people answered him not a word.</p>
+
+<p>Then said Elijah unto the people, "I, even I only,
+am left a prophet of the Lord; but Baal's prophets
+are four hundred and fifty men. Let them therefore
+give us two bullocks; and let them choose one bullock
+for themselves, and cut it in pieces, and lay it
+on the wood, and put no fire under: and I will dress
+the other bullock, and lay it on the wood, and put
+no fire under. And call ye on the name of your
+god, and I will call on the name of the Lord: and
+the God that answereth by fire, let him be God."</p>
+
+<p>And all the people answered and said, "It is well
+spoken."</p>
+
+<p>And Elijah said unto the prophets of Baal,
+"Choose you one bullock for yourselves, and dress
+it first; for ye are many; and call on the name of
+your god, but put no fire under."</p>
+
+<p>And they took the bullock which was given them,
+and they dressed it, and called on the name of Baal
+from morning even until noon, saying, "O Baal,
+hear us." But there was no voice, nor any that
+answered. And they leaped about the altar which
+was made.</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass at noon, that Elijah mocked
+them, and said, "Cry aloud: for he is a god; either
+he is musing, or he is gone aside, or he is on a journey,
+or peradventure he sleepeth, and must be awaked."</p>
+
+<p>And they cried aloud, and cut themselves after
+their manner with knives and lances, till the blood
+gushed out upon them. And it was so, when midday
+was past, that they prophesied until the time of the
+offering of the evening sacrifice; but there was
+neither voice, nor any to answer, nor any that regarded.</p>
+
+<p>And Elijah said unto all the people, "Come near
+unto me." And all the people came near unto
+him.</p>
+
+<p>And he repaired the altar of the Lord that was
+thrown down. And Elijah took twelve stones, according
+to the number of the tribes of the sons of
+Jacob. And with the stones he built an altar in the
+name of the Lord; and he made a trench about the
+altar, as great as would contain two measures of seed.
+And he put the wood in order, and cut the bullock in
+pieces, and laid it on the wood. And he said, "Fill
+four barrels with water, and pour it on the burnt
+offering, and on the wood." And he said, "Do
+it the second time." And they did it the second
+time. And he said, "Do it the third time." And
+they did it the third time. And the water ran round
+about the altar; and he filled the trench also with
+water.</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass at the time of the offering of
+the evening sacrifice, that Elijah the prophet came
+near, and said, "O Lord, the God of Abraham, of
+Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this day that
+thou art God in Israel, and that I am thy servant,
+and that I have done all these things at thy word.
+Hear me, O Lord, hear me, that this people may
+know that thou, Lord, art God, and that thou hast
+turned their heart back again."</p>
+
+<p>Then the fire of the Lord fell, and consumed the
+burnt offering, and the wood, and the stones, and the
+dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench.
+And when all the people saw it, they fell on their
+faces: and they said, "The Lord, he is God; the
+Lord, he is God."</p>
+
+<p>And Elijah said unto them, "Take the prophets
+of Baal; let not one of them escape."</p>
+
+<p>And they took them: and Elijah brought them
+down to the brook Kishon, and slew them there.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">D. THE COMING OF THE RAIN</p>
+
+<p>And Elijah said unto Ahab, "Get thee up,
+eat and drink; for there is the sound of abundance
+of rain." So Ahab went up to eat and to
+drink.</p>
+
+<p>And Elijah went up to the top of Carmel; and he
+bowed himself down upon the earth, and put his face
+between his knees. And he said to his servant,
+"Go up now, look toward the sea."</p>
+
+<p>And he went up, and looked, and said, "There is
+nothing."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Go again," seven times. And it
+came to pass at the seventh time, that he said, "Behold,
+there ariseth a cloud out of the sea, as small
+as a man's hand."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Go up, say unto Ahab, 'Make
+ready thy chariot, and get thee down, that the rain
+stop thee not.'"</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass in a little while, that the
+heaven grew black with clouds and wind, and there
+was a great rain. And Ahab rode, and went to
+Jezreel. And the hand of the Lord was on Elijah;
+and he girded up his loins, and ran before Ahab to
+the entrance of Jezreel.</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>301. In the beautiful city of Florence in Italy there was once
+a great prince named Lorenzo, whose reign was very splendid,
+but who oppressed the people and lived an evil life. The
+people followed his bad example and there was great immorality
+in Florence. But a fearless preacher came to the city
+who told the prince and the people plainly of their sins. Great
+crowds went to hear him and he became the most influential
+man in Florence. By his stirring words he compelled the
+government to give back the liberties to the people, and he
+led the citizens to promise to serve God with good lives. His
+enemies finally proved too strong for him and killed him, but
+this noble Italian preacher, Savonarola, left an influence that
+has lasted to this day.</p>
+
+<p>Among the heroes of Israel were some bold preachers,
+called prophets, who did not hesitate to denounce the sins
+of kings and people. One of the greatest of these was
+Elijah.</p>
+
+<p>302 (§81A). Ahab was a very wicked king who married a
+princess from Sidon. Locate the city on the coast of Palestine.
+The Sidonians worshipped a god called Baal, and so the king
+built a temple for this idol in his capital. He thought he
+could go on serving the Lord and serve Baal also. Suddenly
+a man appeared in the court. He was roughly clad, not a
+man of the city. What startling message did he bring?</p>
+
+<p>303 (§81B). While the drought came upon Israel the
+prophet was taken care of. Tell the story of Elijah at the
+brook. What happened to the brook at last?</p>
+
+<p>304 (§81C). Elijah was east of the Jordan. He was sent
+to Zarephath near Sidon. Locate it. Tell the story of his
+conversation with the widow. The "cruse" was a flask or
+small jug for holding liquids.</p>
+
+<p>305 (§81D). Many wonderful stories were told of this great
+prophet. Tell the story of the widow's son. Think of the
+prophet waiting all this time till he should be sent back to
+the king.</p>
+
+<p>306 (§82A). At last Elijah's message came. How long had
+he waited? Meantime what was the condition in Israel, and
+Samaria the capital? Who was Obadiah? What had he
+done? What did the king and Obadiah undertake?</p>
+
+<p>307 (§82B). Tell the story of Elijah's conversation with the
+timid Obadiah. This man was good, but he was having a
+hard time as the servant of a bad king. What bold answer
+did Elijah make to the king? What is a challenge? What
+challenge did Elijah make?</p>
+
+<p>308 (§82C). This is the important part of the story. Find
+Mt. Carmel on the coast. Imagine the scene: the king, the
+prophets of Baal, and Elijah, as the actors, and the great
+crowd as an audience. What was Elijah's first question to
+the people? We have a saying that no one can be on the
+fence: everyone must be on one side or the other. Whenever
+there is a right and wrong, people must take sides.</p>
+
+<p>309 (§82C). What test did Elijah propose? Who prepared
+the bullock for the sacrifice first? How did they try to gain
+the attention of their god? Could Baal hear them? How
+did Elijah mock them? What was the result of all the excitement?</p>
+
+<p>310 (§82C). Notice how serious Elijah was. How did he
+prepare for the sacrifice? How did he arrange so that nobody
+could say there was a trick? What prayer did Elijah offer?
+Learn this noble prayer so that you can recite it. What happened?
+How did it affect the people?</p>
+
+<p>311 (§82C). Those were days when men were very stern.
+What awful punishment did Elijah inflict on the false prophets?</p>
+
+<p>312 (§82D). Elijah was sure that the drought would now
+be over. What did he say to Ahab? They had eaten nothing
+all day, so everyone went eagerly to the food. But Elijah
+went back to the mountain. Who went with him? What
+happened? What message did the prophet send to Ahab?
+Notice how quickly the storm came up. Elijah was a man of
+the desert, hardy and strong; he was also under great excitement
+from the events of the day. It was sixteen miles from
+Carmel to Jezreel. Locate these places on the map. The
+king drove his horses hard in the storm. What did Elijah
+do?</p><br>
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>Imagine yourself present at the scene on Mt. Carmel and
+that your parents were unable to go. How would you tell
+them the story of all that happened that day? Write it out
+just as you would have told it, if you were a young Israelite
+on that great occasion.</p><br>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="XXIX_ELIJAH_THE_CHAMPION_OF" id="XXIX_ELIJAH_THE_CHAMPION_OF"></a>XXIX. ELIJAH, THE CHAMPION OF JUSTICE</h2>
+
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+<p class="center"><b>§83. Elijah's Discouragement</b> (I Kings 19:1-21)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE BITTER DISAPPOINTMENT</p>
+
+
+<p>And Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done,
+and how he had slain all the prophets with the
+sword. Then Jezebel sent a messenger unto Elijah,
+saying, "So let the gods do to me, and more also, if
+I make not thy life as the life of one of them by
+to-morrow about this time."</p>
+
+<p>And when he saw that, he arose, and went for his
+life, and came to Beer-sheba, which belongeth to
+Judah, and left his servant there. But he himself
+went a day's journey into the wilderness, and came
+and sat down under a juniper tree: and he requested
+for himself that he might die; and said, "It
+is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life; for
+I am not better than my fathers."</p>
+
+<p>And he lay down and slept under a juniper tree;
+and, behold, an angel touched him, and said unto
+him, "Arise and eat."</p>
+
+<p>And he looked, and, behold, there was at his head
+a cake baked on the coals, and a bottle of water.
+And he did eat and drink, and laid himself down
+again.</p>
+
+<p>And the angel of the Lord came again the second
+time, and touched him, and said, "Arise and eat;
+because the journey is too great for thee."</p>
+
+<p>And he arose, and did eat and drink, and went in
+the strength of that food forty days and forty nights
+unto Horeb the mount of God.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. ELIJAH COMFORTED AND INSTRUCTED</p>
+
+<p>And he came thither unto a cave, and lodged
+there; and, behold, the word of the Lord came to
+him, and he said unto him, "What does thou here,
+Elijah?"</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "I have been very jealous for the
+Lord, the God of hosts; for the children of Israel
+have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine
+altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword: and
+I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to
+take it away."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Go forth, and stand upon the
+mount before the Lord."</p>
+
+<p>And, behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and
+strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces
+the rocks before the Lord; but the Lord was not in
+the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but
+the Lord was not in the earthquake: and after the
+earthquake a fire; but the Lord was not in the fire:
+and after the fire a still small voice. And it was so,
+when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in
+his mantle, and went out, and stood in the entering
+of the cave. And, behold, there came a voice unto
+him, and said, "What doest thou here, Elijah?"</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "I have been very jealous for the
+Lord, the God of hosts; for the children of Israel
+have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine
+altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword; and
+I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to
+take it away."</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord said unto him, "Go, return on thy
+way to the wilderness of Damascus: and when thou
+comest, thou shalt anoint Hazael to be king over
+Syria: and Jehu shalt thou anoint to be king over
+Israel: and Elisha the son of Shaphat shalt thou
+anoint to be prophet in thy room. And it shall
+come to pass, that him that escapeth from the sword
+of Hazael shall Jehu slay: and him that escapeth
+from the sword of Jehu shall Elisha slay. Yet will
+I leave me seven thousand in Israel, all the knees
+which have not bowed unto Baal, and every mouth
+which hath not kissed him."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. THE CALL OF ELISHA</p>
+
+<p>So he departed thence, and found Elisha the son
+of Shaphat, who was plowing, with twelve yoke of
+oxen before him, and he with the twelfth: and Elijah
+passed over unto him, and cast his mantle upon him.
+And he left the oxen, and ran after Elijah, and said,
+"Let me, I pray thee, kiss my father and my mother,
+and then I will follow thee."</p>
+
+<p>And he said unto him, "Go back again; for
+what have I done to thee?"</p>
+
+<p>And he returned from following him, and took the
+yoke of oxen, and slew them, and boiled their flesh
+with the instruments of the oxen, and gave unto the
+people, and they did eat. Then he arose, and went
+after Elijah, and ministered unto him.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§84. Elijah and the Tyrant</b> (I Kings 21:1-24)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. AHAB COVETS NABOTH'S VINEYARD</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass after these things, that Naboth
+the Jezreelite had a vineyard, which was in
+Jezreel, hard by the palace of Ahab king of Samaria.
+And Ahab spake unto Naboth, saying, "Give me thy
+vineyard, that I may have it for a garden of herbs,
+because it is near unto my house; and I will give
+thee for it a better vineyard than it: or, if it seem
+good to thee, I will give thee the worth of it in
+money."</p>
+
+<p>And Naboth said to Ahab, "The Lord forbid it
+me, that I should give the inheritance of my fathers
+unto thee."</p>
+
+<p>And Ahab came into his house heavy and displeased
+because of the word which Naboth the Jezreelite
+had spoken to him: for he had said, "I will not give
+thee the inheritance of my fathers." And he laid him
+down upon his bed, and turned away his face, and
+would eat no bread.</p>
+
+<p>But Jezebel his wife came to him, and said unto
+him, "Why is thy spirit so sad, that thou eatest no
+bread?"</p>
+
+<p>And he said unto her, "Because I spake unto
+Naboth the Jezreelite, and said unto him, 'Give me
+thy vineyard for money; or else, if it please thee,
+I will give thee another vineyard for it': and he
+answered, 'I will not give thee my vineyard.'"</p>
+
+<p>And Jezebel his wife said unto him, "Dost thou
+now govern the kingdom of Israel? arise, and eat
+bread, and let thine heart be merry: I will give thee
+the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. JEZEBEL'S PLOT</p>
+
+<p>So she wrote letters in Ahab's name, and sealed
+them with his seal, and sent the letters unto the
+elders and to the nobles that were in the city, and
+that dwelt with Naboth. And she wrote in the
+letters, saying, "Proclaim a fast, and set Naboth on
+high among the people: and set two wicked men
+before him, and let them bear witness against him,
+saying, 'Thou didst curse God and the king.' And
+then carry him out, and stone him, that he die."</p>
+
+<p>And the men of his city, even the elders and the
+nobles who dwelt in his city, did as Jezebel had sent
+unto them, according as it was written in the letters
+which she had sent unto them. They proclaimed
+a fast, and set Naboth on high among the people.
+And the two wicked men came in and sat before him:
+and the men bare witness against him, even against
+Naboth, in the presence of the people, saying,
+"Naboth did curse God and the king." Then they
+carried him forth out of the city, and stoned him
+with stones, that he died. Then they sent to Jezebel,
+saying, "Naboth is stoned, and is dead."</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, when Jezebel heard that
+Naboth was stoned, and was dead, that she said to
+Ahab, "Arise, take possession of the vineyard of
+Naboth the Jezreelite, which he refused to give thee
+for money: for Naboth is not alive, but dead."</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, when Ahab heard that Naboth
+was dead, that he rose up to go down to the
+vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite, to take possession
+of it.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. ELIJAH'S STARTLING SENTENCE</p>
+
+<p>And the word of the Lord came to Elijah the
+Tishbite, saying, "Arise, go down to meet Ahab
+king of Israel, who dwelleth in Samaria: behold,
+he is in the vineyard of Naboth, whither he is gone
+down to take possession of it. And thou shalt speak
+unto him, saying, 'Thus saith the Lord, Hast thou
+killed, and also taken possession?' and thou shalt
+speak unto him, saying, 'Thus saith the Lord, In
+the place where dogs licked the blood of Naboth,
+shall dogs lick thy blood, even thine.'"</p>
+
+<p>And Ahab said to Elijah, "Hast thou found me,
+O mine enemy?"</p>
+
+<p>And he answered, "I have found thee: because
+thou hast sold thyself to do that which is evil in the
+sight of the Lord. Behold, I will bring evil upon
+thee, and will utterly sweep thee away, and will cut
+off from Ahab every man child, and him that is shut
+up and him that is left at large in Israel, for the
+provocation wherewith thou hast provoked me to
+anger, and hast made Israel to sin. And of Jezebel
+also spake the Lord, saying, 'The dogs shall eat
+Jezebel by the rampart of Jezreel.' Him that dieth
+of Ahab in the city the dogs shall eat; and him that
+dieth in the field shall the fowls of the air eat."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§85. The Old Prophet and the New Prophet</b>
+(II Kings 2:1-15)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE FAREWELL OF THE OLD PROPHET</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, when the Lord would take up
+Elijah by a whirlwind into heaven, that Elijah went
+with Elisha from Gilgal. And Elijah said unto
+Elisha, "Tarry here, I pray thee; for the Lord
+hath sent me as far as Beth-el."</p>
+
+<p>And Elisha said, "As the Lord liveth, and as thy
+soul liveth, I will not leave thee."</p>
+
+<p>So they went down to Beth-el. And the sons of
+the prophets that were at Beth-el came forth to
+Elisha, and said unto him, "Knowest thou that the
+Lord will take away thy master from thy head
+to-day?"</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Yea, I know it; hold ye your
+peace."</p>
+
+<p>And Elijah said unto him, "Elisha, tarry here, I
+pray thee; for the Lord hath sent me to Jericho."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "As the Lord liveth, and as thy soul
+liveth, I will not leave thee."</p>
+
+<p>So they came to Jericho. And the sons of the
+prophets that were at Jericho came near to Elisha,
+and said unto him, "Knowest thou that the Lord
+will take away thy master from thy head to-day?"</p>
+
+<p>And he answered, "Yea, I know it; hold ye your
+peace."</p>
+
+<p>And Elijah said unto him, "Tarry here, I pray
+thee; for the Lord hath sent me to Jordan."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "As the Lord liveth, and as thy soul
+liveth, I will not leave thee."</p>
+
+<p>And they two went on. And fifty men of the sons
+of the prophets went, and stood over against them
+afar off: and they two stood by Jordan. And
+Elijah took his mantle, and wrapped it together, and
+smote the waters, and they were divided hither and
+thither, so that they two went over on dry ground.
+And it came to pass, when they were gone over, that
+Elijah said unto Elisha, "Ask what I shall do for
+thee, before I be taken from thee."</p>
+
+<p>And Elisha said, "I pray thee, let a double portion
+of thy spirit be upon me."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Thou hast asked a hard thing:
+nevertheless, if thou see me when I am taken from
+thee, it shall be so unto thee; but if not, it shall not
+be so."</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, as they still went on, and
+talked, that, behold, there appeared a chariot of
+fire, and horses of fire, which parted them both
+asunder; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into
+heaven. And Elisha saw it, and he cried, "My
+father, my father, the chariots of Israel and the
+horsemen thereof!"</p><br>
+
+<p class="center">B. THE NEW PROPHET</p>
+
+<p>And he saw him no more: and he took hold of
+his own clothes, and rent them in two pieces. He
+took up also the mantle of Elijah that fell from him,
+and went back, and stood by the bank of Jordan.
+And he took the mantle of Elijah that fell from
+him, and smote the waters, and said, "Where is the
+Lord, the God of Elijah?" and when he also had
+smitten the waters, they were divided hither and
+thither: and Elisha went over.</p>
+
+<p>And when the sons of the prophets which were
+at Jericho over against him saw him, they said,
+"The spirit of Elijah doth rest on Elisha." And
+they came to meet him, and bowed themselves to
+the ground before him.</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>313. How did the great day close after Elijah had defeated
+the prophets of Baal? How do you think Ahab felt about it?
+Elijah probably hoped to see a complete return of the people
+to the Lord and he expected the wicked queen Jezebel to be
+prevented from interfering with the prophets of the Lord.</p>
+
+<p>314 (§83A). What did Ahab do when he returned home?
+What did Jezebel decide? Was she willing to give up her
+power? Elijah saw that nothing had been gained, for the
+wicked queen was still in control. Where did he go? Follow
+his journey on the map. Mention all the circumstances that
+would make Elijah tired out. His discouragement was
+largely due to his exhaustion from hunger and travel. What
+kind thing did the Lord do for the tired prophet?</p>
+
+<p>315 (§83B). Where did Elijah go? Horeb is another name
+for Mount Sinai. Do you remember what great hero led the
+people to Sinai? (§40A.) Elijah wanted to go back to the
+mountain where his people had heard of the Lord. Tell the
+story of what happened at the cave. The Lord would show
+Elijah that the people could not be saved by great contests, but
+by gentle means. He also told him that it would take time
+to get rid of the idolatry. He told him three important persons
+would all have a part in the work, even after he was dead:
+who were these?</p>
+
+<p>316 (§83B). Elijah was mistaken in thinking that he was
+the only faithful man left. How many were there? There
+are often more good people than we think.</p>
+
+<p>317 (§83C). Tell the story of the call of Elisha.</p>
+
+<p>318 (§84A). Locate Jezreel on the map. We found it
+before, near Mt. Carmel. King Ahab had a fine palace there,
+though his capital was in Samaria. But the king needed
+some more land to make a garden. How did he try to get it?
+Why would not the man sell it? We must remember that in
+those times a farm would sometimes remain in one family
+for centuries. How did Ahab behave? What did Jezebel
+say that she would do?</p>
+
+<p>319 (§84B). A king of Israel could not do as he pleased.
+He was bound to respect the rights of his people. Jezebel
+therefore thought out a plan to have Naboth killed. What
+was the plan and how did it work?</p>
+
+<p>320 (§84B). When Jezebel heard of the success of her plot
+she told the king. What did he do? What ought he to have
+done?</p>
+
+<p>321 (§84C). The king and queen had forgotten all about
+Elijah. How did he suddenly appear? Imagine how frightened
+the king must have been when he saw the stern prophet
+coming to meet him in the garden. So conscience suddenly
+speaks when we have forgotten it. What did Elijah say?</p>
+
+<p>322 (§84C). We have seen Elijah the champion of pure
+religion, now we see him the champion of justice. There was
+no one else who dare speak against the king's tyranny. Do
+you think he was brave? Why did not Ahab kill him?</p>
+
+<p>323 (§85A). Tell the story of the last journey of Elijah and
+Elisha. Follow the journey on the map. Imagine the fearful
+mountain storm on the east of Jordan in the midst of which
+Elijah was carried away. Is it not a grand story of the end
+of such a stormy life?</p>
+
+<p>324 (§85B). How did the new prophet begin his work?</p><br>
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>Ahab, although in many respects an able king, showed
+himself in this incident a bully. A bully is one who does
+wrong to a person who is too weak to resist. There is
+generally a bully in every school. Is there also a hero?
+Write what you think a hero ought to do with a bully.</p><br>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="XXX_ELISHA_THE_HEALER_AND_COUNSELOR" id="XXX_ELISHA_THE_HEALER_AND_COUNSELOR"></a>XXX. ELISHA, THE HEALER AND COUNSELOR</h2>
+
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§86. The Payment of the Widow's Debt</b> (II Kings 4:1-7)</p>
+
+<p>Now there cried a certain woman of the wives of
+the sons of the prophets unto Elisha, saying, "Thy
+servant my husband is dead: and thou knowest that
+thy servant did fear the Lord: and the creditor is
+come to take unto him my two children to be slaves."</p>
+
+<p>And Elisha said unto her, "What shall I do for
+thee? tell me; what hast thou in the house?"</p>
+
+<p>And she said, "Thine handmaid hath not any
+thing in the house, save a pot of oil."</p>
+
+<p>Then he said, "Go, borrow thee vessels abroad
+of all thy neighbors, even empty vessels; borrow
+not a few. And thou shalt go in, and shut the door
+upon thee and upon thy sons, and pour out into all
+those vessels; and thou shalt set aside that which is
+full."</p>
+
+<p>So she went from him, and shut the door upon her
+and upon her sons; they brought the vessels to her,
+and she poured out. And it came to pass, when the
+vessels were full, that she said unto her son, "Bring
+me yet a vessel."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "There is not another vessel."</p>
+
+<p>And the oil stopped. Then she came and told
+the man of God. And he said, "Go, sell the oil,
+and pay thy debt, and live thou and thy sons on the
+rest."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§87. The Healing of the Leper</b> (II Kings 5)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. NAAMAN'S VISIT TO ISRAEL</p>
+
+<p>Now Naaman, captain of the host of the king of
+Syria, was a great man with his master, and honorable,
+because by him the Lord had given victory
+unto Syria: he was also a mighty man of valor,
+but he was a leper. And the Syrians had gone out
+in bands, and had brought away a captive out of
+the land of Israel a little maid; and she waited
+on Naaman's wife. And she said unto her mistress,
+"Would God my lord were with the prophet that is
+in Samaria! then would he recover him of his
+leprosy."</p>
+
+<p>And one went in, and told his lord, saying, "Thus
+and thus said the maid that is of the land of Israel."</p>
+
+<p>And the king of Syria said, "Go to, go, and I will
+send a letter unto the king of Israel."</p>
+
+<p>And he departed, and took with him ten talents
+of silver, and six thousand pieces of gold, and ten
+changes of raiment. And he brought the letter to the
+king of Israel, saying, "And now when this letter
+is come unto thee, behold, I have sent Naaman my
+servant to thee, that thou mayest recover him of
+his leprosy."</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, when the king of Israel had
+read the letter, that he rent his clothes, and said,
+"Am I God, to kill and to make alive, that this man
+doth send unto me to recover a man of his leprosy?
+but consider, I pray you, and see how he seeketh
+a quarrel against me."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. NAAMAN HEALED</p>
+
+<p>And it was so, when Elisha the man of God
+heard that the king of Israel had rent his clothes,
+that he sent to the king, saying, "Wherefore hast
+thou rent thy clothes? let him come now to me, and
+he shall know that there is a prophet in Israel."</p>
+
+<p>So Naaman came with his horses and with his
+chariots, and stood at the door of the house of
+Elisha. And Elisha sent a messenger unto him,
+saying, "Go and wash in Jordan seven times, and
+thy flesh shall come again to thee, and thou shalt
+be clean."</p>
+
+<p>But Naaman was wroth, and went away, and
+said, "Behold, I thought, He will surely come out
+to me, and stand, and call on the name of the Lord
+his God, and wave his hand over the place, and
+recover the leper. Are not Abanah and Pharpar, the
+rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of
+Israel? may I not wash in them, and be clean?"</p>
+
+<p>So he turned and went away in a rage. And his
+servants came near, and spake unto him, and said,
+"My father, if the prophet had bid thee do some
+great thing, wouldest thou not have done it? how
+much rather then, when he saith to thee, 'Wash,
+and be clean'?"</p>
+
+<p>Then went he down, and dipped himself seven
+times in Jordan, according to the saying of the man
+of God: and his flesh came again like unto the flesh
+of a little child, and he was clean.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. NAAMAN'S GRATITUDE</p>
+
+<p>And he returned to the man of God, he and all
+his company, and came, and stood before him:
+and he said, "Behold now, I know that there is no
+God in all the earth, but in Israel: now therefore,
+I pray thee, take a present of thy servant."</p>
+
+<p>But he said, "As the Lord liveth, before whom I
+stand, I will receive none."</p>
+
+<p>And he urged him to take it; but he refused. And
+Naaman said, "If not, yet I pray thee let there be
+given to thy servant two mules' burden of earth;
+for thy servant will henceforth offer neither burnt
+offering nor sacrifice unto other gods, but unto the
+Lord."</p>
+
+<p>And he said unto him, "Go in peace."</p>
+
+<p>So he departed from him a little way.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">D. PUNISHMENT OF GREED AND DECEIT</p>
+
+<p>But Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of
+God, said, "Behold, my master hath spared this
+Naaman the Syrian, in not receiving at his hands that
+which he brought: as the Lord liveth, I will run
+after him, and take somewhat of him."</p>
+
+<p>So Gehazi followed after Naaman. And when
+Naaman saw one running after him, he lighted down
+from the chariot to meet him, and said, "Is all well?"</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "All is well. My master hath sent
+me, saying, 'Behold, even now there be come to me
+from the hill country of Ephraim two young men
+of the sons of the prophets; give them, I pray thee,
+a talent of silver, and two changes of raiment.'"</p>
+
+<p>And Naaman said, "Be content, take two talents."</p>
+
+<p>And he urged him and bound two talents of silver
+in two bags, with two changes of raiment, and laid
+them upon two of his servants; and they bare them
+before him. And when he came to the hill, he took
+them from their hand, and bestowed them in the
+house: and he let the men go, and they departed.
+But he went in, and stood before his master.</p>
+
+<p>And Elisha said unto him, "Whence comest thou,
+Gehazi?"</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Thy servant went no whither."</p>
+
+<p>And he said unto him, "Went not mine heart
+with thee, when the man turned again from his
+chariot to meet thee? Is it a time to receive money,
+and to receive garments, and oliveyards and vineyards,
+and sheep and oxen, and menservants and
+maidservants? The leprosy therefore of Naaman
+shall cleave unto thee, and unto thy seed for
+ever."</p>
+
+<p>And he went out from his presence a leper as
+white as snow.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§88. Mysterious Capture of the Syrian Soldiers</b>
+(II Kings 6:8-23)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE SYRIANS' FEAR OF ELISHA</p>
+
+<p>Now the king of Syria warred against Israel; and
+he took counsel with his servants, saying, "In such
+and such a place shall be my camp."</p>
+
+<p>And the man of God sent unto the king of
+Israel, saying, "Beware that thou pass not such
+a place; for thither the Syrians are coming
+down."</p>
+
+<p>And the king of Israel sent to the place which the
+man of God told him and warned him of; and he
+saved himself there, not once nor twice.</p>
+
+<p>And the heart of the king of Syria was sore
+troubled for this thing; and he called his servants,
+and said unto them, "Will ye not show me which
+of us is for the king of Israel?"</p>
+
+<p>And one of his servants said, "Nay, my lord, O
+king: but Elisha, the prophet that is in Israel,
+telleth the king of Israel the words that thou speakest
+in thy bedchamber."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Go and see where he is, that I may
+send and fetch him."</p>
+
+<p>And it was told him, saying, "Behold, he is in
+Dothan."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE UNSEEN ARMY OF THE LORD</p>
+
+<p>Therefore sent he thither horses, and chariots, and
+a great host: and they came by night, and compassed
+the city about. And when the servant of the man
+of God was risen early, and gone forth, behold, an
+host with horses and chariots was round about the
+city. And his servant said unto him, "Alas, my
+master! how shall we do?"</p>
+
+<p>And he answered, "Fear not: for they that be
+with us are more than they that be with them."
+And Elisha prayed, and said, "Lord, I pray thee,
+open his eyes, that he may see."</p>
+
+<p>And the Lord opened the eyes of the young man;
+and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full
+of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha.
+And when they came down to him, Elisha prayed
+unto the Lord, and said, "Smite this people, I pray
+thee, with blindness." And he smote them with
+blindness according to the word of Elisha.</p>
+
+<p>And Elisha said unto them, "This is not the way,
+neither is this the city: follow me, and I will bring
+you to the man whom ye seek." And he led them
+to Samaria.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. THE RELEASE OF THE PRISONERS</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, when they were come into
+Samaria, that Elisha said, "Lord, open the eyes of
+these men, that they may see." And the Lord
+opened their eyes, and they saw; and, behold, they
+were in the midst of Samaria.</p>
+
+<p>And the king of Israel said unto Elisha, when he
+saw them, "My father, shall I smite them? shall I
+smite them?"</p>
+
+<p>And he answered, "Thou shalt not smite them:
+wouldest thou smite those whom thou hast taken
+captive with thy sword and with thy bow? set bread
+and water before them, that they may eat and drink,
+and go to their master."</p>
+
+<p>And he prepared great provision for them: and
+when they had eaten and drunk, he sent them away,
+and they went to their master. And the bands of
+Syria came no more into the land of Israel.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§89. Elisha's Last Counsel</b> (II Kings 13:14-19)</p>
+
+<p>Now Elisha was fallen sick of the sickness of which
+he died: and Joash the king of Israel came down
+unto him, and wept over him, and said, "My father,
+my father, the chariots of Israel and the horsemen
+thereof!"</p>
+
+<p>And Elisha said unto him, "Take bow and
+arrows." And he took unto him bow and arrows.</p>
+
+<p>And he said to the king of Israel, "Put thine hand
+upon the bow." And he put his hand upon it.
+And Elisha laid his hands upon the king's hands.</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Open the window eastward."
+And he opened it.</p>
+
+<p>Then Elisha said, "Shoot." And he shot.</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "The Lord's arrow of victory, even
+the arrow of victory over Syria: for thou shalt smite
+the Syrians in Aphek, till thou have consumed them."</p>
+
+<p>And he said, "Take the arrows." And he took
+them.</p>
+
+<p>And he said unto the king of Israel. "Smite upon
+the ground." And he smote thrice, and stayed.</p>
+
+<p>And the man of God was wroth with him, and
+said, "Thou shouldest have smitten five or six
+times; then hadst thou smitten Syria till thou hadst
+consumed it: whereas now thou shalt smite Syria
+but thrice."</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>325. Different kinds of men are needed for different times.
+Severe contests require vigorous men: times of trouble require
+patient men. When the king and all Israel were going
+into heathen worship, the strong, stern Elijah was the man to
+force them back to right conduct. But when the kingdom of
+Israel fell into great weakness and was beaten again and again
+by the Syrians, there was need of a prophet who could comfort
+and encourage the nation. The young man who had been
+trained by Elijah was fitted for this work. What was his
+name? He must have been a most kindly and helpful man
+as there are more wonderful stories gathered about his name
+than about any of the other heroes of Israel. We shall study
+four of these stories.</p>
+
+<p>326 (§86). This story shows us how harsh the old law of
+debt was. Why were the widow's two sons to be sold as
+slaves? She came to Elisha in her trouble, and he said that
+they would use whatever she had. What did she have?
+How was the debt paid?</p>
+
+<p>327 (§87A). Locate Syria on the map to the north of Israel.
+What is the capital? These people had been fighting against
+Israel and had taken many prisoners and made slaves of them.
+What was the name of the Syrian general? He was a great
+man, but he had the terrible disease of leprosy. It is a most
+frightful malady, slowly eating away the body. The general's
+wife had a little Hebrew slave. How did she get her? What
+did the little slave say to her mistress? Tell the story of
+Naaman's visit to Israel.</p>
+
+<p>328 (§87B). How was the king of Israel troubled, and what
+did Elisha say to him? Describe the grand visit of the general
+with all his servants to the simple home of the prophet. What
+message did Elisha send? Why was Naaman angry? What
+did his servants say to him? How did it all turn out?</p>
+
+<p>329 (§87C). What great change of feeling came over
+Naaman? What did he wish to give Elisha? The prophet
+did not want any present, because he wished Naaman to know
+that the Lord's prophet would help anyone in need without
+money.</p>
+
+<p>330 (§87D). What did Elisha's servant think of this conduct
+of his master? Tell the story of his greed and deceit. Notice
+how one sin leads to another and one lie leads to another.
+But the prophet understood the wicked servant. What terrible
+punishment came upon him?</p>
+
+<p>331 (§88A). How did Elisha help his people against the
+plans of the Syrians? What did the Syrian king think of it?
+It seems evident that Elisha was the counselor of Israel.
+Locate Dothan on the map.</p>
+
+<p>332 (§88B). Tell the story of the two armies, one of them
+visible and the other invisible. This is a beautiful way of
+telling of God's power and care that are always over us. How
+did Elisha lead the army to Samaria?</p>
+
+<p>333 (§88C). How did the Syrians find that they were in the
+capital of their enemies? What did the king want to do to
+them? How did Elisha say they should be treated? Do you
+remember that several times we have called the heroes "magnanimous"?
+Elisha has this character. After all, forgiveness
+is the best revenge.</p>
+
+<p>334 (§89). At last the old prophet who had been the counselor
+of several kings was about to die. Who visited him?
+Notice he used the same words of him that Elisha had used
+of Elijah. What did it mean? Tell the story of the bow
+and arrows. The king was not a strong character and he
+showed it in this little bit of play. Elisha meant to tell him
+that great things in the world can only be done by determination.
+In the Civil War our great generals did not give
+up after three endeavors. Grant said "I propose to fight it
+out on this line, if ..." (finish the quotation), and Lee
+held together his gallant army to the last limit of endurance.</p><br>
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>Tell your parents, or some friend, what you have learned
+about Elisha, and explain that you are to write a short
+story in your notebook on "A Hero of Helpfulness." Ask
+them if they can tell you about some good doctor who was
+unselfish and kindly and gave himself for the good of others.
+Or perhaps they know some pastor who was always seeking
+to help his people and cared very little what good
+things he got himself. Or they may be able to tell you of
+a good woman who spent her life in doing good to people.
+She would be "A Heroine of Helpfulness." Find out some
+strong character who did good unselfishly like Elisha, and
+write the story for the next class.</p>
+
+
+<br>
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2>PATRIOTS IN TROUBLOUS TIMES</h2>
+
+
+
+
+<div class="center">
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="">
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXXI_NEHEMIAH_THE_BUILDER">XXXI.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Nehemiah, the Builder</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXXII_ESTHER_THE_PATRIOT_QUEEN">XXXII.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Esther, the Patriot Queen</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXXIII_JUDAS_THE_HAMMERER">XXXIII.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Judas, the Hammerer</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXXIV_DANIEL_AND_HIS_FRIENDS">XXXIV.</a> </td><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Daniel and His Friends</span></td></tr>
+</table></div><br>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="XXXI_NEHEMIAH_THE_BUILDER" id="XXXI_NEHEMIAH_THE_BUILDER"></a>XXXI. NEHEMIAH, THE BUILDER</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+<p class="center"><b>§90. Nehemiah's Plans</b> (Neh. 1:1-4, 11.
+2:1-9, 11-13, 16-18)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. NEHEMIAH'S SORROW FOR JERUSALEM</p>
+
+
+<p>Now it came to pass as I was in Shushan the
+palace, that Hanani, one of my brethren, came, he
+and certain men out of Judah; and I asked them
+concerning the Jews that had escaped, which were
+left of the captivity, and concerning Jerusalem. And
+they said unto me, "The remnant that are left of
+the captivity there in the province are in great affliction
+and reproach: the wall of Jerusalem also is broken
+down, and the gates thereof are burned with fire."</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass, when I heard these words,
+that I sat down and wept, and mourned certain days;
+and I fasted and prayed before the God of heaven,
+and said, "O Lord, I beseech thee, let now thine
+ear be attentive to the prayer of thy servant, and to
+the prayer of thy servants, who delight to fear thy
+name: and prosper, I pray thee, thy servant this
+day, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man."
+(Now I was cupbearer to the king.)</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE KING'S PERMISSION TO REBUILD</p>
+
+<p>And it came to pass in the month Nisan, in the
+twentieth year of Artaxerxes the king, when wine
+was before him, that I took up the wine, and gave
+it unto the king. Now I had not been before-time
+sad in his presence. And the king said unto me,
+"Why is thy countenance sad, seeing thou art not
+sick? this is nothing else but sorrow of heart."</p>
+
+<p>Then I was very sore afraid. And I said unto the
+king, "Let the king live for ever: why should not
+my countenance be sad, when the city, the place of
+my father's sepulchres, lieth waste, and the gates
+thereof are consumed with fire?"</p>
+
+<p>Then the king said unto me, "For what dost thou
+make request?"</p>
+
+<p>So I prayed to the God of heaven. And I said
+unto the king, "If it please the king, and if thy
+servant have found favor in thy sight, that thou
+wouldest send me unto Judah, unto the city of my
+fathers' sepulchres, that I may build it."</p>
+
+<p>And the king said unto me, (the queen also sitting
+by him,) "For how long shall thy journey be? and
+when wilt thou return?"</p>
+
+<p>So it pleased the king to send me; and I set him
+a time. Moreover I said unto the king, "If it
+please the king, let letters be given me to the governors
+beyond the river, that they may let me pass
+through till I come unto Judah; and a letter unto
+Asaph the keeper of the king's forest, that he may
+give me timber to make beams for the gates of the
+castle, and for the wall of the city, and for the house
+that I shall enter into."</p>
+
+<p>And the king granted me, according to the good
+hand of my God upon me.</p><br>
+
+<p class="center">C. NEHEMIAH'S ARRIVAL IN JERUSALEM</p>
+
+<p>Then I came to the governors beyond the river,
+and gave them the king's letters. Now the king
+had sent with me captains of the army and horsemen.
+So I came to Jerusalem, and was there three
+days.</p>
+
+<p>And I arose in the night, I and some few men
+with me; neither told I any man what my God put
+into my heart to do for Jerusalem: neither was there
+any beast with me, save the beast that I rode upon.
+And I went out by night by the valley gate, and
+viewed the walls of Jerusalem, which were broken
+down, and the gates thereof were consumed with fire.
+And the rulers knew not whither I went, or what I did;
+neither had I as yet told it to the Jews, nor to the
+priests, nor to the nobles, nor to the rulers, nor to
+the rest that did the work.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">D. THE BEGINNING OF THE WORK</p>
+
+<p>Then said I unto them, "Ye see the evil case that we
+are in, how Jerusalem lieth waste, and the gates thereof
+are burned with fire: come and let us build up the
+wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more a reproach."
+And I told them of the hand of my God which was
+good upon me; as also of the king's words that he
+had spoken unto me.</p>
+
+<p>And they said, "Let us rise up and build." So
+they strengthened their hands for the good work.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§91. Nehemiah's Difficulties</b> (Neh. 4:1-4, 6-9,
+16-20; 6:1-9)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. SCORNFUL JEALOUSY OF THE ENEMIES</p>
+
+<p>But it came to pass that, when Sanballat heard that
+we builded the wall, he was wroth, and took great
+indignation, and mocked the Jews. And he spake
+before his brethren and the army of Samaria, and
+said, "What do these feeble Jews? will they fortify
+themselves? will they sacrifice? will they make an
+end in a day? will they revive the stones out of the
+heaps of rubbish, seeing they are burned?"</p>
+
+<p>Now Tobiah the Ammonite was by him, and he
+said, "Even that which they build, if a fox go up,
+he shall break down their stone wall."</p>
+
+<p>"Hear, O our God; for we are despised: and turn
+back their reproach upon their own head; for they
+have provoked thee to anger before the builders."</p>
+
+<p>So we built the wall; and all the wall was joined
+together unto half the height thereof: for the people
+had a mind to work.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. CONSPIRACY OF THE ENEMIES</p>
+
+<p>But it came to pass that, when Sanballat, and
+Tobiah, and the Arabians, and the Ammonites, and
+the Ashdodites, heard that the repairing of the walls
+of Jerusalem went forward, and that the breaches
+began to be stopped, that they were very wroth;
+and they conspired all of them together to come and
+fight against Jerusalem, and to cause confusion
+therein. But we made our prayer unto our God,
+and set a watch against them day and night, because
+of them. And it came to pass from that time forth,
+that half of my servants wrought in the work, and
+half of them held the spears, the shields, and the
+bows, and the coats of mail; and the rulers were
+behind all the house of Judah. They that builded
+the wall and they that bore burdens laded themselves,
+every one with one of his hands wrought in
+the work, and with the other held his weapon; and
+the builders, every one had his sword girded by his
+side, and so builded. And he that sounded the
+trumpet was by me. And I said unto the nobles,
+and to the rulers and to the rest of the people,
+"The work is great and large, and we are separated
+upon the wall, one far from another: in what place
+soever ye hear the sound of the trumpet, resort ye
+thither unto us; our God shall fight for us."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. PLOTS OF THE ENEMIES</p>
+
+<p>Now it came to pass, when it was reported to
+Sanballat and Tobiah, and to Geshem the Arabian,
+and unto the rest of our enemies, that I had builded
+the wall, and that there was no breach left therein
+(though even unto that time I had not set up the
+doors in the gates); that Sanballat and Geshem sent
+unto me, saying, "Come, let us meet together in
+one of the villages in the plain of Ono."</p>
+
+<p>But they thought to do me mischief. And I sent
+messengers unto them, saying, "I am doing a great
+work, so that I cannot come down: why should the
+work cease, whilst I leave it, and come down to
+you?"</p>
+
+<p>And they sent unto me four times after this sort;
+and I answered them after the same manner. Then
+sent Sanballat his servant unto me in like manner
+the fifth time with an open letter in his hand; wherein
+was written, "It is reported among the nations, and
+Gashmu saith it, that thou and the Jews think to
+rebel; for which cause thou buildest the wall: and
+thou wouldest be their king, according to these words.
+And thou hast also appointed prophets to preach of
+thee at Jerusalem, saying, 'There is a king in Judah':
+and now shall it be reported to the king according to
+these words. Come now therefore, and let us take
+counsel together."</p>
+
+<p>Then I sent unto him, saying, "There are no
+such things done as thou sayest, but thou feignest
+them out of thine own heart." For they all would
+have made us afraid, saying, "Their hands shall
+be weakened from the work, that it be not done."
+But now, O God, strengthen thou my hands.</p><br>
+
+<p class="center"><b>§92. Nehemiah's Success</b> (Neh. 6:15, 16; 7:1-3;
+12:27, 31, 38, 40, 43; Ps. 122:2,3)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE COMPLETION OF THE WALL</p>
+
+<p>So the wall was finished in the twenty and fifth
+day of the month Elul, in fifty and two days. And
+it came to pass, when all our enemies heard thereof,
+that all the heathen that were about us feared, and
+were much cast down in their own eyes: for they
+perceived that this work was wrought of our God.</p>
+
+<p>Now it came to pass, when the wall was built, and
+I had set up the doors, that I gave my brother
+Hanani, and Hananiah the governor of the castle,
+charge over Jerusalem: for he was a faithful man,
+and feared God above many. And I said unto
+them, "Let not the gates of Jerusalem be opened
+until the sun be hot; and while they stand on guard,
+let them shut the doors, and bar ye them: and
+appoint watches of the inhabitants of Jerusalem,
+every one in his watch, and every one to be over
+against his house."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE DEDICATION OF THE WALL</p>
+
+<p>And at the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem
+they sought the Levites out of all their places, to
+bring them to Jerusalem, to keep the dedication
+with gladness, both with thanksgivings, and with
+singing, with cymbals, psalteries, and with harps.
+Then I brought up the princes of Judah upon the
+wall, and appointed two great companies that gave
+thanks and went in procession; whereof one went on
+the right hand upon the wall eastward. And the
+other company of them that gave thanks went to
+meet them, and I after them, with the half of the
+people, upon the wall. And the two companies
+of them that gave thanks met in the house of God,
+and stood still, and the singers sang loud:</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Our feet are standing<br ></span>
+<span class="i0">Within thy gates, O Jerusalem,<br></span>
+<span class="i0">Jerusalem, that art builded<br ></span>
+<span class="i0">As a city that is compact together.<br></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>And they offered great sacrifices that day, and rejoiced;
+for God had made them rejoice with great
+joy; and the women also and the children rejoiced:
+so that the joy of Jerusalem was heard even afar off.</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>335. When a man has been prominent in a great undertaking
+it is very interesting to have his own account of it. General
+Grant was persuaded by friends to write a story of his own
+campaigns. It was called "Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S.
+Grant," the word "memoirs" meaning his own recollections
+of the events. Perhaps the first man who ever wrote such a
+personal story was the Governor of Judah, 2,300 years ago.
+The story we study here might be called "Personal Memoirs
+of Nehemiah."</p>
+
+<p>336. Nehemiah was a great patriot. It is easy to be a
+patriot when it simply means shouting for a great, prosperous
+country. But this man had never seen his own land. His
+great-grandparents had been taken away as prisoners, and
+the family had been one hundred and fifty years in the foreign
+land. But they had never forgotten their own beloved
+country. Nehemiah was rich, and in a high office in Persia,
+but he loved Jerusalem and longed to be able to serve her.
+Read (and learn) Ps. 137:5, 6, and you will see how the
+patriotic Jews in the East felt about their fatherland. Let
+us read this personal story of the patriot and see what he did.</p>
+
+<p>337 (§90A). Look at the map of the Semitic world and find
+Persia in the East. Find Susa, which is the same as Shushan.
+It is a long way from Jerusalem. But one day some of the
+Jews came from Jerusalem to the palace of the Persian king
+to tell the story of the sad condition of their city. What did
+they tell Nehemiah? How did the story affect him? What
+office did he hold? Look up the description of this office that
+we had some time ago (62).</p>
+
+<p>338 (§90B). Oriental kings are very arbitrary and the
+courtiers have to be most careful not to offend them. Note
+how cleverly Nehemiah managed, so that he obtained all that
+he wanted from the king. What did he obtain?</p>
+
+<p>339 (§90C). Look again at the map. What is the river
+that Nehemiah mentions? Recall the first journey that we
+followed from the East to Palestine (§§3, 5). Note that the
+Governor traveled with a body guard. What did he do first
+in Jerusalem?</p>
+
+<p>340 (§90D). The people who had lived so long in the
+ruined city were discouraged. How did Nehemiah cheer
+them? How did they respond?</p>
+
+<p>341 (§91A). There were jealous enemies all around Judah,
+so Nehemiah soon found himself in difficulties. First they
+despised his efforts. How did he meet this ridicule?</p>
+
+<p>342 (§91B). When the enemies could not stop him by
+laughing at him, what did they try? How did Nehemiah
+plan his work so as not to be surprised?</p>
+
+<p>343 (§91C). What plots did the enemies devise? How did
+Nehemiah meet the plots?</p>
+
+<p>344 (§92A). In the old times, cities had to have walls all
+around them to prevent attacks. How long did it take this
+vigorous governor to repair the fortifications? How did he
+plan to guard the city?</p>
+
+<p>345 (§92B). What help did Nehemiah feel that he had in
+all his work? "Dedication" means an offering to God.
+They gave the city to God. Tell the story of this joyful
+patriotic service. Learn the song that they sang.</p><br>
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>You will probably find that people to-day are opposed
+in their determination to do what is right in just the same
+three ways that Nehemiah suffered. Keep a good lookout
+during the week and see if you can find anyone, young or
+old, trying to do some right thing while somebody else laughs,
+or while somebody tries to stop it by force, or while somebody
+tells falsehoods about it. If you find any hero who
+goes straight on in right-doing in spite of these oppositions,
+give a short account of it in your notebook.</p>
+
+<br>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="XXXII_ESTHER_THE_PATRIOT_QUEEN" id="XXXII_ESTHER_THE_PATRIOT_QUEEN"></a>XXXII. ESTHER, THE PATRIOT QUEEN</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+<p class="center"><b>§93. Esther Made Queen</b> (Esther 1:1, 5, 7, 9, 11-13, 15,
+16, 19, 21; 2:1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 15-18, 20)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. QUEEN VASHTI DEPOSED</p>
+
+
+<p>King Ahasuerus made a feast unto all the people
+that were present in Shushan the palace, both great
+and small, seven days in the court of the garden of
+the king's palace. And they gave them in vessels
+of gold royal wine in abundance, according to every
+man's pleasure.</p>
+
+<p>Also Vashti the queen made a feast for the women in
+the royal house. On the seventh day, when the heart
+of the king was merry with wine, he commanded
+to bring Vashti the queen before the king with the
+crown royal, to show the peoples and the princes her
+beauty: for she was fair to look on. But the queen
+Vashti refused to come at the king's commandment
+by the chamberlains: therefore was the king very
+wroth, and his anger burned in him.</p>
+
+<p>Then the king said to the wise men, "What shall
+we do unto the queen Vashti according to law, because
+she hath not done the bidding of the king?"</p>
+
+<p>And Memucan answered before the king and the
+princes, "If it please the king, let there go forth a
+royal commandment from him, and let it be written
+among the laws of the Persians and the Medes, that
+it be not altered, that Vashti come no more before
+king Ahasuerus; and let the king give her royal
+estate unto another that is better than she."</p>
+
+<p>And the saying pleased the king and the princes;
+and the king did according to the word of Memucan.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE SELECTION OF ESTHER</p>
+
+<p>After these things, when the wrath of king Ahasuerus
+was pacified, he remembered Vashti, and
+what she had done, and what was decreed against
+her. Then said the king's servants that ministered
+unto him, "Let there be fair young maidens sought
+for the king in all his kingdom; and let the maiden
+which pleaseth the king be queen instead of Vashti."
+And the thing pleased the king; and he did so.</p>
+
+<p>There was a certain Jew, whose name was Mordecai,
+who had brought up Esther, his uncle's
+daughter: for she had neither father nor mother,
+and the maiden was fair and beautiful; and when
+her father and mother were dead, Mordecai took
+her for his own daughter. So it came to pass, when
+the king's commandment and his decree was heard,
+and when many maidens were gathered together unto
+Shushan the palace, that Esther was taken into the
+king's house.</p>
+
+<p>Now when the turn of Esther was come to go in
+unto the king, she required nothing but what the
+keeper of the women appointed. And Esther obtained
+favor in the sight of all them that looked
+upon her. So Esther was taken unto king Ahasuerus
+into his house royal in the tenth month, in
+the seventh year of his reign. And the king loved
+Esther above all the women, and she obtained grace
+and favor in his sight more than all the virgins; so
+that he set the royal crown upon her head, and made
+her queen instead of Vashti.</p>
+
+<p>Then the king made a great feast unto all his
+princes and his servants, even Esther's feast; and
+he gave gifts, according to the bounty of the king.</p>
+
+<p>Esther had not yet showed her kindred nor her
+people; as Mordecai had charged her: for Esther
+did the commandment of Mordecai, like as when she
+was brought up with him.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§94. The Plot against the Jews</b> (Esther 3:1, 2, 5, 6,
+8-13; 4:1, 2, 4, 5, 8, 11-17)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE ENMITY OF HAMAN</p>
+
+<p>After these things did king Ahasuerus promote
+Haman, and advanced him, and set his seat above
+all the princes that were with him. And all the
+king's servants, that were in the king's gate, bowed
+down, and did reverence to Haman: for the king
+had so commanded concerning him. But Mordecai
+bowed not down, nor did him reverence.</p>
+
+<p>And when Haman saw that Mordecai bowed not
+down, nor did him reverence, then was Haman full
+of wrath. But he thought scorn to lay hands on
+Mordecai alone; for they had showed him the people
+of Mordecai: wherefore Haman sought to destroy
+all the Jews that were throughout the whole kingdom
+of Ahasuerus, even the people of Mordecai.</p>
+
+<p>And Haman said unto king Ahasuerus, "There
+is a certain people scattered abroad and dispersed
+among the peoples in all the provinces of thy kingdom;
+and their laws are diverse from those of every
+people; neither keep they the king's laws: therefore
+it is not for the king's profit to suffer them. If it
+please the king, let it be written that they be destroyed."</p>
+
+<p>And the king took his ring from his hand and
+gave it unto Haman, and said, "The people is given
+to thee to do with them as it seemeth good to thee."</p>
+
+<p>Then were the king's scribes called, and letters
+were sent by posts into all the king's provinces, to
+destroy, to slay, and to cause to perish, all Jews,
+both young and old, little children and women, in
+one day, even upon the thirteenth day of the twelfth
+month, which is the month Adar, and to take the
+spoil of them for a prey.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. MORDECAI'S APPEAL TO ESTHER</p>
+
+<p>Now when Mordecai knew all that was done,
+Mordecai rent his clothes, and put on sackcloth with
+ashes, and went out into the midst of the city, and
+cried with a loud and a bitter cry: and he came even
+before the king's gate: for none might enter within
+the king's gate clothed with sackcloth. And in
+every province, whithersoever the king's commandment
+and his decree came, there was great mourning
+among the Jews, and fasting, and weeping, and
+wailing; and many lay in sackcloth and ashes.</p>
+
+<p>And Esther's maidens and her chamberlains came
+and told it her; and the queen was exceedingly
+grieved: and she sent her chamberlain to Mordecai
+to know what this was, and why it was.</p>
+
+<p>And Mordecai gave him a copy of the writing of
+the decree that was given out in Shushan to destroy
+them, to show it unto Esther, and to declare it unto
+her; and to charge her that she should go in unto
+the king, to make supplication unto him, and to
+make request before him, for her people.</p>
+
+<p>And he came and told Esther the words of Mordecai.
+Then Esther gave him a message unto Mordecai,
+saying: "All the king's servants, and the
+people of the king's provinces, do know, that whosoever,
+whether man or woman, shall come unto the
+king into the inner court, who is not called, there is
+one law for him, that he be put to death, except
+such to whom the king shall hold out the golden
+sceptre, that he may live: but I have not been called
+to come in unto the king these thirty days."</p>
+
+<p>And they told to Mordecai Esther's words. Then
+Mordecai bade them return answer unto Esther,
+"Think not with thyself that thou shalt escape in
+the king's house, more than all the Jews. For if
+thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then
+shall relief and deliverance arise to the Jews from
+another place, but thou and thy father's house shall
+perish: and who knoweth whether thou art not
+come to the kingdom for such a time as this?"</p>
+
+<p>Then Esther bade them return answer unto Mordecai,
+"Go, gather together all the Jews that are
+present in Shushan, and fast ye for me, and neither
+eat nor drink three days, night or day: I also and
+my maidens will fast in like manner; and so will
+I go in unto the king, which is not according to the
+law: and if I perish, I perish."</p>
+
+<p>So Mordecai went his way, and did according to
+all that Esther had commanded him.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§95. Esther's Brave Intercession</b> (Esther 5:1-5; 7:2-6,
+9, 10; 8:1-8, 9, 11, 15-17; 9:1, 2, 5, 20-23, 32)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE DANGEROUS INTERVIEW</p>
+
+<p>Now it came to pass on the third day, that Esther
+put on her royal apparel, and stood in the inner
+court of the king's house, over against the king's
+house: and the king sat upon his royal throne in
+the royal house, over against the entrance of the
+house. And it was so, when the king saw Esther
+the queen standing in the court, that she obtained
+favor in his sight: and the king held out to Esther
+the golden sceptre that was in his hand. So Esther
+drew near, and touched the top of the sceptre. Then
+said the king unto her, "What wilt thou, queen
+Esther? and what is thy request? it shall be given
+thee even to the half of <a name="Esther" id="Esther"></a>the kingdom."</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 450px;">
+<img src="images/il377.jpg" width="450" height="204" alt="From Price, The Monuments and the Old Testament
+" title="" >
+<span class="caption">From Price, "The Monuments and the Old Testament"</span>
+</div>
+<p class="ccaption">ESTHER'S PALACE</p>
+
+<p>And Esther said, "If it seem good unto the king,
+let the king and Haman come this day unto the
+banquet that I have prepared for him."</p>
+
+<p>Then the king said, "Cause Haman to make
+haste, that it may be done as Esther hath said."</p>
+
+<p>So the king and Haman came to the banquet
+that Esther had prepared. And the king said unto
+Esther, "What is thy petition, queen Esther? and
+it shall be granted thee: and what is thy request?
+even to the half of the kingdom it shall be performed."</p>
+
+<p>Then Esther the queen answered and said, "If
+I have found favor in thy sight, O king, and if it
+please the king, let my life be given me at my petition,
+and my people at my request: for we are
+sold, I and my people, to be destroyed, to be slain,
+and to perish."</p>
+
+<p>Then spake the king Ahasuerus and said unto
+Esther the queen, "Who is he, and where is he,
+that durst presume in his heart to do so?"</p>
+
+<p>And Esther said, "An adversary and an enemy,
+even this wicked Haman."</p>
+
+<p>Then Haman was afraid before the king and the
+queen. Then said one of the chamberlains that
+were before the king, "Behold also, the gallows
+fifty cubits high, which Haman hath made for Mordecai
+standeth in the house of Haman."</p>
+
+<p>And the king said, "Hang him thereon."</p>
+
+<p>So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had
+prepared for Mordecai. Then was the king's
+wrath pacified.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE DELIVERANCE OF THE JEWS</p>
+
+<p>On that day did the king Ahasuerus give the house
+of Haman the Jews' enemy unto Esther the queen.
+And Mordecai came before the king; for Esther had
+told what he was unto her. And the king took off
+his ring, which he had taken from Haman, and gave
+it unto Mordecai. And Esther set Mordecai over
+the house of Haman.</p>
+
+<p>And Esther spake yet again before the king, and
+fell down at his feet, and besought him with tears
+to put away the mischief of Haman and his device
+that he had devised against the Jews. Then the
+king held out to Esther the golden sceptre. So
+Esther arose, and stood before the king. And she
+said, "If it please the king, and if I have found
+favor in his sight, and the thing seem right before
+the king, and I be pleasing in his eyes, let it be
+written to reverse the letters devised by Haman
+which he wrote to destroy the Jews which are in all
+the king's provinces: for how can I endure to see the
+evil that shall come unto my people? or how can I
+endure to see the destruction of my kindred?"</p>
+
+<p>Then the king Ahasuerus said unto Esther the
+queen and to Mordecai the Jew, "Behold, I have
+given Esther the house of Haman, and him they have
+hanged upon the gallows, because he laid his hand
+upon the Jews. Write ye also to the Jews, as it
+liketh you, in the king's name, and seal it with the
+king's ring: for the writing which is written in the
+king's name, and sealed with the king's ring, may
+no man reverse."</p>
+
+<p>Then were the king's scribes called at that time,
+and it was written according to all that Mordecai
+commanded unto the Jews, and to the satraps, and
+the governors and princes of the provinces, that the
+king granted the Jews which were in every city to
+gather themselves together, and to stand for their
+life, to destroy, to slay, and to cause to perish, all
+the power of the people and province that would
+assault them, their little ones and women, and to
+take the spoil of them for a prey.</p>
+
+<p>And Mordecai went forth from the presence of the
+king in royal apparel of blue and white, and with
+a great crown of gold, and with a robe of fine linen
+and purple: and the city of Shushan shouted and
+was glad. The Jews had light and gladness, and
+joy and honor. And in every province, and in
+every city, whithersoever the king's commandment
+and his decree came, the Jews had gladness and joy,
+a feast and a good day. And many from among the
+peoples of the land became Jews; for the fear of the
+Jews was fallen upon them.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. THE FEAST OF THE DELIVERANCE</p>
+
+<p>Now in the twelfth month, which is the month
+Adar, on the thirteenth day of the same, when the
+king's commandment and his decree drew near to
+be put in execution, in the day that the enemies
+of the Jews hoped to have rule over them; whereas
+it was turned to the contrary, that the Jews had rule
+over them that hated them; the Jews gathered
+themselves together in their cities throughout all the
+provinces of the king Ahasuerus, to lay hand on
+such as sought their hurt: and no man could withstand
+them; for the fear of them was fallen upon
+all the peoples. And the Jews smote all their enemies
+with the stroke of the sword, and with slaughter
+and destruction, and did what they would unto them
+that hated them.</p>
+
+<p>And Mordecai wrote letters unto all the Jews that
+were in all the provinces of the king Ahasuerus, both
+nigh and far, to enjoin them that they should keep
+the fourteenth day of the month Adar, and the
+fifteenth day of the same, yearly, as the days wherein
+the Jews had rest from their enemies, and the month
+which was turned unto them from sorrow to gladness,
+and from mourning into a good day: that they
+should make them days of feasting and gladness,
+and of sending portions one to another, and gifts
+to the poor. And the Jews undertook to do as they
+had begun, and as Mordecai had written unto them.</p>
+
+<p>And the commandment of Esther confirmed these
+matters of the feast of Purim; and it was written
+in the book.</p><br>
+
+
+<h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>346. Among the stories of their heroes the Jews preserved
+several stories of heroines, and none is more striking than that
+of the patriot queen, whose extraordinary bravery saved her
+people. There are many kinds of bravery, some in doing,
+some in suffering. Let us try to get a correct judgment of
+Esther.</p>
+
+<p>347 (§93A). The first part of the story shows how Esther
+became the queen of Persia. What kind of feast did the
+king give? What command did he give to Vashti? Let us
+remember that ladies in the East do not often appear in public
+before men. How did it happen that Vashti was deposed?</p>
+
+<p>348 (§93B). What plan was proposed to secure a most
+beautiful wife for the king? Who was Mordecai? How did
+he get Esther introduced to the king? How did she become
+queen? Note that her cousin had advised her not to let it be
+known that she was a Jewess, because there was a prejudice
+against her nation.</p>
+
+<p>349 (§94A). The villain of the story is Haman. What high
+place did he hold? How did Mordecai offend him? What
+revenge did he plan?</p>
+
+<p>350 (§94B). Mordecai knew that when a royal decree had
+been issued it could not be changed. How did he behave?
+What did he request Esther to do?</p>
+
+<p>351 (§94B). Notice the strict rule of the Persian court.
+No one could see the king unless summoned by him. How
+different from our democratic government, where any citizen
+may at least ask permission to see the president! But Mordecai
+urged Esther to risk her life to save her people. Now
+see how brave she was. She might have said, "No one
+knows that I am a Jewess. I am quite safe as the king's
+wife. I will keep silent. It would be folly to risk my life
+by offending the king." But she decided to risk her great
+place with its wealth and luxury, and also her life, because
+her duty to her people required it. What answer did she
+send to Mordecai?</p>
+
+<p>352 (§95A). Describe Esther's approach to the king. The
+tyrant happened to be in a good humor, so she was safe.
+What invitation did she extend?</p>
+
+<p>353 (§95A). Haman was delighted with the great honor
+the queen did him. He had no idea that his enemy, whom
+he had planned to hang on a high gallows, was the queen's
+cousin. How did it all turn out?</p>
+
+<p>354 (§95B). How was Mordecai promoted? We must remember
+that although Haman was dead, the king's decree
+for the slaughter of the Jews could not be changed. But permission
+could be given to the Jews to defend themselves on
+the day of the massacre. How was this arranged?</p>
+
+<p>355 (§95C). Of course this is an old story of times when
+people took fierce revenge, so we learn that the Jews slaughtered
+their enemies. But it was a great deliverance, and
+Mordecai and Esther planned that a great feast should be
+kept to celebrate it. What kind of feast was it?</p>
+
+<p>356 (§95C). The Jews still keep the Feast of Purim. It
+is one of the merriest times they have. They have all kinds of
+fun and give presents, as we do at Christmas. And they still
+honor the beautiful queen, who stood with her own people
+in their peril, and saved them by her wit and courage.</p><br>
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>Recall Mordecai's suggestion to Esther (p. 356). In the
+days of chivalry knights had a motto: <i>Noblesse oblige</i>
+meaning that those of noble rank had an obligation to serve
+those in need. Any strength or good we have is not for our
+own use, but to help others with. Take this as your motto.
+Draw a banner and inscribe in colors: <i>Noblesse oblige</i>.</p>
+
+<br>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="XXXIII_JUDAS_THE_HAMMERER" id="XXXIII_JUDAS_THE_HAMMERER"></a>XXXIII. JUDAS, THE HAMMERER</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+<p class="center"><b>§96. The Tyrant and the Heroes</b> (I Macc. 1:41-50,
+54-57; 2:1-7, 14, 15, 17-25, 27, 28, 44,
+45, 48-50, 64-66, 70)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE TYRANNY OF ANTIOCHUS</p>
+
+
+<p>Antiochus, king of Syria, who had rule over many
+peoples and over the Jews, wrote to his whole kingdom,
+that all should be one people, and that each
+should forsake his own laws. And all the nations
+agreed according to the word of the king, and many
+of Israel consented to his worship, and sacrificed to
+the idols, and profaned the sabbath. And the king
+sent letters by the hand of messengers unto Jerusalem
+and the cities of Judah, that they should follow
+laws strange to the land, and should profane the
+sabbaths and feasts, and pollute the sanctuary; that
+they should build altars, and temples for idols, and
+should sacrifice swine's flesh and unclean beasts.
+And whosoever shall not do according to the word
+of the king, he shall die.</p>
+
+<p>And they built an abomination of desolation
+upon the altar, and in the cities of Judah they
+built idol altars. And they rent in pieces the
+books of the law which they found, and set them on
+fire. And wheresoever was found with any a book
+of the covenant, and if any consented to the law,
+the king's sentence delivered him to death.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE OLD HERO AND HIS FIVE SONS</p>
+
+<p>In those days rose up Mattathias the priest, who
+dwelt at Modin. And he had five sons, John, Simon,
+Judas who was called Maccabæus (the Hammerer),
+Eleazar, Jonathan. And he saw the blasphemies
+that were committed in Judah and in Jerusalem, and
+he said. "Woe is me! wherefore was I born to see
+the destruction of my people and of the holy city?
+Wherefore should we live any longer?"</p>
+
+<p>And Mattathias and his sons rent their clothes,
+and put on sackcloth, and mourned exceedingly.</p>
+
+<p>And the king's officers came into the city Modin
+to sacrifice. And they spake to Mattathias saying,
+"Thou art a ruler and an honorable and great man
+in this city, and strengthened with sons and brethren;
+now therefore come thou first and do the commandment
+of the king, as all the nations have done, and
+the men of Judah, and they that remain in Jerusalem:
+and thou and thy house shall be in the number
+of the king's Friends, and thou and thy sons
+shall be honored with silver and gold and many
+gifts."</p>
+
+<p>And Mattathias answered and said with a loud
+voice, "If all the nations that are in the king's
+dominion hearken unto him, to fall away each one
+from the worship of his fathers, and have made
+choice to follow his commandments, yet will I and
+my sons and my brethren walk in the covenant of
+our fathers. We will not hearken to the king's
+words, to go aside from our worship, on the right
+hand, or on the left."</p>
+
+<p>And when he had left speaking these words, there
+came a Jew in the sight of all to sacrifice on the
+altar which was at Modin, according to the king's
+commandment. And Mattathias saw it, and his
+zeal was kindled, and he showed forth his wrath,
+and ran and slew him upon the altar. And the
+king's officer, who compelled men to sacrifice, he
+killed at that time, and pulled down the altar. And
+he cried with a loud voice, "Whosoever is zealous
+for the law, let him come forth after me."</p>
+
+<p>And Mattathias and his sons fled into the mountains,
+and they mustered a host and smote sinners
+in their anger, and they went round about, and
+pulled down the altars, and they rescued the law
+out of the hand of the Gentiles.</p>
+
+<p>And the days of Mattathias drew near that he
+should die, and he said unto his sons, "My children,
+be ye zealous for the law, and give your lives for the
+covenant of your fathers. Be strong and show
+yourselves men in behalf of the law; for therein
+shall ye obtain glory. And, behold, Simon your
+brother, I know that he is a man of counsel; give ear
+unto him alway: he shall be a father unto you.
+And Judas Maccabæus, he hath been strong and
+mighty from his youth: he shall be your captain,
+and shall fight the battle of the people."</p>
+
+<p>And he blessed them, and was gathered to his
+fathers. And all Israel made great lamentation for
+him.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§97. The Great Deliverance</b> (I Macc. 3:1, 2, 13, 15-23,
+25, 34, 35; 4:14, 25, 28, 34, 36-40, 42, 43,
+47, 48, 53-56, 58; 9:20-22)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE VICTORIES OF JUDAS</p>
+
+<p>And his son Judas, who was called Maccabæus,
+rose up in his stead. And all his brethren helped
+him, and so did all they that clave unto his father.
+And they fought with gladness the battle of Israel.</p>
+
+<p>And Seron, the commander of the host of Syria,
+heard that Judas had gathered a congregation of
+faithful men with him, and of such as went out to
+war. And he went up with a mighty army of the
+ungodly to take vengeance on the children of Israel.</p>
+
+<p>And Judas went forth to meet him with a small
+company. But when they saw the army coming to
+meet them they said unto Judas, "What? shall we
+be able, being a small company, to fight against so
+great and strong a multitude? And we for our part
+are faint, having tasted no food this day."</p>
+
+<p>And Judas said, "It is an easy thing for many
+to be shut up in the hands of a few; and with heaven
+it is all one to save by many or by few: for victory
+in battle standeth not in the multitude of a host;
+but strength is from heaven. They come to destroy
+us and our wives and our children: but we fight for
+our lives and our laws. Be ye not afraid of them."</p>
+
+<p>Now when he had left off speaking, he leapt suddenly
+upon them, and Seron and his army were discomfited
+before him.</p>
+
+<p>And the fear of Judas and his brethren, and the
+dread of them, began to fall upon the nations round
+about them. And king Antiochus gave Lysias half
+of his forces, and the elephants, and gave him charge
+to destroy the strength of Israel, and the remnant
+of Jerusalem. And Lysias chose three mighty men;
+and with them he sent forty thousand footmen, and
+seven thousand horse, to go into the land of Judah,
+and to destroy it. And Judas joined battle, and the
+Gentiles were discomfited. And Israel had a great
+deliverance that day.</p>
+
+<p>And the next year Lysias gathered together sixty
+thousand chosen footmen, and five thousand horse.
+And Judas met them with ten thousand men. And
+they joined battle; and there fell of the army of
+Lysias about five thousand men.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE TEMPLE CLEANSED</p>
+
+<p>Judas and his brethren said, "Behold, our enemies
+are discomfited; let us go up to cleanse the
+holy place and to dedicate it afresh."</p>
+
+<p>And all the army was gathered together, and they
+went up unto mount Zion. And they saw the sanctuary
+laid desolate, and the altar profaned and the
+gates burned up, and shrubs growing in the court
+as in a forest, and the priests' chambers pulled down.
+And they rent their clothes, and made great lamentation,
+and put ashes upon their heads, and fell on
+their faces to the ground, and cried toward heaven.</p>
+
+<p>Then Judas chose blameless priests, and they
+cleansed the holy place. And they built a new altar
+after the fashion of the former; and they built the
+holy place, and the inner parts of the house; and they
+hallowed the courts.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. THE OLD WORSHIP RESTORED</p>
+
+<p>And they offered sacrifice according to the law
+upon the new altar of burnt offerings which they had
+made. At what time and on what day the Gentiles
+had profaned it, even on that day was it dedicated
+afresh, with songs and harps and lutes, and with
+cymbals. And all the people fell upon their faces,
+and worshipped, and gave praise unto heaven, which
+had given them good success. And they kept the
+dedication of the altar eight days, and offered burnt
+offerings with gladness, and sacrificed a sacrifice of
+deliverance and praise. And there was exceeding
+great gladness among the people, and the reproach
+of the Gentiles was turned away.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">D. THE DEATH OF JUDAS</p>
+
+<p>And when Judas died all Israel made great lamentation
+for him, and mourned many days, and said,
+"How is the mighty fallen, the Savior of Israel!"</p>
+
+<p>And the rest of the acts of Judas, and his wars,
+and the valiant deeds which he did, and his greatness,
+they are not written; for they were exceeding
+many.</p>
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>357. Three hundred years ago King Philip II of Spain was
+the most powerful king in Europe. He was a bitter tyrant,
+determined to rule his people according to his own will. He
+was a Roman Catholic and hated all Protestants. The little
+country of Holland was part of his territory and he ordered
+the people to become Roman Catholics. They refused, for
+they were loyal to their own religion. He sent against them a
+great army under the command of a brutal general, Alva,
+and all Europe thought that the little people would be crushed.
+But they fought for their faith and their homes so valiantly
+that the tyrant was compelled to withdraw. It is almost
+impossible to destroy patriots.</p>
+
+<p>358. We always admire the heroism of those who resist
+tyrants. The Jews were often bitterly persecuted and they
+had many a hero who defended them. One of the greatest
+of all their heroes was Judas, who was called the Maccabee,
+or the Hammerer. With a great faith in God and a wonderful
+courage he defeated large armies. His story is not found in
+the Old Testament, but in another collection of Hebrew books
+called "The Apocrypha." The book is I Maccabees.</p>
+
+<p>359 (§96A). At the time of this story the Jews were under
+the rule of Antiochus, the king of Syria. What was the wish
+of this tyrant? What insults were offered to the religion of
+the Jews?</p>
+
+<p>360 (§96B). An old priest was living in one of the villages
+of Judah with his five noble sons. They were very much
+distressed about the sad state of their people: but what could
+they do against the strong king? At last the king's officers
+came to this village to order the heathen sacrifices. What did
+they demand of Mattathias, and what did they promise him?
+How did the old priest answer? What followed?</p>
+
+<p>361 (§96B). The priest and his sons went to the hills, where
+they could find refuge in the caves. Who joined them?
+What did they do? The fierce contest was too severe for the
+old man, and he soon fell ill. What were his last words to his
+sons?</p>
+
+<p>362 (§97A). Who took the lead after the death of the old
+priest? Note that there was no jealousy among those noble
+brothers. Tell the story of the first victory over the Syrians.</p>
+
+<p>363 (§97A). The king was astonished that his forces should
+be defeated by the little army of patriots. Great preparations
+to crush the Jews were made. Note that elephants with
+armed men were employed. What was the result of the
+campaigns?</p>
+
+<p>364 (§97B). At last the victories were so conclusive that
+they thought it safe to go to Jerusalem and clean out the
+abominations from the temple. In what condition did they
+find the temple? How did it affect them? How did Judas
+purify it?</p>
+
+<p>365 (§97C). Note how happy they were when they could
+worship once more in the house of God. Describe the celebration.</p>
+
+<p>366 (§97D). One can imagine how greatly the Jews would
+honor such a deliverer as Judas. How did they mourn for
+him at his death?</p><br>
+
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>Imagine yourself a boy (or girl) about thirteen years old,
+living in the village of Modin a little over two thousand years
+ago. Imagine that you were present on the day when the
+officers came to command the heathen sacrifice. Then
+imagine yourself writing a letter describing everything that
+took place that day. Write it in the first person to some friend
+who was absent. Describe the whole scene just as it lies in
+your mind, and tell what you think of the heroes.</p>
+
+
+<br>
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="XXXIV_DANIEL_AND_HIS_FRIENDS" id="XXXIV_DANIEL_AND_HIS_FRIENDS"></a>XXXIV. DANIEL AND HIS FRIENDS</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY</h3><br>
+
+<p class="center"><b>§98. The Training of the Young Men</b> (Daniel 1:1-19)</p>
+
+
+<p>When Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, came
+against Jerusalem and captured it, certain of the
+youths of the nobility were taken and given into the
+charge of the master of the king's servants that he
+should teach them the learning and the tongue of
+the Chaldeans. And the king appointed for them
+a daily portion of the king's meat, and of the wine
+which he drank, and that they should be nourished
+three years; that at the end thereof they might stand
+before the king. Now among these were, of the
+children of Judah, Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and
+Azariah. And the master gave names unto them:
+unto Daniel he gave the name of Belteshazzar; and
+to Hananiah, of Shadrach; and to Mishael, of Meshach;
+and to Azariah, of Abed-nego.</p>
+
+<p>But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would
+not defile himself with the king's meat, nor with the
+wine which he drank: therefore he requested of
+the master that he might not defile himself. Now
+God made Daniel to find favor and compassion in
+the sight of the master. And he said unto Daniel,
+"I fear my lord the king, who hath appointed your
+meat and your drink: for why should he see your
+faces worse liking than the youths which are of
+your own age? so should ye endanger my head with
+the king."</p>
+
+<p>Then said Daniel to the steward, whom the master
+had appointed over them, "Prove thy servants,
+I beseech thee, ten days; and let them give us
+vegetables to eat, and water to drink. Then let our
+countenances be looked upon before thee, and the
+countenance of the youths that eat of the king's
+meat; and as thou seest, deal with thy servants."</p>
+
+<p>So he hearkened unto them in this matter, and
+proved them ten days. And at the end of ten days
+their countenances appeared fairer, and they were
+fatter in flesh, than all the youths which did eat of
+the king's meat. So the steward took away their
+meat, and the wine that they should drink, and gave
+them vegetables. Now as for these four youths,
+God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning
+and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all
+visions and dreams. And at the end of the days
+which the king had appointed for bringing them in,
+the master brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar.
+And the king communed with them; and among
+them all was found none like Daniel, Hananiah,
+Mishael, and Azariah: therefore stood they before
+the king.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§99. The Golden Image and the Fiery Furnace</b>
+(Dan. 3:1, 2, 4-30)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE WORSHIP OF THE GOLDEN IMAGE</p>
+
+<p>Nebuchadnezzar the king made an image of gold,
+whose height was sixty cubits, and its breadth six
+cubits: he set it up in the plain of Dura in the
+province of Babylon. Then the king sent to gather
+together all the rulers of the provinces to come to
+the dedication of the image.</p>
+
+<p>Then the herald cried aloud, "To you it is commanded,
+O peoples, nations, and languages, that at
+what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp,
+sackbut, psaltery, dulcimer, and all kinds of music,
+ye fall down and worship the golden image that
+Nebuchadnezzar the king hath set up: and whoso
+falleth not down and worshippeth shall the same
+hour be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace."</p>
+
+<p>Therefore at that time, when all the peoples heard
+the music, they fell down and worshipped the golden
+image that Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. THE THREE JEWS DEFY THE KING</p>
+
+<p>Wherefore at that time certain Chaldeans came
+near, and brought accusation against the Jews, and
+said to Nebuchadnezzar, "O king, live for ever.
+Thou, O king, hast made a decree, that every man
+that shall hear the sound of the music, shall fall
+down and worship the golden image: and whoso
+falleth not down and worshippeth, shall be cast into
+the midst of a burning fiery furnace. There are certain
+Jews whom thou hast appointed over the affairs
+of the province of Babylon, Shadrach, Meshach, and
+Abed-nego; these men, O king, have not regarded
+thee: they serve not thy gods, nor worship the golden
+image which thou hast set up."</p>
+
+<p>Then Nebuchadnezzar in his rage and fury commanded
+to bring Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego.
+Then they brought these men before the
+king. Nebuchadnezzar said unto them, "Is it of
+purpose, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, that
+ye serve not my god, nor worship the golden image
+which I have set up? Now if ye be ready that at
+what time ye hear the sound of the music, ye fall
+down and worship the image which I have made,
+well: but if ye worship not, ye shall be cast the
+same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace;
+and who is that god that shall deliver you out of
+my hands?"</p>
+
+<p>Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego answered
+and said to the king, "O Nebuchadnezzar, we have
+no need to answer thee in this matter. If it be so,
+our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from
+the burning fiery furnace; and he will deliver us out
+of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto
+thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor
+worship the golden image which thou hast set
+up."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. DELIVERANCE FROM THE FIERY FURNACE</p>
+
+<p>Then was Nebuchadnezzar full of fury, and the
+form of his visage was changed against Shadrach,
+Meshach, and Abed-nego: therefore he spake, and
+commanded that they should heat the furnace seven
+times more than it was wont to be heated. And he
+commanded certain mighty men that were in his
+army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego,
+and to cast them into the burning fiery furnace.
+Then these men were bound in their hose, their
+tunics, and their mantles, and their other garments,
+and were cast into the midst of the burning fiery
+furnace. Therefore because the king's commandment
+was urgent, and the furnace exceeding hot,
+the flame of the fire slew those men that took up
+Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego. And these
+three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, fell
+down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace.</p>
+
+<p>Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonished
+and rose up in haste: he spake and said unto his
+counselors, "Did not we cast three men bound
+into the midst of the fire?"</p>
+
+<p>They answered and said unto the king, "True,
+O king."</p>
+
+<p>He answered and said, "Lo, I see four men
+loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have
+no hurt; and the aspect of the fourth is like a son
+of the gods."</p>
+
+<p>Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the mouth
+of the burning fiery furnace: he spake and said,
+"Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, ye servants
+of the Most High God, come forth, and come hither."</p>
+
+<p>Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, came
+forth out of the midst of the fire. And the satraps,
+the deputies, and the governors, and the king's counselors,
+being gathered together, saw these men, that
+the fire had no power upon their bodies, nor was the
+hair of their head singed, neither were their hose
+changed, nor had the smell of fire passed on them.</p>
+
+<p>Nebuchadnezzar spake and said, "Blessed be the
+God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, who
+hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that
+trusted in him, and have changed the king's word,
+and have yielded their bodies, that they might not
+serve nor worship any god, except their own God.
+Therefore I make a decree, that every people,
+nation, and language, which speak anything amiss
+against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego,
+shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be
+made a ruin: because there is no other god that is
+able to deliver after this sort."</p>
+
+<p>Then the king promoted Shadrach, Meshach,
+and Abed-nego, in the province of Babylon.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center"><b>§100. Daniel and the Lions</b> (Dan. 6:1-28)</p>
+
+<p class="center">A. THE DECREE OF KING DARIUS</p>
+
+<p>It pleased Darius to set over the kingdom a
+hundred and twenty satraps, which should be
+throughout the whole kingdom; and over them
+three presidents, of whom Daniel was one; that these
+satraps might give account unto them, and that the
+king should have no damage. Then this Daniel
+was distinguished above the presidents and the
+satraps, because an excellent spirit was in him; and
+the king thought to set him over the whole realm.</p>
+
+<p>Then the presidents and the satraps sought to
+find occasion against Daniel as touching the kingdom;
+but they could find none occasion nor fault;
+forasmuch as he was faithful, neither was there any
+error or fault found in him. Then said these men,
+"We shall not find any occasion against this Daniel,
+except we find it against him concerning the law of
+his God."</p>
+
+<p>Then these presidents and satraps assembled together
+to the king, and said thus unto him, "King
+Darius, live for ever. All the presidents of the
+kingdom, the deputies and the satraps, the counselors
+and the governors, have consulted together, to
+establish a royal statute, and to make a strong decree,
+that whosoever shall ask a petition of any god or
+man for thirty days, save of thee, O king, he shall
+be cast into the den of lions. Now, O king, establish
+the decree, and sign the writing, that it be not
+changed, according to the law of the Medes and
+Persians, which altereth not."</p>
+
+<p>Wherefore king Darius signed the writing and the
+decree.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">B. DANIEL AT HIS PRAYERS</p>
+
+<p>And when Daniel knew that the writing was
+signed, he went into his house (now his windows
+were open in his chamber toward Jerusalem); and
+he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and
+prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did
+aforetime. Then these men assembled together, and
+found Daniel making petition and supplication before
+his God.</p>
+
+<p>Then they came near, and spake before the king
+concerning the king's decree; "Hast thou not signed
+a decree, that every man that shall make petition
+unto any god or man within thirty days, save
+unto thee, O king, shall be cast into the den of
+lions?"</p>
+
+<p>The king answered and said, "The thing is true,
+according to the law of the Medes and Persians,
+which altereth not."</p>
+
+<p>Then answered they and said before the king,
+"That Daniel, which is of the children of the captivity
+of Judah, regardeth not thee, O king, nor the
+decree that thou hast signed, but maketh his petition
+three times a day."</p>
+
+<p>Then the king, when he heard these words, was
+sore displeased, and set his heart on Daniel to deliver
+him: and he labored till the going down of
+the sun to rescue him.</p>
+
+<p>Then these men assembled together unto the king
+and said unto the king, "Know, O king, that it is
+a law of the Medes and Persians, that no decree nor
+statute which the king establisheth may be changed."</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">C. DANIEL DELIVERED FROM THE LIONS</p>
+
+<p>Then the king commanded, and they brought
+Daniel, and cast him into the den of lions. Now
+the king spake and said unto Daniel, "Thy God
+whom thou servest continually, he will deliver thee."</p>
+
+<p>And a stone was brought, and laid upon the
+mouth of the den; and the king sealed it with his
+own signet, and with the signet of his lords; that
+nothing might be changed concerning Daniel.</p>
+
+<p>Then the king went to his palace, and passed the
+night fasting: neither were instruments of music
+brought before him: and his sleep fled from him.
+Then the king arose very early in the morning, and
+went in haste unto the den of lions. And when he
+came near unto the den to Daniel, he cried with a
+lamentable voice: the king spake and said to Daniel,
+"O Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God,
+whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee
+from the lions?"</p>
+
+<p>Then said Daniel unto the king, "O king, live
+for ever. My God hath sent his angel, and hath
+shut the lions' mouths, and they have not hurt me:
+forasmuch as before him innocency was found in
+me; and also before thee, O king, have I done no
+hurt."</p>
+
+<p>Then was the king exceeding glad, and commanded
+that they should take Daniel up out of the
+den. So Daniel was taken up out of the den, and
+no manner of hurt was found upon him, because he
+had trusted in his God.</p>
+
+<p>And the king commanded, and they brought those
+men which had accused Daniel, and they cast them
+into the den of lions, them, their children, and their
+wives; and the lions had the mastery of them, and
+break all their bones in pieces, or ever they came at
+the bottom of the den.</p><br>
+
+
+<p class="center">D. THE PROSPERITY OF DANIEL</p>
+
+<p>Then king Darius wrote unto all the peoples,
+nations, and languages, that dwell in all the earth;
+"Peace be multiplied unto you. I make a decree,
+that in all the dominion of my kingdom men tremble
+and fear before the God of Daniel: for he is the
+living God, and stedfast for ever, and his kingdom
+that which shall not be destroyed, and his dominion
+shall be even unto the end: he delivereth and rescueth,
+and he worked signs and wonders in heaven
+and in earth; who hath delivered Daniel from the
+power of the lions."</p>
+
+<p>So this Daniel prospered in the reign of Darius,
+and in the reign of Cyrus the Persian.</p>
+
+
+<br><h3>THE MEANING OF THE STORY</h3>
+
+<p>367. In the last chapter we studied the bitter persecution
+of the Jews in the time of Antiochus. God sent them a great
+deliverer in Judas the Hammerer. He also sent them a helper
+who told them heroic stories of the olden time to encourage
+them to believe that God would surely deliver them. These
+stories were of Daniel and his three friends who were taken to
+Babylon in the captivity. They were under great temptation
+to be untrue to their religion. We can see how these stories
+would help the people to be faithful.</p>
+
+<p>368 (§98). In the old times the food and wine for the king's
+table would first be offered to the heathen gods, so Daniel felt
+that he would really be an idolator if he took them. What
+request did he make? How did the master think it would be
+discovered that he had not fed them on rich food? What
+test did Daniel propose? How did it turn out? Of course
+it was really much more healthy for the young men to live
+simply. It took some courage to stand out against the
+officer, but it was a matter of conscience with Daniel and his
+friends.</p>
+
+<p>369 (§99A). Imagine the great golden image 100 feet high.
+What was the king's command to the people? What was to be
+the penalty if they refused to obey? How would a faithful
+servant of the Lord feel about it?</p>
+
+<p>370 (§99B). We do not know where Daniel was at this
+time, but what did his three friends do? What did the king
+say to them? What did they answer him? Notice carefully
+that they said they were sure God could save them, but
+whether he did or not they would be faithful. God does not
+always save people from death. The noble army of martyrs
+have been faithful unto death. But God has always brought
+good out of their sufferings.</p>
+
+<p>371 (§99C). Describe the scene when these men were
+thrown into the furnace? What did the king think he saw?
+What did he do to the three? What impression did it make
+on the king? We can understand how the Jews would have
+told such a wonderful story as this to cheer those who were
+under great temptation to give up their faith.</p>
+
+<p>372 (§100A). Long after, when Daniel was an old man,
+another great danger arose. He had meantime been promoted
+to the highest station. Great men always have many enemies
+who are jealous of them. All our great Americans have had
+those who envied them. What foolish thing did Daniel's
+enemies persuade the king to do? There seems to have been
+a rule that if the king gave an order it could not be changed.</p>
+
+<p>373 (§100B). What had been Daniel's custom regarding
+prayer? How did he change it when he heard of the decree?
+Would he have been wiser to pray secretly? Some of our
+soldier boys that went to the war were ashamed to kneel down
+and pray at night, but some of them were not afraid even when
+their companions jeered them. Do you remember a story like
+that in <i>Tom Brown at Rugby</i>? How did the king feel when
+he found that Daniel had refused to obey the decree? Why
+could not the king pardon him? Notice how bitterly his
+enemies insisted on the penalty.</p>
+
+<p>374 (§100C). What did the king say to Daniel? How did
+the king pass the night? What happened in the morning?
+What was done to his enemies?</p>
+
+<p>375 (§100D). What message did the king send to his people?
+Daniel's bravery made the king respect his religion. What
+was the result of all this to Daniel? Suppose Daniel had been
+killed by the lions, what would you think of him?</p><br>
+
+
+<h3>WRITTEN REVIEW</h3>
+
+<p>Think about Daniel's refusal to do wrong. You have
+probably known one of your companions who refused to
+do some wrong when it was hard to refuse. Young people
+can be heroes in standing up for duty. Write about anybody
+whom you have known who did this. Or perhaps
+you will find somebody actually doing such a thing now.
+Make a good story of it for your notebook.</p>
+
+<br>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2>REVIEW</h2>
+
+
+<div class="center">
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="">
+<tr><td align="right"><a href="#XXXV_SEVEN_HEROIC_NAMES">XXXV.</a> <td align="left"><span class="smcap">Seven Heroic Names</span></td></tr>
+</table></div><br>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;">
+<h2><a name="XXXV_SEVEN_HEROIC_NAMES" id="XXXV_SEVEN_HEROIC_NAMES"></a>XXXV. SEVEN HEROIC NAMES</h2>
+
+
+<p>376. The Hebrews always looked back to their
+magnificent king, whom they thought of as the
+wisest of men. What was his name? Tell the
+story of his great building. (§79; I Kings 5:2-6.<a name="FNanchor_2_2" id="FNanchor_2_2"></a><a href="#Footnote_1_1" class="fnanchor">[2]</a>)</p>
+
+<p>377. What great prophet was the champion of
+pure religion? Tell the story of the test at Mount
+Carmel. (§82; I Kings 18:20-24.)</p>
+
+<p>378. King Ahab had a fine palace in Jezreel and
+Naboth had a vineyard near by. Tell the story of
+the king's covetousness. Why did Elijah interfere?
+(§84; I Kings 21:17-23.)</p>
+
+<p>379. Who was the prophet that followed Elijah?
+Why did we call him the healer and counselor?
+We read a number of stories of his kindly deeds to the
+people. Tell one of them.</p>
+
+<p>380. One of Israel's heroes was a man who had
+always lived far away from Jerusalem. He had
+a high office, and would have found it more profitable
+not to trouble himself about his countrymen.
+But he heard of their sad condition and persuaded
+the king to let him help them. Tell the story of
+Nehemiah building the wall of Jerusalem. (§91;
+Neh. 6:15, 16.)</p>
+
+<p>381. Two books in the Old Testament are named
+after women. One was a foreigner who came into
+Israel, the other was the beautiful Jewess who married
+the Persian king. Who was the wicked man
+that wanted to kill all the Jews? How did the
+queen risk her life to save her people? (§95; Esther
+4:13-17.)</p>
+
+<p>382. We studied about one hero, whose story is
+not in the Old Testament. What did his surname
+Maccabæus mean? How did he deliver his people?
+(§97.)</p>
+
+<p>383. Sometimes the noblest heroism is just to
+refuse to be frightened away from doing right.
+Who was the man who prayed three times a day
+when the king had commanded that no prayers
+should be offered except to himself. Tell the story
+of the den of lions. (§100.)</p>
+
+<p>384. Write down these seven heroic names.
+Which of them was honored as the kindly helper
+of the needy and the wise adviser of his nation in
+days of trouble? Which was the gallant soldier
+who defeated the tyrant? Who risked life and
+fortune to save the people? Who started out in
+his youth to be a good judge and ruler of the people?
+Who was loyal to his conscience at the risk of his
+life? Who was the stern rebuker of injustice?
+Who gave up his ease to work for his troubled
+people? Note that there are many ways to be a hero.</p>
+
+<h2>Footnote</h2>
+
+<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_1_1" id="Footnote_1_1"></a><a href="#FNanchor_1_1"><span class="label">[1]</span></a> Very short Scripture references are given&mdash;just enough to
+recall the story. Read these and glance over the section in the
+textbook to refresh the memory.</p></div>
+
+<div class="footnote"><p><a href="#FNanchor_2_2"><span class="label">[2]</span></a> Very short Scripture references are given, just enough to
+recall the story. It might be well to read these as well as to look
+at the section in the textbook.</p></div>
+
+<h3>CONSTRUCTIVE BIBLE STUDIES</h3>
+
+
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+material: Permanent, $1.00 net, postage extra; Temporary, 35
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+
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+
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+
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+By <span class="smcap">Georgia L. Chamberlin and Mary Root Kern</span>. Teacher's
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+net; postpaid $1.13. Teacher's manual, $1.00 net; postage extra.</p></blockquote>
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+H. Gilbert</span>. Pupil's textbook, $1.00 net; postpaid $1.12.</p></blockquote>
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+</p><br>
+
+
+
+<p class="trnote">Transcribers Note:<br>
+<a href="#shekels">skekels changed to shekels</a><a name="skekels" id="skekels"></a><br>
+<a href="#thou">thuo changed to thou</a><a name="thuo" id="thuo"></a><br>
+<a href="#Elijah">Eljiah changed to Elijah</a><a name="Eljiah" id="Eljiah"></a><br>
+Scripture references have been standardised as this example (Gen. 21:2, 3; 22:1-19)<br>
+Punctuation moved inside end quote on the following lines:-<br>
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;"><a name="Drink_my_lord" id="Drink_my_lord"></a><a href="#Drink">Drink, my lord</a>:" Sect. 9 B</span><br>
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;"><a name="Lest" id="Lest"></a>"<a href="#Lest_2">Lest peradventure the people repent when they
+ see war, and they return to Egypt:</a>"</span><br>
+Word hyphenation has been standardised.</p>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+<pre>
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's Heroes of Israel, by Theodore Gerald Soares
+
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+</body>
+</html>
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@@ -0,0 +1,10898 @@
+The Project Gutenberg EBook of Heroes of Israel, by Theodore Gerald Soares
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: Heroes of Israel
+ Text of the Hero Stories with Notes and Questions for Young Students
+
+Author: Theodore Gerald Soares
+
+Editor: Ernest D. Burton
+
+Release Date: August 3, 2011 [EBook #36956]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK HEROES OF ISRAEL ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Heiko Evermann, Hazel Batey, and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net;
+scanned by Fox in the Stars from the collection of Brays
+Advent Christian Church in Iberia, Missouri
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+ CONSTRUCTIVE BIBLE STUDIES
+
+ EDITED BY
+
+ ERNEST D. BURTON
+
+
+
+
+ HEROES OF ISRAEL
+
+
+
+
+ THE UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO PRESS
+ CHICAGO, ILLINOIS
+
+ Agents
+ THE BAKER & TAYLOR COMPANY
+ NEW YORK
+
+ THE CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY PRESS
+ LONDON AND EDINBURGH
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration: THE SEMITIC WORLD]
+
+
+
+
+ HEROES OF ISRAEL
+
+ TEXT OF THE HERO STORIES WITH NOTES AND QUESTIONS FOR YOUNG STUDENTS
+
+ _By_
+
+ THEODORE GERALD SOARES
+ _Professor of Homiletics and Religious Education in the_
+ _University of Chicago_
+
+
+
+
+ THE UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO PRESS CHICAGO, ILLINOIS
+
+
+
+
+ COPYRIGHT 1908 BY THE UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO
+
+ All Rights Reserved
+
+ Published January 1909
+ Second Impression September 1909
+ Third Impression December 1909
+ Second Edition October 1911
+
+
+
+
+
+ Composed and Printed By The University of Chicago Press
+ Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A.
+
+
+
+
+ TO MY FATHER MY FIRST HERO
+
+
+
+
+PREFACE
+
+
+It is the purpose to present these Hero Studies in two books, one being
+the present volume which is intended as a textbook for the students, the
+other being the teacher's manual with fuller explanations and
+suggestions. The necessary prefatory statements will be found in the
+respective books under the titles "Foreword to the Student" and
+"Foreword to the Teacher".
+
+This volume contains the text of the stories, with explanatory notes and
+questions intended to stimulate study. Each lesson consists of a
+complete story arranged in such a way as to impress the main features of
+the narrative clearly upon the student's mind. The explanatory material
+is reduced to the minimum, since the main desire is to let the stories
+speak for themselves and not to burden the student with wearisome
+details. The three reviews divide the course into the three natural
+parts, the first extending to Christmas, the second to the end of March,
+the third, which is shorter, to the middle of June, when it is usually
+wise for the regular courses to end.
+
+The text of the British Revisers is used in the reprint of the stories
+with the consent and approval of the Oxford and Cambridge University
+presses. As the plan of simplifying the narratives involved certain
+verbal changes, it has seemed wise to go a step farther and to use the
+spellings which would be more familiar to American students.
+
+For constant suggestions as to form and method I am greatly indebted to
+my wife, who has taught the lessons from advance sheets to a class of
+boys. It is a pleasure to acknowledge the valuable counsel of Professor
+E. D. Burton, the editor of the series, and especially that of Professor
+J. M. P. Smith, who at Professor Burton's request, and to my own great
+satisfaction, assumed the editorial responsibility of reading the
+manuscript, and gave me the benefit of his ripe scholarship and
+judgment.
+
+ T. G. S.
+
+ July 29, 1908
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS
+
+ Page
+
+ FOREWORD TO THE STUDENT xv
+
+ CHAPTER
+
+ I. ABRAHAM, THE FATHER OF THE FAITHFUL 1
+
+ II. ABRAHAM, THE MAGNANIMOUS 9
+
+ III. ABRAHAM AND ISAAC 16
+
+ IV. JACOB, THE CLEVER 29
+
+ V. ISRAEL, THE GODLY 41
+
+ VI. JOSEPH, THE SLAVE 51
+
+ VII. JOSEPH, THE RULER 60
+
+ VIII. JOSEPH, THE GENEROUS 70
+
+ IX. MOSES' EARLY LIFE 85
+
+ X. MOSES' COMMISSION 94
+
+ XI. MOSES, THE DELIVERER 104
+
+ XII. MOSES, THE LAWGIVER 117
+
+ XIII. REVIEW: THE HEROES OF ISRAEL'S WANDERINGS 129
+
+ XIV. JOSHUA AND CALEB 135
+
+ XV. GIDEON, THE WARRIOR 147
+
+ XVI. SAMSON, THE STRONG MAN 158
+
+ XVII. RUTH, THE FOREIGNER 171
+
+ XVIII. SAMUEL AND ELI 187
+
+ XIX. SAMUEL AND SAUL 200
+
+ XX. JONATHAN'S VICTORY 211
+
+ XXI. DAVID AND THE GIANT 223
+
+ XXII. THE HERO FRIENDS, DAVID AND JONATHAN 237
+
+ XXIII. DAVID, THE OUTLAW 247
+
+ XXIV. DAVID, THE KING 260
+
+ XXV. DAVID AND HIS REBEL SON 270
+
+ XXVI. REVIEW: TEN HEROES OF ISRAEL 283
+
+ XXVII. SOLOMON, THE WISE KING 289
+
+ XXVIII. ELIJAH, THE CHAMPION OF PURE RELIGION 303
+
+ XXIX. ELIJAH, THE CHAMPION OF JUSTICE 317
+
+ XXX. ELISHA, THE HEALER AND COUNSELOR 328
+
+ XXXI. NEHEMIAH, THE BUILDER 339
+
+ XXXII. ESTHER, THE PATRIOT QUEEN 351
+
+ XXXIII. JUDAS, THE HAMMERER 364
+
+ XXXIV. DANIEL AND HIS FRIENDS 373
+
+ XXXV. REVIEW: SEVEN HEROIC NAMES 385
+
+
+
+
+
+MAPS AND ILLUSTRATIONS
+
+ Page
+
+ MAP OF THE SEMITIC WORLD Frontispiece
+
+ A CARAVAN IN PALESTINE 5
+
+ MAP OF CANAAN opposite 47
+
+ THE SEAL OF THE GRAND VIZIER OF RAMSES II 66
+
+ PORTRAIT STATUES OF RAMSES II 88
+
+ ORIENTAL SANDALS 95
+
+ BRICK-MAKING IN EGYPT 102
+
+ MOSES 118
+
+ WINNOWING GRAIN 179
+
+ A PHILISTINE 212
+
+ DAVID 226
+
+ CEDARS OF LEBANON 294
+
+ ESTHER'S PALACE 357
+
+
+
+
+FOREWORD TO THE STUDENT
+
+
+1. We are to study the heroes of Israel. What is a hero? We use this
+word of the chief character in a book or of one who does a very noble
+deed. It is also applied to the great men of the past, who have done
+deeds that have made their names famous in story and who have been the
+makers of nations. Call to mind some American heroes.
+
+2. Why should we study the heroes of Israel? For three reasons: (1) The
+stories are very interesting and full of adventure. (2) Israel played a
+most important part in the world's history. The Jews, who now represent
+Israel, are no longer a nation, and unhappily they are often very badly
+treated, but they have many noble qualities. We owe some of the best
+things in our modern civilization to the men of old Israel. We shall
+find a great value in reading their story. (3) The questions of duty and
+religion that often puzzle us are very old questions. They came to these
+men thousands of years ago. We shall find them clearer to us as we read
+how the old heroes struggled with their difficulties.
+
+3. How shall we study? The stories of the heroes are in the Old
+Testament, but in order to bring them together, and to separate them
+from other matter which is less profitable for young people to study
+they have been reprinted in this book. Most of the more difficult names
+have been omitted, together with everything that would take from the
+interest in the story. Each chapter is divided into three parts: The
+Story, The Meaning of the Story, and the Written Review. In preparing
+the lesson, the story should be read through first. It would be a very
+good plan to read it aloud to someone. Then take up the suggestions in
+the second part of the lesson, one at a time, and look up the sections
+of the story to find answers to the questions. When special Scripture
+references are given look them up, and use the maps whenever directions
+are given to that effect. When you have finished the study read the
+whole story through again and be sure that you understand it.
+
+The Written Review is very important. Have a notebook in which you will
+write the review stories every week. The best time to write the review
+story is soon after the meeting of the class, while the lesson is still
+fresh in memory. Always read the story of the hero again before you
+write the review. Keep the notebook neat. It is a good plan to write the
+exercise in pencil first and then copy it into the book in ink. At the
+end of the year you will have a good-sized book full of your own hero
+stories.
+
+A careful study of these lessons will make you acquainted with a score
+of the mighty men of the past. Many of them you will wish to keep as
+life-long friends.
+
+
+
+
+ABRAHAM
+
+
+ I. ABRAHAM, THE FATHER OF THE FAITHFUL
+
+ II. ABRAHAM, THE MAGNANIMOUS
+
+ III. ABRAHAM AND ISAAC
+
+
+
+
+
+ABRAHAM, THE FATHER OF THE FAITHFUL
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.1. The Old Home of Abraham= (Gen. 11:31)
+
+Terah took Abraham his son, and Lot the son of Haran, his son's son, and
+Sarah his daughter-in-law, his son Abraham's wife; and they went forth
+with them from Ur of the Chaldees, to go into the land of Canaan; and
+they came unto Haran, and dwelt there, and Terah died in Haran.
+
+
+=Sec.2. The Journey Westward= (Gen. 12:1-5)
+
+Now the Lord said unto Abraham, "Get thee out of thy country, and from
+thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto the land that I will show
+thee: and I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and
+make thy name great; and be thou a blessing: and I will bless them that
+bless thee, and him that curseth thee will I curse: and in thee shall
+all the families of the earth be blessed."
+
+So Abraham went, as the Lord had spoken unto him; and Lot went with him:
+and Abraham was seventy and five years old when he departed out of
+Haran. And Abraham took Sarah his wife, and Lot his brother's son, and
+all their substance that they had gathered, and the souls that they had
+gotten in Haran; and they went forth to go into the land of Canaan:
+and into the land of Canaan they came.
+
+
+=Sec.3. Abraham's Altars= (Gen. 12:6-9)
+
+And Abraham passed through the land unto the place of Shechem, unto the
+oak of Moreh. And the Canaanite was then in the land.
+
+And the Lord appeared unto Abraham and said, "Unto thy seed will I give
+this land." And there built he an altar unto the Lord, who appeared unto
+him.
+
+And he removed from thence unto the mountain on the east of Beth-el, and
+pitched his tent, having Beth-el on the west, and Ai on the east: and
+there he built an altar unto the Lord, and called upon the name of the
+Lord. And Abraham journeyed, going on still toward the South.
+
+
+=Sec.4. A Test of Courage= (Gen. 12:10-20)
+
+And there was a famine in the land: and Abraham went down into Egypt to
+sojourn there; for the famine was sore in the land. And it came to pass,
+when he was come near to enter into Egypt, that he said unto Sarah his
+wife, "Behold now, I know that thou art a fair woman to look upon: and
+it shall come to pass, when the Egyptians shall see thee, that they
+shall say, 'This is his wife': and they will kill me, but they will save
+thee alive. Say, I pray thee, thou art my sister: that it may be well
+with me for thy sake, and that my soul may live because of thee."
+
+And it came to pass, that, when Abraham was come into Egypt, the
+Egyptians beheld the woman that she was very fair. And the princes of
+Pharaoh saw her, and praised her to Pharaoh; and the woman was taken
+into Pharaoh's house. And he treated Abraham well for her sake: and he
+had sheep, and oxen, and he-asses, and menservants, and maidservants,
+and she-asses, and camels. And the Lord plagued Pharaoh and his house
+with great plagues because of Sarah Abraham's wife.
+
+[Illustration: A CARAVAN IN PALESTINE]
+
+And Pharaoh called Abraham, and said, "What is this that thou hast done
+unto me? why didst thou not tell me that she was thy wife? Why saidst
+thou, She is my sister? so that I took her to be my wife: now therefore
+behold thy wife, take her, and go thy way."
+
+And Pharaoh gave men charge concerning him: and they brought him on the
+way, and his wife, and all that he had.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+1 (Sec.1). We begin with the man to whom Israel looked back as their first
+great hero. What was his name? What was his father's name?
+
+2 (Sec.1). Where did he come from? Look at the map of the Semitic world.
+You will see two great rivers which join and then flow into the Persian
+Gulf. It is not always possible to know where ancient cities were
+located, but it is supposed that Ur may have been on the Euphrates near
+the point where the rivers join. It is called Ur of the Chaldees,
+because people of that name lived there. Terah therefore came from the
+very old country of Babylonia, which was rich and fertile because it was
+in the valley of the two rivers. What American river has a rich country
+in all its wide valley?
+
+3 (Sec.1). What route would be taken to go from Ur to Canaan? If you lay a
+ruler on the map you will see that Jerusalem is almost directly west of
+Ur. They lay about six hundred miles apart. But there was a very good
+reason why they could not travel right across that way. What kind of
+country would they have had to pass through? They had to follow the
+river for nearly the same distance in a northwesterly direction. This
+would bring them to a very rich country where it seems they stopped for
+some time and where Terah died. What was its name?
+
+4 (Sec.2). Evidently most of Terah's tribe were satisfied to stay in Haran,
+but Abraham felt a great stir in him to continue the journey to the West
+land. He believed that God wanted him to go there and to become the
+founder of a great nation that should serve Jehovah. This feeling became
+so strong that at last it was clear to him that the Lord was calling
+him. Learn the beautiful passage of the Call of Abraham (Gen. 12:1-3)
+so that you can recite it.
+
+5(Sec.2). What route would Abraham take from Haran to Canaan? Let us look
+at the map again. There was a caravan road that ran from Haran west
+across the river, then it turned south and came down through the country
+of Syria to a very ancient city. Abraham's chief servant came from this
+city (Gen. 15:2). The road still runs south and then crosses the river
+Jordan into Palestine.
+
+6(Sec.2). How long would such a journey take? There were no railroads and
+there are still very few in that country. Travel was very slow. We have
+an account in Ezra 7:9 of how long it took a company to make the journey
+from Babylon long afterward. But Abraham's company would move more
+slowly, for we must think of him as traveling with a great many animals
+and servants and children. It was very much as the Arab tribes move
+about to-day.
+
+7(Sec.2). Think of what Abraham left behind when he obeyed God's voice and
+came into the strange land. What company of people in American history
+felt that God called them to leave their own country and come into the
+new land? Is it always safe to obey God? Look up Gal. 3:9 and Heb.
+11:8-10 and see why Abraham is called "The Father of the Faithful."
+
+8(Sec.3). What promise did God give Abraham after he came to Canaan? What
+places did Abraham visit? Locate them on the map of Canaan. What
+religious act did he perform wherever he went? What act is the same in
+our lives?
+
+9(Sec.4). Abraham's numerous sheep and cattle required him to journey from
+place to place. Why was this? Why would dry weather cause him trouble?
+Notice on the map that when the famine came he was in the south of
+Palestine. It was only a short journey west to reach a very rich
+country, which lay in the valley of a great river. Name the country
+and its river and explain why there was no drought there.
+
+10 (Sec.4). We shall often notice that the old heroes did wrong. Tell the
+story of Abraham's visit to Egypt. What do you think of his conduct? If
+we knew only this part of Abraham's story we should not call him a hero.
+Ought we then to judge anyone by a single act?
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+This story deals with several journeys. Let us get them all before our
+eyes. Turn to the map of the Semitic world at the beginning of the book
+and make a very simple copy of it, according to the following
+directions: Mark the two great rivers in the east. Make the coast line
+of the Mediterranean Sea. Draw the River Nile. Make the coast line of
+the Red Sea. Locate Ur, Haran, Damascus, Canaan, Egypt. Make this map
+first in pencil and then ink it.
+
+
+
+
+II. ABRAHAM, THE MAGNANIMOUS
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.5. Abraham's Treatment of Lot= (Gen. 13)
+
+And Abraham went out of Egypt, he, and his wife, and all that he had,
+and Lot with him, into the South. And Abraham was very rich in cattle,
+in silver, and in gold. And he went on his journeys from the South even
+to Beth-el, unto the place where his tent had been at the beginning,
+between Beth-el and Ai; unto the place of the altar, which he had made
+there at the first: and there Abraham called on the name of the Lord.
+
+And Lot also, who went with Abraham, had flocks, and herds, and tents.
+And the land was not able to bear them, that they might dwell together:
+for their substance was great, so that they could not dwell together.
+And there was a strife between the herdmen of Abraham's cattle and the
+herdmen of Lot's cattle.
+
+And Abraham said unto Lot, "Let there be no strife, I pray thee, between
+me and thee, and between my herdmen and thy herdmen; for we are
+brethren. Is not the whole land before thee? separate thyself, I pray
+thee, from me: if thou wilt take the left hand, then I will go to the
+right; or if thou take the right hand, then I will go to the left."
+
+And Lot lifted up his eyes, and beheld all the Plain of Jordan, that it
+was well watered everywhere, before the Lord destroyed Sodom and
+Gomorrah, like the garden of the Lord, like the land of Egypt, as thou
+goest unto Zoar. So Lot chose him all the Plain of Jordan; and Lot
+journeyed east: and they separated themselves the one from the other.
+Abraham dwelt in the land of Canaan, and Lot dwelt in the cities of the
+Plain, and moved his tent as far as Sodom. Now the men of Sodom were
+wicked and sinners against the Lord exceedingly.
+
+And the Lord said unto Abraham, after that Lot was separated from him,
+"Lift up now thine eyes, and look from the place where thou art,
+northward and southward and eastward and westward: for all the land
+which thou seest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed for ever. And
+I will make thy seed as the dust of the earth: so that if a man can
+number the dust of the earth, then shall thy seed also be numbered.
+Arise, walk through the land in the length of it and in the breadth of
+it; for unto thee will I give it."
+
+And Abraham moved his tent, and came and dwelt by the oaks of Mamre,
+which are in Hebron, and built there an altar unto the Lord.
+
+
+=Sec.6. Abraham's Deliverance of Lot= (Gen. 14:10-24)
+
+And there came five kings from the East and made war against the kings
+of Sodom and Gomorrah. And the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah fled, and
+they fell there, and they that remained fled to the mountain. And they
+took all the goods of Sodom and Gomorrah, and all their victuals, and
+went their way. And they took Lot, Abraham's brother's son, who dwelt in
+Sodom, and his goods, and departed.
+
+And there came one that had escaped, and told Abraham the Hebrew: now he
+dwelt by the oaks of Mamre the Amorite, brother of Eshcol, and brother
+of Aner; and these were confederate with Abraham. And when Abraham heard
+that his brother was taken captive, he led forth his trained men, born
+in his house, three hundred and eighteen, and pursued as far as Dan. And
+he divided himself against them by night, he and his servants, and smote
+them, and pursued them unto Hobah, which is on the left hand of
+Damascus. And he brought back all the goods, and also brought again his
+brother Lot, and his goods, and the women also, and the people.
+
+And the king of Sodom went out to meet him, after his return from the
+slaughter of the kings. And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth
+bread and wine: and he was priest of God Most High. And he blessed him
+and said, "Blessed be Abraham of God Most High, possessor of heaven and
+earth: and blessed be God Most High, which hath delivered thine enemies
+into thy hand." And he gave him a tenth of all.
+
+And the king of Sodom said unto Abraham, "Give me the persons, and take
+the goods to thyself."
+
+And Abraham said to the king of Sodom, "I have lifted up mine hand unto
+the Lord, God Most High, possessor of heaven and earth, that I will not
+take a thread nor a shoelatchet nor aught that is thine, lest thou
+shouldst say, I have made Abraham rich: save only that which the young
+men have eaten, and the portion of the men which went with me; Aner,
+Eshcol, and Mamre, let them take their portion."
+
+
+=Sec.7. Abraham's Prayer for Sodom= (Gen. 18:17-32; 19:29)
+
+And the Lord said, "Shall I hide from Abraham that which I do; seeing
+that Abraham shall surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the
+nations of the earth shall be blessed in him? For I have known him, to
+the end that he may command his children and his household after him,
+that they may keep the way of the Lord, to do righteousness and justice;
+to the end that the Lord may bring upon Abraham that which he hath
+spoken of him."
+
+And the Lord said, "Because the cry of Sodom and Gomorrah is great, and
+because their sin is very grievous; I will go down now, and see whether
+they have done altogether according to the cry of it, which is come unto
+me; and if not, I will know."
+
+And Abraham drew near, and said, "Wilt thou consume the righteous with
+the wicked? Peradventure there be fifty righteous within the city:
+wilt thou consume and not spare the place for the fifty righteous that
+are therein? That be far from thee to do after this manner, to slay the
+righteous with the wicked, that so the righteous should be as the
+wicked; that be far from thee: shall not the Judge of all the earth do
+right?"
+
+And the Lord said, "If I find in Sodom fifty righteous within the city,
+then I will spare all the place for their sake."
+
+And Abraham answered and said, "Behold now, I have taken upon me to
+speak unto the Lord, which am but dust and ashes: peradventure there
+shall lack five of the fifty righteous: wilt thou destroy all the city
+for lack of five?"
+
+And he said, "I will not destroy it, if I find there forty and five."
+
+And he spake unto him yet again, and said, "Peradventure there shall be
+forty found there."
+
+And he said, "I will not do it for the forty's sake."
+
+And he said, "Oh let not the Lord be angry, and I will speak:
+peradventure there shall thirty be found there."
+
+And he said, "I will not do it if I find thirty there."
+
+And he said, "Behold now, I have taken upon me to speak unto the Lord:
+peradventure there shall be twenty found there."
+
+And he said, "I will not destroy it for the twenty's sake."
+
+And he said, "Oh let not the Lord be angry, and I will speak yet but
+this once: peradventure ten shall be found there."
+
+And he said, "I will not destroy it for the ten's sake."
+
+And it came to pass, when God destroyed the cities of the Plain, that
+God remembered Abraham, and sent Lot out of the midst of the overthrow,
+when he overthrew the cities in which Lot dwelt.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+11 (Sec.5). Follow Abraham's journey back from Egypt along the coast road.
+He reached the district in Southern Canaan that was called "the South."
+What wealth did he have? What would he need for his cattle? Notice how
+this caused him to journey from place to place.
+
+12 (Sec.5). On the western plains of America there have been disputes
+between the cattle men over the rights of grazing. The big men have
+driven the little men away. Tell the story of this old dispute in
+Canaan. What plan of settlement did Abraham suggest? How did Lot behave
+in the matter? What good result came to Abraham?
+
+13 (Sec.5). Look up the word "magnanimous." Could it be applied to Abraham?
+Have you ever known an act that was magnanimous?
+
+14 (Sec.6). Kings in old times used to make war on their neighbors just for
+the purpose of stealing their goods. This is the story of one of those
+plundering expeditions that was made against the country near the Dead
+Sea. Who had chosen that country for his residence? What was the result
+of the invasion? How did Abraham hear of it? How many young men did he
+have in his service? What does this show of the size of his camp? What
+did Abraham do?
+
+15 (Sec.6). What did Abraham do with the spoil that he captured? Was this
+magnanimous?
+
+16 (Sec.6). Compare Abraham's conduct with that of the United States in
+Cuba.
+
+17 (Sec.6). Abraham gave back the property that he had rescued: what should
+we do with property that we find?
+
+18 (Sec.7). Men of old loved to think of God appearing to them and talking
+to them. It is a beautiful picture of the silent message that comes to
+our hearts. What does Abraham learn is to happen to the wicked city of
+Sodom?
+
+19 (Sec.7). Is Abraham magnanimous in pleading for Sodom? What do the
+Lord's replies to Abraham's prayers teach us?
+
+20 (Sec.7). What happened to Sodom? Was Abraham's prayer answered?
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Think over and write out the three ways in which Abraham was
+_magnanimous_. If you watch carefully the conduct of the best people you
+know you will be sure to see somebody do a magnanimous act before the
+next lesson. When you see it write it down in your notebook as your
+review work.
+
+
+
+
+III. ABRAHAM AND ISAAC
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.8. Abraham's Devotion= (Gen. 21:2, 3; 22:1-19)
+
+A. THE SACRIFICE OF THE FIRSTBORN
+
+And Sarah bare Abraham a son in his old age, at the set time of which
+God had spoken unto him. And Abraham called the name of his son Isaac.
+And the child grew. And it came to pass, that God did prove Abraham and
+said unto him, "Abraham."
+
+And he said, "Here am I."
+
+And he said, "Take now thy son, thine only son, whom thou lovest, even
+Isaac, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a
+burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of."
+
+And Abraham rose early in the morning, and saddled his ass, and took two
+of his young men with him, and Isaac his son; and he clave the wood for
+the burnt offering, and rose up, and went into the place of which God
+had told him. On the third day Abraham lifted up his eyes, and saw the
+place afar off.
+
+And Abraham said unto his young men, "Abide ye here with the ass, and I
+and the lad will go yonder; and we will worship, and come again to you."
+
+And Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering and laid it upon Isaac
+his son; and he took in his hand the fire and the knife; and they went
+both of them together.
+
+And Isaac spake unto Abraham his father, and said, "My father."
+
+And he said, "Here am I, my son."
+
+And he said, "Behold, the fire and the wood: but where is the lamb for a
+burnt offering?"
+
+And Abraham said, "God will provide himself the lamb for a burnt
+offering, my son."
+
+So they went both of them together. And they came to the place which God
+had told him of; and Abraham built the altar there, and laid the wood in
+order, and bound Isaac his son, and laid him on the altar, upon the
+wood. And Abraham stretched forth his hand, and took the knife to slay
+his son.
+
+
+B. THE DIVINE INTERFERENCE
+
+And the angel of the Lord called unto him out of heaven, and said,
+"Abraham."
+
+And he said, "Here am I."
+
+And he said, "Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou anything
+unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not
+withheld thy son, thine only son, from me."
+
+And Abraham lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold, behind him a ram
+caught in the thicket by his horns: and Abraham went and took the ram,
+and offered him up for a burnt offering in the stead of his son. And
+Abraham called the name of that place Jehovah-jireh: as it is said to
+this day, "In the mount of the Lord it shall be provided."
+
+And the angel of the Lord called unto Abraham a second time out of
+heaven, and said, "By myself have I sworn, saith the Lord, because thou
+hast done this thing, and hast not withheld thy son, thine only son:
+that in blessing I will bless thee, and in multiplying I will multiply
+thy seed as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which is upon the
+sea shore; and thy seed shall possess the gate of his enemies; and in
+thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou
+hast obeyed my voice."
+
+So Abraham returned unto his young men, and they rose up and went
+together to Beer-sheba; and Abraham dwelt at Beer-sheba.
+
+
+=Sec.9. The Selection of Isaac's Wife= (Gen. 24)
+
+A. THE COMMISSION OF THE SERVANT
+
+And Abraham was old, and well stricken in age: and the Lord had blessed
+Abraham in all things. And Abraham said unto his servant, the elder of
+his house, that ruled over all that he had, "Swear by the Lord, the God
+of heaven and the God of the earth, that thou shalt not take a wife for
+my son of the daughters of the Canaanites, among whom I dwell: but thou
+shalt go unto my country, and to my kindred, and take a wife for my son
+Isaac."
+
+And the servant said unto him, "Peradventure the woman will not be
+willing to follow me unto this land: must I needs bring thy son again
+unto the land from whence thou camest?"
+
+And Abraham said unto him, "Beware thou that thou bring not my son
+thither again. The Lord, the God of heaven, that took me from my
+father's house, and from the land of my nativity, and that spake unto me
+and that sware unto me, saying, 'Unto thy seed will I give this land,'
+he shall send his angel before thee, and thou shalt take a wife for my
+son from thence. And if the woman be not willing to follow thee, thou
+shalt be clear from this my oath; only thou shalt not bring my son
+thither again."
+
+And the servant sware to Abraham his master concerning this matter.
+
+
+B. THE MEETING WITH REBEKAH
+
+And the servant took ten camels, of the camels of his master, and
+departed; having all goodly things of his master's in his hand: and he
+arose, and went to Mesopotamia, unto the city of Nahor. And he made the
+camels to kneel down without the city by the well of water at the time
+of evening, the time that women go out to draw water.
+
+And he said, "O Lord, the God of my master Abraham, send me, I pray
+thee, good speed this day, and show kindness unto my master Abraham.
+Behold, I stand by the fountain of water; and the daughters of the men
+of the city come out to draw water: and let it come to pass, that the
+damsel to whom I shall say, 'Let down thy pitcher, I pray thee, that I
+may drink;' and she shall say, 'Drink, and I will give thy camels drink
+also': let the same be she that thou hast appointed for thy servant
+Isaac; and thereby shall I know that thou hast showed kindness unto my
+master."
+
+And it came to pass, before he had done speaking, that, behold, Rebekah
+came out, who was born to Bethuel the son of Milcah, the wife of Nahor,
+Abraham's brother, with her pitcher upon her shoulder. And the damsel
+was very fair to look upon; and she went down to the fountain, and
+filled her pitcher, and came up.
+
+And the servant ran to meet her, and said, "Give me to drink, I pray
+thee, a little water of thy pitcher."
+
+And she said, "Drink, my lord": and she hasted, and let down her pitcher
+upon her hand, and gave him drink. And when she had done giving him
+drink, she said, "I will draw for thy camels also, until they have done
+drinking." And she hasted, and emptied her pitcher into the trough, and
+ran again unto the well to draw, and drew for all his camels.
+
+And the man looked stedfastly on her; holding his peace, to know whether
+the Lord had made his journey prosperous or not. And it came to pass, as
+the camels had done drinking, that the man took a golden ring of half a
+shekel weight, and two bracelets for her hands of ten shekels weight of
+gold, and said, "Whose daughter art thou? tell me, I pray thee. Is
+there room in thy father's house for us to lodge in?"
+
+And she said unto him, "I am the daughter of Bethuel the son of Milcah,
+which she bare unto Nahor." She said moreover unto him, "We have both
+straw and provender enough, and room to lodge in."
+
+And the man bowed his head, and worshipped the Lord. And he said,
+"Blessed be the Lord, the God of my master Abraham, who hath not
+forsaken his mercy and his truth toward my master: as for me, the Lord
+hath led me in the way to the house of my master's brethren."
+
+
+C. THE BETROTHAL OF ISAAC AND REBEKAH
+
+And the damsel ran, and told her mother's house according to these
+words. And Rebekah had a brother, and his name was Laban: and Laban ran
+out unto the man, unto the fountain. And it came to pass, when he saw
+the ring, and the bracelets upon his sister's hands, and when he heard
+the words of Rebekah his sister, saying, "Thus spake the man unto me;"
+that he came unto the man; and, behold, he stood by the camels at the
+fountain.
+
+And he said, "Come in, thou blessed of the Lord; wherefore standest thou
+without? for I have prepared the house, and room for the camels."
+
+And the man came into the house, and he ungirded the camels; and he gave
+straw and provender for the camels, and water to wash his feet and the
+men's feet that were with him. And there was set meat before him to
+eat.
+
+But he said, "I will not eat, until I have told mine errand."
+
+And Laban said, "Speak on."
+
+And he said, "I am Abraham's servant. And the Lord hath blessed my
+master greatly; and he is become great: and he hath given him flocks and
+herds, and silver and gold, and menservants and maidservants, and
+camels, and asses. And Sarah my master's wife bare a son to my master
+when she was old: and unto him hath he given all that he hath. And my
+master made me swear, saying, 'Thou shalt not take a wife for my son of
+the daughters of the Canaanites, in whose land I dwell: but thou shalt
+go unto my father's house, and to my kindred, and take a wife for my
+son.' And I said unto my master, 'Peradventure the woman will not follow
+me.' And he said unto me, 'The Lord, before whom I walk, will send his
+angel with thee, and prosper thy way; and thou shalt take a wife for my
+son of my kindred, and of my father's house: then shalt thou be clear
+from my oath, when thou comest to my kindred; and if they give her not
+to thee, thou shalt be clear from my oath.'
+
+"And I came this day unto the fountain, and said, 'O Lord, the God of my
+master Abraham, if now thou do prosper my way which I go: behold, I
+stand by the fountain of water; and let it come to pass, that the
+maiden which cometh forth to draw, to whom I shall say, Give me, I pray
+thee a little water of thy pitcher to drink; and she shall say to me,
+Both drink thou, and I will also draw for thy camels: let the same be
+the woman whom the Lord hath appointed for my master's son.' And before
+I had done speaking in mine heart, behold, Rebekah came forth with her
+pitcher on her shoulder; and she went down unto the fountain, and drew:
+and I said unto her, 'Let me drink, I pray thee.' And she made haste,
+and let down her pitcher from her shoulder, and said, 'Drink, and I will
+give thy camels drink also.' So I drank, and she made the camels drink
+also. And I asked her and said, 'Whose daughter art thou?' And she said,
+'The daughter of Bethuel, Nahor's son, whom Milcah bare unto him.' And I
+put the ring upon her nose, and the bracelets upon her hands. And I
+bowed my head, and worshipped the Lord, and blessed the Lord, the God of
+my master Abraham, which had led me in the right way to take my master's
+brother's daughter for his son. And now if ye will deal kindly and truly
+with my master, tell me: and if not, tell me; that I may turn to the
+right hand, or to the left."
+
+Then Laban and Bethuel answered and said, "The thing proceedeth from the
+Lord: we cannot speak unto thee bad or good. Behold, Rebekah is before
+thee, take her, and go, and let her be thy master's son's wife, as the
+Lord hath spoken."
+
+And it came to pass, that, when Abraham's servant heard their words, he
+bowed himself down to the earth unto the Lord. And the servant brought
+forth jewels of silver and jewels of gold, and raiment, and gave them to
+Rebekah: he gave also to her brother and to her mother precious things.
+And they did eat and drink, he and the men that were with him, and
+tarried all night; and they rose up in the morning, and he said, "Send
+me away unto my master."
+
+And her brother and her mother said, "Let the damsel abide with us a few
+days, at the least ten; after that she shall go."
+
+And he said unto them, "Hinder me not, seeing the Lord hath prospered my
+way; send me away that I may go to my master."
+
+And they said, "We will call the damsel, and inquire at her mouth."
+
+And they called Rebekah, and said unto her, "Wilt thou go with this
+man?"
+
+And she said, "I will go."
+
+And they sent away Rebekah their sister, and her nurse, and Abraham's
+servant, and his men. And they blessed Rebekah, and said unto her, "Our
+sister, be thou the mother of thousands of ten thousands, and let thy
+seed possess the gate of those which hate them."
+
+And Rebekah arose, and her damsels, and they rode upon the camels, and
+followed the man: and the servant took Rebekah, and went his way.
+
+
+D. THE MARRIAGE
+
+And Isaac went out to meditate in the field at the eventide: and he
+lifted up his eyes, and saw, and, behold, there were camels coming.
+
+And Rebekah lifted up her eyes, and when she saw Isaac, she lighted off
+the camel. And she said unto the servant, "What man is this that walketh
+in the field to meet us?"
+
+And the servant said, "It is my master." And she took her veil, and
+covered herself.
+
+And the servant told Isaac all the things that he had done. And Isaac
+brought her into his mother Sarah's tent, and took Rebekah, and she
+became his wife; and he loved her: and Isaac was comforted after his
+mother's death.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+21. What promise had been made repeatedly to Abraham? But he had grown
+old and was still without a son. Yet the Lord repeated the promise and
+Abraham believed. At last to his great joy the son was born. It makes a
+man's life strong to believe that God will fulfil his promise. Faith and
+goodness are very near together (Gen. 15:6). A good boy believes his
+parents: surely he can believe God.
+
+22 (Sec.8A). In order to understand this story we must consider a strange
+and fearful custom of the old times. Read II Kings 3:26, 27, and note
+the awful sacrifice that a king, who was seeking help, made to his
+heathen god. The ancients felt that God ought to have the best that man
+has. They had not learned that he is loving and good, wishing our best
+to be given to him in loving service and not killed in sacrifice.
+
+23 (Sec.8A). Abraham knew that it was the custom of his neighbors to show
+their loyalty to their gods by killing their oldest sons. He was most
+anxious to do what God would wish, so what would he naturally think that
+he ought to do? Is a man wicked if he does what he thinks is right? But
+if he is pure in his motive and is very anxious to know what is right,
+he will often come to the truth. This story shows how God led Abraham to
+know what he really wanted of him.
+
+24 (Sec.8). It is a very striking story. Picture the scenes: (1) The long
+journey: who went? (2) Abraham and Isaac alone: what did Isaac ask? What
+was Abraham's confidence in God? (3) The preparation for the sacrifice.
+(4) The wonderful interference: what did this teach Abraham? What was
+the promise that was repeated?
+
+25 (Sec.8). Men have often used wrong methods, thinking to please God. What
+did the Puritans do to the witches? But the Puritans were good men,
+anxious to do right, and they soon learned that they had been wrong. It
+is not enough for us to be willing to do right. We must try hard to find
+out what is right.
+
+26 (Sec.9A). This section is a long one, but is full of interest and need
+not detain us for special study. It is the charming story of an old-time
+wooing. Parents often arranged the marriages of their children in those
+days as they do in many countries to-day. Abraham had a trusted servant
+who managed his business for him. What did he ask the servant to
+promise?
+
+27 (Sec.9B). Mesopotamia means "between the rivers." Locate it between the
+two rivers of Abraham's old country. Recall Abraham's journey (5, 6, Sec.2)
+and trace the servant's journey.
+
+28 (Sec.9B). Tell the story of the meeting with Rebekah.
+
+29 (Sec.9C). Tell the story of the betrothal. Notice that the betrothal
+took place although Isaac was not there.
+
+30 (Sec.9D). Tell the story of the marriage.
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+We have finished the study of the "Father of the Faithful." He was a man
+who trusted God. Think over all that you have learned about him and
+write down in your notebook two or three ways in which you think that he
+showed his trust in God. Think whether there is any way in which you
+would be willing to trust God.
+
+
+
+
+JACOB-ISRAEL
+
+
+ IV. JACOB, THE CLEVER
+
+ V. ISRAEL, THE GODLY
+
+
+
+
+IV. JACOB, THE CLEVER
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.10. The Purchase of the Birthright= (Gen. 25:25-34)
+
+Isaac and Rebekah had two sons who were twins. The first was red, all
+over like a hairy garment; and they called his name Esau, and the name
+of his brother was called Jacob.
+
+And the boys grew: and Esau was a cunning hunter, a man of the field;
+and Jacob was a plain man, dwelling in tents. Now Isaac loved Esau,
+because he did eat of his venison: and Rebekah loved Jacob.
+
+And Jacob boiled pottage: and Esau came in from the field, and he was
+faint: and Esau said to Jacob, "Feed me, I pray thee, with that same red
+pottage; for I am faint."
+
+And Jacob said, "Sell me this day thy birthright."
+
+And Esau said, "Behold, I am at the point to die: and what profit shall
+the birthright do to me?"
+
+And Jacob said, "Swear to me this day."
+
+And he sware unto him: and he sold his birthright unto Jacob. And Jacob
+gave Esau bread and pottage of lentils; and he did eat and drink, and
+rose up, and went his way: so Esau despised his birthright.
+
+
+=Sec.11. The Deception of Isaac= (Gen. 27:1-45)
+
+A. ISAAC'S COMMISSION TO ESAU
+
+And it came to pass, that when Isaac was old, and his eyes were dim, so
+that he could not see, he called Esau his elder son, and said unto him,
+"My son."
+
+And he said unto him, "Here am I."
+
+And he said, "Behold now, I am old, I know not the day of my death. Now
+therefore take, I pray thee, thy weapons, thy quiver and thy bow, and go
+out to the field, and take me venison; and make me savory meat, such as
+I love, and bring it to me, that I may eat; that my soul may bless thee
+before I die."
+
+And Rebekah heard when Isaac spake to Esau his son. And Esau went to the
+field to hunt for venison, and to bring it.
+
+
+B. REBEKAH'S SCHEME
+
+And Rebekah spake unto Jacob her son, saying, "Behold, I heard thy
+father speak unto Esau thy brother, saying, 'Bring me venison, and make
+me savory meat, that I may eat, and bless thee before the Lord before my
+death.' Now therefore, my son, obey my voice according to that which I
+command thee. Go now to the flock, and fetch me from thence two good
+kids of the goats; and I will make them savory meat for thy father, such
+as he loveth: and thou shalt bring it to thy father, that he may eat, so
+that he may bless thee before his death."
+
+And Jacob said to Rebekah his mother, "Behold, Esau my brother is a
+hairy man, and I am a smooth man. My father peradventure will feel me,
+and I shall seem to him as a deceiver; and I shall bring a curse upon
+me, and not a blessing."
+
+And his mother said unto him, "Upon me be thy curse, my son: only obey
+my voice, and go fetch me them."
+
+And he went, and fetched, and brought them to his mother: and his mother
+made savory meat, such as his father loved. And Rebekah took the goodly
+garments of Esau her elder son, which were with her in the house, and
+put them upon Jacob her younger son: and she put the skins of the kids
+of the goats upon his hands, and upon the smooth of his neck: and she
+gave the savory meat and the bread, which she had prepared, into the
+hand of her son Jacob.
+
+
+C. Jacob's Deception
+
+And he came unto his father, and said, "My father."
+
+And he said, "Here am I; who art thou, my son?"
+
+And Jacob said unto his father, "I am Esau thy firstborn; I have done
+according as thou badest me: arise, I pray thee, sit and eat of my
+venison, that thy soul may bless me."
+
+And Isaac said unto his son, "How is it that thou hast found it so
+quickly, my son?"
+
+And he said, "Because the Lord thy God sent me good speed."
+
+And Isaac said unto Jacob, "Come near, I pray thee, that I may feel
+thee, my son, whether thou be my very son Esau or not."
+
+And Jacob went near unto Isaac his father; and he felt him, and said,
+"The voice is Jacob's voice, but the hands are the hands of Esau." And
+he discerned him not, because his hands were hairy, as his brother
+Esau's hands: so he blessed him. And he said, "Art thou my very son
+Esau?"
+
+And he said, "I am."
+
+And he said, "Bring it near to me, and I will eat of my son's venison,
+that my soul may bless thee."
+
+And he brought it near to him, and he did eat: and he brought him wine,
+and he drank. And his father Isaac said unto him, "Come near now, and
+kiss me, my son." And he came near, and kissed him: and he smelled the
+smell of his raiment, and blessed him, and said,
+
+ See, the smell of my son
+ Is as the smell of a field which the Lord hath blessed:
+ And God give thee of the dew of heaven,
+ And of the fatness of the earth,
+ And plenty of corn and wine:
+ Let peoples serve thee,
+ And nations bow down to thee:
+ Be lord over thy brethren,
+ And let thy mother's sons bow down to thee:
+ Cursed be every one that curseth thee.
+ And blessed be every one that blesseth thee.
+
+
+D. ESAU'S DISAPPOINTMENT
+
+And it came to pass, as soon as Isaac had made an end of blessing Jacob,
+and Jacob was yet scarce gone out from the presence of Isaac his father,
+that Esau his brother came in from his hunting. And he also made savory
+meat, and brought it unto his father; and he said unto his father, "Let
+my father arise, and eat of his son's venison, that thy soul may bless
+me."
+
+And Isaac his father said unto him, "Who art thou?"
+
+And he said, "I am thy son, thy firstborn, Esau."
+
+And Isaac trembled very exceedingly, and said, "Who then is he that hath
+taken venison, and brought it me, and I have eaten of all before thou
+camest, and have blessed him? yea, and he shall be blessed."
+
+When Esau heard the words of his father, he cried with an exceeding
+great and bitter cry, and said unto his father, "Bless me, even me also,
+O my father."
+
+And he said, "Thy brother came with guile, and hath taken away thy
+blessing."
+
+And he said, "Is not he rightly named Jacob? for he hath supplanted me
+these two times: he took away my birthright; and, behold, now he hath
+taken away my blessing. Hast thou not reserved a blessing for me?"
+
+And Isaac answered and said unto Esau, "Behold, I have made him thy
+lord, and all his brethren have I given to him for servants; and with
+corn and wine have I sustained him: and what then shall I do for thee,
+my son?"
+
+And Esau said unto his father, "Hast thou but one blessing, my father?
+bless me, even me also, O my father."
+
+And Esau lifted up his voice, and wept. And Isaac his father answered
+and said unto him,
+
+ Behold of the fatness of the earth shall be thy dwelling,
+ And of the dew of heaven from above;
+ And by thy sword shalt thou live, and thou shalt serve thy brother;
+ And it shall come to pass when thou shalt break loose,
+ That thou shalt shake his yoke from off thy neck.
+
+
+E. ESAU'S HATRED
+
+And Esau hated Jacob because of the blessing wherewith his father
+blessed him: and Esau said in his heart, "The days of mourning for my
+father are at hand; then will I slay my brother Jacob."
+
+And the words of Esau her elder son were told to Rebekah; and she sent
+and called Jacob her younger son, and said unto him, "Behold, thy
+brother Esau, as touching thee, doth comfort himself, purposing to kill
+thee. Now, therefore, my son, obey my voice; and arise, flee thou to
+Laban my brother to Haran; and tarry with him a few days, until thy
+brother's fury turn away; until thy brother's anger turn away from thee,
+and he forget that which thou hast done to him: then I will send, and
+fetch thee from thence: why should I be bereaved of you both in one
+day?"
+
+
+=Sec.12. The Dream of the Heavenly Ladder= (Gen. 28:10-22)
+
+And Jacob went out from Beer-sheba, and went toward Haran. And he
+lighted upon a certain place, and tarried there all night, because the
+sun was set; and he took one of the stones of the place, and put it
+under his head, and lay down in that place to sleep. And he dreamed, and
+behold a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to
+heaven: and behold the angels of God ascending and descending on it.
+And, behold, the Lord stood above it, and said, "I am the Lord, the God
+of Abraham thy father, and the God of Isaac: the land whereon thou
+liest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed; and thy seed shall be as
+the dust of the earth, and thou shalt spread abroad to the west, and to
+the east, and to the north, and to the south: and in thee and in thy
+seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed. And, behold, I am
+with thee, and will keep thee whithersoever thou goest, and will bring
+thee again into this land; for I will not leave thee, until I have done
+that which I have spoken to thee of."
+
+And Jacob awaked out of his sleep, and he said, "Surely the Lord is in
+this place; and I knew it not." And he was afraid, and said, "How
+dreadful is this place! this is none other but the house of God, and
+this is the gate of heaven."
+
+And Jacob rose up early in the morning, and took the stone that he had
+put under his head, and set it up for a pillar, and poured oil upon the
+top of it. And he called the name of that place Beth-el. And Jacob vowed
+a vow, saying, "If God will be with me, and will keep me in this way
+that I go, and will give me bread to eat, and raiment to put on, so that
+I come again to my father's house in peace, then shall the Lord be my
+God, and this stone, which I have set up for a pillar, shall be God's
+house: and of all that thou shalt give me I will surely give the tenth
+unto thee."
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+31. No man is altogether good and no one is wholly bad. Good and evil
+struggle for the mastery in us. Jacob is a man in whom this is very
+clearly seen. He was the twin brother of Esau, but Esau had the right of
+the oldest son. This was called the birthright. It was very important in
+that day. It meant that after the father's death Esau would become the
+head of the tribe, and would have twice as much of the property as his
+brother. Jacob did not like this and began to scheme to get the better
+of his brother.
+
+32 (Sec.10). What was the difference between the two men?
+
+33 (Sec.10). Tell the story of the hunting day and how Jacob sold the food
+to his brother.
+
+34 (Sec.10). What do you think of Esau in this affair? He gave up a great
+future for a little satisfaction.
+
+35 (Sec.10). Jacob was "smart" or "clever" in his bargain. Was he
+brotherly? Is it honest to charge all that you can get for something
+that people must have?
+
+36 (Sec.11A). The last solemn blessing of the head of the tribe was
+considered very important. How did Isaac arrange that it should be given
+to Esau?
+
+37 (Sec.11B). There was a wretched favoritism in this family. What was
+Rebekah's scheme to get the blessing for her favorite? Tell the story.
+
+38 (Sec.11C). Picture the blind old father and the crafty son coming to
+him. How did he secure the blessing? Notice how one wrong leads to
+another.
+
+39 (Sec.11D). Tell the story of Esau's bitter disappointment.
+
+40 (Sec.11E). What revenge did Esau plan? Rebekah was afraid: what advice
+did she give to Jacob? When the man had to flee for his life, how much
+had he gained by his deception? Do the "smart" men always win? If they
+do is it worth while?
+
+41 (Sec.12). The Lord is wonderfully forgiving, and he still wanted to lead
+Jacob to a noble life. Follow the journey on the map. What did Jacob do
+when night overtook him? There are great rocks at Beth-el that look
+something like a huge staircase. How did these form themselves in
+Jacob's dream? This is a simple, beautiful story of the old time when
+men thought they saw God in dreams. Tell the whole story in your own
+words.
+
+42 (Sec.12). What promise did the Lord give him? What vow did Jacob make?
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Call to mind the meaning of _magnanimous_. Taking advantage of another's
+need as Jacob took advantage of Esau is the opposite of magnanimous.
+When the earthquake occurred in San Francisco some stores that had bread
+put up the price so high that very few could buy it. Soldiers compelled
+them to sell it for the regular price. How were those storekeepers like
+Jacob? Why was their conduct wrong? Write the answers to these two
+questions in your notebook.
+
+
+
+
+V. ISRAEL, THE GODLY
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.13. Jacob's Return after Twenty Years= (Gen. 29:1, 16, 23, 28; 30:43;
+31:17, 18)
+
+And Jacob came to the land of the children of the East. And he served
+Laban, his mother's brother. And Laban had two daughters: the name of
+the elder was Leah, and the name of the younger was Rachel. And Laban
+gave his two daughters to Jacob to be his wives.
+
+And Jacob increased exceedingly, and had large flocks, and maidservants
+and menservants, and camels and asses.
+
+And after twenty years Jacob rose up, and set his sons and his wives
+upon the camels; and he carried away all his cattle, and all his
+substance which he had gathered to go unto the land of Canaan.
+
+
+=Sec.14. Jacob's Fear of Esau= (Gen. 32:1-21)
+
+A. THE MESSAGE TO ESAU
+
+And Jacob sent messengers before him to Esau his brother unto the land
+of Seir. And he commanded them, saying, "Thus shall ye say unto my lord
+Esau, 'Thus saith thy servant Jacob, I have sojourned with Laban, and
+stayed until now: and I have oxen, and asses and flocks, and
+menservants and maidservants: and I have sent to tell my lord, that I
+may find grace in thy sight.'"
+
+And the messengers returned to Jacob, saying, "We came to thy brother
+Esau, and moreover he cometh to meet thee, and four hundred men with
+him."
+
+Then Jacob was greatly afraid and was distressed: and he divided the
+people that was with him, and the flocks, and the herds, and the camels,
+into two companies; and he said, "If Esau come to the one company, and
+smite it, then the company which is left shall escape."
+
+
+B. JACOB'S PRAYER
+
+And Jacob said, "O God of my father Abraham, and God of my father Isaac,
+O Lord, which saidst unto me, 'Return unto thy country, and to thy
+kindred, and I will do thee good': I am not worthy of the least of all
+the mercies, and of all the truth, which thou hast showed unto thy
+servant; for with my staff I passed over this Jordan; and now I am
+become two companies. Deliver me, I pray thee, from the hand of my
+brother, from the hand of Esau: for I fear him, lest he come and smite
+me, the mother with the children. And thou saidst, 'I will surely do
+thee good, and make thy seed as the sand of the sea, which cannot be
+numbered for multitude.'"
+
+
+C. THE PRESENT TO ESAU
+
+And he lodged there that night; and took of that which he had with him a
+present for Esau his brother; two hundred she-goats and twenty
+he-goats, two hundred ewes and twenty rams, thirty milch camels and
+their colts, forty kine and ten bulls, twenty she-asses and ten foals.
+And he delivered them into the hand of his servants, every drove by
+itself; and said unto his servants, "Pass over before me, and put a
+space betwixt drove and drove."
+
+And he commanded the foremost, saying, "When Esau my brother meeteth
+thee, and asketh thee, saying, 'Whose art thou? and whither goest thou?
+and whose are these before thee?' then thou shalt say, 'They be thy
+servant Jacob's; it is a present sent unto my lord Esau: and, behold, he
+also is behind us.'"
+
+And he commanded also the second, and the third, and all that followed
+the droves, saying, "On this manner shall ye speak unto Esau, when ye
+find him; and ye shall say, 'Moreover, behold, thy servant Jacob is
+behind us.'" For he said, "I will appease him with the present that
+goeth before me, and afterward I will see his face; peradventure he will
+accept me."
+
+So the present passed over before him: and he himself lodged that night
+in the company.
+
+
+=Sec.15. The Wrestle and the New Name= (Gen. 32:22-31)
+
+And he rose up that night, and took his two wives, and his two
+handmaids, and his eleven children, and passed over the ford of Jabbok.
+And he took them, and sent them over the stream, and sent over that he
+had.
+
+And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man with him until the
+breaking of the day. And when he saw that he prevailed not against him,
+he touched the hollow of his thigh; and the hollow of Jacob's thigh was
+strained, as he wrestled with him.
+
+And he said, "Let me go, for the day breaketh."
+
+And he said, "I will not let thee go, except thou bless me."
+
+And he said unto him, "What is thy name?"
+
+And he said, "Jacob."
+
+And he said, "Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel: for
+thou hast striven with God and with men, and hast prevailed."
+
+And Jacob asked him, and said, "Tell me, I pray thee, thy name."
+
+And he said, "Wherefore is it that thou dost ask after my name?" And he
+blessed him there.
+
+And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel: for, said he, "I have
+seen God face to face, and my life is preserved." And the sun rose upon
+him as he passed over Peniel, and he halted upon his thigh.
+
+
+=Sec.16. The Meeting With Esau= (Gen. 33:1-16)
+
+And Jacob lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold, Esau came, and
+with him four hundred men. And he divided the children unto Leah, and
+unto Rachel, and unto the two handmaids. And he put the handmaids and
+their children foremost, and Leah and her children after, and Rachel and
+Joseph hindermost. And he himself passed over before them, and bowed
+himself to the ground seven times, until he came near to his brother.
+And Esau ran to meet him, and embraced him, and fell on his neck, and
+kissed him: and they wept. And he lifted up his eyes, and saw the women
+and the children; and said, "Who are these with thee?"
+
+And he said, "The children which God has graciously given thy servant."
+
+Then the handmaidens came near, they and their children, and they bowed
+themselves. And Leah also and her children came near, and bowed
+themselves: and after came Joseph near and Rachel, and they bowed
+themselves.
+
+And he said, "What meanest thou by all this company which I met?"
+
+And he said, "To find grace in the sight of my lord."
+
+And Esau said, "I have enough; my brother, let that thou hast be thine."
+
+And Jacob said, "Nay, I pray thee, if now I have found grace in thy
+sight, then receive my present at my hand: forasmuch as I have seen thy
+face, as one seeth the face of God, and thou wast pleased with me. Take,
+I pray thee, my gift that is brought to thee; because God hath dealt
+graciously with me, and because I have enough." And he urged him, and
+he took it.
+
+And he said, "Let us take our journey, and let us go, and I will go
+before thee."
+
+And he said unto him, "My lord knoweth that the children are tender, and
+that the flocks and herds with me have young: and if they overdrive them
+one day, all the flocks will die. Let my lord, I pray thee, pass over
+before his servant: and I will lead on softly, according to the pace of
+the cattle that is before me and according to the pace of the children,
+until I come unto my lord unto Seir."
+
+And Esau said, "Let me now leave with thee some of the folk that are
+with me."
+
+And he said, "What needeth it? let me find grace in the sight of my
+lord."
+
+So Esau returned that day on his way unto Seir.
+
+
+=Sec.17. The Altar of Beth-el= (Gen. 35:1-7)
+
+And God said unto Jacob, "Arise, go up to Beth-el, and dwell there: and
+make there an altar unto God, who appeared unto thee when thou fleddest
+from the face of Esau thy brother."
+
+Then Jacob said unto his household, and to all that were with them, "Put
+away the strange gods that are among you, and purify yourselves, and
+change your garments: and let us arise, and go up to Beth-el; and I will
+make there an altar unto God, who answered me in the day of my
+distress, and was with me in the way which I went."
+
+[Illustration]
+
+And they gave unto Jacob all the strange gods which were in their hand,
+and the rings which were in their ears; and Jacob hid them under the oak
+which was by Shechem. And they journeyed: and a great terror was upon
+the cities that were round about them, and they did not pursue after the
+sons of Jacob. So Jacob came to Beth-el, he and all the people that were
+with him. And he built there an altar, because there God was revealed
+unto him when he fled from the face of his brother.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+43 (Sec.13). There is a long and interesting story of Jacob's marriage and
+of his twenty years' service with Laban. It was a hard service, for
+Laban was a hard master and was very jealous of the prosperity of his
+son-in-law. But in spite of difficulty Jacob was successful, though in
+the game of wits he was not always very scrupulous. At last he
+determined to return to his own land, but was obliged to go secretly for
+fear of Laban. Even so, Laban pursued him and there was a hot dispute.
+But at last they made a covenant of peace, and parted. Jacob journeyed
+as far as the brook Jabbok, a stream which flows westward into the
+Jordan, about twenty-five miles north of the Dead Sea. Locate it on the
+map.
+
+44 (Sec.14A). As Jacob returned home, what might he have to fear? The old
+sin comes up after twenty years. Note Jacob's plan. He is very courteous
+to Esau and yet he wants him to know what a great man he has become.
+What would the reply of the messengers indicate about Esau's life for
+the twenty years? How did Jacob feel when he heard of Esau, and what
+did he do?
+
+45 (Sec.14B). Jacob was very shrewd, but there is a better defense than
+cunning. Read the beautiful prayer. How does he think of God? How does
+he think of himself? What does he pray for? What promise does he plead?
+
+46 (Sec.14C). How many animals were there in each of the five droves? How
+many were there altogether? What was Jacob's plan to pacify Esau? Do you
+think this was a shrewd scheme?
+
+47 (Sec.15). In the old days the experiences and feelings of the heart were
+often told as if they were physical events. So we must understand the
+wonderful story of the wrestle. Jacob had been a clever man living by
+his wits. God had in many ways been seeking to bring him to obedience to
+his will. Now when the danger of Esau is upon him, Jacob has the fight
+of his life--but it is within his own heart.
+
+48 (Sec.15). Picture the loneliness of Jacob and describe how you think he
+felt that night? Did you ever have a great heart struggle about some
+duty, or over some temptation?
+
+49 (Sec.15). Jacob was defeated and yet he was victorious. When we give in
+to God, we are really victors. What was his new name? How are all his
+people called by it? The old name belongs to the clever man: the new
+name belongs to the godly man, who has received God's blessing.
+
+50 (Sec.16). This story may be passed rapidly, though it is full of
+interest. Tell in your own words: (1) what happened when the brothers
+met; (2) how Jacob wisely separated from Esau.
+
+51 (Sec.17). There was one place in Canaan that was very sacred to Jacob.
+What had happened at Beth-el? Why did God tell him to go there? How did
+he prepare his people for the visit? What thoughts do you think came to
+him when he returned to the spot where he had slept as a lonely young
+man twenty years before?
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Tell your parents what you have learned about Jacob, and ask them if
+they ever knew a person who had done wrong and was in danger from it
+years afterward, and who was sorry for the wrong, and was helped by
+God's goodness. Write what they tell you in your notebook.
+
+
+
+
+JOSEPH
+
+
+ VI. JOSEPH, THE SLAVE
+
+ VII. JOSEPH, THE RULER
+
+ VIII. JOSEPH, THE GENEROUS
+
+
+
+
+VI. JOSEPH, THE SLAVE
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.18. Joseph and His Dreams= (Gen. 37:3-11)
+
+Now Israel loved Joseph more than all his children, because he was the
+son of his old age: and he made him a long garment with sleeves. And his
+brethren saw that their father loved him more than all his brethren; and
+they hated him, and could not speak peaceably unto him. And Joseph
+dreamed a dream, and he told it to his brethren: and they hated him yet
+the more.
+
+And he said unto them, "Hear, I pray you, this dream which I have
+dreamed: for, behold, we were binding sheaves in the field, and lo, my
+sheaf arose, and also stood upright; and, behold, your sheaves came
+round about, and made obeisance to my sheaf."
+
+And his brethren said to him, "Shalt thou indeed reign over us? or shalt
+thou indeed have dominion over us?" And they hated him yet the more for
+his dreams, and for his words.
+
+And he dreamed yet another dream, and told it to his brethren, and said,
+"Behold, I have dreamed yet a dream; and, behold, the sun and the moon
+and eleven stars made obeisance to me."
+
+And he told it to his father, and to his brethren; and his father
+rebuked him, and said unto him, "What is this dream that thou hast
+dreamed? Shall I and thy mother and thy brethren indeed come to bow down
+ourselves to thee to the earth?"
+
+And his brethren envied him; and his father kept the saying in mind.
+
+
+=Sec.19. Joseph Sold as a Slave= (Gen. 37:12-35)
+
+And his brethren went to feed their father's flock in Shechem. And
+Israel said unto Joseph, "Do not thy brethren feed the flock in Shechem?
+come, and I will send thee unto them."
+
+And he said to him, "Here am I."
+
+And he said to him, "Go now, see whether it be well with thy brethren,
+and well with the flock; and bring me word again."
+
+So he sent him out of the vale of Hebron, and he came to Shechem. And a
+certain man found him, and, behold, he was wandering in the field: and
+the man asked him, saying, "What seekest thou?"
+
+And he said, "I seek my brethren: tell me, I pray thee, where they are
+feeding the flock."
+
+And the man said, "They are departed hence: for I heard them say, 'Let
+us go to Dothan.'"
+
+And Joseph went after his brethren, and found them in Dothan. And they
+saw him afar off, and before he came near unto them, they conspired
+against him to slay him. And they said one to another, "Behold, this
+dreamer cometh. Come now therefore, and let us slay him, and cast him
+into one of the pits, and we will say, 'An evil beast hath devoured
+him': and we shall see what will become of his dreams."
+
+And it came to pass, when Joseph was come unto his brethren, that they
+stript Joseph of his coat, the long garment with sleeves that was on
+him; and they took him, and cast him into the pit: and the pit was
+empty, there was no water in it. And they sat down to eat bread: and
+they lifted up their eyes and looked, and, behold, a traveling company
+of Ishmaelites came from Gilead, with their camels bearing spicery and
+balm and myrrh, going to carry it down to Egypt. And Judah said unto his
+brethren, "What profit is it if we slay our brother and conceal his
+blood? Come, and let us sell him to the Ishmaelites, and let not our
+hand be upon him; for he is our brother, our flesh."
+
+And his brethren hearkened unto him. And they drew and lifted Joseph out
+of the pit, and sold Joseph to the Ishmaelites for twenty pieces of
+silver. And they brought Joseph into Egypt. And they took Joseph's coat,
+and killed a he-goat, and dipped the coat in the blood; and they brought
+it to their father; and said, "This have we found; know now whether it
+be thy son's coat or not."
+
+And he knew it, and said, "It is my son's coat; an evil beast hath
+devoured him; Joseph is without doubt torn in pieces." And Jacob rent
+his garments, and put sackcloth upon his loins, and mourned for his son
+many days. And all his sons and all his daughters rose up to comfort
+him; but he refused to be comforted; and he said, "For I will go down to
+the grave to my son mourning." And his father wept for him.
+
+
+=Sec.20. Joseph's Faithfulness= (Gen. 39:1-6)
+
+And Joseph was brought down to Egypt; and Potiphar, an officer of
+Pharaoh's, the captain of the guard, an Egyptian, bought him of the hand
+of the Ishmaelites, which had brought him down thither.
+
+And the Lord was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man; and he was in
+the house of his master the Egyptian. And his master saw that the Lord
+was with him, and that the Lord made all that he did to prosper in his
+hand. And Joseph found grace in his sight, and he ministered unto him:
+and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he had he put into
+his hand. And it came to pass from the time that he made him overseer in
+his house, and over all that he had, that the Lord blessed the
+Egyptian's house for Joseph's sake; and the blessing of the Lord was
+upon all that he had, in the house and in the field. And he left all
+that he had in Joseph's hand; and he knew not aught that was with him
+save the bread which he did eat.
+
+
+=Sec.21. Joseph in Prison= (Gen. 39:17-23)
+
+But Potiphar's wife spoke false words concerning Joseph, and she said
+unto her husband, "The Hebrew servant, which thou hast brought unto us,
+came in unto me to mock me: and it came to pass, as I lifted up my voice
+and cried, that he fled out."
+
+And it came to pass, when his master heard the words of his wife, which
+she spake unto him, saying, "After this manner did thy servant to me,"
+that his wrath was kindled. And Joseph's master took him, and put him
+into the prison, the place where the king's prisoners were bound: and he
+was there in the prison.
+
+But the Lord was with Joseph, and showed kindness unto him, and gave him
+favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison. And the keeper of the
+prison committed to Joseph's hand all the prisoners that were in the
+prison; and whatsoever they did there, he was the doer of it. The keeper
+of the prison looked not to any thing that was under his hand, because
+the Lord was with him; and that which he did, the Lord made it to
+prosper.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+52. The story of Joseph is remarkably beautiful and interesting. It is
+more fully told than many of the other stories, and we seem to know
+Joseph better than almost any of the older Bible characters. His life
+was full of startling adventure and shows how a strong, noble young hero
+can meet danger.
+
+53 (Sec.18). Joseph was the youngest but one of Jacob's sons. The others
+were grown up, and many statements show that they were not very good
+men. How did Jacob feel toward Joseph? He gave him a long garment with
+sleeves, which was a mark of distinction. The ordinary working garments
+were short and had no sleeves. How did Joseph's brothers feel toward
+him? What do you think of favoritism in families? Can a father feel the
+same toward good sons and bad sons?
+
+54 (Sec.18). In old times they thought much of dreams and believed they had
+important meanings. Tell Joseph's two dreams. What were they supposed to
+mean? Do boys often dream of their future?
+
+55 (Sec.19). Why do men with large flocks need to move from place to place?
+Locate Hebron on the map. Then note how far the shepherds had wandered
+to Shechem, which is a very rich pasturage. Then notice Dothan, 15 miles
+farther north, where the pasturage is still richer. About how far was
+Dothan from Hebron? (Use the scale on the map to measure.) Tell how
+Joseph found his brothers.
+
+56 (Sec.19). Tell the story of the plot. What had prepared these men for
+the crime they committed? (See I John 3:15.) It is a fearful thing to
+keep hatred in the heart. Shut the book and think for a moment whether
+you really hate anyone. Tell what they did with Joseph. How does one sin
+lead to another? What did they tell Jacob? Notice how sorry the old man
+was and how they showed their sorrow in those days.
+
+57 (Sec.20). What happened to Joseph when he reached Egypt? What is the
+position of a slave?
+
+58 (Sec.20). Notice how Joseph, although he was sold into slavery,
+determined to do his duty to his master. Some people will only do their
+best when they are well paid. How was faithfulness rewarded in this
+case?
+
+59 (Sec.21). This story is full of strange surprises. Just as Joseph was
+enjoying his place as overseer, a new enemy arose. His master's wife
+made false charges against him. She was a wicked woman and wanted Joseph
+to be put out of the way. Her husband believed her. What did he do with
+Joseph?
+
+60 (Sec.21). Joseph might well be discouraged, but even in prison he was
+determined to do his best. Whose favor did he gain? In our prisons they
+call the good prisoners "trusties." The jailer soon found that Joseph
+was a "trusty," and gave him charge of all the other prisoners.
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Bear in mind Joseph's trouble in slavery and in prison, and try to find
+out about someone who has had a very hard time, but who is patiently and
+cheerfully doing his work, trusting in God. Write the account of it.
+
+
+
+
+VII. JOSEPH, THE RULER
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.22. Joseph's Interpretation of the Dreams= (Gen. 40)
+
+A. JOSEPH AND THE STATE PRISONERS
+
+And it came to pass after these things, that the butler of the king of
+Egypt and his baker offended their lord the king of Egypt. And Pharaoh
+was wroth against his two officers, against the chief of the butlers,
+and against the chief of the bakers. And he put them in the house of the
+captain of the guard, into the prison, the place where Joseph was bound.
+And the captain of the guard charged Joseph with them, and he ministered
+unto them: and they continued a season in prison.
+
+And they dreamed a dream both of them, each man his dream, in one night,
+each man according to the interpretation of his dream, the butler and
+the baker of the king of Egypt, which were bound in the prison.
+
+And Joseph came in unto them in the morning, and saw them, and, behold,
+they were sad. And he asked them, saying, "Wherefore look ye so sadly
+to-day?"
+
+And they said unto him, "We have dreamed a dream, and there is none that
+can interpret it."
+
+And Joseph said unto them, "Do not interpretations belong to God? tell
+it me, I pray you."
+
+
+B. THE CHIEF BUTLER'S DREAM
+
+And the chief butler told his dream to Joseph, and said to him, "In my
+dream, behold, a vine was before me; and in the vine were three
+branches: and it was as though it budded, and its blossoms shot forth;
+and the clusters thereof brought forth ripe grapes: and Pharaoh's cup
+was in my hand; and I took the grapes, and pressed them into Pharaoh's
+cup, and I gave the cup into Pharaoh's hand."
+
+And Joseph said unto him, "This is the interpretation of it: the three
+branches are three days; within yet three days shall Pharaoh lift up
+thine head, and restore thee unto thine office: and thou shalt give
+Pharaoh's cup into his hand, after the former manner when thou wast his
+butler. But have me in thy remembrance when it shall be well with thee,
+and show kindness, I pray thee, unto me, and make mention of me unto
+Pharaoh, and bring me out of this house: for indeed I was stolen away
+out of the land of the Hebrews: and here also have I done nothing that
+they should put me into the dungeon."
+
+
+C. THE CHIEF BAKER'S DREAM
+
+When the chief baker saw that the interpretation was good, he said unto
+Joseph, "I also was in my dream, and, behold, three baskets of white
+bread were on my head: and in the uppermost basket there was of all
+manner of baked food for Pharaoh; and the birds did eat it out of the
+basket upon my head."
+
+And Joseph answered and said, "This is the interpretation thereof: the
+three baskets are three days; within yet three days shall Pharaoh lift
+up thy head from off thee, and shall hang thee on a tree; and the birds
+shall eat thy flesh from off thee."
+
+
+D. THE INTERPRETATION COMES TRUE
+
+And it came to pass the third day, which was Pharaoh's birthday, that he
+made a feast unto all his servants: and he lifted up the head of the
+chief butler and the head of the chief baker among his servants. And he
+restored the chief butler unto his butlership again; and he gave the cup
+into Pharaoh's hand: but he hanged the chief baker: as Joseph had
+interpreted to them. Yet did not the chief butler remember Joseph, but
+forgot him.
+
+
+=Sec.23. Joseph's Interpretation of Pharaoh's Dreams= (Gen. 41:1-16, 25-36)
+
+A. THE KING'S DREAM
+
+And it came to pass at the end of two full years, that Pharaoh dreamed:
+and, behold, he stood by the river. And, behold, there came up out of
+the river seven kine, well favored and fatfleshed; and they fed in the
+reed-grass. And, behold, seven other kine came up after them out of the
+river, ill favored and leanfleshed; and stood by the other kine upon
+the brink of the river. And the ill favored and leanfleshed kine did
+eat up the seven well favored and fat kine. So Pharaoh awoke. And he
+slept and dreamed a second time: and, behold, seven ears of corn came up
+on one stalk, rank and good. And, behold, seven ears, thin and blasted
+with the east wind, sprung up after them. And the thin ears swallowed up
+the seven rank and full ears. And Pharaoh awoke, and, behold, it was a
+dream. And it came to pass in the morning that his spirit was troubled;
+and he sent and called for all the magicians of Egypt, and all the wise
+men thereof: and Pharaoh told them his dream: but there was none that
+could interpret them unto Pharaoh.
+
+
+B. THE BUTLER'S RECOMMENDATION OF JOSEPH
+
+Then spake the chief butler unto Pharaoh, saying, "I do remember my
+faults this day: Pharaoh was wroth with his servants, and put me in
+prison in the house of the captain of the guard, me and the chief baker:
+and we dreamed a dream in one night, I and he; we dreamed each man
+according to the interpretation of his dream. And there was with us
+there a young man, an Hebrew, servant to the captain of the guards; and
+we told him, and he interpreted to us our dreams; to each man according
+to his dream he did interpret. And it came to pass, as he interpreted to
+us, so it was; I was restored unto mine office, and he was hanged."
+
+
+C. JOSEPH INTERPRETS PHARAOH'S DREAM
+
+Then Pharaoh sent and called Joseph, and they brought him hastily out of
+the dungeon: and he shaved himself, and changed his raiment, and came in
+unto Pharaoh.
+
+And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, "I have dreamed a dream, and there is none
+that can interpret it: and I have heard say of thee, that when thou
+hearest a dream thou canst interpret it."
+
+And Joseph answered Pharaoh, saying, "It is not in me: God shall give
+Pharaoh an answer of peace."
+
+And Pharaoh told Joseph his dreams.
+
+And Joseph said unto Pharaoh, "The dream of Pharaoh is one: what God is
+about to do he hath declared unto Pharaoh. The seven good kine are seven
+years; and the seven good ears are seven years: the dream is one. And
+the seven lean and ill favored kine that came up after them are seven
+years, and also the seven empty ears blasted with the east wind; they
+shall be seven years of famine. That is the thing which I spake unto
+Pharaoh: what God is about to do he hath showed unto Pharaoh. Behold,
+there come seven years of great plenty throughout all the land of Egypt:
+and there shall arise after them seven years of famine; and all the
+plenty shall be forgotten in the land of Egypt; and the famine shall
+consume the land; and the plenty shall not be known in the land by
+reason of that famine which followeth; for it shall be very grievous.
+And for that the dream was doubled unto Pharaoh twice, it is because the
+thing is established by God, and God will shortly bring it to pass. Now
+therefore let Pharaoh look out a man discreet and wise, and set him over
+the land of Egypt. Let Pharaoh do this, and let him appoint overseers
+over the land, and take up the fifth part of the land of Egypt in the
+seven plenteous years. And let them gather all the food of these good
+years that come, and lay up grain under the hand of Pharaoh for food in
+the cities, and let them keep it. And the food shall be for a store to
+the land against the seven years of famine, which shall be in the land
+of Egypt; that the land perish not through the famine."
+
+
+=Sec.24. Joseph Made Ruler of Egypt= (Gen. 41:37-45, 47-57)
+
+A. JOSEPH HONORED BY PHARAOH
+
+And the thing was good in the eyes of Pharaoh, and in the eyes of all
+his servants. And Pharaoh said unto his servants, "Can we find such a
+one as this, a man in whom the spirit of God is?" And Pharaoh said unto
+Joseph, "Forasmuch as God hath showed thee all this, there is none so
+discreet and wise as thou: thou shalt be over my house, and according
+unto thy word shall all my people be ruled: only in the throne will I be
+greater than thou." And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, "See, I have set thee
+over all the land of Egypt."
+
+And Pharaoh took off his signet ring from his hand, and put it upon
+Joseph's hand, and arrayed him in vestures of fine linen, and put a gold
+chain about his neck; and he made him to ride in the second chariot
+which he had; and they cried before him, "Bow the knee," and he set him
+over all the land of Egypt. And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, "I am Pharaoh,
+and without thee shall no man lift up his hand or his foot in all the
+land of Egypt."
+
+[Illustration: THE SEAL OF THE GRAND VIZIER OF RAMSES II]
+
+And he gave him to wife Asenath the daughter of Poti-phera priest of On.
+And Joseph went out over the land of Egypt.
+
+
+B. JOSEPH'S PROSPERITY
+
+And in the seven plenteous years the earth brought forth by handfuls.
+And he gathered up all the food of the seven years which were in the
+land of Egypt, and laid up the food in the cities: the food of the
+field, which was round about every city, laid he up in the same. And
+Joseph laid up grain as the sand of the sea, very much, until he left
+numbering; for it was without number.
+
+And unto Joseph were born two sons before the year of famine came. And
+Joseph called the name of the firstborn Manasseh: "For God hath made me
+forget all my toil, and all my father's house." And the name of the
+second called he Ephraim: "For God hath made me fruitful in the land of
+my affliction."
+
+And the seven years of plenty, that was in the land of Egypt, came to an
+end. And the seven years of famine began to come, according as Joseph
+had said: and there was famine in all lands; but in all the land of
+Egypt there was bread. And when all the land of Egypt was famished, the
+people cried to Pharaoh for bread: and Pharaoh said unto all the
+Egyptians, "Go unto Joseph; what he saith to you, do."
+
+And the famine was over all the face of the earth: and Joseph opened all
+the storehouses, and sold unto the Egyptians; and the famine was sore in
+the land of Egypt. And all countries came into Egypt to Joseph to buy
+grain; because the famine was sore in all the earth.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+61. Recall rapidly the story of Joseph as far as we have studied it.
+Read Sec.21 and consider the situation of the young prisoner.
+
+62 (Sec.22A). Who were these two great men that were sent to prison? It was
+a high office to be cupbearer to the king. The butler's speech later
+shows that it was his duty to squeeze the grapes into a goblet of water,
+making the refreshing drink for his royal master. The officer who had
+charge of the kitchen in a great palace would also be an important man.
+In our time a French "chef" sometimes has a salary of $25,000. Why were
+these men in prison? What did Joseph have to do with them?
+
+63 (Sec.22A). This was three days before the king's birthday and on that
+day it was customary to decide the fate of state prisoners. How would
+the two men feel as the day drew near? Would they be likely to dream
+about their former occupations? Tell the conversation that took place
+between them and Joseph in the morning.
+
+64 (Sec.22B). Tell the story. Note how natural it was for the butler to
+dream that he was again preparing the king's grape juice. What do you
+think of Joseph's request? Was it a reasonable request?
+
+65 (Sec.22C, D). Tell the story of the baker's dream and the
+interpretation. What happened on the king's birthday? How was it that
+the chief butler was so ungrateful?
+
+66 (Sec.23A). Pharaoh was the title given to all the kings of Egypt, as
+Czar is given to the Russian emperors, Sultan to the rulers of Turkey,
+and President to our own chief executive. The most important thing in
+Egypt is its famous river. (What is its name?) It was natural for the
+king to dream of it. Tell the story of his dream.
+
+67 (Sec.23B). We have already noted how much significance was attached to
+dreams. A king would have a company of learned men who were supposed to
+be able to interpret his dreams. How was it in this case? What did the
+chief butler do? How long had he forgotten Joseph?
+
+68 (Sec.23C). How did they get Joseph ready to appear before the king? If
+you look at Egyptian pictures you will see that the great men never wore
+beards. The Egyptians were also very cleanly and particular about white
+garments. What did Pharaoh say to Joseph? Note Joseph's modesty.
+
+69 (Sec.23C). Tell Joseph's interpretation of the dreams. Of course we
+naturally ask how Joseph could know these things. But we can only say
+that it is part of the story, and our interest is in finding just what
+these beautiful old tales of the heroes have to say to us. What advice
+did Joseph give to the king? Famines were rare in Egypt, because the
+country is not dependent upon rainfall but upon the overflow of the
+Nile. Occasionally, though very seldom, the water does not come from the
+upper river in sufficient quantity; then there is no inundation and the
+crops fail.
+
+70 (Sec.24A). What did Pharaoh think of Joseph's interpretation? What did
+he think of his advice? What did he decide to do with him. Note the six
+distinctions he gave him and explain what they meant? In England one of
+the highest officers is the Keeper of the Great Seal. And there the
+aldermen wear gold chains round their necks. It was a notable honor to
+be married to the daughter of the high priest, who was a great
+dignitary.
+
+71 (Sec.24B). What did Joseph do during the seven prosperous years? How
+many sons were born to him? What did he do when the famine came?
+
+72. When Joseph was in the pit in slavery, and in the prison, whom did
+he trust? Did he ever think the happy dreams of youth were hopeless?
+What is the best way to meet bad fortune? Now note how he meets good
+fortune. Read Rom. 8:28.
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Like Joseph, you doubtless have some tasks put upon you that are
+unpleasant. Note one of those tasks this week. Do it as Joseph would
+have done. You will feel after you have done your best that it was worth
+while. Then think again how Joseph behaved. Write out in your notebook
+why Joseph always did his duty.
+
+
+
+
+
+VIII. JOSEPH, THE GENEROUS
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.25. Joseph and the Guilty Brothers= (Gen. 42)
+
+A. THE FIRST JOURNEY OF THE BROTHERS
+
+Now Jacob saw that there was grain in Egypt, and Jacob said unto his
+sons, "Why do ye look one upon another? Behold, I have heard that there
+is grain in Egypt: get you down thither, and buy for us from thence;
+that we may live, and not die."
+
+And Joseph's ten brethren went down to buy grain from Egypt. But
+Benjamin, Joseph's brother, Jacob sent not with his brethren; for he
+said, "Lest peradventure mischief befall him."
+
+
+B. JOSEPH'S TREATMENT OF HIS BROTHERS
+
+And Joseph was the governor over the land; he it was that sold to all
+the people of the land: and Joseph's brethren came, and bowed down
+themselves to him with their faces to the earth. And Joseph saw his
+brethren, and he knew them, but made himself strange unto them, and
+spake roughly with them; and he said unto them, "Whence come ye?" And
+they said, "From the land of Canaan to buy food."
+
+And Joseph remembered the dreams which he dreamed of them, and said unto
+them, "Ye are spies; to see the nakedness of the land ye are come."
+
+And they said unto him, "Nay, my lord, but to buy food are thy servants
+come. We are all one man's sons; we are true men, thy servants are no
+spies."
+
+And he said unto them, "Nay, but to see the nakedness of the land ye are
+come."
+
+And they said, "We thy servants are twelve brethren, the sons of one man
+in the land of Canaan; and, behold, the youngest is this day with our
+father, and one is not."
+
+And Joseph said unto them, "Ye are spies." And he put them all together
+into prison three days. And Joseph said unto them the third day, "This
+do, and live; for I fear God: if ye be true men, let one of your
+brethren be bound in your prison house; but go ye, carry grain for the
+famine of your houses: and bring your youngest brother unto me; so shall
+your words be verified, and ye shall not die."
+
+And they said one to another, "We are verily guilty concerning our
+brother, in that we saw the distress of his soul, when he besought us,
+and we would not hear; therefore is this distress come upon us."
+
+And they knew not that Joseph understood them; for there was an
+interpreter between them. And he turned himself about from them, and
+wept; and he returned to them, and spake to them, and took Simeon from
+among them, and bound him before their eyes.
+
+
+C. THE RETURN TO JACOB
+
+Then Joseph commanded to fill their vessels with grain, and to restore
+every man's money into his sack, and to give them provision for the way:
+and thus was it done unto them.
+
+And they laded their asses with their grain and departed thence. And as
+one of them opened his sack to give his ass provender in the lodging
+place, he espied his money; and, behold, it was in the mouth of his
+sack. And he said unto his brethren, "My money is restored; and, lo, it
+is even in my sack." And their heart failed them, and they turned
+trembling one to another, saying, "What is this that God hath done unto
+us?"
+
+And they came unto Jacob their father unto the land of Canaan, and told
+him all that had befallen them. And it came to pass as they emptied
+their sacks, that, behold, every man's bundle of money was in his sack;
+and when they and their father saw their bundles of money, they were
+afraid.
+
+And Jacob their father said unto them, "Me have ye bereaved of my
+children: Joseph is not, and Simeon is not, and ye will take Benjamin
+away: all these things are against me."
+
+And Reuben spake unto his father, saying, "Slay my two sons, if I bring
+him not to thee: deliver him into my hand, and I will bring him to thee
+again."
+
+And he said, "My son shall not go down with you; for his brother is
+dead, and he only is left: if mischief befall him by the way in the
+which ye go, then shall ye bring down my gray hairs with sorrow to the
+grave."
+
+
+=Sec.26. Joseph and Benjamin= (Gen. 43)
+
+A. THE SECOND JOURNEY TO EGYPT
+
+And the famine was sore in the land. And it came to pass, when they had
+eaten up the grain which they had brought out of Egypt, their father
+said unto them, "Go again, buy us a little food."
+
+And Judah spake unto him, saying, "The man did solemnly protest unto us,
+saying, 'Ye shall not see my face, except your brother be with you.' If
+thou wilt send our brother with us, we will go down and buy thee food:
+but if thou wilt not send him, we will not go down."
+
+And Israel said, "Wherefore dealt ye so ill with me, as to tell the man
+whether ye had yet a brother?"
+
+And they said, "The man asked straitly concerning ourselves, and
+concerning our kindred, saying, 'Is your father yet alive? have ye
+another brother?' and we told him according to the tenor of these words:
+could we in any wise know that he would say, 'Bring your brother down'?"
+And Judah said unto Israel his father, "Send the lad with me, and we
+will arise and go; that we may live, and not die, both we, and thou, and
+also our little ones. I will be surety for him; of my hand shalt thou
+require him: if I bring him not unto thee, and set him before thee, then
+let me bear the blame for ever: for except we had lingered, surely we
+had now returned a second time."
+
+And their father Israel said unto them, "If it be so now, do this; take
+of the choice fruits of the land in your vessels, and carry down the man
+a present, a little balm, and a little honey, spicery and myrrh, nuts,
+and almonds: and take double money in your hand; and the money that was
+returned in the mouth of your sacks carry again in your hand;
+peradventure it was an oversight: take also your brother, and arise, go
+again unto the man: and God Almighty give you mercy before the man, that
+he may release unto you your other brother and Benjamin. And if I be
+bereaved of my children, I am bereaved."
+
+
+B. THE KIND RECEPTION
+
+And the men took that present, and they took double money in their hand,
+and Benjamin; and rose up, and went down to Egypt, and stood before
+Joseph. And when Joseph saw Benjamin with them, he said to the steward
+of his house, "Bring the men into the house, and slay, and make ready;
+for the men shall dine with me at noon."
+
+And the man did as Joseph bade; and the man brought the men into
+Joseph's house. And the men were afraid because they were brought into
+Joseph's house; and they said, "Because of the money that was returned
+in our sacks at the first time are we brought in; that he may seek
+occasion against us, and fall upon us, and take us for bondmen, and our
+asses."
+
+And they came near to the steward of Joseph's house; and they spake unto
+him at the door of the house, and said, "Oh my lord, we came indeed down
+at the first time to buy food: and it came to pass, when we came to the
+lodging place, that we opened our sacks, and, behold, every man's money
+was in the mouth of his sack, our money in full weight: and we have
+brought it again in our hand. And other money have we brought down in
+our hand to buy food: we know not who put our money in our sacks."
+
+And he said, "Peace be to you, fear not: your God, and the God of your
+father, hath given you treasure in your sacks: I had your money."
+
+And he brought Simeon out unto them. And the man brought the men into
+Joseph's house, and gave them water, and they washed their feet; and he
+gave their asses provender. And they made ready the present against
+Joseph came at noon: for they heard that they should eat bread there.
+
+
+C. THE FEAST
+
+And when Joseph came home, they brought him the present which was in
+their hand into the house, and bowed down themselves to him to the
+earth. And he asked them of their welfare, and said, "Is your father
+well, the old man of whom ye spake? Is he yet alive?" And they said,
+"Thy servant our father is well, he is yet alive." And they bowed the
+head, and made obeisance.
+
+And he lifted up his eyes, and saw Benjamin his brother, his mother's
+son, and said, "Is this your youngest brother, of whom ye spake unto
+me?" And he said, "God be gracious unto thee, my son."
+
+And Joseph made haste; for his heart yearned over his brother: and he
+sought where to weep; and he entered into his chamber, and wept there.
+And he washed his face, and came out; and he refrained himself, and
+said, "Set on bread."
+
+And they set on for him by himself, and for them by themselves, and for
+the Egyptians, which did eat with him, by themselves: because the
+Egyptians might not eat bread with the Hebrews; for that is an
+abomination unto the Egyptians. And they sat before him, the firstborn
+according to his birthright, and the youngest according to his youth:
+and the men marvelled one with another. And he took and sent messes unto
+them from before him: but Benjamin's mess was five times so much as any
+of theirs. And they drank, and were merry with him.
+
+
+=Sec.27. Joseph's Forgiveness= (Gen. 44; 45:1-15)
+
+A. THE HARD TEST
+
+And he commanded the steward of his house, saying, "Fill the men's sacks
+with food, as much as they can carry, and put every man's money in his
+sack's mouth. And put my cup, the silver cup, in the sack's mouth of
+the youngest, and his grain money."
+
+And he did according to the word that Joseph had spoken. As soon as the
+morning was light, the men were sent away, they and their asses. And
+when they were gone out of the city, and were not yet far off, Joseph
+said unto his steward, "Up, follow after the men; and when thou dost
+overtake them, say unto them, 'Wherefore have ye rewarded evil for good?
+Is not this it in which my lord drinketh, and whereby he indeed
+divineth? ye have done evil in so doing.'"
+
+And he overtook them, and he spake unto them these words. And they said
+unto him, "Wherefore speaketh my lord such words as these? God forbid
+that thy servants should do such a thing. Behold, the money, which we
+found in our sacks' mouths, we brought again unto thee out of the land
+of Canaan: how then should we steal out of thy lord's house silver or
+gold? With whomsoever of thy servants it be found, let him die, and we
+also will be my lord's bondmen."
+
+And he said, "Now also let it be according unto your words: he with whom
+it is found shall be my bondman; and ye shall be blameless."
+
+Then they hasted, and took down every man his sack to the ground, and
+opened every man his sack. And he searched, and began at the eldest, and
+left at the youngest: and the cup was found in Benjamin's sack. Then
+they rent their clothes, and laded every man his ass, and returned to
+the city. And Judah and his brethren came to Joseph's house; and he was
+yet there: and they fell before him on the ground.
+
+And Joseph said unto them, "What deed is this that ye have done? know ye
+not that such a man as I can indeed divine?"
+
+And Judah said, "What shall we say unto my lord? what shall we speak? or
+how shall we clear ourselves? God hath found out the iniquity of thy
+servants: behold, we are my lord's bondmen, both we, and he also in
+whose hand the cup is found."
+
+And he said, "God forbid that I should do so: the man in whose hand the
+cup is found, he shall be my bondman; but as for you, get you up in
+peace unto your father."
+
+
+B. JUDAH'S NOBLE OFFER
+
+Then Judah came near unto him, and said, "Oh my lord, let thy servant, I
+pray thee, speak a word in my lord's ears, and let not thine anger burn
+against thy servant: for thou art even as Pharaoh. My lord asked his
+servants, saying, 'Have ye a father, or a brother?' And we said unto my
+lord, 'We have a father, an old man, and a child of his old age, a
+little one; and his brother is dead, and he alone is left of his mother,
+and his father loveth him.' And thou saidst unto thy servants, 'Bring
+him down unto me, that I may set mine eyes upon him.' And we said unto
+my lord, 'The lad cannot leave his father: for if he should leave his
+father, his father would die.' And thou saidst unto thy servants,
+'Except your youngest brother come down with you, ye shall see my face
+no more.' And it came to pass when we came up unto my father, we told
+him the words of my lord. And our father said, 'Go again, buy us a
+little food.' And we said, 'We cannot go down: if our youngest brother
+be with us, then will we go down; for we may not see the man's face,
+except our youngest brother be with us.' And my father said unto us, 'Ye
+know that my wife bare me two sons: and the one went out from me, and I
+said, Surely he is torn in pieces; and I have not seen him since: and if
+ye take this one also from me, and mischief befall him, ye shall bring
+down my gray hairs with sorrow to the grave.' Now therefore when I come
+to my father, and the lad be not with us; seeing that his life is bound
+up in the lad's life; it shall come to pass, when he seeth that the lad
+is not with us, that he will die: and thy servants shall bring down the
+gray hairs of our father with sorrow to the grave. For thy servant
+became surety for the lad unto my father, saying, 'If I bring him not
+unto thee, then shall I bear the blame to my father for ever.' Now
+therefore, let thy servant, I pray thee, abide instead of the lad a
+bondman to my lord; and let the lad go up with his brethren. For how
+shall I go up to my father, and the lad be not with me? lest I see the
+evil that shall come on my father."
+
+
+C. THE FORGIVENESS
+
+Then Joseph could not refrain himself before all them that stood by him;
+and he cried, "Cause every man to go out from me." And there stood no
+man with him, while Joseph made himself known unto his brethren. And he
+wept aloud.
+
+And Joseph said unto his brethren, "I am Joseph; doth my father yet
+live?" And his brethren could not answer him; for they were troubled at
+his presence. And Joseph said unto his brethren, "Come near to me, I
+pray you." And they came near. And he said, "I am Joseph your brother,
+whom ye sold into Egypt. And now be not grieved, nor angry with
+yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to
+preserve life. For these two years hath the famine been in the land: and
+there are yet five years, in the which there shall be neither plowing
+nor harvest. And God sent me before you to preserve you a remnant in the
+earth, and to save you alive by a great deliverance. So now it was not
+you that sent me hither, but God: and he hath made me a father to
+Pharaoh, and lord of all his house, and ruler over all the land of
+Egypt. Haste ye, and go up to my father, and say unto him, 'Thus saith
+thy son Joseph, God hath made me lord of all Egypt: come down unto me,
+tarry not: and thou shalt dwell in the land of Goshen, and thou shalt
+be near unto me, thou, and thy children, and thy children's children,
+and thy flocks, and thy herds, and all that thou hast: and there will I
+nourish thee; for there are yet five years of famine; lest thou come to
+poverty, thou, and thy household, and all that thou hast.' And, behold,
+your eyes see, and the eyes of my brother Benjamin, that it is my mouth
+that speaketh unto you. And ye shall tell my father of all my glory in
+Egypt, and of all that ye have seen and ye shall haste and bring down my
+father hither."
+
+And he fell upon his brother Benjamin's neck, and wept; and Benjamin
+wept upon his neck. And he kissed all his brethren, and wept upon them:
+and after that his brethren talked with him.
+
+
+=Sec.28. Joseph and His Father= (Gen. 45:25-28; 46:28-30; 47:7-11)
+
+And they went up out of Egypt, and came into the land of Canaan unto
+Jacob their father. And they told him, saying, "Joseph is yet alive, and
+he is ruler over all the land of Egypt."
+
+And his heart fainted, for he believed them not. And they told him all
+the words of Joseph, which he had said unto them: and when he saw the
+wagons which Joseph had sent to carry him, the spirit of Jacob their
+father revived: and Israel said, "It is enough; Joseph my son is yet
+alive: I will go and see him before I die."
+
+And he sent Judah before him unto Joseph, to show the way before him
+unto Goshen; and they came unto the land of Goshen. And Joseph made
+ready his chariot, and went up to meet Israel his father, to Goshen. And
+he presented himself unto him, and fell on his neck, and wept on his
+neck a good while.
+
+And Israel said unto Joseph, "Now let me die, since I have seen thy
+face, that thou art yet alive."
+
+And Joseph brought in Jacob his father, and set him before Pharaoh: and
+Jacob blessed Pharaoh. And Pharaoh said unto Jacob, "How many are the
+days of the years of thy life?"
+
+And Jacob said unto Pharaoh, "The days of the years of my pilgrimage are
+an hundred and thirty years: few and evil have been the days of the
+years of my life, and they have not attained unto the days of the years
+of the life of my fathers in the days of their pilgrimage."
+
+And Jacob blessed Pharaoh, and went out from the presence of Pharaoh.
+And Joseph placed his father and his brethren, and gave them a
+possession in the land of Egypt, in the best of the land.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+73. This a rather long chapter, but it is so full of interest that it
+would not be well to divide it. Recall the last chapter and tell what
+was the condition in Egypt and what was Joseph's position.
+
+74 (Sec.25A). We turn back in our story to what persons? What was happening
+to them? What was this journey, who went, why did they go, who remained
+behind? Compare this with Abraham's journey (Sec.4).
+
+75 (Sec.25B). How did Joseph feel when he saw his brothers after so many
+years? How did he recognize them, while they did not know him? Notice
+how roughly he treats them. He is going to see whether they care for the
+youngest brother Benjamin. How does he do this? We saw in the life of
+Jacob how an old sin comes back. So it is here, as the brothers realize.
+How does the interview end?
+
+76 (Sec.25C). What happened about the money? Describe the report that they
+made to Jacob.
+
+77 (Sec.26A). Why did they need to go to Egypt again? What did Judah say to
+his father? How did Jacob at last consent?
+
+78 (Sec.26B). Joseph is not yet ready to tell them of his forgiveness,
+because he wants them to be really repentant. He has a very good plan in
+his mind. What took place between the brothers and the steward?
+
+79 (Sec.26C). This description is very beautiful. What were Joseph's
+feelings when he saw Benjamin? How was the feast arranged? Notice that
+Joseph ate apart as the Egyptian custom required. How surprised they
+were that they should be seated according to their ages!
+
+80 (Sec.27A). What was Joseph's plan about the cup? Tell the story of the
+arrest. Notice the custom of expressing sorrow. The brothers find
+themselves in a hard case. Once, when they were guilty, they had been
+able to escape detection; now, when they are innocent, they cannot
+escape. What was Joseph's harsh decision?
+
+81 (Sec.27B). The brothers had not cared that Joseph should be sold as a
+slave and Jacob should be heartbroken. But now when Benjamin is to be a
+slave they feel different. Why is this? Tell in your own words Judah's
+noble speech. See how completely Joseph has brought his brothers to
+repentance.
+
+82 (Sec.27C). Notice (1) Joseph's loving words, (2) his faith in God's
+providence, (3) his message to his father, (4) his affection for his
+brothers. Have you ever known forgiveness to do any good?
+
+83 (Sec.28). How did Jacob receive the good news that Joseph was alive?
+Goshen was a fertile part of Egypt in which the Hebrews were to live.
+Describe the meeting of the father and son. Notice the formal
+presentation of Jacob to the king, and how stately is the old patriarch
+as he blesses the king.
+
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Remember how happy Joseph was in forgiving his brethren. Read Rom.
+12:20, 21. If anybody should annoy or anger you this week, try Joseph's
+plan. Instead of getting even with your enemy, be kind to him. See if
+you do not feel happier about it. Write in your notebook your own idea
+of whether Joseph was right in his forgiveness.
+
+
+
+
+MOSES
+
+
+ IX. MOSES' EARLY LIFE
+
+ X. MOSES' COMMISSION
+
+ XI. MOSES, THE DELIVERER
+
+ XII. MOSES, THE LAWGIVER
+
+
+
+
+
+IX. MOSES' EARLY LIFE
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.29. The Oppression of the Hebrews= (Exod. 1:6-12, 22)
+
+And Joseph died, and all his brethren, and all that generation. And the
+children of Israel were fruitful, and increased abundantly, and
+multiplied, and waxed exceeding mighty; and the land was filled with
+them.
+
+Now there arose a new king over Egypt, which knew not Joseph. And he
+said unto his people, "Behold, the people of the children of Israel are
+more and mightier than we: come, let us deal wisely with them; lest they
+multiply, and it come to pass, that, when there falleth out any war,
+they also join themselves unto our enemies, and fight against us, and
+get them up out of the land."
+
+Therefore, they did set over them taskmasters to afflict them with their
+burdens. And they built for Pharaoh store cities, Pithom and Raamses.
+But the more they afflicted them, the more they multiplied and the more
+they spread abroad. And they were grieved because of the children of
+Israel.
+
+And Pharaoh charged all his people, saying, "Every son that is born ye
+shall cast into the river, and every daughter ye shall save alive."
+
+
+=Sec.30. The Birth and Adoption of Moses= (Exod. 2:1-10)
+
+[Illustration: _Copyright 1904 by Underwood and Underwood_
+THE SIXTY-FIVE-FOOT PORTRAIT STATUES OF RAMSES II]
+
+And there went a man of the house of Levi, and took to wife a daughter
+of Levi. And the woman bare a son: and when she saw him that he was a
+goodly child, she hid him three months. And when she could not longer
+hide him, she took for him an ark of bulrushes, and daubed it with slime
+and with pitch: and she put the child therein, and laid it in the flags
+by the river's brink. And his sister stood afar off, to know what would
+be done to him. And the daughter of Pharaoh came down to bathe at the
+river; and her maidens walked along by the river side; and she saw the
+ark among the flags, and sent her handmaid to fetch it. And she opened
+it, and saw the child: and, behold, the babe wept.
+
+And she had compassion on him, and said, "This is one of the Hebrews'
+children."
+
+Then said his sister to Pharaoh's daughter, "Shall I go and call thee a
+nurse of the Hebrew women, that she may nurse the child for thee?"
+
+And Pharaoh's daughter said to her, "Go."
+
+And the maid went and called the child's mother. And Pharaoh's daughter
+said unto her, "Take this child away, and nurse it for me, and I will
+give thee thy wages."
+
+And the woman took the child, and nursed it. And the child grew, and she
+brought him unto Pharaoh's daughter, and he became her son. And she
+called his name Moses.
+
+
+=Sec.31. The Young Man's Unwise Methods= (Exod. 2:11-15)
+
+And it came to pass in those days, when Moses was grown up, that he went
+out unto his brethren, and looked on their burdens: and he saw an
+Egyptian smiting a Hebrew, one of his brethren. And he looked this way
+and that way, and when he saw that there was no man, he smote the
+Egyptian, and hid him in the sand. And he went out the second day, and,
+behold, two men of the Hebrews strove together: and he said to him that
+did the wrong, "Wherefore smitest thou thy fellow?" And he said, "Who
+made thee a prince and a judge over us? thinkest thou to kill me, as
+thou killedst the Egyptian?" And Moses feared, and said, "Surely the
+thing is known." Now when Pharaoh heard this thing, he sought to slay
+Moses.
+
+
+=Sec.32. Moses in Midian= (Exod. 2:16-22)
+
+Moses fled from the face of Pharaoh, and dwelt in the land of Midian:
+and he sat down by a well. Now the priest of Midian had seven daughters:
+and they came and drew water, and filled the trough to water their
+father's flock. And the shepherds came and drove them away: but Moses
+stood up and helped them, and watered their flock. And when they came to
+Reuel their father, he said, "How is it that ye are come so soon
+to-day?" And they said, "An Egyptian delivered us out of the hands of
+the shepherds, and moreover he drew water for us, and watered the
+flock." And he said unto his daughters, "And where is he? why is it that
+ye have left the man? call him, that he may eat bread." And Moses was
+content to dwell with the man: and he gave Moses Zipporah his daughter,
+and she bare a son, and he called his name Gershom: for he said, "I have
+been a sojourner in a strange land."
+
+
+=Sec.33. The Unhappy Hebrews= (Exod. 2:23-25)
+
+And it came to pass in the course of those many days, that the king of
+Egypt died: and the children of Israel sighed by reason of the bondage,
+and they cried, and their cry came up unto God by reason of the bondage.
+And God heard their groaning, and God remembered his covenant with
+Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob. And God saw the children of Israel,
+and God took knowledge of them.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+84. In any nation one of the greatest heroes is the man who was the
+founder of the national life. The Italians look to the great Garibaldi,
+who delivered them from their enemies and brought about a united Italy.
+Americans call Washington the father of his country, because he was the
+leader in the great struggle to make America a nation. The Hebrews
+always looked back to Moses as their great deliverer, who brought them
+out of Egypt and made them a nation. The study of this hero takes us to
+the second book of the Bible, which is called Exodus, meaning "Going
+out," because it gives the story of the escape of the Hebrews from
+Egypt.
+
+85 (Sec.29). In the last chapter we were studying about a small tribe of
+people. Now we find that a long time has passed and the people have
+greatly increased in numbers. Consider how the negroes have increased in
+numbers since the War. There were then four millions. How many are there
+now?
+
+86 (Sec.29). There probably arose a new dynasty, or line of kings. What did
+the king fear might happen if the Hebrews grew too numerous? These
+Pharaohs were mighty builders. What great objects had some of the
+earlier Pharaohs built? They loved to have splendid palaces and temples
+and strong fortifications. As there was no machinery, this work
+required great numbers of men. In the wars of those days all prisoners
+were made slaves and compelled to work. So the Egyptians treated the
+Hebrews as if they were prisoners. What kind of labor were they
+compelled to do?
+
+87 (Sec.29). We get a glimpse into the awful harshness of that old slavery.
+As we see the pictures of the magnificent structures of those days we
+remember that they cost the lives of millions of human beings. We have
+done away with slavery, but are not people still compelled to work in
+awful conditions? There are very many occupations where the health of
+the laborers is broken down and their lives shortened. We have still a
+great deal to learn about how men ought to labor.
+
+88 (Sec.29). When the harsh slavery did not prevent the increase of the
+Hebrews, it was brutally determined to murder them. What was the plan?
+The girls were saved because they could not fight.
+
+89 (Sec.30). Doubtless many of the Hebrew children were drowned, but one
+mother was determined to save her boy. Tell the story of how he was
+hidden and found and saved.
+
+90 (Sec.30). By the happy plan of the mother and sister the boy could be
+brought up safely in his own home. But he was also to have the
+opportunity of training in the royal palace. What did it mean that he
+was adopted by the princess?
+
+91 (Sec.31). Which people would it have been most profitable for Moses to
+belong to--the Egyptians or the Hebrews? Sometimes we see a boy who is
+clever and fortunate separating himself from his family. How did Moses
+feel when he grew up and saw the sad condition of his people? What hasty
+thing did he do? Was Moses justified in that act? Let us see how it
+turned out.
+
+92 (Sec.31). The young man was not only anxious to save his people from
+tyranny but also from quarreling among themselves. What happened the
+next day? People are not always willing to take good advice. What danger
+was Moses in?
+
+93 (Sec.32). What was Moses obliged to do because he had killed the
+Egyptian overseer? Locate Midian. When Moses was off in the desert, a
+fugitive from justice, could he help his people? Was not his hasty act
+unwise? Do you remember someone attacking saloons with a hatchet? Can we
+often do good by violence? Sometimes we are very indignant because we
+see injustice, but in the long run we shall gain all good ends by
+peaceful means. Lynching is a poor way to secure justice.
+
+94 (Sec.32). Notice that the girls were in charge of the flocks. What did
+the rude shepherds do? Again Moses interferes to help the weak, but this
+time he seems to have done it without fighting. Why did the girls think
+Moses was an Egyptian? How did it all turn out?
+
+95 (Sec.33). Meantime everything looked very dark for the Hebrews. But God
+was preparing a man to save them. Would it have been a good thing for
+the Hebrews to have been happy in Egypt and to have stayed there and
+become Egyptians? Would it have been well if the Pilgrims had been well
+treated in England and had stayed there? Are our troubles ever good for
+us? Who is watching all the time?
+
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Moses was obliged to be a shepherd instead of a wealthy Egyptian. So
+sometimes our plans are changed. But often it turns out for good. Ask
+your parents, or your pastor, or some friend, to tell you if anything
+ever happened to them that seemed at the time to upset all their plans
+of life, but which turned out to be of great value in their training.
+Write an account of it in your notebook.
+
+
+
+
+X. MOSES' COMMISSION
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.34. The Call in the Wilderness= (Exod. 3:1-11; 4:1-17)
+
+A. THE BURNING BUSH
+
+Now Moses was keeping the flock of Jethro his father-in-law, the priest
+of Midian: and he led the flock to the back of the wilderness, and came
+to the mountain of God, unto Horeb. And the angel of the Lord appeared
+unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush: and he looked,
+and, behold, the bush burned with fire, and the bush was not consumed.
+
+And Moses said, "I will turn aside now, and see this great sight, why
+the bush is not burnt."
+
+And when the Lord saw that he turned aside to see, God called unto him
+out of the midst of the bush, and said, "Moses, Moses."
+
+And he said, "Here am I."
+
+And he said, "Draw not nigh hither: put off thy shoes from off thy feet,
+for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground. I am the God of thy
+father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob."
+
+And Moses hid his face; for he was afraid to look upon God. And the Lord
+said, "I have surely seen the affliction of my people which are in
+Egypt, and have heard their cry by reason of their taskmasters; for I
+know their sorrows; and I am come down to deliver them out of the hand
+of the Egyptians, and to bring them up out of that land unto a good land
+and a large, unto a land flowing with milk and honey. Come now
+therefore, and I will send thee unto Pharaoh, that thou mayest bring
+forth my people the children of Israel out of Egypt."
+
+[Illustration: ORIENTAL SANDALS]
+
+
+B. MOSES' HESITATION
+
+And Moses said unto God, "Who am I, that I should go unto Pharaoh, and
+that I should bring forth the children of Israel out of Egypt? Behold,
+they will not believe me, nor hearken unto my voice: for they will say,
+'The Lord hath not appeared unto thee.'"
+
+And the Lord said unto him, "What is that in thine hand?"
+
+And he said, "A rod."
+
+And he said, "Cast it on the ground."
+
+And he cast it on the ground, and it became a serpent; and Moses fled
+from before it.
+
+And the Lord said unto Moses, "Put forth thine hand and take it by the
+tail."
+
+And he put forth his hand, and laid hold of it, and it became a rod in
+his hand.
+
+And the Lord said furthermore unto him, "Put now thine hand into thy
+bosom."
+
+And he put his hand into his bosom: and when he took it out, behold, his
+hand was leprous, as white as snow.
+
+And he said, "Put thine hand into thy bosom again."
+
+And he put his hand into his bosom again; and when he took it out of his
+bosom, behold, it was turned again as his other flesh.
+
+And the Lord said, "It shall come to pass, if they will not believe
+thee, neither hearken to the voice of the first sign, that they will
+believe the voice of the latter sign."
+
+And Moses said unto the Lord, "Oh Lord, I am not eloquent, neither
+heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy servant: for I am slow
+of speech, and of a slow tongue."
+
+And the Lord said unto him, "Who hath made man's mouth? or who maketh a
+man dumb, or deaf, or seeing, or blind? is it not I the Lord? Now
+therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou
+shalt speak."
+
+And he said, "Oh Lord, send, I pray thee, by the hand of another whom
+thou wilt choose."
+
+And the anger of the Lord was kindled against Moses, and he said, "Is
+there not Aaron thy brother? I know that he can speak well. And also,
+behold, he cometh forth to meet thee: and when he seeth thee, he will be
+glad in his heart. And thou shalt speak unto him, and put the words in
+his mouth: and I will be with thy mouth, and with his mouth, and will
+teach you what ye shall do. And he shall be thy spokesman unto the
+people. And thou shalt take in thine hand this rod, wherewith thou shalt
+do the signs."
+
+And the Lord said to Aaron, "Go into the wilderness to meet Moses."
+
+And he went, and met him in the mountain of God, and kissed him. And
+Moses told Aaron all the words of the Lord wherewith he had sent him,
+and all the signs wherewith he had charged him.
+
+
+=Sec.35. The Return to Egypt= (Exod. 4:18, 20, 27-31)
+
+And Moses went and returned to Jethro his father-in-law, and said unto
+him, "Let me go, I pray thee, and return unto my brethren which are in
+Egypt, and see whether they be yet alive."
+
+And Jethro said to Moses, "Go in peace."
+
+And Moses took his wife and his sons, and set them upon an ass, and he
+returned to the land of Egypt.
+
+And Moses and Aaron went and gathered together all the elders of the
+children of Israel: and Aaron spake all the words which the Lord had
+spoken unto Moses, and did the signs in the sight of the people. And the
+people believed: and when they heard that the Lord had visited the
+children of Israel, and that he had seen their affliction, then they
+bowed their heads and worshipped.
+
+
+=Sec.36. Pharaoh's Harshness= (Exod. 5:1-6:1)
+
+A. THE CHALLENGE
+
+And afterward Moses and Aaron came, and said unto Pharaoh, "Thus saith
+the Lord, the God of Israel, 'Let my people go, that they may hold a
+feast unto me in the wilderness.'"
+
+And Pharaoh said, "Who is the Lord, that I should hearken unto his voice
+to let Israel go? I know not the Lord, and moreover I will not let
+Israel go."
+
+And they said, "The God of the Hebrews hath met with us: let us go, we
+pray thee, three days' journey into the wilderness, and sacrifice unto
+the Lord our God."
+
+And the king of Egypt said unto them, "Wherefore do ye, Moses and Aaron,
+loose the people from their work? get you unto your burdens. Behold,
+the people of the land are now many, and ye make them rest from their
+burdens."
+
+
+B. THE BITTER BONDAGE
+
+And the same day Pharaoh commanded the taskmasters of the people, and
+their officers, saying, "Ye shall no more give the people straw to make
+brick, as heretofore: let them go and gather straw for themselves. And
+the number of the bricks, which they did make heretofore, ye shall lay
+upon them; ye shall not diminish aught thereof: for they be idle;
+therefore they cry, saying, 'Let us go and sacrifice to our God.' Let
+heavier work be laid upon the men, that they may labor therein; and let
+them not regard lying words."
+
+And the taskmasters of the people went out, and their officers, and they
+spake to the people, saying, "Thus saith Pharaoh, 'I will not give you
+straw. Go yourselves, get you straw where ye can find it: for nought of
+your work shall be diminished.'"
+
+So the people were scattered abroad throughout all the land of Egypt to
+gather stubble for straw. And the taskmasters were urgent, saying,
+"Fulfil your works, your daily tasks, as when there was straw." And the
+officers of the children of Israel, which Pharaoh's taskmasters had set
+over them, were beaten, and demanded, "Wherefore have ye not fulfilled
+your task both yesterday and to-day, in making brick as heretofore?"
+
+Then the officers of the children of Israel came and cried unto Pharaoh,
+saying, "Wherefore dealest thou thus with thy servants? There is no
+straw given unto thy servants, and they say to us, 'Make brick': and
+behold, thy servants are beaten; but the fault is in thine own people."
+
+But he said, "Ye are idle, ye are idle: therefore ye say, 'Let us go and
+sacrifice to the Lord.' Go therefore now, and work; for there shall no
+straw be given you, yet shall ye deliver the number of bricks."
+
+And the officers of the children of Israel did see that they were in
+evil case, and they met Moses and Aaron, who stood in the way, as they
+came forth from Pharaoh: and they said unto them, "The Lord look upon
+you, and judge; because ye have made us to be abhorred in the eyes of
+Pharaoh, and in the eyes of his servants, to put a sword in their hand
+to slay us."
+
+
+C. THE PROMISE OF THE LORD
+
+And Moses returned unto the Lord, and said, "Lord, wherefore hast thou
+evil entreated this people? why is it that thou hast sent me? For since
+I came to Pharaoh to speak in thy name, he hath evil entreated this
+people; neither hast thou delivered thy people at all."
+
+And the Lord said unto Moses, "Now shalt thou see what I will do to
+Pharaoh: for by a strong hand shall he let them go, and by a strong
+hand shall he drive them out of his land."
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+96 (Sec.34A). We left Moses in Midian. Locate it again on the map. With
+whom did he live? What was his occupation? Notice that he came to Mt.
+Horeb, which is also called Mt. Sinai. Locate it on the map.
+
+97 (Sec.34A). As Moses was alone in the wilderness, his thoughts would
+naturally turn to his people. What would he wish for them? How greatly
+they needed a leader! If ever the thought occurred to him that he ought
+to be their leader, how would he feel about it? At last God's message
+came to him. It is one of the beautiful stories of God speaking to man.
+How was Moses told to show his reverence? It is the custom in the East.
+How could they take off their shoes so easily? (See illustration of the
+sandal.) What custom do we have to show reverence? How did Moses show a
+still deeper reverence?
+
+98 (Sec.34A). What did God tell Moses? It might have seemed to the lonely
+exile that the Lord had forgotten all about the people in bondage. A
+commission is a duty given to a man: what was Moses' commission? At last
+God's plan for poor Israel was clear. The deliverer had been found.
+
+99 (Sec.34B). It was a startling commission for Moses. He remembered how
+the people had treated him when he had tried to help them. (Recall Sec.31.)
+What was he now afraid of? Tell the story of the signs with which the
+Lord gave him confidence. People were always anxious for something
+wonderful in those old days.
+
+100 (Sec.34B). Moses had another reason for hesitation. Is humility a good
+preparation for a great work or is confidence better? How does the Lord
+fit an earnest man for his work? Humility is not good when it is through
+lack of faith. "The anger of the Lord" means his displeasure at what
+is not right. Who was sent with Moses?
+
+101 (Sec.35). How did Moses act after receiving the commission. Did he tell
+his father-in-law his plans? Describe the meeting, as you may imagine
+it, between the two brothers and the Hebrew people.
+
+[Illustration: _Copyright 1904 by Underwood and Underwood_
+BRICK-MAKING IN EGYPT]
+
+102 (Sec.36A). It was a bold thing to go to the king. What did Moses and
+Aaron demand? What did the king say about the Lord? What did he say
+Moses and Aaron were doing?
+
+103 (Sec.36B). Brick was made from the black Nile mud mixed with sand and
+with chopped straw. There are pictures in Egypt of captives making these
+bricks with overseers guarding them. The soft mud would be put into a
+wooden mold, which would then be lifted off and the brick left to dry in
+the sun. Sometimes the captives had to gather waste material or stubble
+instead of straw. Why was this such a hardship to the Hebrews?
+
+104 (Sec.36B). Note how the orders were carried out. There are two classes
+of officials mentioned: the Egyptian taskmasters and the Hebrew
+officers. The latter were responsible for the full work being done by
+their countrymen. Tell the whole story of the bondage.
+
+105 (Sec.36B). Describe the interview of the officers with Pharaoh. How did
+they feel toward Moses and Aaron?
+
+106 (Sec.36C). How did all this affect Moses? It is often darkest just
+before day. What did the Lord promise?
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Think over the story carefully and prepare for a debate, the students
+taking different sides on the question: Resolved that Moses was wrong in
+settling down in Midian and leaving his people so long without help.
+
+
+
+
+XI. MOSES, THE DELIVERER
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.37. The Plagues of Egypt= (Exod. 7:14-18, 25; 8:1-4, 6, 8, 13, 15-17,
+20-24, 28, 31, 32; 9:1-6, 8, 9, 22-28, 33, 34; 10:3-6, 14, 19-23, 28,
+29; 11:4-8; 12:29-36)
+
+A. THE NILE TURNED TO BLOOD
+
+And the Lord said unto Moses, "Pharaoh's heart is stubborn, he refuseth
+to let the people go. Get thee unto Pharaoh in the morning; lo, he goeth
+out unto the water; and thou shalt stand by the river's brink to meet
+him; and the rod which was turned to a serpent shalt thou take in thine
+hand. And thou shalt say unto him, 'The Lord, the God of the Hebrews,
+hath sent me unto thee, saying, Let my people go, that they may serve me
+in the wilderness: and, behold hitherto thou hast not hearkened. Thus
+saith the Lord, In this thou shalt know that I am the Lord: behold, I
+will smite with the rod that is in mine hand upon the waters which are
+in the river and they shall be turned to blood. And the fish that is in
+the river shall die, and the river shall be polluted; and the Egyptians
+shall loathe to drink water from the river.'"
+
+
+B. THE SWARMS OF FROGS
+
+And seven days were fulfilled, after that the Lord had smitten the
+river. And the Lord spake unto Moses, "Go in unto Pharaoh, and say unto
+him, 'Thus saith the Lord, Let my people go, that they may serve me. And
+if thou refuse to let them go, behold, I will smite all thy borders with
+frogs: and the river shall swarm with frogs, which shall go up and come
+into thine house, and into thy bedchamber, and upon thy bed, and into
+the house of thy servants, and upon thy people, and into thine ovens,
+and into thy kneading-troughs: and the frogs shall come up both upon
+thee, and upon thy people, and upon all thy servants.'"
+
+And the frogs came up, and covered the land of Egypt. Then Pharaoh
+called for Moses and Aaron, and said, "Entreat the Lord, that he take
+away the frogs from me, and from my people; and I will let the people
+go, that they may sacrifice unto the Lord."
+
+And the frogs died, but when Pharaoh saw that there was respite, he
+hardened his heart.
+
+
+C. THE STINGING GNATS AND SWARMS OF FLIES
+
+And the Lord said unto Moses, "Stretch out thy rod, and smite the dust
+of the earth, that it may become stinging gnats throughout all the land
+of Egypt." And there were gnats upon man, and upon beast; all the dust
+of the earth became gnats throughout all the land of Egypt.
+
+And the Lord said unto Moses, "Rise up early in the morning, and stand
+before Pharaoh; and say unto him, 'Thus saith the Lord, Let my people
+go, that they may serve me. Else, if thou wilt not let my people go,
+behold, I will send swarms of flies upon thee, and upon thy servants,
+and upon thy people, and into thy houses: and the houses of the
+Egyptians shall be full of swarms of flies, and also the ground whereon
+they are. And I will separate in that day the land of Goshen, in which
+my people dwell, that no swarms of flies shall be there; to the end thou
+mayest know that I am the Lord in the midst of the earth.'"
+
+And the Lord did so; and there came grievous swarms of flies into all
+the land of Egypt. And Pharaoh said, "I will let you go, that ye may
+sacrifice to the Lord your God in the wilderness."
+
+And the Lord removed the swarms of flies from Pharaoh, from his
+servants, and from his people; there remained not one. And Pharaoh
+hardened his heart this time also, and he did not let the people go.
+
+
+D. THE CATTLE PESTILENCE AND THE BOILS
+
+Then the Lord said unto Moses, "Go in unto Pharaoh, and tell him, 'Thus
+saith the Lord, the God of the Hebrews, Let my people go, that they may
+serve me. For if thou refuse to let them go, and wilt hold them still,
+behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thy cattle which is in the field,
+upon the horses, upon the asses, upon the camels, upon the herds, and
+upon the flocks: there shall be a very grievous pestilence. And the
+Lord shall separate between the cattle of Israel and the cattle of
+Egypt: and there shall nothing die of all that belongeth to the children
+of Israel.'"
+
+And on the morrow all the cattle of Egypt died: but of the cattle of the
+children of Israel died not one.
+
+And the Lord said unto Moses and unto Aaron, "Take handfuls of ashes,
+and let Moses sprinkle it toward the heaven in the sight of Pharaoh. And
+it shall become small dust over all the land of Egypt, and shall be a
+boil breaking forth with blains upon man and upon beast, throughout all
+the land of Egypt."
+
+
+E. THE HAIL, THE LOCUSTS, AND THE DARKNESS
+
+And the Lord said unto Moses, "Stretch forth thine hand toward heaven,
+that there may be hail in all the land of Egypt, upon man, and upon
+beast, and upon every herb of the field." So there was hail, and fire
+mingled with the hail, very grievous, such as had not been in all the
+land of Egypt since it became a nation. And the hail smote all that was
+in the field, both man and beast; and the hail smote every herb of the
+field, and brake every tree of the field. Only in the land of Goshen,
+where the children of Israel were, was there no hail. And Pharaoh sent,
+and called for Moses and Aaron, and said unto them, "I have sinned this
+time. I will let you go, and ye shall stay no longer."
+
+And the thunders and hail ceased, and the rain was not poured upon the
+earth. And when Pharaoh saw that the rain and the hail and the thunders
+were ceased, he sinned yet more, and hardened his heart, he and his
+servants.
+
+And Moses and Aaron went in unto Pharaoh, and said unto him, "Thus saith
+the Lord, the God of the Hebrews, 'How long wilt thou refuse to humble
+thyself before me? let my people go, that they may serve me. Else, if
+thou refuse to let my people go, behold, to-morrow I will bring locusts
+into thy border: and they shall cover the face of the earth, that one
+shall not be able to see the earth: and they shall eat that which
+remaineth unto you from the hail, and shall eat every tree which groweth
+for you out of the field: and thy houses shall be filled, and the houses
+of all thy servants, and the houses of all the Egyptians; as neither thy
+fathers nor thy fathers' fathers have seen, since the day that they were
+upon the earth unto this day.'"
+
+And Moses stretched forth his rod over the land of Egypt, and the Lord
+brought an east wind upon the land all that day, and all the night; and
+when it was morning, the east wind brought the locusts. And they did eat
+every herb of the land, and all the fruit of the trees which the hail
+had left.
+
+Then Pharaoh called for Moses and Aaron in haste; and he said, "I have
+sinned against the Lord your God, and against you."
+
+And the Lord turned an exceeding strong west wind, which took up the
+locusts, and drove them into the Red Sea; there remained not one locust
+in all the border of Egypt. But Pharaoh did not let the children of
+Israel go.
+
+And the Lord said unto Moses, "Stretch out thine hand toward heaven,
+that there may be darkness over the land of Egypt, even darkness which
+may be felt."
+
+And Moses stretched forth his hand toward heaven, and there was a thick
+darkness in all the land of Egypt three days; they saw not one another,
+neither rose any from his place for three days: but all the children of
+Israel had light in their dwellings.
+
+
+F. THE LAST PLAGUE
+
+And Pharaoh said unto Moses, "Get thee from me, take heed to thyself,
+see my face no more; for in the day thou seest my face thou shalt die."
+
+And Moses said, "Thus saith the Lord, 'About midnight will I go out into
+the midst of Egypt: and all the firstborn in the land of Egypt shall
+die, from the firstborn of Pharaoh that sitteth upon his throne, even
+unto the firstborn of the maidservant that is behind the mill; and all
+the firstborn of cattle. And there shall be a great cry throughout all
+the land of Egypt, such as there hath been none like it, nor shall be
+like it any more.' But against any of the children of Israel shall not a
+dog move his tongue, against man or beast: that ye may know how that
+the Lord doth put a difference between the Egyptians and Israel. And all
+these thy servants shall come down unto me, and bow down themselves unto
+me, saying, 'Get thee out, and all the people that follow thee': and
+after that I will go out." And he went out from Pharaoh in hot anger.
+
+And it came to pass at midnight, that the Lord smote all the firstborn
+in the land of Egypt, from the firstborn of Pharaoh that sat on his
+throne unto the firstborn of the captive that was in the dungeon; and
+all the firstborn of cattle. And Pharaoh rose up in the night, he, and
+all his servants, and all the Egyptians; and there was a great cry in
+Egypt; for there was not a house where there was not one dead. And he
+called for Moses and Aaron by night, and said, "Rise up, get you forth
+from among my people, both ye and the children of Israel; and go, serve
+the Lord, as ye have said. Take both your flocks and your herds, as ye
+have said, and be gone; and bless me also."
+
+And the Egyptians were urgent upon the people, to send them out of the
+land in haste; for they said, "We be all dead men."
+
+And the children of Israel did according to the word of Moses; and they
+asked of the Egyptians jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and
+raiment: and the Lord gave the people favor in the sight of the
+Egyptians, so that they let them have what they asked.
+
+
+=Sec.38. The Great Deliverance= (Exod. 13:17, 18, 21, 22; 14:5-7, 10-14,
+19-27)
+
+A. THE FLIGHT AND PURSUIT
+
+And it came to pass, when Pharaoh had let the people go, that God led
+them not by the way of the land of the Philistines, although that was
+near; for God said, "Lest peradventure the people repent when they see
+war, and they return to Egypt:" but God led the people about, by the way
+of the wilderness by the Red Sea: and the children of Israel went up
+armed out of the land of Egypt.
+
+And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud, to lead them
+the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; that they
+might go by day and by night: the pillar of cloud by day, and the pillar
+of fire by night, departed not from before the people.
+
+And it was told the king of Egypt that the people were fled: and the
+heart of Pharaoh and of his servants was changed towards the people, and
+they said, "What is this we have done, that we have let Israel go from
+serving us?" And he made ready his chariot, and took his people with
+him: and he took six hundred chosen chariots, and all the chariots of
+Egypt, and captains over all of them.
+
+And when Pharaoh drew nigh, the children of Israel lifted up their eyes,
+and, behold, the Egyptians marched after them; and they were sore
+afraid: and the children of Israel cried out unto the Lord. And they
+said unto Moses, "Because there were no graves in Egypt, hast thou taken
+us away to die in the wilderness? wherefore hast thou dealt thus with
+us, to bring us forth out of Egypt? Is not this the word that we spake
+unto thee in Egypt, saying, 'Let us alone, that we may serve the
+Egyptians'? For it were better for us to serve the Egyptians, than that
+we should die in the wilderness."
+
+And Moses said unto the people, "Fear ye not, stand still, and see the
+salvation of the Lord, which he will work for you to-day: for the
+Egyptians whom ye have seen to-day, ye shall see them again no more for
+ever. The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace."
+
+
+B. THE PASSAGE OF THE RED SEA
+
+And the angel of God, which went before the camp of Israel, removed and
+went behind them; and the pillar of cloud removed from before them, and
+stood behind them: and it came between the camp of Egypt and the camp of
+Israel; and there was the cloud and the darkness, yet gave it light by
+night: and the one came not near the other all the night. And Moses
+stretched out his hand over the sea; and the Lord caused the sea to go
+back by a strong east wind all the night, and made the sea dry land. And
+the children of Israel went into the midst of the sea upon the dry
+ground. And the Egyptians pursued, and went in after them into the
+midst of the sea, all Pharaoh's horses, his chariots, and his horsemen.
+And it came to pass in the morning watch, that the Lord looked forth
+upon the host of the Egyptians through the pillar of fire and of cloud,
+and discomfited the host of the Egyptians. And he took off their chariot
+wheels, that they drove them heavily: so that the Egyptians said, "Let
+us flee from the face of Israel; for the Lord fighteth for them against
+the Egyptians."
+
+And the Lord said unto Moses, "Stretch out thine hand over the sea, that
+the waters may come again upon the Egyptians, upon their chariots, and
+upon their horsemen." And Moses stretched forth his hand over the sea,
+and the sea returned to its strength when the morning appeared; and the
+Egyptians fled against it; and the Lord overthrew the Egyptians in the
+midst of the sea.
+
+
+=Sec.39. The Song of the Exodus= (Exod. 14:30, 31; 15:1, 2, 20, 21)
+
+Thus the Lord saved Israel that day out of the hand of the Egyptians;
+and Israel saw the Egyptians dead upon the sea shore. And Israel saw the
+great work which the Lord did upon the Egyptians, and the people feared
+the Lord: and they believed in the Lord, and in his servant Moses.
+
+Then sang Moses and the children of Israel this song unto the Lord, and
+spake, saying,
+
+ I will sing unto the Lord, for he hath triumphed gloriously:
+ The horse and his rider hath he thrown into the sea.
+ The Lord is my strength and song,
+ And he is become my salvation:
+ This is my God and I will praise him;
+ My father's God, and I will exalt him.
+
+And Miriam the prophetess, the sister of Aaron, took a timbrel in her
+hand; and all the women went out after her with timbrels and with
+dances. And Miriam answered them,
+
+ Sing ye to the Lord, for he hath triumphed gloriously;
+ The horse and his rider hath he thrown into the sea.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+107. The story of the deliverance from Egypt makes a long chapter, but
+it is full of exciting interest and shows the fearless character of the
+great leader who trusted in his God. It was a bold thing for Moses to
+return to Egypt and try to persuade the king to let Israel go. But when
+he was sent to threaten Pharaoh it was indeed a task requiring courage.
+Imagine a single man to-day demanding of the sultan of Turkey that he
+should free his slaves.
+
+108 (Sec.37). Moses was sent to tell the king that terrible plagues would
+come upon his people if he refused to let the Hebrews go. Ten plagues
+are mentioned. Nine of them were as follows: (1) the water of the Nile
+turned to blood-red color and made undrinkable; (2) enormous numbers of
+frogs; (3) swarms of stinging insects, perhaps gnats or mosquitoes; (4)
+swarms of flies, which would be terrible in a hot country; (5) a cattle
+pestilence; (6) fearful boils on men and cattle; (7) destructive hail;
+(8) locusts that ate vegetation; (9) the awful hot desert wind filling
+the air with fine sand and causing darkness.
+
+109 (Sec.37). When Pharaoh was frightened by each of the plagues, what did
+he promise? What made him break his promise? Did you ever know anyone
+who was sorry for doing wrong when the punishment came, but forgot his
+promises afterward?
+
+110 (Sec.37F). What did Pharaoh threaten Moses after the ninth plague? What
+did Moses say should be the last plague? Probably some sudden terrible
+pestilence came upon Egypt. Tell the story of that night.
+
+111 (Sec.38A). Study the map and notice what a short journey it would be
+from Egypt along the coast to the Philistine country. But the borders of
+Egypt were strongly guarded, so that was a dangerous way to go. What
+might have happened if the Hebrews had seen that they would have to
+fight?
+
+112 (Sec.38A). Moses was a wise leader. He knew he had a host of slaves,
+who had not learned courage. So he led them southward toward the Red
+Sea. There was a road leading to the wilderness near the Bitter Lakes.
+Locate this.
+
+113 (Sec.38A). What happened when the Egyptians found that the people had
+actually gone? What did the Hebrews say when they learned that Pharaoh
+was following them? How did Moses encourage them?
+
+114 (Sec.38B). The Hebrews were in a very difficult situation. They had
+come to a place where the water from the Red Sea ran far up the
+low-lying sands. What great canal has since been dug there? The water
+was too deep for the Hebrews to cross. Pharaoh's army was coming up
+behind. The only thing that could save Israel would be a strong wind
+that should drive the waters back and leave the sands clear. How often
+God's great Providence helps his people in trouble! Moses bravely
+encouraged them.
+
+115 (Sec.38B). What separated the Israelites from the Egyptians? What made
+the crossing possible? What trouble did the Egyptians experience? What
+would naturally happen if the high wind stopped after the Israelites had
+crossed? Tell the story of the deliverance.
+
+116 (Sec.39). What do you think were the feelings of Israel when they found
+themselves safe? Recite the song in which they celebrated their escape?
+What does "Exodus" mean?
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Let us try to see just what happened to the Hebrews. Draw a map of Egypt
+and the Sinai peninsula on a larger scale than that in your book. Mark
+Goshen, the region where the Hebrews lived. Mark the bitter lakes coming
+nearly to the Gulf of Suez. Connect these with a wavy line showing the
+shallow waters which were driven back for the passage of the Hebrews.
+Mark with a red line the road which the Hebrews might have taken along
+the coast road straight to Canaan and the road which they actually took
+south of the bitter lakes. Continue this last line into the Sinai
+peninsula, noting that the people were led into the wilderness.
+
+
+
+
+XII. MOSES, THE LAWGIVER
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.40. The Law at Sinai= (Exod. 15:22-25, 27; 19:1)
+
+A. THE MARCH AND THE MURMURING
+
+And Moses led Israel onward from the Red Sea, and they went three days
+in the wilderness, and found no water. And when they came to Marah, they
+could not drink of the waters for they were bitter. And the people
+murmured against Moses, saying, "What shall we drink?" And he cried unto
+the Lord; and the Lord showed him a tree, and he cast it into the
+waters, and the waters were made sweet.
+
+And they came to Elim, where were twelve springs of water, and
+threescore and ten palm trees: and they encamped there by the waters.
+And they took their journey from Elim, and in the third month they came
+to the wilderness of Sinai; and there Israel encamped before the mount.
+
+[Illustration: MOSES]
+
+B. THE TEN COMMANDMENTS
+
+And Moses went up unto God, and the Lord called unto him out of the
+mountain, saying, "Thus shalt thou say to the house of Jacob, and tell
+the children of Israel;
+
+ =I am the Lord thy God, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out
+ of the house of bondage.=
+
+ =Thou shalt have none other gods before me.=
+
+ =Thou shalt not make unto thee a graven image, nor the likeness of any
+ form that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that
+ is in the water under the earth; thou shalt not bow down thyself unto
+ them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting
+ the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, upon the third and upon
+ the fourth generation of them that hate me; and showing mercy unto
+ thousands of them that love me and keep my commandments.=
+
+ =Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord
+ will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.=
+
+ =Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labor,
+ and do all thy work: but the seventh day is a sabbath unto the Lord thy
+ God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy
+ daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy
+ stranger that is within thy gates: for in six days the Lord made heaven
+ and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day:
+ wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.=
+
+ =Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the
+ land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.=
+
+ =Thou shalt do no murder.=
+
+ =Thou shalt not commit adultery.=
+
+ =Thou shalt not steal.=
+
+ =Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.=
+
+ =Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's house, thou shalt not covet thy
+ neighbor's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox,
+ nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbor's.=
+
+And all the people saw the thunderings, and the lightnings, and the
+voice of the trumpet, and the mountain smoking: and when the people saw
+it, they trembled, and stood afar off. And they said unto Moses, "Speak
+thou with us, and we will hear: but let not God speak with us, lest we
+die."
+
+And Moses said unto the people, "Fear not: for God is come to prove
+you, and that his fear may be before you, that ye sin not."
+
+And the people stood afar off, and Moses drew near unto the thick
+darkness where God was.
+
+
+=Sec.41. The Great Rebellion= (Exod. 24:13, 18; 32:1-8, 15-20, 30-35)
+
+A. THE GOLDEN CALF
+
+And Moses and Joshua his minister went up into the mount of God. And
+Moses was in the mount forty days and forty nights. And when the people
+saw that Moses delayed to come down from the mount, the people gathered
+themselves together unto Aaron, and said unto him, "Up, make us gods,
+which shall go before us; for as for this Moses, the man that brought us
+up out of the land of Egypt, we know not what is become of him."
+
+And Aaron said unto them, "Break off the golden rings, which are in the
+ears of your wives, of your sons, and of your daughters, and bring them
+unto me."
+
+And all the people brake off the golden rings which were in their ears,
+and brought them unto Aaron. And he received it at their hand, and
+fashioned it with a graving tool, and made it a molten calf: and they
+said, "These be thy gods, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the
+land of Egypt."
+
+And when Aaron saw this, he built an altar before it; and Aaron made
+proclamation, and said, "To-morrow shall be a feast to the Lord."
+
+And they rose up early on the morrow, and offered burnt offerings, and
+brought peace offerings; and the people sat down to eat and to drink,
+and rose up to play.
+
+And the Lord spake unto Moses, "Go, get thee down; for thy people, which
+thou broughtest up out of the land of Egypt, have corrupted themselves:
+they have turned aside quickly out of the way which I commanded them:
+they have made them a molten calf, and have worshipped it, and have
+sacrificed unto it."
+
+And Moses turned and went down from the mount with the two tables in his
+hand. And when Joshua heard the noise of the people as they shouted, he
+said unto Moses, "There is a noise of war in the camp."
+
+And he said, "It is not the voice of them that shout for mastery,
+neither is it the voice of them that cry for being overcome: but the
+noise of them that sing do I hear."
+
+And it came to pass, as soon as he came nigh unto the camp, that he saw
+the calf and the dancing: and Moses' anger waxed hot, and he cast the
+tables out of his hands, and brake them beneath the mount. And he took
+the calf which they had made, and burnt it with fire, and ground it to
+powder, and strewed it upon the water, and made the children of Israel
+drink of it.
+
+
+B. MOSES' PRAYER
+
+And it came to pass on the morrow, that Moses said unto the people, "Ye
+have sinned a great sin: and now I will go up unto the Lord;
+peradventure I shall make atonement for your sin."
+
+And Moses returned unto the Lord, and said, "Oh, this people have sinned
+a great sin, and have made them gods of gold. Yet now, if thou wilt
+forgive their sin--; and if not, blot me, I pray thee, out of thy book
+which thou hast written."
+
+And the Lord said unto Moses, "Whosoever hath sinned against me, him
+will I blot out of my book. And now go, lead the people unto the place
+of which I have spoken unto thee: behold, mine angel shall go before
+thee: nevertheless in the day when I visit, I will visit their sin upon
+them."
+
+And the Lord smote the people, because they made the calf, which Aaron
+made.
+
+[The people were forgiven, but again and again they rebelled. Moses
+prayed for them, but the Lord said they must wander in the wilderness
+forty years. At last Moses led them to the plains of Moab and to the
+river Jordan, where he made his farewell speech.]
+
+
+=Sec.42. The Last Days of Moses= (Deut. 31:1-3, 6-8; 34)
+
+A. THE FAREWELL SPEECH
+
+And Moses spake these words unto all Israel, "I am a hundred and twenty
+years old this day; I can no more go out and come in: and the Lord hath
+said unto me, 'Thou shalt not go over this Jordan.' The Lord thy God, he
+will go over before thee; he will destroy these nations from before
+thee, and thou shalt possess them: and Joshua, he shall go over before
+thee, as the Lord hath spoken. Be strong and of a good courage, fear
+not, nor be affrighted at them: for the Lord thy God, he it is that doth
+go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee."
+
+And Moses called unto Joshua, and said unto him in the sight of all
+Israel, "Be strong and of a good courage: for thou shalt go with this
+people into the land which the Lord hath sworn unto their fathers to
+give them; and thou shalt cause them to inherit it. And the Lord, he it
+is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail
+thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed."
+
+
+B. THE DEATH OF MOSES
+
+And Moses went up from the plains of Moab unto mount Nebo, to the top of
+Pisgah, that is over against Jericho. And the Lord showed him all the
+land.
+
+And the Lord said unto him, "This is the land which I sware unto
+Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, saying, I will give it unto thy
+seed: I have caused thee to see it with thine eyes, but thou shalt not
+go over thither."
+
+So Moses the servant of the Lord died there in the land of Moab,
+according to the word of the Lord. And he buried him in the valley in
+the land of Moab, but no man knoweth of his sepulchre unto this day. And
+Moses was a hundred and twenty years old when he died: his eye was not
+dim, nor his natural force abated. And the children of Israel wept for
+Moses in the plains of Moab thirty days.
+
+And there hath not arisen a prophet since in Israel like unto Moses,
+whom the Lord knew face to face; in all the signs and the wonders, which
+the Lord sent him to do in the land of Egypt, to Pharaoh, and to all his
+land; and in all the mighty hand, and in all the great terror, which
+Moses wrought in the sight of all Israel.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+117. After the Revolutionary War, the thirteen American states adopted a
+constitution. Washington was the great leader. We all honor him now, but
+during his life many were jealous of him and the people often found
+fault with him and lost confidence in him. He was greatly tried and
+would have given up the presidency but for his sense of duty. So it was
+with Moses. He brought deliverance to the people and gave them their
+first great laws, but they constantly murmured against him and against
+God. The long story of his leadership of Israel during forty years in
+the wilderness is told in the books of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and
+Deuteronomy. We shall study a few of the main incidents.
+
+118 (Sec.40A). After the victory over the Egyptians, Moses led the people
+toward Mt. Sinai. Notice on the map the mountain range in the Sinai
+Peninsula. What difficulty soon arose? How did the people meet it? This
+was the beginning of a number of trials that Moses had in his
+leadership.
+
+119 (Sec.40A). How long did it take to reach Mt. Sinai? The gathering at
+the mountain was a very solemn occasion. Israel was to receive a
+constitution. Think of the solemn time when the constitution of the
+United States was adopted.
+
+120 (Sec.40B). What do we call these great words? Every student should know
+them by heart. If they were learned in the Primary Department it would
+be well to recall them.
+
+121 (Sec.40B). How were the people impressed by the holy law? Let us
+understand that when we speak of "the fear of the Lord" it does not mean
+that we are afraid of him, but that we have a great reverence for him.
+
+122 (Sec.41A). How long had Moses remained in the mountain to which he had
+gone to receive the laws? The people could not understand a God whom
+they could not see. They wanted an idol such as the Egyptians had. Tell
+the story of the golden calf.
+
+123 (Sec.41A). How did Moses learn of what had happened? What did Moses
+bring down from the mountain? What did Joshua hear? What did Moses do
+when he found what had happened? Is it ever right to be angry?
+
+124 (Sec.41B). The people had greatly disappointed Moses, but he was very
+sorry for their sin. He went to pray for them. Read carefully his
+wonderful prayer. Moses well knew God's love, but he knew also that
+wickedness must be punished.
+
+125. We shall consider another great rebellion in connection with the
+next two heroes whom we study. It resulted in the Hebrews being
+sentenced to travel about for forty years. Moses led them. He was their
+chief, ruling over them, and their general, enabling them to conquer
+their enemies.
+
+126 (Sec.42A). Moses had led the people for forty years. At last the grand
+old man brought them to the very border of the Promised Land. What river
+was all that separated them from Canaan? Locate the place of the last
+camp just opposite Jericho. The book of Deuteronomy gives the farewell
+speeches of Moses. This section is a part of what he said to them. Tell
+it in your own words. What great American gave a Farewell Message to his
+countrymen?
+
+127 (Sec.42B). It was a great disappointment to Moses that he could not
+lead the people into Canaan, but he cheerfully accepted God's will. It
+must have been a wonderful sight that the old man saw from the mountain.
+Imagine yourself on Mt. Nebo. Look over Canaan and tell what Moses saw.
+Where did Moses die? How did Israel mourn for him? What did the writer
+of the last verses think of this great man? Learn Mrs. Alexander's
+beautiful poem.
+
+THE BURIAL OF MOSES
+
+ By Nebo's lonely mountain,
+ On this side Jordan's wave,
+ In a vale in the land of Moab,
+ There lies a lonely grave;
+ But no man dug that sepulchre,
+ And no man saw it e'er,
+ For the angels of God upturned the sod,
+ And laid the dead man there.
+
+ That was the grandest funeral
+ That ever passed on earth;
+ But no man heard the tramping,
+ Or saw the train go forth.
+ Noiselessly as the daylight
+ Comes when the night is done,
+ And the crimson streak on ocean's cheek
+ Grows into the great sun,
+
+ Noiselessly as the springtime
+ Her crown of verdure weaves,
+ And all the trees on all the hills
+ Open their thousand leaves,
+ So, without sound of music,
+ Or voice of them that wept,
+ Silently down from the mountain crown
+ The great procession swept.
+
+ This was the bravest warrior
+ That ever buckled sword;
+ This the most gifted poet
+ That ever breathed a word;
+ And never earth's philosopher
+ Traced, with his golden pen,
+ On the deathless page, truths half so sage
+ As he wrote down for men.
+
+ And had he not high honor?
+ The hillside for his pall;
+ To lie in state while angels wait,
+ With stars for tapers tall;
+ And the dark rock-pines, like tossing plumes,
+ Over his bier to wave;
+ And God's own hand, in that lonely land,
+ To lay him in the grave.
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Draw a picture of two large tables of stone. Write the first five
+commandments on one, using just the first sentence of each commandment.
+Write the last five commandments on the other in full, except that for
+the tenth commandment use only its first four words. Do this very
+neatly.
+
+
+
+
+REVIEW
+
+ XIII. THE HEROES OF ISRAEL'S WANDERINGS
+
+
+
+
+XIII. THE HEROES OF ISRAEL'S WANDERINGS
+
+128. Our studies have brought us to the time when the Hebrews were about
+to enter the land of Canaan. Up to that time they were a wandering
+people going from place to place, seeking pasture for their flocks or
+refuge from famine. After they settled down they used to tell the
+stories of the heroes of the old wandering days. We have studied five of
+these. Who was called the Father of the Faithful? Who was his son? Who
+was the man who gave his name to the nation? Which of his sons became
+the ruler of Egypt? Who was the deliverer of the people from Egypt? Let
+us recall some of the stories of these five heroes.
+
+129 (5-7, Sec.2). Tell the story of Abraham's journey westward to the new
+land. Who did he believe called him and led him? What people in our own
+history did we compare with him?
+
+130 (12, 13, Sec.5). Abraham had a nephew with him: what was his name? What
+great wealth did these two men have? What trouble was caused by the
+increase of their wealth? How did Abraham settle the matter? Why did we
+call him "magnanimous"?
+
+131 (23, 24, Sec.8). Abraham was most anxious to do what he thought was
+right. Tell the wonderful story of how God showed him that he need not
+sacrifice his son.
+
+132. Read Sec.11A and see if you can recall the story of Jacob's deception
+of Isaac.
+
+133 (50, Sec.16). After many years and after Jacob had learned many hard
+lessons he turned back to his own land. Tell the story of his meeting
+with the brother whom he had wronged.
+
+134 (Sec.19). How many sons had Jacob? Who was his favorite? Why did his
+brothers hate him? Tell the story of how they sold him as a slave.
+
+135 (Sec.23C). Joseph prospered in Egypt, but through false accusation was
+thrown into prison. Here he interpreted the dreams of two men: who were
+they? which of the men was pardoned by the king and forgot Joseph? The
+king dreamed: how did this lead to Joseph's promotion?
+
+136 (Sec.27C). There were seven years of good crops followed by seven years
+of famine. How did the famine bring Joseph's brothers to Egypt? Why did
+they not recognize him when he knew them? What plan did he use to make
+them sorry for their unkindness and to make one of them willing to be a
+slave to save his youngest brother? Tell the story of the forgiveness.
+
+137 (84, 89, 90, Sec.30). After the Hebrews had been a long time in Egypt
+they became very numerous. Pharaoh was alarmed at their numbers. What
+order did he give so that there should be no more men? Tell the story of
+Moses' safety and adoption.
+
+138 (97, 98, Sec.34A). Moses had been obliged to flee from Egypt and had
+lived a long time in the wilderness thinking about how his people could
+be saved. Perhaps sometimes he thought that he ought to deliver them,
+but he hesitated. Tell the story of the Burning Bush and how God
+encouraged him to go back to Egypt and be the deliverer.
+
+139 (114, Sec.38B). Moses boldly went back and told the king he must let
+the people go. After ten awful plagues Pharaoh let them go. But no
+sooner were they gone than he repented and followed after them. How did
+Moses lead them into safety by God's good providence?
+
+140 (127, Sec.42B). How many years did Moses lead his people in the
+wilderness? To what point did he bring them at last? There he made them
+a noble farewell speech of encouragement. Tell the story of how he saw
+Canaan, and of his death. What did the writer of the Book of Deuteronomy
+think of Moses?
+
+
+
+
+WAR HEROES
+
+ XIV. JOSHUA AND CALEB
+
+ XV. GIDEON, THE WARRIOR
+
+ XVI. SAMSON, THE STRONG MAN
+
+
+
+
+XIV. JOSHUA AND CALEB
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.43. The Twelve Spies= (Num. 13:1, 2, 17-21, 25-28, 30-33; 14:1-10,
+26-33)
+
+A. THE MISSION OF THE SPIES
+
+The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, "Send thou men, that they may spy out
+the land of Canaan, which I give unto the children of Israel: of every
+tribe of their fathers shall ye send a man, every one a prince among
+them."
+
+And Moses sent twelve men of the tribes of Israel, and of them Caleb was
+of the tribe of Judah and Joshua of the tribe of Ephraim. And Moses sent
+them to spy out the land of Canaan, and said unto them, "Get you up this
+way by the South, and go up into the mountains: and see the land, what
+it is; and the people that dwelleth therein, whether they be strong or
+weak, whether they be few or many; and what the land is that they dwell
+in, whether it be good or bad; and what cities they be that they dwell
+in, whether in camps, or in strongholds; and what the land is, whether
+it be fat or lean, whether there be wood therein, or not. And be ye of
+good courage, and bring of the fruit of the land."
+
+Now the time was the time of the first-ripe grapes. So they went up, and
+spied out the land. And they came unto the valley of Eshcol, and cut
+down from thence a branch with one cluster of grapes, and they bare it
+upon a staff between two; they brought also of the pomegranates, and of
+the figs.
+
+
+B. THE REPORT OF THE COWARDS
+
+And they returned from spying out the land at the end of forty days. And
+they went and came to Moses, and to the children of Israel, and showed
+them the fruit of the land. And they told him, and said, "We came unto
+the land whither thou sentest us, and surely it floweth with milk and
+honey; and this is the fruit of it. Howbeit the people that dwell in the
+land are strong, and the cities are fenced, and very great: and moreover
+we saw the giants, the children of Anak, there."
+
+And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said, "Let us go up at
+once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it."
+
+But the men that went up with him said, "We are not able to go up
+against the people; for they are stronger than we." And they brought up
+an evil report of the land which they had spied out unto the children of
+Israel, saying, "The land, through which we have gone to spy it out, is
+a land that eateth up the inhabitants thereof; and all the people that
+we saw in it are men of great stature. And there we saw the giants, the
+sons of Anak: and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so we
+were in their sight."
+
+
+C. THE DISCOURAGEMENT
+
+And all the congregation lifted up their voice, and cried; and the
+people wept that night. And all the children of Israel murmured against
+Moses and against Aaron: and said unto them, "Would God that we had died
+in the land of Egypt! or would God we had died in this wilderness! And
+wherefore doth the Lord bring us unto this land, to fall by the sword?
+Our wives and our little ones shall be a prey: were it not better for us
+to return into Egypt?"
+
+And they said one to another, "Let us make a captain, and let us return
+into Egypt."
+
+Then Moses and Aaron fell on their faces before all the assembly of the
+children of Israel.
+
+
+D. THE ADVICE OF THE HEROES
+
+And Joshua and Caleb, which were of them that spied out the land, rent
+their clothes: and they spake unto all the children of Israel, saying,
+"The land, which we passed through to spy it out, is an exceeding good
+land. If the Lord delight in us, then he will bring us into this land,
+and give it unto us; a land which floweth with milk and honey. Only
+rebel not against the Lord, neither fear ye the people of the land; for
+they are bread for us: their defence is removed from over them, and the
+Lord is with us: fear them not."
+
+But all the people cried to stone them with stones.
+
+
+E. THE SENTENCE OF THE LORD
+
+And the glory of the Lord appeared in the tent of meeting unto all the
+children of Israel. And the Lord spake unto Moses and unto Aaron,
+saying, "I have heard the murmurings of the children of Israel, which
+they murmur against me. Say unto them, 'As I live, saith the Lord,
+surely as ye have spoken in mine ears, so will I do to you: your
+carcases shall fall in this wilderness; and all that were numbered of
+you, according to your whole number, from twenty years old and upward,
+which have murmured against me, surely ye shall not come into the land,
+concerning which I lifted up my hand that I would make you dwell
+therein, save Caleb and Joshua. But your little ones, which ye said
+should be a prey, them will I bring in, and they shall know the land
+which ye have rejected. But as for you, your carcases shall fall in this
+wilderness. And your children shall be wanderers in the wilderness forty
+years.'"
+
+
+=Sec.44. After the Forty Years= (Josh. 1:1-11; 11:16-18; 14:6-13)
+
+A. JOSHUA'S REWARD
+
+Now it came to pass after the death of Moses the servant of the Lord,
+that the Lord spake unto Joshua, Moses' minister, saying, "Moses my
+servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all
+this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even to the children
+of Israel. Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, to
+you have I given it, as I spake unto Moses. From the wilderness, and
+this Lebanon, even unto the great river, the river Euphrates, all the
+land of the Hittites, and unto the great sea toward the going down of
+the sun, shall be your border. There shall not any man be able to stand
+before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be
+with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. Be strong and of a
+good courage: for thou shalt cause this people to inherit the land which
+I sware unto their fathers to give them. Only be strong and very
+courageous, to observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my
+servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the
+left, that thou mayest have good success whithersoever thou goest. This
+book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth, but thou shalt
+meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according
+to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way
+prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. Have not I commanded
+thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not affrighted, neither be
+thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou
+goest."
+
+Then Joshua commanded the officers of the people, saying, "Pass through
+the midst of the camp, and command the people, saying, 'Prepare you
+victuals; for within three days ye are to pass over this Jordan, to go
+in to possess the land, which the Lord your God giveth you to possess
+it.'"
+
+
+B. JOSHUA'S CONQUESTS
+
+So Joshua took all that land, the hill country, and all the South, and
+the lowland, and the hill country of Israel, and the lowland of the
+same; and all their kings he took, and smote them, and put them to
+death. Joshua made war a long time with all those kings. So Joshua took
+the whole land, according to all that the Lord spake unto Moses; and
+Joshua gave it for an inheritance unto Israel according to their
+divisions by their tribes.
+
+
+C. CALEB'S REWARD
+
+Then the children of Judah drew nigh unto Joshua: and Caleb said unto
+him, "Thou knowest the thing that the Lord spake unto Moses the man of
+God concerning me and concerning thee in Kadesh-barnea. Forty years old
+was I when Moses the servant of the Lord sent me from Kadesh-barnea to
+spy out the land; and I brought him word again as it was in mine heart.
+Nevertheless my brethren that went up with me made the heart of the
+people melt: but I wholly followed the Lord my God. And Moses sware on
+that day, saying, 'Surely the land whereon thy foot hath trodden shall
+be an inheritance to thee and to thy children for ever, because thou
+hast wholly followed the Lord my God.' And now, behold, the Lord hath
+kept me alive, as he spake, these forty and five years, from the time
+that the Lord spake this word unto Moses, while Israel walked in the
+wilderness: and now, lo, I am this day fourscore and five years old. As
+yet I am as strong this day as I was in the day that Moses sent me: as
+my strength was then, even so is my strength now, for war, and to go out
+and to come in. Now, therefore, give me this mountain, whereof the Lord
+spake in that day; for thou heardest in that day how the giants, the
+sons of Anak, were there, and cities great and fenced: it may be that
+the Lord will be with me, and I shall drive them out, as the Lord
+spake."
+
+And Joshua blessed him; and he gave Hebron unto Caleb for an
+inheritance. And the land had rest from war.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+141. We have followed the story of Moses to the time of his death. Now
+we shall go back to notice the part that two other heroes played in the
+wilderness. It was at the time when Moses had led the people from Mount
+Sinai toward the southern part of Canaan. Locate this journey on the
+map.
+
+142 (Sec.43A). Notice that we take up the Book of Numbers, which is so
+called because it tells of the census of the people in the wilderness.
+Try to imagine the feelings of the people who had come from slavery in
+Egypt and had reached the borders of the strange new land. They would
+wish to know what was before them. What plan was to be used to find
+out?
+
+143 (Sec.43A). The southern part of Canaan was called "the South." Locate
+it. They were to go through there and then to the higher country where
+the vineyards were planted on the hills. What seven different things
+were these men to find out? What were they to bring back with them? What
+time of the year was it? We can imagine how the settlers in the early
+history of our country might have sent scouts to go through the Indian
+lands to find out what they were and what kind of people the Indian
+tribes were.
+
+144 (Sec.43A). These twelve men went all through the land. What did they
+get as a sample of the fruit? Why did two men have to carry it? What
+does this show of the character of the land?
+
+145 (Sec.43B). How long did it take them to find out about the country?
+What did they do when they came back. What report did they give? The
+children of Anak were very tall men. It seems that there must have been
+a tribe of exceedingly big men in Canaan. These frightened the spies.
+
+146 (Sec.43B). There was one of the committee who spoke out a bold word.
+Who was he and what did he say? But what did the others reply? Notice
+that at first they said they saw some tall men. Soon they began to think
+that all the Canaanites were giants. So difficulties grow in our minds
+when we are cowardly.
+
+147 (Sec.43C). What happened when the people heard the discouraging report?
+It shows how a few men can discourage a whole army. What rebellion did
+they plan? Would it have been wise to go back to Egypt?
+
+148 (Sec.43D). Moses and Aaron were very much troubled. But the two heroes
+out of the twelve spies made a great speech. They were troubled so they
+tore their clothes. But what did they say about the land? Who did they
+say would bless the people if they would be faithful and brave? How did
+the people respond? Think of the two noble men standing against the
+great crowd.
+
+149 (Sec.43E). The message of the Lord tells of the punishment for the
+rebellion. What was to happen to all the grown men? What two men were to
+be an exception? What was to happen to the children? Notice that the
+punishment is that they shall not go into the land. But they did not
+want to go. Sometimes the worst punishment is to take a person at his
+word.
+
+150 (Sec.44A). Now imagine forty years to pass. All the old men are gone.
+The great leader is gone. Let us see what became of the two brave men.
+We turn to a new book, the sixth in our Bible, which is called after the
+name of the hero. Who was chosen to succeed Moses? Was not this an honor
+and reward? What was to be his duty for the people? What spirit was he
+to have? What was to be his guide? Who promised to be with him? What did
+he immediately do as the first act of his leadership?
+
+151 (Sec.44B). The first eleven chapters of this book give the account of
+Joshua's wars to gain the land for his people. This passage tells how he
+succeeded. Tell it in your own words.
+
+152 (Sec.44C). The old hero Caleb comes up to get his share of the new
+land. Tell what he says to Joshua. As he states that it is forty-five
+years since Moses gave him the promise, there must have been five years
+spent in conquering the land. It was a long time to wait for his reward,
+but at last the old man receives it. It is interesting to note that he
+chooses his own reward. He asks to be given the very highland country
+that the spies were so much afraid of. He expects the Lord to help him
+to drive the giants out. One would think that an old man would ask for
+an easy place. Caleb asks for a hard one. What do you think of Caleb?
+What kind of a place do you want in the world--an easy place with
+plenty to get or a hard place with plenty of chance to do good? Think
+about that question and then answer it to yourself.
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+This week you will undoubtedly have some difficult lessons assigned in
+school. It will seem that they are too hard and you will feel inclined
+to give them up. Do not be afraid of the giants, be like Joshua and
+Caleb and you can conquer if you are brave enough. Make up your mind to
+conquer some hard task each day. When you are sure you have really
+conquered a difficulty think how those heroes must have felt about the
+giants. Write in your notebook the reason why Caleb and Joshua wanted to
+do the hard duty.
+
+
+
+
+XV. GIDEON, THE WARRIOR
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.45. The Call of Gideon= (Judg. 6:2-6, 11-24, 36-40)
+
+A. THE OPPRESSION OF THE MIDIANITES
+
+The hand of Midian prevailed against Israel: and because of Midian the
+children of Israel made them the dens which are in the mountains, and
+the caves, and the strongholds. And so it was, when Israel had sown,
+that the Midianites came up and encamped against them, and destroyed the
+increase of the earth, and left no sustenance in Israel, neither sheep,
+nor ox, nor ass. For they came up with their cattle and their tents,
+they came in as locusts for multitude; both they and their camels were
+without number: and they came into the land to destroy it. And Israel
+was brought very low because of Midian; and the children of Israel cried
+unto the Lord.
+
+
+B. THE ANGEL'S VISIT TO GIDEON
+
+And the angel of the Lord came, and sat under the oak that belonged unto
+Joash the Abiezrite: and his son Gideon was beating out wheat in the
+winepress, to hide it from the Midianites. And the angel of the Lord
+appeared unto him, and said unto him, "The Lord is with thee, thou
+mighty man of valor."
+
+And Gideon said unto him, "Oh my lord, if the Lord be with us, why then
+is all this befallen us? and where are all his wondrous works which our
+fathers told us of, saying, 'Did not the Lord bring us up from Egypt?'
+but now the Lord hath cast us off, and delivered us into the hand of
+Midian."
+
+And the Lord looked upon him, and said, "Go in this thy might, and save
+Israel from the hand of Midian: have not I sent thee?"
+
+And he said unto him, "Oh Lord, wherewith shall I save Israel? behold,
+my family is the poorest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my father's
+house."
+
+And the Lord said unto him, "Surely I will be with thee, and thou shalt
+smite the Midianites as one man."
+
+And he said unto him, "If now I have found grace in thy sight, then show
+me a sign that it is thou that talkest with me. Depart not hence, I pray
+thee, until I come unto thee, and bring forth my present, and lay it
+before thee."
+
+And he said, "I will tarry until thou come again."
+
+And Gideon went in, and made ready a kid, and unleavened cakes of an
+ephah of meal: the flesh he put in a basket, and he put the broth in a
+pot, and brought it out unto him under the oak, and presented it.
+
+And the angel of God said unto him, "Take the flesh and the unleavened
+cakes, and lay them upon this rock, and pour out the broth."
+
+And he did so. Then the angel of the Lord put forth the end of the staff
+that was in his hand, and touched the flesh and the unleavened cakes;
+and there went up fire out of the rock, and consumed the flesh and the
+unleavened cakes; and the angel of the Lord departed out of his sight.
+And Gideon saw that he was the angel of the Lord; and Gideon said,
+"Alas, O Lord God! forasmuch as I have seen the angel of the Lord face
+to face."
+
+And the Lord said unto him, "Peace be unto thee; fear not: thou shalt
+not die."
+
+Then Gideon built an altar there unto the Lord.
+
+C. THE SIGN OF THE FLEECE
+
+And Gideon said unto God, "If thou wilt save Israel by mine hand, as
+thou hast spoken, behold, I will put a fleece of wool on the
+threshing-floor: if there be dew on the fleece only, and it be dry upon
+all the ground, then shall I know that thou wilt save Israel by mine
+hand, as thou hast spoken."
+
+And it was so: for he rose up early on the morrow, and pressed the
+fleece together, and wrung the dew out of the fleece, a bowlful of
+water. And Gideon said unto God, "Let not thine anger be kindled against
+me, and I will speak but this once: let me prove, I pray thee, but this
+once with the fleece; let it now be dry only upon the fleece, and upon
+all the ground let there be dew."
+
+And God did so that night: for it was dry upon the fleece only, and
+there was dew on all the ground.
+
+
+=Sec.46. The Defeat of the Midianites= (Judg. 6:33-35; 7:2-24; 8:4,
+10-12, 21)
+
+A. THE GATHERING OF THE TRIBES
+
+Then all the Midianites assembled themselves together; and they passed
+over, and pitched in the valley of Jezreel. But the spirit of the Lord
+came upon Gideon; and he blew a trumpet; and Abiezer was gathered
+together after him. And he sent messengers throughout all Manasseh; and
+they also were gathered together after him: and he sent messengers unto
+Asher, and unto Zebulun, and unto Naphtali; and they came up to meet
+them.
+
+
+B. THE CHOICE OF THE WARRIORS
+
+And the Lord said unto Gideon, "The people that are with thee are too
+many for me to give the Midianites into their hand, lest Israel vaunt
+themselves against me, saying, 'Mine own hand hath saved me.' Now
+therefore go to, proclaim in the ears of the people, saying, 'Whosoever
+is fearful and trembling, let him return and depart from mount Gilead.'"
+
+And there returned of the people twenty and two thousand; and there
+remained ten thousand. And the Lord said unto Gideon, "The people are
+yet too many; bring them down unto the water, and I will try them for
+thee there: and it shall be, that of whom I say unto thee, 'This shall
+go with thee,' the same shall go with thee; and of whomsoever I say unto
+thee, 'This shall not go with thee,' the same shall not go."
+
+So he brought down the people unto the water: and the Lord said unto
+Gideon, "Every one that lappeth of the water with his tongue, as a dog
+lappeth, him shalt thou set by himself; likewise every one that boweth
+down upon his knees to drink."
+
+And the number of them that lapped, putting their hand to their mouth,
+was three hundred men: but all the rest of the people bowed down upon
+their knees to drink water.
+
+And the Lord said unto Gideon, "By the three hundred men that lapped
+will I save you, and deliver the Midianites into thine hand: and let all
+the people go every man unto his place."
+
+So the people took victuals in their hand, and their trumpets: and he
+sent all the men of Israel every man unto his tent, but retained the
+three hundred men: and the camp of Midian was beneath him in the valley.
+
+
+C. THE DREAM OF THE ENEMY
+
+And it came to pass the same night, that the Lord said unto him, "Arise,
+get thee down into the camp; for I have delivered it into thine hand.
+But if thou fear to go down, go thou with Purah thy servant down to the
+camp: and thou shalt hear what they say; and afterward shall thine
+hands be strengthened to go down into the camp."
+
+Then went he down with Purah his servant unto the outermost part of the
+armed men that were in the camp. And the Midianites lay along in the
+valley like locusts for multitude; and their camels were without number,
+as the sand which is upon the sea shore for multitude.
+
+And when Gideon was come, behold, there was a man that told a dream unto
+his fellow, and said, "Behold, I dreamed a dream, and, lo, a cake of
+barley bread tumbled into the camp of Midian, and came unto the tent,
+and smote it that it fell, and turned it upside down, so that the tent
+lay flat."
+
+And his fellow answered and said, "This is nothing else save the sword
+of Gideon the son of Joash, a man of Israel: into his hand God hath
+delivered Midian, and all the host."
+
+And it was so, when Gideon heard the telling of the dream, and the
+interpretation thereof, that he worshipped; and he returned into the
+camp of Israel, and said, "Arise; for the Lord hath delivered into your
+hand the host of Midian."
+
+
+D. THE PLAN OF THE BATTLE
+
+And he divided the three hundred men into three companies, and he put
+into the hands of all of them trumpets, and empty pitchers, with torches
+within the pitchers. And he said unto them, "Look on me, and do
+likewise: and, behold, when I come to the outermost part of the camp, it
+shall be that, as I do, so shall ye do. When I blow the trumpet, I and
+all that are with me, then blow ye the trumpets also on every side of
+all the camp, and say, 'For the Lord and for Gideon.'"
+
+So Gideon, and the hundred men that were with him, came unto the
+outermost part of the camp in the beginning of the middle watch, when
+they had but newly set the watch: and they blew the trumpets, and brake
+in pieces the pitchers that were in their hands. And the three companies
+blew the trumpets, and brake the pitchers, and held the torches in their
+left hands, and the trumpets in their right hands to blow withal: and
+they cried, "The sword of the Lord and of Gideon."
+
+And they stood every man in his place round about the camp: and all the
+host ran; and they shouted, and put them to flight. And they blew the
+three hundred trumpets, and the Lord set every man's sword against his
+fellow, and against all the host: and the host fled and the men of
+Israel pursued after Midian.
+
+
+E. THE PURSUIT AND THE VICTORY
+
+And Gideon sent messengers throughout all the hill country of Ephraim,
+saying, "Come down against Midian and take the Jordan before them." So
+they came down.
+
+And Gideon came to the Jordan, and passed over, he, and the three
+hundred men that were with him, faint, yet pursuing.
+
+Now the two kings of Midian had with them about fifteen thousand men,
+all that were left of the host. And Gideon smote the host. And the two
+kings of Midian fled. And Gideon pursued after them and took them. And
+he slew them, and took the crescents that were on their camels' necks.
+
+
+=Sec.47. The Result of the Victory= (Judg. 8:22-27)
+
+Then the men of Israel said unto Gideon, "Rule thou over us, both thou,
+and thy son, and thy son's son also: for thou hast saved us out of the
+hand of Midian."
+
+And Gideon said unto them, "I will not rule over you, neither shall my
+son rule over you: the Lord shall rule over you."
+
+And Gideon said unto them, "I would desire and request of you, that ye
+would give me every man the earrings of his spoil."
+
+And they answered, "We will willingly give them."
+
+And they spread a garment, and did cast therein every man the earrings
+of his spoil. And the weight of the golden earrings that he requested
+was a thousand and seven hundred shekels of gold; beside the crescents,
+and the pendants, and the purple raiment that was on the kings of
+Midian, and beside the chains that were about their camels' necks. And
+Gideon made an idol thereof, and put it in his city, even in Ophrah: and
+all Israel went after it there: and it became a snare unto Gideon, and
+to his house.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+153. After the death of Joshua, the Hebrews had a hard time from their
+many enemies. Just as our forefathers were constantly in danger from the
+Indians, so the Hebrew settlers were often attacked and their goods
+taken from them. But in their case it was worse, because their enemies
+often came against them in great armies and conquered them. Israel had
+no king or governor, but from time to time some hero rose up to deliver
+them. These men were called "judges," because in addition to leading the
+people in war they decided matters of dispute. Their stories are told in
+the Book of Judges. Gideon was one of these military heroes.
+
+154 (Sec.45A). The Midianites were a wandering people of the desert. They
+wandered on the borders of Edom and Moab. Find these places on the map,
+southeast of Canaan. As they raised no crops themselves they delighted
+to attack the agricultural people after the crops were harvested and
+steal all the result of the year's work. That is the meaning of the fear
+of the Hebrews that is described. Where did the Hebrews hide? How many
+were there of the enemy?
+
+155 (Sec.45B). Notice that Gideon was afraid to thresh his wheat in the
+open place, so he was beating out a few sheaves in the hollow where they
+pressed the grapes. What did the angel say to him when he saw his
+powerful frame and how vigorously he was beating his wheat? Tell the
+conversation, showing how the angel encouraged Gideon. He was a brave
+man, but like everyone else he had lost heart. What sign was given to
+Gideon? It was such a solemn thing to be called by God to deliver the
+people that Gideon was afraid, but God encouraged him. What did Gideon
+build there? What did that mean?
+
+156 (Sec.45C). What further sign was given to Gideon to make him sure that
+the Lord was with him?
+
+157 (Sec.46A). There were twelve tribes in Israel and each tribe consisted
+of a number of clans. Gideon was of the clan of Abiezer, which was part
+of the tribe of Manasseh. Look at the map of Canaan and note the names
+of the Twelve Tribes. In the tribe of Issachar is the Plain of
+Esdraelon. That was the great plain where many of the battles of Israel
+were fought. If you can look at a relief map you will see how this great
+plain lay. The enemy had crossed the Jordan and camped on this plain.
+When Gideon heard it, he was stirred to the heart. What did he do? First
+his own clan followed him. Then he called his own tribe to follow him.
+Then he sent to three of the northern tribes. Find all these on the map.
+Try to imagine the Israelites all gathering together at the call of the
+hero.
+
+158 (Sec.46B). Here we have a strange story. It would seem as if the army
+ought to be as large as possible, but the Lord told Gideon that he did
+not want the people to boast of the victory. Who were told to go home?
+How large was the army? How many went home? How many remained? But still
+the numbers were too large: what was the second plan to reduce them? How
+many at last were left?
+
+159 (Sec.46C). What did Gideon do in order to find out about the enemy?
+Tell the dream that he heard explained.
+
+160 (Sec.46D). Read carefully and explain what Gideon told his men. He had
+a stratagem in mind to frighten the enemy. It is to be noted that the
+men who went home left their provisions and their trumpets, so Gideon
+had as many trumpets in his little army as in the big army. What would
+the Midianites think when they heard three hundred trumpets blowing? The
+night was divided into three watches. The sentries had just been set
+for the second watch when the attack was made. Describe the actions of
+the Israelites. What did they shout? The Midianites killed one another
+in the confusion.
+
+161 (Sec.46E). Gideon wanted the great tribe of Ephraim to help in the
+fight, so he asked them to go down to the river Jordan to cut off the
+flying enemy. What did Gideon do himself? What happened to the kings of
+Midian and the host?
+
+162 (Sec.47). What did the grateful people offer Gideon? Why did he refuse?
+What great American refused to be a king? The story closes in
+disappointment. Is it not strange that after the great victory Gideon
+should forget God? Tell the story of making the idol.
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Make a search during the next week for an example of some brave person
+standing up like Gideon for a good cause when others hold back. There is
+sure to be someone if you are keen enough to find him. It may be at
+school or in the city, or you may hear of someone in the newspapers.
+Talk it over with your companions until you have found the best example.
+Write about it in your notebook.
+
+
+
+
+XVI. SAMSON, THE STRONG MAN
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.48. The Birth of Samson= (Judg. 13:2-6, 24)
+
+There was a certain man of the Danites, whose name was Manoah; and his
+wife bare no child. And the angel of the Lord appeared unto the woman,
+and said unto her, "Behold now, thou shalt bear a son. Now therefore
+beware, I pray thee, and drink no wine nor strong drink, and eat not any
+unclean thing: for, lo, thou shalt bear a son; and no razor shall come
+upon his head: for the child shall be a Nazirite unto God from his
+birth: and he shall begin to save Israel out of the hand of the
+Philistines."
+
+Then the woman came and told her husband.
+
+And the woman bare a son and called his name Samson: and the child grew
+and the Lord blessed him.
+
+
+=Sec.49. The Riddle at the Wedding Feast= (Judg. 14)
+
+And Samson went down to Timnah, and saw a woman in Timnah of the
+daughters of the Philistines. And he came up, and told his father and
+his mother, and said, "I have seen a woman in Timnah of the daughters of
+the Philistines: now therefore get her for me to wife."
+
+Then his father and his mother said unto him, "Is there never a woman
+among the daughters of thy brethren, or among all my people, that thou
+goest to take a wife of the Philistines?"
+
+And Samson said unto his father, "Get her for me; for she pleaseth me
+well."
+
+Then went Samson down, and his father and his mother, to Timnah, and
+came to the vineyards of Timnah: and, behold, a young lion roared
+against him. And the spirit of the Lord came mightily upon him, and he
+rent him as he would have rent a kid, and he had nothing in his hand:
+but he told not his father or his mother what he had done. And he went
+down, and talked with the woman; and she pleased Samson well.
+
+And after a while he returned to take her, and he turned aside to see
+the carcase of the lion: and, behold, there was a swarm of bees in the
+body of the lion, and honey. And he took it into his hands, and went on,
+eating as he went, and he came to his father and mother, and gave unto
+them, and they did eat: but he told them not that he had taken the honey
+out of the body of the lion. And his father went down unto the woman:
+and Samson made there a feast; for so used the young men to do. And it
+came to pass, when they saw him, that they brought thirty companions to
+be with him.
+
+And Samson said unto them, "Let me now put forth a riddle unto you: if
+ye can declare it me within the seven days of the feast, and find it
+out, then I will give you thirty linen garments and thirty changes of
+raiment: but if ye cannot declare it me, then shall ye give me thirty
+linen garments and thirty changes of raiment."
+
+And they said unto him, "Put forth thy riddle, that we may hear it."
+
+And he said unto them,
+
+ "Out of the eater came forth meat,
+ And out of the strong came forth sweetness."
+
+And they could not in three days declare the riddle.
+
+And it came to pass on the seventh day, that they said unto Samson's
+wife, "Entice thy husband, that he may declare unto us the riddle, lest
+we burn thee and thy father's house with fire: have ye called us to
+impoverish us? is it not so?"
+
+And Samson's wife wept before him, and said, "Thou dost but hate me, and
+lovest me not: thou hast put forth a riddle unto the children of my
+people, and hast not told it me."
+
+And he said unto her, "Behold, I have not told it my father nor my
+mother, and shall I tell thee?"
+
+And she wept before him the seven days, while their feast lasted: and it
+came to pass on the seventh day, that he told her, because she pressed
+him sore: and she told the riddle to the children of her people. And the
+men of the city said unto him on the seventh day before the sun went
+down, "What is sweeter than honey? and what is stronger than a lion?"
+
+And he said unto them,
+
+ "If ye had not plowed with my heifer,
+ Ye had not found out my riddle."
+
+And the spirit of the Lord came mightily upon him, and he went down to
+Ashkelon, and smote thirty men of them, and took their spoil, and gave
+the changes of raiment unto them that declared the riddle. And his anger
+was kindled, and he went up to his father's house. But Samson's wife was
+given to his companion, whom he had used as his friend.
+
+
+=Sec.50. Samson's Strength= (Judg. 15:1-17; 16:1-3)
+
+A. THE STORY OF THE FOXES
+
+But it came to pass after a while, in the time of wheat harvest, that
+Samson visited his wife with a kid; and he said, "I will go in to my
+wife into the chamber."
+
+But her father would not suffer him to go in. And her father said, "I
+verily thought that thou hadst utterly hated her; therefore I gave her
+to thy companion: is not her younger sister fairer than she? take her, I
+pray thee, instead of her."
+
+And Samson said unto them, "This time shall I be blameless in regard to
+the Philistines, when I do them a mischief."
+
+And Samson went and caught three hundred foxes, and took firebrands, and
+turned tail to tail, and put a firebrand in the midst between every two
+tails. And when he had set the brands on fire, he let them go into the
+standing grain of the Philistines, and burnt up both the shocks and the
+standing grain, and also the oliveyards.
+
+Then the Philistines said, "Who hath done this?"
+
+And they said, "Samson, the son-in-law of the Timnite, because he hath
+taken his wife, and given her to his companion."
+
+And the Philistines came up, and burnt her and her father with fire.
+
+And Samson said unto them, "If ye do after this manner, surely I will be
+avenged of you, and after that will I cease."
+
+And he smote them hip and thigh with a great slaughter: and he went down
+and dwelt in the cleft of the rock of Etam.
+
+
+B. THE STORY OF THE JAWBONE
+
+Then the Philistines went up, and pitched in Judah, and spread
+themselves in Lehi. And the men of Judah said, "Why are ye come up
+against us?"
+
+And they said, "To bind Samson are we come up, to do to him as he hath
+done to us."
+
+Then three thousand men of Judah went down to the cleft of the rock of
+Etam, and said to Samson, "Knowest thou not that the Philistines are
+rulers over us? what then is this that thou hast done unto us?"
+
+And he said unto them, "As they did unto me, so have I done unto them."
+
+And they said unto him, "We are come down to bind thee, that we may
+deliver thee into the hand of the Philistines."
+
+And Samson said unto them, "Swear unto me, that ye will not fall upon me
+yourselves."
+
+And they spake unto him, saying, "No; but we will bind thee fast, and
+deliver thee into their hand: but surely we will not kill thee."
+
+And they bound him with two new ropes, and brought him up from the rock.
+When he came unto Lehi, the Philistines shouted as they met him: and the
+spirit of the Lord came mightily upon him, and the ropes that were upon
+his arms became as flax that was burnt with fire, and his bands dropped
+from off his hands. And he found a new jawbone of an ass, and put forth
+his hand, and took it, and smote a thousand men therewith. And Samson
+said,
+
+ "With the jawbone of an ass, heaps upon heaps,
+ With the jawbone of an ass have I smitten a thousand men."
+
+And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking, that he cast
+away the jawbone out of his hand.
+
+
+C. THE STORY OF THE GATES OF GAZA
+
+And Samson went to Gaza. And it was told the Gazites, saying, "Samson is
+come hither." And they compassed him in, and laid wait for him all
+night in the gate of the city, and were quiet all the night, saying,
+"Let be till morning light, then we will kill him."
+
+And Samson lay till midnight, and arose at midnight, and laid hold of
+the doors of the gate of the city, and the two posts, and plucked them
+up, bar and all, and put them upon his shoulders, and carried them up to
+the top of the mountain that is before Hebron.
+
+
+=Sec.51. Samson's Weakness= (Judg. 16:4-22)
+
+And it came to pass afterward, that he loved a woman, whose name was
+Delilah. And the lords of the Philistines came up unto her, and said
+unto her, "Entice him, and see wherein his great strength lieth, and by
+what means we may prevail against him, that we may bind him to afflict
+him: and we will give thee every one of us eleven hundred pieces of
+silver."
+
+And Delilah said to Samson, "Tell me, I pray thee, wherein thy great
+strength lieth, and wherewith thou mightest be bound to afflict thee."
+
+And Samson said unto her, "If they bind me with seven new bowstrings
+that were never dried, then shall I become weak, and be as another man."
+
+Then the lords of the Philistines brought up to her seven new bowstrings
+which had not been dried, and she bound him with them. Now she had liers
+in wait abiding in the inner chamber. And she said unto him, "The
+Philistines be upon thee, Samson."
+
+And he brake the bowstrings as a string of tow is broken when it touches
+the fire. So his strength was not known.
+
+And Delilah said unto Samson, "Behold, thou hast mocked me, and told me
+lies: now tell me, I pray thee, wherewith thou mightest be bound."
+
+And he said unto her, "If they only bind me with new ropes wherewith no
+work hath been done, then shall I become weak, and be as another man."
+
+So Delilah took new ropes, and bound him therewith, and said unto him,
+"The Philistines be upon thee, Samson."
+
+And the liers in wait were abiding in the inner chamber. And he brake
+them from off his arms like a thread.
+
+And Delilah said unto Samson, "Hitherto thou hast mocked me, and told me
+lies: tell me wherewith thou mightest be bound."
+
+And he said unto her, "If thou weavest the seven locks of my head with
+the web."
+
+And she fastened it with the pin, and said unto him, "The Philistines be
+upon thee, Samson."
+
+And he awaked out of his sleep, and plucked away the pin of the beam,
+and the web.
+
+And she said unto him, "How canst thou say, 'I love thee,' when thine
+heart is not with me? thou hast mocked me these three times, and hast
+not told me wherein thy great strength lieth."
+
+And it came to pass, when she pressed him daily with her words, and
+urged him, that his soul was vexed unto death. And he told her all his
+heart, and said unto her, "There hath not come a razor upon mine head:
+for I have been a Nazirite unto God from my birth: if I be shaven, then
+my strength will go from me, and I shall become weak, and be like any
+other man."
+
+And when Delilah saw that he had told her all his heart, she sent and
+called for the lords of the Philistines, saying, "Come up this once, for
+he hath told me all his heart."
+
+Then the lords of the Philistines came up unto her, and brought the
+money in their hand. And she made him sleep upon her knees: and she
+called for a man, and shaved off the seven locks of his head; and she
+began to afflict him, and his strength went from him. And she said, "The
+Philistines be upon thee, Samson."
+
+And he awoke out of his sleep, and said, "I will go out as at other
+times, and shake myself."
+
+But he wist not that the Lord was departed from him.
+
+And the Philistines laid hold on him, and put out his eyes; and they
+brought him down to Gaza, and bound him with fetters of brass; and he
+did grind in the prison house. Howbeit the hair of his head began to
+grow again after he was shaven.
+
+
+=Sec.52. Samson's Vengeance= (Judg. 16:23-31)
+
+And the lords of the Philistines gathered them together to offer a great
+sacrifice unto Dagon their god, and to rejoice: for they said, "Our god
+hath delivered Samson our enemy into our hand." And when the people saw
+him, they praised their god: for they said, "Our god hath delivered into
+our hand our enemy, and the destroyer of our country, which hath slain
+many of us." And it came to pass, when their hearts were merry, that
+they said, "Call for Samson, that he may make us sport."
+
+And they called for Samson out of the prison house; and he made sport
+before them: and they set him between the pillars. And Samson said unto
+the lad that held him by the hand, "Suffer me that I may feel the
+pillars whereupon the house resteth, that I may lean upon them."
+
+Now the house was full of men and women; and all the lords of the
+Philistines were there; and there were upon the roof about three
+thousand men and women, that beheld while Samson made sport.
+
+And Samson called unto the Lord, and said, "O Lord God, remember me, I
+pray thee, and strengthen me, I pray thee, only this once. O God, that I
+may be at once avenged of the Philistines for my two eyes."
+
+And Samson took hold of the two middle pillars upon which the house
+rested, and leaned upon them, the one with his right hand, and the other
+with his left. And Samson said, "Let me die with the Philistines." And
+he bowed himself with all his might; and the house fell upon the lords,
+and upon all the people that were therein. So the dead which he slew at
+his death were more than they which he slew in his life.
+
+Then his brethren and all the house of his father came down, and took
+him, and brought him up, and buried him in the burying-place of Manoah
+his father.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+163. All peoples have their old stories of heroes who had great
+strength. The Greeks had their Hercules and the Hebrews had their
+Samson. In reading his story we must remember that it belongs to a rude
+age, when men's passions were strong and they had not learned the
+gentler ways of life. The story is full of adventure; it is very well
+told; it shows us much of the old Hebrew life; and it helps us to see
+how hard the lot of the people must have been under their oppressors. Of
+course they remembered any strong man of those days, and his story grew
+as it was told from generation to generation.
+
+164 (Sec.48). The first thing that we learn about the hero is that he was a
+promised child. He was set apart from his birth to the Lord. Such
+persons were called Nazirites. They had to abstain from wine, and their
+hair was not to be cut.
+
+165 (Sec.49). With whom did Samson fall in love? The Philistines were the
+oppressors of his people. What did his parents think of it? It would
+seem that they all went down to make the betrothal feast. What great
+feat of strength did Samson perform on the way? Then there was a second
+visit for the marriage itself. What did Samson find this time on his
+way?
+
+166 (Sec.49). The story describes some of the old customs. What was Samson
+expected to provide for the wedding? How many young men were there? What
+bet did he make with them? What was the riddle? Could you have guessed
+it?
+
+167 (Sec.49). How did the young men find out the riddle? How did Samson pay
+his bet? Consider what rude times those must have been.
+
+168 (Sec.50A). We have a number of the old stories of Samson's strength.
+Consider what injury was done to Samson. What humorous and savage
+revenge did Samson take upon his enemies? It was considered a great
+insult to burn the standing grain. What horrible vengeance did the
+Philistines take on the bride's family?
+
+169 (Sec.50B). Tell what Samson's own people did to him. Why did they do
+it? What was Samson's great feat? Notice how big they made the
+stories--one man killing a thousand.
+
+170 (Sec.50C). They loved the stories of Samson's clever escapes. How did
+the men of Gaza think he was caught? How did Samson escape?
+
+171 (Sec.51). This strong man was not really a great man. After he had lost
+his first Philistine wife he fell in love with another woman of the same
+race. She proved as deceitful as the first. Note the enormous bribe that
+the Philistine lords offered Delilah. What was the first trial of
+Samson's strength? The new bowstrings were probably cords made from the
+intestines of animals. If they were not dried they would be tougher.
+
+172 (Sec.51). Tell the story of the second trial. The story of the third
+trial is not quite so plain. It means that his long hair was to be
+woven in with a piece of stuff that was being woven in the loom. When he
+woke up he walked off with the whole heavy loom.
+
+173 (Sec.51). Notice how he let the wicked woman tease him. Was he strong
+or weak? Is it the part of a strong man to go into temptation or to run
+away from it? What was done to Samson? He makes us think of many a big
+strong man who was weak when it came to a question of goodness. Most of
+the big prize fighters are so weak that they become drunkards. Think of
+this hero doing the work of a slave.
+
+174 (Sec.52). Notice how delighted the Philistines were that they had
+overcome their great enemy. Imagine the crowd gathered in a temple, the
+roof of which rested upon two central pillars. When they were very merry
+they sent for the poor blind Samson to make fun of him. What happened?
+
+175. Do you think Samson was a great man?
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Discuss the question whether Samson ought to have been put among the
+heroes of Israel. Read over the story carefully and see why the Hebrews
+would have wished to class him with their heroes. Read it again to see
+what there is against giving him that distinction. Prepare for a debate
+upon the question.
+
+
+
+
+A HEROINE
+
+ XVII. RUTH, THE FOREIGNER
+
+
+
+
+XVII. RUTH, THE FOREIGNER
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.53. The Three Widows= (Ruth 1:1-5)
+
+And it came to pass in the days when the judges judged, that there was a
+famine in the land. And a certain man of Bethlehem went to sojourn in
+the country of Moab, he, and his wife, and his two sons. And the name of
+the man was Elimelech, and the name of his wife Naomi, and the name of
+his two sons Mahlon and Chilion. And they came into the country of Moab,
+and continued there.
+
+And Elimelech, Naomi's husband died; and she was left, and her two sons.
+And they took them wives of the women of Moab; the name of the one was
+Orpah, and the name of the other Ruth: and they dwelt there about ten
+years. And Mahlon and Chilion died both of them; and the woman was left
+of her two children and of her husband.
+
+
+=Sec.54. The Return to Bethlehem= (Ruth 1:6-22)
+
+A. THE TWO DAUGHTERS-IN-LAW
+
+Then she arose with her daughters-in-law, that she might return from the
+country of Moab: for she had heard in the country of Moab how that the
+Lord had visited his people in giving them bread. And she went forth out
+of the place where she was, and her two daughters-in-law with her; and
+they went on the way to return unto the land of Judah.
+
+And Naomi said unto her two daughters-in-law, "Go, return each of you to
+her mother's house: the Lord deal kindly with you, as ye have dealt with
+the dead, and with me. The Lord grant you that ye may find rest, each of
+you in the house of her husband." Then she kissed them, and they lifted
+up their voice, and wept.
+
+And they said unto her, "Nay, but we will return with thee unto thy
+people."
+
+And Naomi said, "Turn again, my daughters: why will ye go with me? have
+I yet sons that they may be your husbands? Turn again, my daughters, go
+your way; for I am too old to have a husband. If I should say, I have
+hope, if I should even have a husband, and should also bear sons; would
+ye therefore tarry till they were grown? would ye therefore stay from
+having husbands? nay, my daughters: for it grieveth me much for your
+sakes, for the hand of the Lord is gone forth against me." And they
+lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her
+mother-in-law; but Ruth clave unto her.
+
+And she said, "Behold thy sister-in-law is gone back unto her people,
+and unto her god: return thou after thy sister-in-law."
+
+And Ruth said, "Entreat me not to leave thee, and to return from
+following after thee; for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou
+lodgest, I will lodge; thy people shall be my people, and thy God my
+God; where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the Lord
+do so to me, and more also, if aught but death part thee and me." And
+when she saw that she was stedfastly minded to go with her, she left off
+speaking unto her.
+
+
+B. THE ARRIVAL IN BETHLEHEM
+
+So they two went until they came to Bethlehem. And it came to pass, when
+they were come to Bethlehem, that all the city was moved about them, and
+the women said, "Is this Naomi?"
+
+And she said unto them, "Call me not Naomi, call me Mara; for the
+Almighty hath dealt very bitterly with me. I went out full, and the Lord
+hath brought me home again empty; why call ye me Naomi, seeing the Lord
+hath testified against me, and the Almighty hath afflicted me?"
+
+So Naomi returned, and Ruth the Moabitess, her daughter-in-law, with
+her; and they came to Bethlehem in the beginning of barley harvest.
+
+
+=Sec.55. In the Barley Field= (Ruth 2)
+
+A. THE GLEANERS
+
+And Naomi had a kinsman of her husband's, a mighty man of wealth; and
+his name was Boaz.
+
+And Ruth the Moabitess said unto Naomi, "Let me now go to the field, and
+glean among the ears of grain after him in whose sight I shall find
+favor."
+
+And she said unto her, "Go, my daughter."
+
+And she went, and came and gleaned in the field after the reapers: and
+she happened to light on the portion of the field belonging unto Boaz.
+
+And, behold, Boaz came from Bethlehem, and said unto the reapers, "The
+Lord be with you."
+
+And they answered him, "The Lord bless thee."
+
+Then said Boaz unto his servant that was set over the reapers, "Whose
+damsel is this?"
+
+And he answered, "It is the Moabitish damsel that came back with Naomi
+out of the country of Moab: and she said, 'Let me glean, I pray you, and
+gather after the reapers among the sheaves.' So she came, and hath
+continued even from the morning until now, save that she tarried a
+little in the house."
+
+Then said Boaz unto Ruth, "Hearest thou not, my daughter? Go not to
+glean in another field, neither pass from hence, but abide here fast by
+my maidens. Let thine eyes be on the field that they do reap, and go
+thou after them: have I not charged the young men that they shall not
+touch thee? and when thou art athirst, go unto the vessels, and drink of
+that which the young men have drawn."
+
+Then she fell on her face, and bowed herself to the ground, and said
+unto him, "Why have I found favor in thy sight, that thou shouldst take
+knowledge of me, seeing I am a foreigner?"
+
+And Boaz answered and said unto her, "It hath fully been showed me, all
+that thou hast done unto thy mother-in-law since the death of thy
+husband; and how thou hast left thy father and thy mother, and the land
+of thy nativity, and art come unto a people that thou knewest not
+heretofore. The Lord recompense thy work, and a full reward be given
+thee of the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings thou art come to
+take refuge."
+
+Then she said, "Let me find favor in thy sight, my lord; for that thou
+hast comforted me, and for that thou hast spoken kindly unto thy
+handmaid, though I be not as one of thy handmaidens."
+
+And at meal-time Boaz said unto her, "Come hither, and eat of the bread,
+and dip thy morsel in the vinegar."
+
+And she sat beside the reapers; and they reached her parched grain, and
+she did eat, and was sufficed, and left thereof.
+
+And when she was risen up to glean, Boaz commanded his young men,
+saying, "Let her glean even among the sheaves, and reproach her not. And
+also pull out some for her from the bundles, and leave it, and let her
+glean, and rebuke her not."
+
+
+B. THE HUMBLE AND HAPPY HOME
+
+So she gleaned in the field until even; and she beat out that which she
+had gleaned, and it was about a bushel of barley. And she took it up,
+and went into the city; and her mother-in-law saw what she had gleaned:
+and she brought forth and gave to her that which she had left after she
+was sufficed.
+
+And her mother-in-law said unto her, "Where hast thou gleaned to-day? and
+where hast thou wrought? blessed be he that did take knowledge of thee."
+
+And she showed her mother-in-law with whom she had wrought, and said,
+"The man's name with whom I wrought to-day is Boaz."
+
+And Naomi said unto her daughter-in-law, "Blessed be he of the Lord, who
+hath not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead." And Naomi
+said unto her, "The man is nigh of kin unto us, one of our near
+kinsmen."
+
+And Ruth the Moabitess said, "Yea, he said unto me, 'Thou shalt keep
+fast by my young men, until they have ended all my harvest.'"
+
+And Naomi said unto Ruth her daughter-in-law, "It is good, my daughter,
+that thou go out with his maidens, and that they meet thee not in any
+other field."
+
+So she kept fast by the maidens of Boaz, to glean unto the end of barley
+harvest and of wheat harvest; and she dwelt with her mother-in-law.
+
+
+=Sec.56. At the Threshing Floor= (Ruth 3)
+
+A. THE PLAN
+
+And Naomi her mother-in-law said unto her, "My daughter, shall I not
+seek rest for thee, that it may be well with thee? And now is not Boaz
+our kinsman, with whose maidens thou wast? Behold, he winnoweth barley
+to-night in the threshing-floor. Wash thyself therefore, and anoint thee,
+and put thy raiment upon thee, and get thee down to the threshing-floor;
+but make not thyself known unto the man, until he shall have done eating
+and drinking. And it shall be, when he lieth down, that thou shalt
+mark the place where he shall lie, and thou shalt go in, and uncover his
+feet, and lay thee down: and he will tell thee what thou shalt do." And
+she said unto her, "All that thou sayest I will do."
+
+[Illustration: _Copyright 1904 by Underwood and Underwood_
+WINNOWING GRAIN]
+
+
+B. THE DUTY OF THE KINSMAN
+
+And she went down unto the threshing-floor, and did according to all
+that her mother-in-law bade her. And when Boaz had eaten and drunk, and
+his heart was merry, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of
+grain: and she came softly, and uncovered his feet, and laid her down.
+And it came to pass at midnight, that the man was afraid, and turned
+himself; and, behold, a woman lay at his feet.
+
+And he said, "Who art thou?"
+
+And she answered, "I am Ruth thy handmaid: spread therefore thy skirt
+over thy handmaid; for thou art a near kinsman."
+
+And he said, "Blessed be thou of the Lord, my daughter: thou hast showed
+more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning, inasmuch as thou
+followedst not young men, whether poor or rich. And now, my daughter,
+fear not; I will do to thee all that thou sayest; for all the city of my
+people doth know that thou art a worthy woman. And now it is true that I
+am a near kinsman; howbeit there is a kinsman nearer than I. Tarry this
+night, and it shall be in the morning, that if he will perform unto
+thee the part of a kinsman, well; but if he will not, then will I do the
+part of a kinsman to thee, as the Lord liveth: lie down until the
+morning."
+
+And she lay at his feet until the morning: and she rose up before one
+could discern another. For he said, "Let it not be known that the woman
+came to the threshing-floor."
+
+And he said, "Bring the mantle that is upon thee, and hold it," and she
+held it; and he measured six measures of barley, and laid it on her: and
+he went into the city.
+
+And when she came to her mother-in-law, she said, "How hast thou fared,
+my daughter?"
+
+And she told her all that the man had done to her. And she said, "These
+six measures of barley gave he me; for he said, 'Go not empty unto thy
+mother-in-law.'"
+
+Then she said, "Sit still, my daughter, until thou know how the matter
+will fall; for the man will not rest, until he have finished the thing
+this day."
+
+
+=Sec.57. At the City Gate= (Ruth 4:1-17)
+
+A. THE PURCHASE
+
+Now Boaz went up to the gate, and sat him down there: and, behold, the
+near kinsman of whom Boaz spake came by: unto whom he said, "Ho, such a
+one! turn aside, sit down here." And he turned aside, and sat down.
+
+And he took ten men of the elders of the city, and said, "Sit ye down
+here." And they sat down.
+
+And he said unto the near kinsman, "Naomi, that is come again out of the
+country of Moab, selleth the parcel of land, which was our brother
+Elimelech's: and I thought to disclose it unto thee, saying, 'Buy it
+before them that sit here, and before the elders of my people.' If thou
+wilt redeem it, redeem it: but if thou wilt not redeem it, then tell me,
+that I may know; for there is none to redeem it besides thee; and I am
+after thee."
+
+And he said, "I will redeem it."
+
+Then said Boaz, "What day thou buyest the field of the hand of Naomi,
+thou must buy also Ruth the Moabitess, the wife of the dead, to raise up
+the name of the dead upon his inheritance."
+
+And the near kinsman said, "I cannot redeem it for myself, lest I mar
+mine own inheritance: take thou my right of redemption on thee; for I
+cannot redeem it."
+
+Now this was the custom in former time in Israel concerning redeeming
+and concerning exchanging, to confirm all things; a man drew off his
+shoe, and gave it to his neighbor; and this was the manner of witness in
+Israel.
+
+So the near kinsman said unto Boaz, "Buy it for thyself." And he drew
+off his shoe.
+
+And Boaz said unto the elders, and unto all the people, "Ye are
+witnesses this day, that I have bought all that was Elimelech's, and
+all that was Chilion's and Mahlon's, of the hand of Naomi. Moreover Ruth
+the Moabitess, the wife of Mahlon, have I purchased to be my wife, to
+raise up the name of the dead upon his inheritance, that the name of the
+dead be not cut off from among his brethren, and from the gate of his
+place; ye are witnesses this day."
+
+And all the people that were in the gate, and the elders, said, "We are
+witnesses. The Lord make the woman that is come into thy house like
+Rachel and like Leah, which two did build the house of Israel: and do
+thou worthily in Ephrathah, and be famous in Bethlehem."
+
+
+B. THE HAPPY MARRIAGE
+
+So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife, and she bare a son.
+
+And the women said unto Naomi, "Blessed be the Lord, who hath not left
+thee this day without a near kinsman; and let his name be famous in
+Israel. And he shall be unto thee a restorer of life, and a nourisher of
+thine old age; for thy daughter-in-law, who loveth thee, who is better
+to thee than seven sons, hath borne him."
+
+And Naomi took the child, and laid it in her bosom, and became nurse
+unto it.
+
+And the women her neighbors gave it a name, saying, "There is a son born
+to Naomi." And they called his name Obed. He is the father of Jesse,
+the father of David.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+176. We study one of the heroines of Israel. She was a foreigner of the
+country of Moab, but held a most important place in Israel's history as
+the great-grandmother of King David. The story tells of her devotion and
+of its reward.
+
+177 (Sec.53). Notice the time in which the story is placed. The town which
+is mentioned is well known to us because of one who was born there long
+afterward: who was he? The farmer with his wife and two sons went over
+to the rich high country of Moab. Locate it on the map, east of the
+Jordan. What happened in Moab?
+
+178 (Sec.54A). What did Naomi decide to do? These three women loved one
+another very dearly, but Naomi thought that the young women ought to
+marry again, so she told them to stay in their own land as they would
+not be likely to find husbands among strangers.
+
+179 (Sec.54A). According to the Hebrew custom, if a man died his brother
+would marry the widow, but Naomi had no sons who could marry these young
+widows. Why did Orpah return? Why did Ruth refuse to leave her
+mother-in-law? Note how beautifully Ruth spoke. Love does not count the
+cost. What do we mean by Ruth's devotion?
+
+180 (Sec.54B). Why were the Bethlehem women so surprised at Naomi's
+appearance? Naomi means "Pleasant." Perhaps the name had been given to
+her because of her beauty. Mara, the same as our name Mary, means
+"Bitter." Explain what Naomi meant by her speech to the women. What time
+of year was it when they returned?
+
+181 (Sec.55A). The principal man of the story is introduced to us. The two
+women had nothing to live on, but the Hebrew law permitted the poor to
+follow the reapers and to gather up the stalks that were dropped or
+left. This was called gleaning. Where did Ruth go to glean? This young
+woman did not leave her mother to do the work. Her love expressed itself
+in deeds.
+
+182 (Sec.55A). Tell the conversation between Boaz and the foreman. Note the
+kindness of this Bethlehem gentleman to the stranger. It is the mark of
+a gentleman to be kind. It was not usual to invite the gleaners to share
+the lunch with the farm hands, but Boaz was especially kind to Ruth.
+What directions did he give to the young men? How would this help her in
+gleaning?
+
+183 (Sec.55B). Notice that she beat out the ears of barley, so as not to
+carry home the straw. How much did she have? This was a good day's
+gleaning. How surprised Naomi was that she had secured so much! Tell
+their conversation in your own words. They were poor, but they were
+happy all that harvest time: why?
+
+184 (Sec.56A). Remember that it was the Hebrew custom for a man's widow to
+be married by his brother. If he had no brother his nearest relative was
+expected to marry her. So Naomi hoped that Boaz, who was related to her
+dead husband, would marry Ruth. She plans a little scheme to let him
+know privately that he is a near relative who ought to do this honor for
+those who were dead. There would be a great feast at the time the barley
+was threshed, and then all the men would go to sleep in the open air on
+the smooth floor where the threshing was done. Ruth was instructed to
+let Boaz know the plan when the others were asleep.
+
+185 (Sec.56B). Tell the story in your own words. Notice especially that
+Boaz explains that there is a nearer relative who ought to marry Ruth.
+What did Boaz give to Ruth to take to her mother-in-law? Tell the
+conversation of the two women.
+
+186 (Sec.57A). The Gate was the place where all the business was done.
+Note how the business was begun, and how arrangements were made for the
+bargain to be witnessed. The conversation refers to the Hebrew laws of
+real estate. It is enough for us to see that the kinsman was not willing
+to marry Ruth. What interesting old custom is shown? They were sitting
+on the ground cross-legged, so one could easily pull off his shoe or
+sandal. What other story have we had in which the sandal was easily
+taken off? (See 97 and illustration.) Note Boaz' solemn statement of the
+agreement. How did all the people congratulate Boaz?
+
+187 (Sec.57B). It is interesting to see that the people congratulated Naomi
+when Ruth's baby was born, because there was again a son for her family.
+This grandson would take the place of the sons whom she had lost. What
+did the women think of Ruth? What relation was Ruth to David?
+
+188. What do you think of Ruth? Look up I Cor. 13:13 in the Revised
+Version and see what it says about the greatest thing in the world. Can
+everybody have this greatest thing? How much does it cost? Think whether
+you are bringing that into your home.
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+We do not always see the heroism that is just about us. The only women
+whom we think about as heroines are those who have done some great
+public work, but there is many a heroine who is quietly giving up her
+ambitions to make the home happy as Ruth gave up herself to go with
+Naomi. Ask your mother to tell you about some young woman who gave up
+opportunity of education, or ease, or pleasure, in order to help the
+family. Write about it in your notebook.
+
+
+
+
+THE FOUNDERS OF THE KINGDOM
+
+
+ XVIII. SAMUEL AND ELI
+
+ XIX. SAMUEL AND SAUL
+
+ XX. JONATHAN'S VICTORY
+
+
+
+
+XVIII. SAMUEL AND ELI
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.58. The Birth of Samuel= (I Sam. 1:1-4, 8-28; 2:11)
+
+A. HANNAH'S GRIEF
+
+Now there was a certain man of the hill country of Ephraim, and his name
+was Elkanah. And the name of his wife was Hannah and she had no
+children. And this man went up out of his city from year to year to
+worship and to sacrifice unto the Lord of hosts in Shiloh. And the two
+sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, priests unto the Lord, were there. And
+when the day came that Elkanah sacrificed, Hannah wept, and did not eat.
+
+And Elkanah her husband said unto her, "Hannah, why weepest thou? and
+why eatest thou not? and why is thy heart grieved? am I not better to
+thee than ten sons?"
+
+So Hannah rose up after they had eaten in Shiloh, and after they had
+drunk. Now Eli the priest sat upon his seat by the door post of the
+temple of the Lord. And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed unto
+the Lord, and wept sore. And she vowed a vow, and said, "O Lord of
+hosts, if thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of thine handmaid, and
+remember me, and not forget thine handmaid, but wilt give unto thine
+handmaid a man child, then I will give him unto the Lord all the days
+of his life, and there shall no razor come upon his head."
+
+And it came to pass, as she continued praying before the Lord, that Eli
+marked her mouth. Now Hannah, she spake in her heart; only her lips
+moved, but her voice was not heard: therefore Eli thought she had been
+drunken. And Eli said unto her, "How long wilt thou be drunken? put away
+thy wine from thee."
+
+And Hannah answered and said, "No, my lord, I am a woman of a sorrowful
+spirit: I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink, but I poured out my
+soul before the Lord. Count not thine handmaid for a wicked woman: for
+out of the abundance of my complaint have I spoken."
+
+Then Eli answered and said, "Go in peace: and the God of Israel grant
+thy petition that thou hast asked of him."
+
+And she said, "Let thy servant find grace in thy sight."
+
+So the woman went her way, and did eat, and her countenance was no more
+sad. And they rose up in the morning early, and worshipped before the
+Lord, and returned, and came to their house to Ramah.
+
+
+B. THE DEDICATION OF SAMUEL
+
+And it came to pass, that Hannah bare a son; and she called his name
+Samuel. And the man Elkanah went up to offer unto the Lord the yearly
+sacrifice, and his vow. But Hannah went not up; for she said unto her
+husband, "I will not go up until the child be weaned, and then I will
+bring him, that he may appear before the Lord, and there abide for
+ever."
+
+And Elkanah her husband said unto her, "Do what seemeth thee good; tarry
+until thou hast weaned him; only the Lord establish his word."
+
+So the woman tarried until she weaned him. And when she had weaned him,
+she took him up with her, with three bullocks, and one ephah of meal,
+and a bottle of wine, and brought him unto the house of the Lord in
+Shiloh: and the child was young. And they slew the bullock, and brought
+the child to Eli. And she said, "Oh my lord, as thy soul liveth, my
+lord, I am the woman that stood by thee here, praying unto the Lord. For
+this child I prayed; and the Lord hath given me my petition which I
+asked of him: therefore I also have granted him to the Lord; as long as
+he liveth he is granted to the Lord."
+
+And Elkanah went to Ramah to his house. And the child did minister unto
+the Lord before Eli the priest.
+
+
+=Sec.59. The Wicked Priests= (I Sam. 2:12-17, 22-25, 18, 19, 26)
+
+Now the sons of Eli were wicked men; they knew not the Lord. And the
+custom of the priests with the people was, that, when any man offered
+sacrifice, the priest's servant came, while the flesh was being boiled,
+with a fleshhook of three teeth in his hand; and he struck it into the
+kettle; all that the fleshhook brought up the priest took. So they did
+in Shiloh unto all the Israelites that came thither. Yea, before they
+burnt the fat, the priest's servant came, and said to the man that
+sacrificed, "Give flesh to roast for the priest; for he will not have
+boiled flesh of thee, but raw." And if the man said unto him, "They will
+surely burn the fat presently, and then take as much as thy soul
+desireth;" then he would say, "Nay, but thou shalt give it to me now:
+and if not, I will take it by force." And the sin of the young men was
+very great before the Lord; for they despised the offering of the Lord.
+
+Now Eli was very old; and he heard all that his sons did unto all
+Israel. And he said unto them, "Why do ye such things? for I hear of
+your evil dealings from all this people. Nay, my sons; for it is no good
+report that I hear: ye make the Lord's people to transgress. If one man
+sinned against another, God shall judge him: but if a man sin against
+the Lord, who shall entreat for him?"
+
+Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto the voice of their father.
+
+But Samuel ministered before the Lord, being a child, girded with a
+linen ephod. Moreover his mother made him a little robe, and brought it
+to him from year to year, when she came up with her husband to offer the
+yearly sacrifice. And Eli blessed Elkanah and his wife. And the child
+Samuel grew on, and was in favor both with the Lord, and also with men.
+
+
+=Sec.60. The Call of Samuel= (I Sam. 3:1-18)
+
+And the child Samuel ministered unto the Lord before Eli. And it came to
+pass at that time, when Eli was laid down in his place, (now his eyes
+had begun to wax dim, that he could not see,) and the lamp of God was
+not yet gone out, and Samuel was laid down to sleep, in the temple of
+the Lord, where the ark of God was; that the Lord called Samuel: and he
+said, "Here am I." And he ran unto Eli, and said, "Here am I; for thou
+calledst me." And he said, "I called not; lie down again."
+
+And he went and lay down. And the Lord called yet again, "Samuel."
+
+And Samuel arose and went to Eli, and said, "Here am I; for thou
+calledst me."
+
+And he answered, "I called not, my son; lie down again."
+
+Now Samuel did not yet know the Lord, neither was the word of the Lord
+yet revealed unto him. And the Lord called Samuel again the third time.
+And he arose and went to Eli, and said, "Here am I; for thou calledst
+me."
+
+And Eli perceived that the Lord had called the child. Therefore Eli said
+unto Samuel, "Go, lie down: and it shall be, if he call thee, that thou
+shalt say, 'Speak, Lord; for thy servant heareth.'"
+
+So Samuel went and lay down in his place. And the Lord came, and stood,
+and called as at other times, "Samuel, Samuel."
+
+Then Samuel said, "Speak; for thy servant heareth."
+
+And the Lord said to Samuel, "Behold, I will do a thing in Israel, at
+which both the ears of every one that heareth it shall tingle. In that
+day I will perform against Eli all that I have spoken concerning his
+house, from the beginning even unto the end. For I have told him that I
+will judge his house for ever, for the iniquity which he knew, because
+his sons did bring a curse upon themselves, and he restrained them not."
+
+And Samuel lay until the morning, and opened the doors of the house of
+the Lord. And Samuel feared to show Eli the vision.
+
+Then Eli called Samuel, and said, "Samuel, my son."
+
+And he said, "Here am I."
+
+And he said, "What is the thing that the Lord hath spoken unto thee? I
+pray thee hide it not from me: God do so to thee, and more also, if thou
+hide any thing from me of all the things that he spake unto thee."
+
+And Samuel told him every whit, and hid nothing from him. And he said,
+"It is the Lord: let him do what seemeth him good."
+
+
+=Sec.61. The Punishment of the Wicked Priests= (I Sam. 4:1-18)
+
+A. ISRAEL'S DOUBLE DEFEAT
+
+Now Israel went out against the Philistines to battle. And the
+Philistines put themselves in array against Israel: and when they joined
+battle, Israel was smitten before the Philistines: and they slew of the
+army in the field about four thousand men. And when the people were come
+into the camp, the elders of Israel said, "Wherefore hath the Lord
+smitten us to-day before the Philistines? Let us fetch the ark of the
+covenant of the Lord out of Shiloh unto us, that it may come among us,
+and save us out of the hand of our enemies."
+
+So the people sent to Shiloh, and they brought from thence the ark of
+the covenant of the Lord of hosts; and the two sons of Eli, Hophni and
+Phinehas, were there with the ark. And when the ark of the covenant of
+the Lord came into the camp, all Israel shouted with a great shout, so
+that the earth rang again.
+
+And when the Philistines heard the noise of the shout, they said, "What
+meaneth the noise of this great shout in the camp of the Hebrews?" And
+they understood that the ark of the Lord was come into the camp. And the
+Philistines were afraid, for they said, "God is come into the camp." And
+they said, "Woe unto us! for there hath not been such a thing
+heretofore. Woe unto us! who shall deliver us out of the hand of these
+mighty gods? these are the gods that smote the Egyptians with all manner
+of plagues in the wilderness. Be strong, and quit yourselves like men, O
+ye Philistines, that ye be not servants unto the Hebrews, as they have
+been to you: quit yourselves like men, and fight."
+
+And the Philistines fought, and Israel was smitten, and they fled every
+man to his tent: and there was a very great slaughter; for there fell of
+Israel thirty thousand footmen. And the ark of God was taken; and the
+two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, were slain.
+
+
+B. THE DEATH OF THE OLD PRIEST
+
+And there ran a man of Benjamin out of the army, and came to Shiloh the
+same day with his clothes rent, and with earth upon his head. And when
+he came, lo, Eli sat upon his seat by the wayside watching: for his
+heart trembled for the ark of God. And when the man came into the city,
+and told it, all the city cried out.
+
+And when Eli heard the noise of the crying, he said, "What meaneth the
+noise of this tumult?"
+
+And the man hasted, and came and told Eli. Now Eli was ninety and eight
+years old; and his eyes were set, that he could not see. And the man
+said unto Eli, "I am he that came out of the army, and I fled to-day out
+of the army."
+
+And he said, "How went the matter, my son?"
+
+And he that brought the tidings answered and said, "Israel is fled
+before the Philistines, and there hath been also a great slaughter among
+the people, and thy two sons also, Hophni and Phinehas, are dead, and
+the ark of God is taken."
+
+And it came to pass, when he made mention of the ark of God, that he
+fell from off his seat backward by the side of the gate, and his neck
+brake, and he died: for he was an old man, and heavy. And he had judged
+Israel forty years.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+189. We turn to the Books of Samuel, which take their name from one of
+the great heroes of Israel. He did not write the books, for they contain
+the story of what happened long after his death, but as he was the
+noblest character in the books they were named after him.
+
+190 (Sec.58A). At the beginning of this story we learn that Elkanah the
+husband and Hannah his wife had no children. They had gone up to Shiloh
+to the sacred building that was called the house of God, and had
+celebrated a sacred feast. But Hannah was greatly troubled that she had
+no child. What did she do? What did she promise if she could have a son?
+We remember from the story of Samson that leaving the hair uncut was a
+mark that the child was to serve God.
+
+191 (Sec.58A). When Hannah prayed, did she speak aloud? What did Eli, the
+old priest, think about her? Tell in your own words their conversation.
+
+192 (Sec.58B). The boy whom Hannah longed for was born. What was his name?
+It was the custom to kill animals at the house of God as a sign of
+thanksgiving: what did Hannah take with her for this sacrifice? What
+did she say to Eli? Note that she brings the boy to the old priest to
+learn the duties of the house of God.
+
+193 (Sec.59). Perhaps the wrong-doing of the priests seems rather difficult
+to understand. Eli, the old priest, was assisted by his two sons. Their
+duty was to offer the sacrifices for the people, and they would be
+allowed part of the meat as their pay. That was one of the ways in which
+a priest had his living. But these young priests would send their
+servants to stick a large fork into the pot where the meat was boiling
+and whatever came out they would take. Or they would take the meat
+first, before the offering to the Lord had been made, and this was
+considered a dishonor to the sacrifice. It often happens that public
+officers are more anxious to get what they can than to do their duty.
+
+194 (Sec.59). How did the father feel about his sons? What did he say to
+them? What ought he to have done to them? Why did he not do so?
+
+195 (Sec.59). What was happening to Samuel all this time? The linen ephod
+was a white dress such as a priest would wear. Who made the boy's
+garments? Think what those happy meetings of the parents and boy once a
+year must have been.
+
+196 (Sec.60). Imagine how the little church, or temple, was at night. There
+was a room in which the sacred box called the ark was kept. A lamp
+burned in this room all night. Samuel had a room near by, where he
+slept, and old Eli had another. What wonderful thing happened to Samuel
+one night? Tell it in your own words. Nearly all men and women who have
+become great have heard calls in some manner in their youth. Joan of
+Arc, the young girl who saved France from her enemies, thought that she
+heard God calling to her, though she was only thirteen years of age.
+This was a vision that Samuel saw in the night. Do you remember the
+dreams of Joseph? It is often in conscience and in times of
+thoughtfulness that God speaks to us.
+
+197 (Sec.60). How did Samuel do as Eli had told him? Note that God tells
+the boy that a great punishment will come upon Eli's family. How was Eli
+to blame for the wickedness of his sons?
+
+198 (Sec.60). What did Samuel do as soon as he got up in the morning? What
+does this show us regarding his duties? What did he think about the
+vision? But old Eli knew that there was something very important that
+had happened. Tell in your own words the conversation between them. Note
+that the poor old man can simply say that he must bear what comes upon
+him. What do you think of Eli?
+
+199 (Sec.61A). With whom did Israel go to war? Locate the country of these
+enemies on the map. How did the battle come out? The people thought that
+if they could have the ark with them they could conquer. They thought
+the Lord would fight for them. Where did they go to get the ark? Who
+were with the ark?
+
+200 (Sec.61A). When the two priests brought the ark to the camp, what
+happened? What effect did this have upon the Philistines? What was the
+result? What happened to the two priests? What happened to the ark?
+
+201 (Sec.61B). When a Hebrew felt very sad he covered his head with dust
+and tore his dress. Tell the story of how the news of the defeat was
+brought to Eli. How old was the priest? What was he doing? Why did he
+care so much about the ark of God? What happened to him? Eli was a noble
+man himself, but could he not have done better for Israel than he did?
+Remember that young Samuel was growing up while these things were going
+on.
+
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Think of what paragraph 196 means to you. It is at Samuel's age that
+most young people come into the full membership of the church. Write
+what you think that means.
+
+
+
+
+XIX. SAMUEL AND SAUL
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.62. The Meeting of Samuel and Saul= (I Sam. 9:1-25)
+
+A. SAUL SEEKING THE DONKEYS
+
+Now there was a man of Benjamin, whose name was Kish, a mighty man of
+valor. And he had a son, whose name was Saul, a young man and a goodly:
+and there was not among the children of Israel a goodlier person than
+he: from his shoulders and upward he was higher than any of the people.
+And the asses of Kish, Saul's father, were lost. And Kish said to Saul
+his son, "Take now one of the servants with thee, and arise, go seek the
+asses."
+
+And he passed through the hill country of Ephraim, and there they were
+not: and he passed through the land of the Benjamites, but they found
+them not. When they were come to the land of Zuph, Saul said to his
+servant that was with him, "Come and let us return; lest my father cease
+caring for the asses, and take thought for us."
+
+And he said unto him, "Behold now, there is in this city a man of God,
+and he is a man that is held in honor; all that he saith cometh surely
+to pass: now let us go thither; peradventure he can tell us concerning
+our journey whereon we go."
+
+Then said Saul to his servant, "But, behold, if we go, what shall we
+bring the man? for the bread is spent in our vessels, and there is not a
+present to bring to the man of God: what have we?"
+
+And the servant answered Saul again, and said, "Behold, I have in my
+hand the fourth part of a shekel of silver: that will I give to the man
+of God, to tell us our way."
+
+Then said Saul to his servant, "Well said; come, let us go."
+
+
+B. SAUL ENTERTAINED BY SAMUEL
+
+So they went unto the city where the man of God was. As they went up the
+ascent to the city, they found young maidens going out to draw water,
+and said unto them, "Is the seer here?"
+
+And they answered them, and said, "He is; behold, he is before thee:
+make haste now, for he is come to-day into the city; for the people have
+a sacrifice to-day in the high place: as soon as ye be come into the
+city, ye shall straightway find him, before he go up to the high place
+to eat: for the people will not eat until he come, because he doth bless
+the sacrifice; and afterwards they eat that be bidden. Now therefore get
+you up; for at this time ye shall find him."
+
+And they went up to the city; and as they came within the city, behold,
+Samuel came out toward them, to go up to the high place.
+
+Now the Lord had revealed unto Samuel a day before Saul came, saying,
+"To-morrow about this time I will send thee a man out of the land of
+Benjamin, and thou shalt anoint him to be prince over my people Israel,
+and he shall save my people out of the hand of the Philistines: for I
+have looked upon my people, because their cry is come unto me."
+
+And when Samuel saw Saul, the Lord said unto him, "Behold the man of
+whom I spake to thee! this same shall have authority over my people."
+
+Then Saul drew near to Samuel in the gate, and said, "Tell me, I pray
+thee, where the seer's house is."
+
+And Samuel answered Saul, and said, "I am the seer; go up before me unto
+the high place, for ye shall eat with me to-day: and in the morning I
+will let thee go, and will tell thee all that is in thine heart. And as
+for thine asses that were lost three days ago, set not thy mind on them;
+for they are found. And on whom is all the desire of Israel? Is it not
+on thee, and for all thy father's house?"
+
+And Saul answered and said, "Am not I a Benjamite, of the smallest of
+the tribes of Israel? and my family the least of all the families of the
+tribe of Benjamin? wherefore then speakest thou to me after this
+manner?"
+
+And Samuel took Saul and his servant, and brought them into the
+guest-chamber, and made them sit in the chiefest place among them that
+were bidden, which were about thirty persons. And Samuel said unto the
+cook, "Bring the portion which I gave thee, of which I said unto thee,
+'Set it by thee.'"
+
+And the cook took up the thigh, and that which was upon it, and set it
+before Saul.
+
+And Samuel said, "Behold that which hath been reserved! set it before
+thee and eat; because unto the appointed time hath it been kept for
+thee, for I said, 'I have invited the people.'"
+
+So Saul did eat with Samuel that day. And when they were come down from
+the high place into the city, he communed with Saul upon the housetop.
+
+
+=Sec.63. Saul Anointed by Samuel= (I Sam. 9:26-10:7)
+
+A. THE PROMISE OF THE KINGDOM
+
+And they arose early: and it came to pass about the spring of the day,
+that Samuel called to Saul on the housetop, saying, "Up, that I may send
+thee away."
+
+And Saul arose, and they went out both of them, he and Samuel, abroad.
+As they were going down at the end of the city, Samuel said to Saul,
+"Bid the servant pass on before us, (and he passed on,) but stand thou
+still at this time, that I may cause thee to hear the word of God." Then
+Samuel took the vial of oil, and poured it upon his head, and kissed
+him, and said, "Is it not that the Lord hath anointed thee to be prince
+over his inheritance? When thou art departed from me to-day, then thou
+shalt find two men by Rachel's sepulchre, in the border of Benjamin;
+and they will say unto thee, 'The asses which thou wentest to seek are
+found: and lo, thy father hath left the care of the asses, and taketh
+thought for you, saying, What shall I do for my son?' Then shalt thou go
+on forward from thence, and thou shalt come to the oak of Tabor, and
+there shall meet thee there three men going up to God to Beth-el, one
+carrying three kids, and another carrying three loaves of bread, and
+another carrying a bottle of wine: and they will salute thee, and give
+thee two loaves of bread; which thou shalt receive of their hand. After
+that thou shalt come to the hill of God, where is the garrison of the
+Philistines: and it shall come to pass, when thou art come thither to
+the city, that thou shalt meet a band of prophets coming down from the
+high place with a psaltery, and a timbrel, and a pipe, and a harp,
+before them; and they shall be prophesying: and the spirit of the Lord
+will come mightily upon thee, and thou shalt prophesy with them, and
+shalt be turned into another man. And let it be, when these signs are
+come unto thee, that thou do as occasion serve thee: for God is with
+thee."
+
+
+B. SAUL'S RETURN HOME
+
+And it was so, that when he had turned his back to go from Samuel, God
+gave him another heart: and all those signs came to pass that day. And
+when they came thither to the hill, behold, a band of prophets met him;
+and the spirit of God came mightily upon him, and he prophesied among
+them. And it came to pass, when all that knew him before-time saw that,
+behold, he prophesied with the prophets, then the people said one to
+another, "What is this that is come unto the son of Kish? Is Saul also
+among the prophets?"
+
+And when he had made an end of prophesying, he came to the high place.
+And Saul's uncle said unto him and to his servant, "Whither went ye?"
+
+And he said, "To seek the asses: and when we saw that they were not
+found, we came to Samuel."
+
+And Saul's uncle said, "Tell me, I pray thee, what Samuel said unto
+you."
+
+And Saul said unto his uncle, "He told us plainly that the asses were
+found." But concerning the matter of the kingdom, whereof Samuel spake,
+he told him not.
+
+
+=Sec.64. Saul's Opportunity= (I Sam. 11:1-11, 15)
+
+Then Nahash the Ammonite came up, and encamped against Jabesh-gilead:
+and all the men of Jabesh said unto Nahash, "Make a covenant with us,
+and we will serve thee."
+
+And Nahash the Ammonite said unto them, "On this condition will I make
+it with you, that all your right eyes be put out; and I will lay it for
+a reproach upon all Israel."
+
+And the elders of Jabesh said unto him, "Give us seven days' respite,
+that we may send messengers unto all the borders of Israel: and then, if
+there be none to save us, we will come out to thee."
+
+Then came the messengers to Gibeah of Saul, and spake these words in the
+ears of the people: and all the people lifted up their voice, and wept.
+And, behold, Saul came following the oxen out of the field; and Saul
+said, "What aileth the people that they weep?"
+
+And they told him the words of the men of Jabesh. And the spirit of God
+came mightily upon Saul when he heard those words, and his anger was
+kindled greatly. And he took a yoke of oxen, and cut them in pieces, and
+sent them throughout all the borders of Israel by the hand of
+messengers, saying, "Whosoever cometh not forth after Saul and after
+Samuel, so shall it be done unto his oxen."
+
+And the dread of the Lord fell on the people, and they came out as one
+man. And he numbered them in Bezek; and the children of Israel were
+three hundred thousand, and the men of Judah thirty thousand. And they
+said unto the messengers that came, "Thus shall ye say unto the men of
+Jabesh-gilead, 'To-morrow, by the time the sun is hot, ye shall have
+deliverance.'"
+
+And the messengers came and told the men of Jabesh; and they were glad.
+Therefore the men of Jabesh said, "To-morrow we will come out unto you,
+and ye shall do with us all that seemeth good unto you."
+
+And it was so on the morrow, that Saul put the people in three
+companies; and they came into the midst of the camp in the morning
+watch, and smote the Ammonites until the heat of the day: and it came to
+pass, that they which remained were scattered, so that two of them were
+not left together.
+
+And all the people went to Gilgal; and there they made Saul king before
+the Lord in Gilgal; and there they sacrificed sacrifices of peace
+offerings before the Lord; and there Saul and all the men of Israel
+rejoiced greatly.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+202 (Sec.62A). Look at the map of Canaan and find the tribe of Benjamin. Is
+it a very large tribe? The tribes occupied separate districts, something
+like our states. This story is going to tell us about how the first king
+was chosen, so it is particular to tell us where he came from and how it
+happened. What kind of man was Saul? Some animals that are used very
+much in Palestine had strayed: tell about them.
+
+203 (Sec.62A). Saul and the servant had wandered a long way looking for the
+donkeys, probably spending several days in the hunt. At last Saul made
+up his mind to do something: what was it? But the servant thought of a
+plan to help them in their search. The man of God was one who could help
+people in their troubles. They were supposed to bring him a present.
+What did Saul do about the present?
+
+204 (Sec.62B). Try to imagine the whole scene. Think what Saul and the
+servant were doing: whom did they meet and what did they ask? We must
+understand that a feast was to be held. The people were going to cook a
+whole animal. They would pour out the blood and burn the fat, which was
+called a sacrifice and was part of their religion; then they would eat
+the rest of the animal with great joy. It happened that the two men
+reached the city just as the feast was to be held. And Samuel would be
+there to ask the blessing. The girls told the two men all this. What
+happened just as they reached the city?
+
+205 (Sec.62B). The Philistines were enemies of Israel who greatly troubled
+them. Samuel had been wondering how the people could be saved from their
+enemies. What had the Lord told him? What did Samuel feel just as soon
+as he saw Saul?
+
+206 (Sec.62B). Try to imagine the meeting. What did Saul say? What did
+Samuel answer? Notice the invitation, the information about the donkeys,
+and especially the hint of some great thing. Saul is surprised: what
+does he say to Samuel?
+
+207 (Sec.62B). What did Samuel do for Saul? What plan had Samuel made so
+that a good piece of meat could be kept? Note the part of the animal
+that they thought best is the same that we like: it is the leg of lamb
+or the second joint of the turkey. What did Samuel say to Saul?
+
+208 (Sec.62B). Evidently Samuel took Saul to his own house. What part of
+the house did they use in those days for visiting? How could they do so?
+What do you think they talked about? Once during the Civil War Abraham
+Lincoln went to visit Henry Ward Beecher: what do you think they talked
+of? Samuel had great hopes that Saul was the man to save Israel.
+
+209 (Sec.63A). After the conversation they went to bed. Then they talked
+again early in the morning. Then Samuel walked with Saul out of the
+city. What plan did Samuel use to be alone with Saul? Picture the scene
+to yourself: the old man with the flask of olive oil in his hand, the
+tall young man wondering about his future, the anointing, the solemn
+kiss, the promise.
+
+210 (Sec.63A). What signs was Saul to have? Samuel's last word meant that
+Saul was to wait until some great opportunity should arise and then to
+do as God led him. We shall see how the opportunity came.
+
+211 (Sec.63B). Tell the story of what happened to Saul after he left
+Samuel. What was the conversation between Saul and his uncle? What did
+Saul keep silent about? Why do you think he did so? He was modest; he
+did not want to boast. It seems that he went quietly to work on his
+father's farm and waited for something to happen that should show him
+what to do.
+
+212 (Sec.64). The scene of the story changes. Locate Ammon on the map, east
+of the Jordan. The Ammonites were old enemies of Israel. Locate
+Jabesh-Gilead, the town which they attacked. The people were afraid and
+begged for mercy. What terms did the cruel king offer them? He was so
+sure that no one in Israel could save them that he let them send
+messengers asking for help. The messengers came to the town where Saul
+lived. Locate Gibeah in Saul's tribe. How did the people feel when they
+heard the news? What had Saul been doing since his return from Samuel?
+Tell the story of how he came home on the day the messengers arrived.
+
+213 (Sec.64). How did the news affect Saul? This was the opportunity that
+Samuel had told him to wait for. What striking thing did he do to gather
+an army? Tell the story of the successful march to relieve
+Jabesh-Gilead.
+
+214 (Sec.64). What did the people think of the hero who had saved them?
+What did they do? Who was the first president of the United States? Why
+was he elected? Who was the first king of Israel? Why was he chosen?
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Consider which man you would rather have been: A wise, good man who was
+magnanimous enough to see that a king was needed and to choose him, or
+the vigorous man who could conquer the enemies and win the kingship.
+Think carefully of the heroic qualities of each of them. Write down
+which you admire the most and why you would rather be that one.
+
+
+
+
+XX. JONATHAN'S VICTORY
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.65. The New King and the Old Foes= (I Sam. 13:2-7, 15-17; 14:1-23)
+
+A. THE OUTBREAK OF WAR
+
+When Saul had reigned two years over Israel, he chose him three thousand
+men of Israel; whereof two thousand were with him in Michmash and in the
+mount of Beth-el, and a thousand were with Jonathan in Gibeah of
+Benjamin: and the rest of the people he sent every man to his tent. And
+Jonathan smote the garrison of the Philistines that was in Geba, and the
+Philistines heard of it.
+
+And Saul blew the trumpet throughout all the land, saying, "Let the
+Hebrews hear."
+
+And all Israel heard say that Saul had smitten the garrison of the
+Philistines, and that Israel also was had in abomination with the
+Philistines. And the people were gathered together after Saul.
+
+And the Philistines assembled themselves together to fight with Israel,
+thirty thousand chariots, and six thousand horsemen, and people as the
+sand which is on the sea shore in multitude: and they came up, and
+pitched in Michmash, eastward of Beth-aven. When the men of Israel saw
+that they were in a strait, (for the people were distressed,) then the
+people did hide themselves in caves, and in thickets, and in rocks, and
+in holds, and in pits.
+
+[Illustration: A PHILISTINE]
+
+Now some of the Hebrews had gone over Jordan to the land of Gad and
+Gilead. And Saul numbered the people that were present with him, about
+six hundred men. And Saul, and Jonathan his son, and the people that
+were present with them, abode in Geba of Benjamin: but the Philistines
+encamped in Michmash. And the spoilers came out of the camp of the
+Philistines.
+
+
+B. JONATHAN'S BOLD ATTACK
+
+Now it fell upon a day, that Jonathan the son of Saul said unto the
+young man that bare his armor, "Come and let us go over to the
+Philistines' garrison, that is on yonder side." But he told not his
+father.
+
+And Saul abode in the uttermost part of Gibeah under the pomegranate
+tree which is in Migron: and the people that were with him were about
+six hundred men. And the people knew not that Jonathan was gone. And
+between the passes, by which Jonathan sought to go over unto the
+Philistines' garrison, there was a rocky crag on the one side, and a
+rocky crag on the other side. The one crag rose up on the north in front
+of Michmash, and the other on the south in front of Geba.
+
+And Jonathan said to the young man that bare his armor, "Come and let us
+go over unto the garrison: it may be that the Lord will work for us: for
+there is not restraint to the Lord to save by many or by few."
+
+And his armorbearer said unto him, "Do all that is in thine heart: turn
+thee, behold I am with thee according to thy heart."
+
+Then said Jonathan, "Behold, we will pass over unto the men, and we will
+discover ourselves unto them. If they say thus unto us, 'Tarry until we
+come to you;' then we will stand still in our place, and will not go up
+unto them. But if they say thus, 'Come up unto us,' then we will go up:
+for the Lord hath delivered them into our hand: and this shall be the
+sign unto us."
+
+And both of them discovered themselves unto the garrison of the
+Philistines: and the Philistines said, "Behold, the Hebrews come forth
+out of the holes where they had hid themselves." And the men of the
+garrison answered Jonathan and his armorbearer, and said, "Come up to
+us, and we will show you a thing." And Jonathan said unto his
+armorbearer, "Come up after me: for the Lord hath delivered them into
+the hand of Israel."
+
+And Jonathan climbed up upon his hands and upon his feet, and his
+armorbearer after him: and they fell before Jonathan; and his
+armorbearer slew them after him. And that first slaughter, which
+Jonathan and his armorbearer made, was about twenty men, within as it
+were half an acre of land. And there was a trembling in the camp, in the
+field, and among all the people; the garrison, and the spoilers, they
+also trembled: and the earth quaked; so there was an exceeding great
+trembling.
+
+
+C. THE GENERAL BATTLE
+
+And the watchmen of Saul in Gibeah of Benjamin looked; and, behold, the
+multitude melted away, and they went hither and thither.
+
+Then said Saul unto the people that were with him, "Number now, and see
+who is gone from us."
+
+And when they had numbered, behold, Jonathan and his armorbearer were
+not there. And Saul said unto Ahijah the priest, "Bring hither the ark
+of God." For the ark of God was there at that time with the children of
+Israel.
+
+And it came to pass, while Saul talked unto the priest, that the tumult
+that was in the camp of the Philistines went on and increased: and Saul
+said unto the priest, "Withdraw thine hand."
+
+And Saul and all the people that were with him were gathered together,
+and came to the battle: and, behold, every man's sword was against his
+fellow, and there was a very great discomfiture. Now the Hebrews that
+were with the Philistines as before-time, which went up with them into
+the camp from the country round about, even they also turned to be with
+the Israelites that were with Saul and Jonathan. Likewise all the men of
+Israel which had hid themselves in the hill country of Ephraim, when
+they heard that the Philistines fled, even they also followed hard after
+them in the battle. So the Lord saved Israel that day: and the battle
+passed over by Beth-aven.
+
+
+=Sec.66. Saul's Oath and Jonathan's Danger= (I Sam. 14:24-46)
+
+A. THE OATH OF ABSTINENCE
+
+And the men of Israel were distressed that day: for Saul had adjured the
+people, saying, "Cursed be the man that eateth any food until it be
+evening, and I be avenged on mine enemies."
+
+So none of the people tasted food. And all the people came into the
+forest; and there was honey upon the ground. And when the people were
+come unto the forest, behold, the honey dropped: but no man put his hand
+to his mouth; for the people feared the oath. But Jonathan heard not
+when his father charged the people with the oath: wherefore he put forth
+the end of the rod that was in his hand, and dipped it in the honeycomb,
+and put his hand to his mouth; and his eyes were enlightened.
+
+Then answered one of the people, and said, "Thy father straitly charged
+the people with an oath, saying, 'Cursed be the man that eateth food
+this day.'" And the people were faint.
+
+Then said Jonathan, "My father hath troubled the land: see, I pray you,
+how mine eyes have been enlightened, because I tasted a little of this
+honey. How much more, if haply the people had eaten freely to-day of the
+spoil of their enemies which they found? for had there not been now a
+much greater slaughter among the Philistines?"
+
+
+B. THE HUNGRY WARRIORS
+
+And they smote of the Philistines that day from Michmash to Aijalon: and
+the people were very faint. And the people flew upon the spoil, and took
+sheep, and oxen, and calves, and slew them on the ground: and the people
+did eat them with the blood.
+
+Then they told Saul, saying, "Behold, the people sin against the Lord,
+in that they eat with the blood."
+
+And he said, "Ye have dealt treacherously: roll a great stone unto me
+this day." And Saul said, "Disperse yourselves among the people, and say
+unto them, 'Bring me hither every man his ox, and every man his sheep,
+and slay them here, and eat; and sin not against the Lord in eating with
+the blood.'"
+
+And all the people brought every man his ox with him that night, and
+slew them there. And Saul built an altar unto the Lord: the same was the
+first altar that he built unto the Lord.
+
+
+C. JONATHAN'S DANGER AND RESCUE
+
+And Saul said, "Let us go down after the Philistines by night, and spoil
+them until the morning light, and let us not leave a man of them."
+
+And they said, "Do whatsoever seemeth good unto thee."
+
+Then said the priest, "Let us draw near hither unto God." And Saul asked
+counsel of God, "Shall I go down after the Philistines? wilt thou
+deliver them into the hand of Israel?" But he answered him not that day.
+
+And Saul said, "Draw nigh hither, all ye chiefs of the people: and know
+and see wherein this sin hath been this day. For, as the Lord liveth,
+which saveth Israel, though it be in Jonathan my son, he shall surely
+die." But there was not a man among all the people that answered him.
+
+Then said he unto all Israel, "Be ye on one side, and I and Jonathan my
+son will be on the other side."
+
+And the people said unto Saul, "Do what seemeth good unto thee."
+
+Therefore Saul said unto the Lord, the God of Israel, "Show the right."
+And Jonathan and Saul were taken by lot: but the people escaped.
+
+And Saul said, "Cast lots between me and Jonathan my son." And Jonathan
+was taken.
+
+Then Saul said to Jonathan, "Tell me what thou hast done."
+
+And Jonathan told him, and said, "I did certainly taste a little honey
+with the end of the rod that was in mine hand; and, lo, I must die."
+
+And Saul said, "God do so and more also: for thou shalt surely die,
+Jonathan."
+
+And the people said unto Saul, "Shall Jonathan die, who hath wrought
+this great salvation in Israel? God forbid: as the Lord liveth, there
+shall not one hair of his head fall to the ground; for he hath wrought
+with God this day."
+
+So the people rescued Jonathan, that he died not. Then Saul went up from
+following the Philistines: and the Philistines went to their own place.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+215 (Sec.65A). There was a strong enemy on the western coast that was the
+most serious trouble to Israel. It was to save themselves from these
+people that the Hebrews had longed for a king. Imagine how we should
+feel if some foreign nation should capture New York and Chicago and St.
+Louis and San Francisco and should compel us to give up a large part of
+our crops every year. We should look for a great general to lead us to
+turn them out. What then did Saul feel was his first duty as king? He
+had with him his noble son: what was his name? The first blow was struck
+at the town of Geba: what followed at once?
+
+216 (Sec.65A). Note the great force of the Philistines. What do you think
+they expected to do with the Hebrews? How did the Hebrews behave? We
+have seen before how the people would hide from their enemies. How many
+warriors did Saul have left? Notice that the two forces were drawn up on
+opposite sides of a valley. Each was on a height which it was difficult
+to attack. The reference to "the spoilers" means that the Philistines
+determined to destroy all the Hebrew country. The little army of Saul
+was unable to prevent the raids.
+
+217 (Sec.65B). Evidently some bold deed had to be done. We find that the
+king had a hero son. The knights in Europe used to have their squires:
+Jonathan had his armorbearer. Why did he not tell his father of his
+plan? At the battle of Santiago in the Cuban war Lieutenant Hobson
+wanted to do a very bold deed, but it was so dangerous that he had
+difficulty in getting permission. Jonathan was afraid his father would
+think his plan foolhardy. Study the description of the place. There was
+a narrow pass between two rocky crags. In order to reach the
+Philistines, Jonathan would have to climb the steep rock. Note that
+Jonathan hopes for the Lord to be with him. How does the armorbearer
+respond?
+
+218 (Sec.65B). Jonathan proposes to go into the open at the bottom of the
+valley and call to the Philistine sentinels, and then to decide whether
+to attack according to their reply. He thinks that they will make one of
+two replies: what were they? Tell what happened. How do you think the
+sudden attack of two men could have frightened the Philistines?
+
+219 (Sec.65C). The Hebrew sentinels on their crag suddenly saw a great
+disturbance on the opposite height, which the Philistines held. What did
+Saul do? The king intended to consult God through the priest, but the
+confusion in the enemy's camp grew so great that he decided to attack at
+once. Three causes helped to put the Philistines to flight: what were
+they?
+
+220 (Sec.66A). In the old time it was thought to be very religious to make
+solemn vows to God. Saul felt that the Lord was saving Israel from the
+oppression: what oath did he put upon the people? What did the hungry
+people find in the forest? How did they act? How did Jonathan act? The
+little food was so refreshing that he seemed to see clearly again, so it
+is said "his eyes were enlightened." Tell what conversation took place
+about the honey.
+
+221 (Sec.66B). In order to understand this story, we must remember that it
+was considered wrong to eat meat unless it had been properly killed so
+that the blood could run off. The blood was thought to be an offering to
+God. The Jews still keep up the same custom, and their meat is always
+specially killed. When the Philistines fled, what property did they
+leave behind? How did the hungry Hebrews behave? How did Saul secure an
+altar where the animals could be properly killed? Saul was very careful
+to do everything that was considered right.
+
+222 (Sec.66C). The king thought that the victory should be followed up, so
+that the Philistines could not return to trouble them. They had a custom
+of seeking to find out God's will about any matter through the priest,
+just as people do in the temples of Japan to-day. But there was some
+difficulty in securing an answer, so Saul felt sure that someone had
+broken the oath. It was a most solemn matter to him. What did he say to
+the leaders of the people? Tell how they found out that Jonathan was
+guilty.
+
+223 (Sec.66C). When a man was found out by the lot, he was expected to
+confess. What did Jonathan confess? Do you think that he had done wrong?
+Evidently Saul thought so, because at that time it seemed terrible to
+break a solemn oath. Picture the scene to yourself and see how nobly
+Jonathan was ready to bear the punishment.
+
+224 (Sec.66C). It seems to us most strange that the king should think so
+much of the matter as to feel that his son must die, but we must
+remember that it was part of their religion. It makes us very glad that
+we know God so much better, and that we can see that he must have been
+pleased with the hero who had risked his life to save his people from
+their enemies. Indeed we find that Jonathan's noble conduct was so clear
+that the people decided that the old custom must be broken. What did
+they say? Why did they think the Lord would not wish Jonathan to die?
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Imagine that you were Jonathan's armorbearer. Write a letter home, just
+as the young man might, telling what happened that day. Make it as full
+of description as possible.
+
+
+
+
+DAVID
+
+
+ XXI. DAVID AND THE GIANT
+
+ XXII. THE HERO FRIENDS, DAVID AND JONATHAN
+
+ XXIII. DAVID, THE OUTLAW
+
+ XXIV. DAVID, THE KING
+
+ XXV. DAVID AND HIS REBEL SON
+
+
+
+
+XXI. DAVID AND THE GIANT
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.67. The Anointing of David= (I Sam. 16:1-13)
+
+And the Lord said unto Samuel, "I have rejected Saul from being king
+over Israel. Fill thine horn with oil, and go, I will send thee to Jesse
+the Bethlehemite: for I have provided me a king among his sons."
+
+And Samuel said, "How can I go? if Saul hear it, he will kill me."
+
+And the Lord said, "Take an heifer with thee, and say, 'I am come to
+sacrifice to the Lord.' And call Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will show
+thee what thou shalt do: and thou shalt anoint unto me him whom I name
+unto thee."
+
+And Samuel did that which the Lord spake, and came to Bethlehem. And the
+elders of the city came to meet him trembling, and said, "Comest thou
+peaceably?"
+
+And he said, "Peaceably: I am come to sacrifice unto the Lord: sanctify
+yourselves, and come with me to the sacrifice." And he sanctified Jesse
+and his sons, and called them to the sacrifice. And it came to pass,
+when they were come, that he looked on Eliab, and said, "Surely the
+Lord's anointed is before him."
+
+But the Lord said unto Samuel, "Look not on his countenance, or on the
+height of his stature; because I have rejected him: for the Lord seeth
+not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the
+Lord looketh on the heart."
+
+[Illustration: DAVID]
+
+Then Jesse called Abinadab, and made him pass before Samuel. And he
+said, "Neither hath the Lord chosen this."
+
+Then Jesse made Shammah to pass by. And he said, "Neither hath the Lord
+chosen this."
+
+And Jesse made seven of his sons to pass before Samuel. And Samuel said
+unto Jesse, "The Lord hath not chosen these." And Samuel said unto
+Jesse, "Are here all thy children?"
+
+And he said, "There remaineth yet the youngest, and, behold, he keepeth
+the sheep."
+
+And Samuel said unto Jesse, "Send and fetch him: for we will not sit
+down till he come hither."
+
+And he sent, and brought him in. Now he was ruddy, and withal of a
+beautiful countenance, and goodly to look upon. And the Lord said,
+"Arise, anoint him: for this is he."
+
+Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his
+brethren: and the spirit of the Lord came mightily upon David from that
+day forward.
+
+
+=Sec.68. David and Goliath= (I Sam. 17:1-14, 16-52)
+
+A. GOLIATH'S CHALLENGE
+
+Now the Philistines gathered together their armies to battle, and they
+were gathered together at Socoh, which belongeth to Judah. And Saul and
+the men of Israel were gathered together, and pitched in the vale of
+Elah, and set the battle in array against the Philistines. And the
+Philistines stood on the mountain on the one side, and Israel stood on
+the mountain on the other side: and there was a valley between them.
+
+And there went out a champion out of the camp of the Philistines, named
+Goliath, of Gath, whose height was six cubits and a span. And he had an
+helmet of brass upon his head, and he was clad with a coat of mail; and
+the weight of the coat was five thousand shekels of brass. And he had
+greaves of brass upon his legs, and a javelin of brass between his
+shoulders. And the staff of his spear was like a weaver's beam; and his
+spear's head weighed six hundred shekels of iron: and his shield-bearer
+went before him. And he stood and cried unto the armies of Israel, and
+said unto them, "Why are ye come out to set your battle in array? am not
+I a Philistine, and ye servants to Saul? choose you a man for you, and
+let him come down to me. If he be able to fight with me, and kill me,
+then will we be your servants: but if I prevail against him, and kill
+him, then shall ye be our servants, and serve us." And the Philistine
+said, "I defy the armies of Israel this day, give me a man, that we may
+fight together."
+
+And when Saul and all Israel heard those words of the Philistine, they
+were dismayed, and greatly afraid, and the Philistine drew near morning
+and evening, and presented himself forty days.
+
+
+B. DAVID'S VISIT TO THE ARMY
+
+Now Jesse had eight sons: and the man was an old man in the days of
+Saul, stricken in years among men. And the three eldest sons of Jesse
+had gone after Saul to the battle: and the names of his three sons that
+went to the battle were Eliab the firstborn, and next unto him
+Abinadab, and the third Shammah. And David was the youngest: and the
+three eldest followed Saul.
+
+And Jesse said unto David his son, "Take now for thy brethren an ephah
+of this parched corn, and these ten loaves, and carry them quickly to
+the camp to thy brethren; and bring these ten cheeses unto the captain
+of their thousand, and look how thy brethren fare."
+
+And David rose up early in the morning, and left the sheep with a
+keeper, and took, and went, as Jesse had commanded him; and he came to
+the place of the wagons, as the host which was going forth to the fight
+shouted for the battle. And Israel and the Philistines put the battle in
+array, army against army. And David left his baggage in the hand of the
+keeper of the baggage, and ran to the army, and came and saluted his
+brethren. And as he talked with them, behold, there came up the
+champion, the Philistine of Gath, Goliath by name, out of the ranks of
+the Philistines, and spake according to the same words: and David heard
+them. And all the men of Israel, when they saw the man, fled from him,
+and were sore afraid. And the men of Israel said, "Have ye seen this man
+that is come up? surely to defy Israel is he come up: and it shall be,
+that the man who killeth him, the king will enrich him with great
+riches, and will give him his daughter, and make his father's house free
+in Israel."
+
+And David spake to the men that stood by him, saying, "What shall be
+done to the man that killeth this Philistine, and taketh away the
+reproach from Israel? for who is this Philistine, that he should defy
+the armies of the living God?"
+
+And the people answered him after this manner, saying, "So shall it be
+done to the man that killeth him."
+
+And Eliab his eldest brother heard when he spake unto the men; and
+Eliab's anger was kindled against David, and he said, "Why art thou come
+down? and with whom hast thou left those few sheep in the wilderness? I
+know thy pride, and the naughtiness of thine heart; for thou art come
+down that thou mightest see the battle."
+
+And David said, "What have I now done? Is there not a cause?" And he
+turned away from him toward another, and spake after the same manner:
+and the people answered him again after the former manner.
+
+
+C. THE ACCEPTANCE OF THE CHALLENGE
+
+And when the words were heard which David spake, they rehearsed them
+before Saul; and he sent for him. And David said to Saul, "Let no man's
+heart fail because of him; thy servant will go and fight with this
+Philistine."
+
+And Saul said to David, "Thou art not able to go against this Philistine
+to fight with him: for thou art but a youth, and he a man of war from
+his youth."
+
+And David said unto Saul, "Thy servant kept his father's sheep; and when
+there came a lion, or a bear, and took a lamb out of the flock, I went
+out after him, and smote him, and delivered it out of his mouth: and
+when he arose against me, I caught him by his beard, and smote him, and
+slew him. Thy servant smote both the lion and the bear: and this
+Philistine shall be as one of them, seeing he hath defied the armies of
+the living God." And David said, "The Lord that delivered me out of the
+paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out
+of the hand of this Philistine."
+
+And Saul said unto David, "Go, and the Lord shall be with thee." And
+Saul clad David with his apparel, and he put an helmet of brass upon his
+head, and he clad him with a coat of mail. And David girded his sword
+upon his apparel, and he essayed to go; for he had not proved it.
+
+And David said unto Saul, "I cannot go with these; for I have not proved
+them." And David put them off him.
+
+
+D. THE COMBAT
+
+And he took his staff in his hand, and chose him five smooth stones out
+of the brook, and put them in the shepherd's bag which he had, even in
+his scrip; and his sling was in his hand: and he drew near to the
+Philistine. And the Philistine came on and drew near unto David; and the
+man that bare the shield went before him. And when the Philistine looked
+about, and saw David, he disdained him: for he was but a youth, and
+ruddy, and withal of a fair countenance. And the Philistine said unto
+David, "Am I a dog, that thou comest to me with staves?" And the
+Philistine cursed David by his gods. And the Philistine said to David,
+"Come to me, and I will give thy flesh unto the fowls of the air, and to
+the beasts of the field."
+
+Then said David to the Philistine, "Thou comest to me with a sword, and
+with a spear, and with a javelin: but I come to thee in the name of the
+Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, which thou hast defied.
+This day will the Lord deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite
+thee, and take thine head from off thee; and I will give the carcases of
+the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to
+the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is
+a God in Israel: and that all this assembly may know that the Lord
+saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the Lord's, and he
+will give you into our hand."
+
+And it came to pass, when the Philistine arose, and came and drew nigh
+to meet David, that David hastened, and ran toward the army to meet the
+Philistine. And David put his hand in his bag, and took thence a stone,
+and slang it, and smote the Philistine in his forehead; and the stone
+sank into his forehead, and he fell upon his face to the earth. So David
+prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a stone, and smote
+the Philistine, and slew him; but there was no sword in the hand of
+David. Then David ran, and stood over the Philistine, and took his
+sword, and drew it out of the sheath thereof, and slew him, and cut off
+his head therewith.
+
+And when the Philistines saw that their champion was dead, they fled.
+And the men of Israel and of Judah arose, and shouted, and pursued the
+Philistines, until thou comest to Gath, and to the gates of Ekron.
+
+
+=Sec.69. David before Saul= (I Sam. 17:15-18:5)
+
+And when Saul saw David go forth against the Philistine, he said unto
+Abner, the captain of the host, "Abner, whose son is this youth?"
+
+And Abner said, "As thy soul liveth, O king, I cannot tell."
+
+And the king said, "Inquire thou whose son the stripling is."
+
+And as David returned from the slaughter of the Philistine, Abner took
+him, and brought him before Saul with the head of the Philistine in his
+hand. And Saul said to him, "Whose son art thou, thou young man?"
+
+And David answered, "I am the son of thy servant Jesse the
+Bethlehemite."
+
+And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking unto Saul, that
+the soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved
+him as his own soul. And Saul took him that day, and would let him go no
+more home to his father's house. Then Jonathan and David made a
+covenant, because he loved him as his own soul. And Jonathan stripped
+himself of the robe that was upon him, and gave it to David, and his
+apparel, even to his sword, and to his bow, and to his girdle.
+
+And David went out whithersoever Saul sent him, and behaved himself
+wisely: and Saul set him over the men of war, and it was good in the
+sight of all the people, and also in the sight of Saul's servants.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+225 (Sec.67). It is a surprise to read that Saul who had begun his reign so
+well had made a failure so early. But he was a headstrong man. He would
+not take Samuel's advice, and the old prophet realized that a new king
+would have to be chosen. We have now the interesting story of how David
+was given his first knowledge of the great future that was before him.
+
+226 (Sec.67). Tell the story of the plan for a visit to Bethlehem. What did
+Samuel think when he saw Jesse's oldest son? What did the Lord tell him
+about the way to judge of men? Saul was a man of noble appearance, but
+sometimes such men are disappointing. What occurred regarding the other
+sons? Tell the story of the anointing of David. Compare this with the
+anointing of Saul.
+
+227 (Sec.68A). We hear again of the same old enemies of Israel. Who were
+they and where did they live? Who was their champion? Six cubits and a
+span would be at least ten feet, so we may suppose that as this story
+was told over and over again they came to exaggerate the height of the
+giant. But he must have been a very big man. He had heavy bronze armor.
+How many pieces? Five thousand shekels would be about 150 lbs.--a heavy
+coat of mail. Who was with him? Tell the story of his challenge.
+
+228 (Sec.68B). How many of David's brothers were in the army? Why did Jesse
+send David to the army and what presents did he send with him? Tell the
+story of David's inquiry about the Philistine. What did his brother say
+to him? What did David think of the challenge?
+
+229 (Sec.68C). Tell the story of David's interview with Saul. What kind of
+a young man was he? What had he been able to do in his shepherd life?
+How did he get along with Saul's armor?
+
+230 (Sec.68D). There was one weapon with which David was very skilful. Some
+of the Israelites could do wonders with this simple weapon: read Judg.
+20:16. Try to imagine what the two men looked like when they met.
+Describe the meeting.
+
+231 (Sec.68D). What did Goliath say to David? The young man knew that the
+safety of his people depended upon this fight. What noble words did he
+say? Did he boast of his own skill? Tell the story of the combat.
+
+232 (Sec.69). What conversation took place regarding David? What did Saul
+do for the young victor?
+
+233 (Sec.69). Jonathan comes out nobly in the story. We might think that he
+would be jealous of David's success, but instead of that, he was
+delighted with his fine appearance and his courage. How did Jonathan
+show his pleasure in David? There began that day a great friendship that
+lasted till death. There can be no jealousy between friends. It is one
+of the noblest feelings, when one friend can be glad of another's
+advancement.
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+When David was practicing with his sling and keeping his flocks he
+little thought that he would ever be king of Israel. We do not know how
+our common duties are getting us ready for a greater work. Make a list
+of the principal things that you will have to do this week. Write them
+down in your notebook. Then write down what good you think they will do
+to prepare you for your work when you are grown up.
+
+
+
+
+XXII. THE HERO FRIENDS, DAVID AND JONATHAN
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.70. Saul's Jealousy of David= (I Sam. 18:6-9, 27-29; 19:1-18)
+
+A. THE BEGINNING OF THE JEALOUSY
+
+And it came to pass as they came, when David returned from the slaughter
+of the Philistine, that the women came out of all the cities of Israel,
+singing and dancing, to meet king Saul, with timbrels, with joy, and
+with instruments of music. And the women sang one to another as they
+played, and said,
+
+ Saul hath slain his thousands,
+ And David his ten thousands.
+
+And Saul was very wroth, and this saying displeased him; and he said,
+"They have ascribed unto David ten thousands, and to me they have
+ascribed but thousands: and what can he have more but the kingdom?" And
+Saul eyed David from that day and forward.
+
+And Saul gave him Michal his daughter to wife. And Saul saw and knew
+that the Lord was with David; and Michal Saul's daughter loved him. And
+Saul was yet the more afraid of David; and Saul was David's enemy
+continually.
+
+
+B. JONATHAN THE PEACEMAKER
+
+And Saul spake to Jonathan his son, and to all his servants, that they
+should slay David. But Jonathan, Saul's son, delighted much in David.
+
+And Jonathan told David, saying, "Saul my father seeketh to slay thee:
+now therefore, I pray thee, take heed to thyself in the morning, and
+abide in a secret place, and hide thyself: and I will go out and stand
+beside my father in the field where thou art, and I will commune with my
+father of thee; and if I see ought, I will tell thee."
+
+And Jonathan spake good of David unto Saul his father, and said unto
+him, "Let not the king sin against his servant, against David; because
+he hath not sinned against thee, and because his works have been very
+good toward thee: for he put his life in his hand, and smote the
+Philistine, and the Lord wrought a great victory for all Israel: thou
+sawest it, and didst rejoice: wherefore then wilt thou sin against
+innocent blood, to slay David without a cause?"
+
+And Saul hearkened unto the voice of Jonathan: and Saul sware, "As the
+Lord liveth, he shall not be put to death."
+
+And Jonathan called David, and Jonathan showed him all those things. And
+Jonathan brought David to Saul, and he was in his presence, as
+before-time.
+
+
+C. SAUL'S ATTEMPTS TO KILL DAVID
+
+And there was war again: and David went out, and fought with the
+Philistines, and slew them with a great slaughter; and they fled before
+him. And an evil spirit from the Lord was upon Saul, as he sat in his
+house with his spear in his hand; and David played with his hand. And
+Saul sought to smite David even to the wall with the spear; but he
+slipped away out of Saul's presence, and he smote the spear into the
+wall: and David fled, and escaped that night. And Saul sent messengers
+unto David's house, to watch him, and to slay him in the morning: and
+Michal David's wife told him, saying, "If thou save not thy life
+to-night, to-morrow thou shalt be slain." So Michal let David down
+through the window: and he went, and fled, and escaped.
+
+And Michal took the teraphim, and laid it in the bed, and put a pillow
+of goats' hair at the head thereof, and covered it with the clothes. And
+when Saul sent messengers to take David, she said, "He is sick."
+
+And Saul sent the messengers to see David, saying, "Bring him up to me
+in the bed, that I may slay him." And when the messengers came in,
+behold, the teraphim was in the bed, with the pillow of goats' hair at
+the head thereof. And Saul said unto Michal, "Why hast thou deceived me
+thus, and let mine enemy go, that he is escaped?"
+
+And Michal answered Saul, "He said unto me, 'Let me go; why should I
+kill thee?'"
+
+Now David fled, and escaped, and came to Samuel to Ramah, and told him
+all that Saul had done to him. And he and Samuel went and dwelt in
+Naioth.
+
+
+=Sec.71. The Two Friends= (I Sam. 20:1-39)
+
+A. THE COVENANT OF THE FRIENDS
+
+And David fled from Naioth in Ramah, and came and said before Jonathan,
+"What have I done? what is mine iniquity? and what is my sin before thy
+father, that he seeketh my life?"
+
+And he said unto him, "God forbid; thou shalt not die: behold, my father
+doeth nothing either great or small, but that he discloseth it unto me
+and why should my father hide this thing from me? it is not so."
+
+And David sware moreover, and said, "Thy father knoweth well that I have
+found grace in thine eyes; and he saith, 'Let not Jonathan know this,
+lest he be grieved': but truly as the Lord liveth, and as thy soul
+liveth, there is but a step between me and death."
+
+Then said Jonathan unto David, "Whatsoever thy soul desireth, I will
+even do it for thee."
+
+And David said unto Jonathan, "Behold, to-morrow is the new moon, and I
+should not fail to sit with the king at meat: but let me go, that I may
+hide myself in the field unto the third day at even. If thy father miss
+me at all, then say, 'David earnestly asked leave of me that he might
+run to Bethlehem his city: for it is the yearly sacrifice there for all
+the family.' If he say thus, 'It is well;' thy servant shall have peace:
+but if he be wroth, then know that evil is determined by him. Therefore
+deal kindly with thy servant; for thou hast brought thy servant into a
+covenant of the Lord with thee: but if there be in me iniquity, slay me
+thyself; for why shouldest thou bring me to thy father?"
+
+And Jonathan said, "Far be it from thee: for if I should at all know
+that evil were determined by my father to come upon thee, then would not
+I tell it thee?"
+
+Then said David to Jonathan, "Who shall tell me if perchance thy father
+answer thee roughly?"
+
+And Jonathan said unto David, "Come and let us go out into the field."
+And they went out both of them into the field.
+
+And Jonathan said unto David, "The Lord, the God of Israel, be witness;
+when I have sounded my father about this time to-morrow, or the third
+day, behold, if there be good toward David, shall I not then send unto
+thee, and disclose it unto thee? The Lord do so to Jonathan, and more
+also, should it please my father to do thee evil, if I disclose it not
+unto thee, and send thee away, that thou mayest go in peace: and the
+Lord be with thee, as he hath been with my father. And thou shalt not
+only while yet I live show me the kindness of the Lord, that I die not:
+but also thou shalt not cut off thy kindness from my house for ever:
+no, not when the Lord hath cut off the enemies of David every one from
+the face of the earth."
+
+And Jonathan caused David to swear again, for the love that he had to
+him: for he loved him as he loved his own soul. Then Jonathan said unto
+him, "To-morrow is the new moon: and thou shalt be missed, because thy
+seat will be empty. And when thou hast stayed three days, thou shalt go
+down quickly, and come to the place where thou didst hide thyself when
+the business was in hand, and shalt remain by the stone Ezel. And I will
+shoot three arrows on the side thereof, as though I shot at a mark. And
+behold, I will send the lad, saying, 'Go, find the arrows.' If I say
+unto the lad, 'Behold, the arrows are on this side of thee': take them,
+and come; for there is peace to thee and no hurt, as the Lord liveth.
+But if I say thus unto the boy, 'Behold, the arrows are beyond thee'; go
+thy way; for the Lord hath sent thee away. And as touching the matter
+which thou and I have spoken of, behold, the Lord is between thee and me
+for ever."
+
+
+B. SAUL'S DEADLY ANGER
+
+So David hid himself in the field: and when the new moon was come, the
+king sat him down to eat meat. And the king sat upon his seat, as at
+other times, even upon the seat by the wall; and Jonathan stood up, and
+Abner sat by Saul's side: but David's place was empty. Nevertheless
+Saul spake not any thing that day; for he thought, "Something hath
+befallen him, he is not clean; surely he is not clean." And it came to
+pass on the morrow after the new moon, which was the second day, that
+David's place was empty: and Saul said unto Jonathan his son, "Wherefore
+cometh not the son of Jesse to meat, neither yesterday, nor to-day?"
+
+And Jonathan answered Saul, "David earnestly asked leave of me to go to
+Bethlehem: and he said 'Let me go, I pray thee; for our family hath a
+sacrifice in the city; and my brother, he hath commanded me to be there:
+and now, if I have found favor in thine eyes, let me get away, I pray
+thee, and see my brethren.' Therefore he is not come unto the king's
+table."
+
+Then Saul's anger was kindled against Jonathan, and he said unto him,
+"Thou son of a perverse rebellious woman, do not I know that thou hast
+chosen the son of Jesse to thine own shame? For as long as the son of
+Jesse liveth upon the ground, thou shalt not be established, nor thy
+kingdom. Wherefore now send and fetch him unto me, for he shall surely
+die."
+
+And Jonathan answered Saul his father, and said unto him, "Wherefore
+should he be put to death? what hath he done?"
+
+And Saul cast his spear at him to smite him: whereby Jonathan knew that
+it was determined of his father to put David to death. So Jonathan
+arose from the table in fierce anger, and did eat no meat the second
+day of the month: for he was grieved for David, because his father had
+done him shame.
+
+
+C. THE PARTING OF THE FRIENDS
+
+And it came to pass in the morning, that Jonathan went out into the
+field at the time appointed with David, and a little lad with him. And
+he said unto his lad, "Run, find now the arrows which I shoot." And as
+the lad ran, he shot an arrow beyond him. And when the lad was come to
+the place of the arrow which Jonathan had shot, Jonathan cried after the
+lad, and said, "Is not the arrow beyond thee?" And Jonathan cried after
+the lad, "Make speed, haste, stay not." And Jonathan's lad gathered up
+the arrows, and came to his master. But the lad knew not any thing: only
+Jonathan and David knew the matter.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+234. When David returned victorious from the fight with Goliath,
+Jonathan, the king's son, made a fast friendship with him. Read Sec.69.
+What do you think each of these young men would admire in the other?
+There was the beginning that day of a life-long friendship.
+
+235 (Sec.70A). It is still the custom among the Arabs for the women to go
+dancing and singing to meet the warriors returning from a fight. The
+women of Israel had the simplest musical instrument, the tambourine,
+such as the Salvation Army women use. They composed a little verse to
+sing: what was it? How did Saul feel when he heard it? Was it natural
+for him to have this feeling? It was a very sad thing connected with
+the Spanish War, that after the battle of Santiago there was a bitter
+jealousy between the two American admirals. It is a most pitiful thing
+when great men are jealous. Recall why we called Abraham "magnanimous."
+What would have been magnanimous conduct in Saul? Was Jonathan jealous?
+
+236 (Sec.70B). There are a number of stories of Saul's enmity against
+David. We shall study a few of them. How did Jonathan try to be the
+peacemaker? How did he praise David to the king? What effect did it
+have? Evidently Saul had a better nature, to which Jonathan could
+appeal, but there was always danger that the fit of jealousy would
+return.
+
+237 (Sec.70C). David had been appointed to a high command in the army. He
+seems always to have been successful against the Philistines. But it
+made Saul jealous. Saul had been subject to fits of melancholy, which
+was explained in those days as caused by an evil spirit. David, who was
+a skilful player on the harp, had often been able to soothe the king.
+So, when the jealousy made him moody, David tried to cheer him with
+music. But a sudden fit of rage came upon Saul. What happened?
+
+238 (Sec.70C). David had married Michal, the daughter of the king. What
+plan of Saul's did she discover? How did she help her husband to escape?
+The teraphim was an idol about the size of a man: how did Michal use it
+to deceive Saul's messengers? But when Saul was determined to have David
+brought to him even if he were sick in bed, how was the deceit
+discovered? What did Saul say to his daughter? Notice that she told her
+father a falsehood, saying that David had threatened to kill her. Where
+did David flee?
+
+239 (Sec.71A). This is another story of how Jonathan helped David when he
+first found out his father's jealousy. Note that Jonathan feels sure
+that Saul will not do evil to David, but David is certain of his danger.
+A plan is thought of to find out whether the king is really David's
+enemy. There was to be the regular monthly religious feast at the time
+of the new moon and it was David's duty to be present. What was the plan
+that he suggested to test the king? What appeal does David make to
+Jonathan? The two friends go out into the field where they can talk
+unobserved.
+
+240 (Sec.71A). This is the story of the covenant or agreement. If Jonathan
+finds that Saul is well disposed to David, what does he promise to do?
+If Saul is evil disposed, what does he agree to do? He is sure that
+David will succeed to the throne; what therefore does he ask of him in
+the future? We are glad to know that David remembered this promise long
+after and took care of Jonathan's lame son.
+
+241 (Sec.71A). Jonathan knows that it will be dangerous for him to tell
+David the result of his observation of the king as he would probably be
+watched, so he arranges to tell him by signal. Read the story carefully,
+and then tell in your own words how David was to know if he could return
+safely, and how he was to know if he must escape.
+
+242 (Sec.71B). Tell the story of the Feast of the New Moon. Notice that
+Saul did not object to David's absence the first day, thinking that
+there might be some religious cleansing that was necessary. What excuse
+did Jonathan make? The king thought that Jonathan could not understand
+that David would get the throne, and he was angry with him for being so
+foolish as to be friends with him. Do you think Jonathan knew that David
+was to be king? What was the end of the discussion between the king and
+his son?
+
+243 (Sec.71C). How did Jonathan inform David that the king was his enemy?
+Why did he say to the boy, "Make speed, haste, stay not"? So these two
+friends parted, each trusting the other.
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Have you known a friend who was magnanimous when he might have been
+jealous? Write about it in your notebook.
+
+
+
+
+XXIII. DAVID, THE OUTLAW
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.72. The Band of Outlaws= (I Sam. 22:1, 2; 23:1-8, 13, 14; 25:2-42)
+
+A. THE GATHERING OF THE BAND
+
+David arose and fled for fear of Saul, and escaped to the cave of
+Adullam: and when his brethren and all his father's house heard it, they
+went down thither to him. And every one that was in distress, and every
+one that was in debt, and every one that was discontented, gathered
+themselves unto him; and he became captain over them: and there were
+with him about four hundred men.
+
+And they told David, saying, "Behold, the Philistines are fighting
+against Keilah, and they rob the threshing-floors."
+
+Therefore David enquired of the Lord, saying, "Shall I go and smite
+these Philistines?"
+
+And the Lord said unto David, "Go, and smite the Philistines, and save
+Keilah."
+
+And David's men said unto him, "Behold, we be afraid here in Judah: how
+much more then if we go to Keilah against the armies of the
+Philistines?"
+
+Then David enquired of the Lord yet again. And the Lord answered him and
+said, "Arise, go down to Keilah; for I will deliver the Philistines
+into thine hand."
+
+And David and his men went to Keilah, and fought with the Philistines,
+and brought away their cattle, and slew them with a great slaughter. So
+David saved the inhabitants of Keilah.
+
+And it was told Saul that David was come to Keilah. And Saul summoned
+all the people to war, to go down to Keilah, to besiege David and his
+men. Then David and his men, which were about six hundred, arose and
+departed out of Keilah, and went whithersoever they could go. And it was
+told Saul that David was escaped from Keilah; and he forbare to go
+forth.
+
+And David abode in the wilderness in the strongholds, and remained in
+the hill country.
+
+
+B. DAVID'S REQUEST OF NABAL
+
+And there was a man in Maon, whose possessions were in Carmel; and the
+man was very great, and he had three thousand sheep, and a thousand
+goats: and he was shearing his sheep in Carmel. Now the name of the man
+was Nabal; and the name of his wife Abigail: and the woman was of good
+understanding, and of a beautiful countenance: but the man was churlish
+and evil in his doings.
+
+And David heard in the wilderness that Nabal did shear his sheep. And
+David sent ten young men, and David said unto the young men, "Get you
+up to Carmel, and go to Nabal, and greet him in my name: and thus
+shall ye say to him that liveth in prosperity, 'Peace be both unto thee,
+and peace be to thine house, and peace be unto all that thou hast. And
+now I have heard that thou hast shearers: thy shepherds have now been
+with us, and we did them no hurt, neither was there aught missing unto
+them, all the while they were in Carmel. Ask thy young men, and they
+will tell thee: wherefore let the young men find favor in thine eyes;
+for we come in a good day: give, I pray thee, whatsoever cometh to thine
+hand, unto thy servants, and to thy son David.'"
+
+And when David's young men came, they spake to Nabal according to all
+those words in the name of David. And Nabal answered David's servants,
+and said, "Who is David? and who is the son of Jesse? there be many
+servants now-a-days that break away every man from his master. Shall I
+then take my bread, and my water, and my flesh that I have killed for my
+shearers, and give it unto men of whom I know not whence they be?"
+
+So David's young men turned on their way, and went back, and came and
+told him according to all these words. And David said unto his men,
+"Gird ye on every man his sword." And they girded on every man his
+sword; and David also girded on his sword: and there went up after David
+about four hundred men; and two hundred abode by the stuff.
+
+
+C. ABIGAIL'S PEACEMAKING
+
+But one of the young men told Abigail, Nabal's wife, saying, "Behold,
+David sent messengers out of the wilderness to salute our master; and he
+flew upon them. But the men were very good unto us, and we were not
+hurt, neither missed we anything, as long as we were with them, when we
+were in the fields: they were a wall unto us both by night and by day,
+all the while we were with them keeping the sheep. Now therefore know
+and consider what thou wilt do; for evil is determined against our
+master, and against all his house: for he is such a worthless fellow,
+that one cannot speak to him."
+
+Then Abigail made haste, and took two hundred loaves, and two bottles of
+wine, and five sheep ready dressed, and five measures of parched corn,
+and a hundred clusters of raisins, and two hundred cakes of figs, and
+laid them on asses. And she said unto her young men, "Go on before me;
+behold, I come after you." But she told not her husband Nabal. And it
+was so, as she rode on her ass, and came down by the covert of the
+mountain, that, behold, David and his men came down against her; and she
+met them. Now David had said, "Surely in vain have I kept all that this
+fellow hath in the wilderness, so that nothing was missed of all that
+belonged unto him: and he hath returned me evil for good. God do so unto
+David, and more also, if I leave of all that pertain to him by the
+morning light so much as one man child."
+
+And when Abigail saw David, she hasted, and lighted off her ass, and
+fell before David on her face, and bowed herself to the ground. And she
+fell at his feet, and said, "Upon me, my lord, upon me be the iniquity:
+and let thine handmaid, I pray thee, speak in thine ears, and hear thou
+the words of thine handmaid. Let not my lord, I pray thee, regard this
+worthless fellow, even Nabal: for as his name is, so is he; Nabal, fool,
+is his name, and folly is with him: but I thine handmaid saw not the
+young men of my lord, whom thou didst send. Now therefore, this present
+which thy servant hath brought unto my lord, let it be given unto the
+young men that follow my lord. Forgive, I pray thee, the trespass of
+thine handmaid: for the Lord will certainly make my lord a sure house,
+because my lord fighteth the battles of the Lord; and evil shall not be
+found in thee all thy days. And though man be risen up to pursue thee,
+and to seek thy life, yet the life of my lord shall be bound in the
+bundle of life with the Lord thy God; and the lives of thine enemies,
+them shall he sling out, as from the hollow of a sling. And it shall
+come to pass, when the Lord shall have done to my lord according to all
+the good that he hath spoken concerning thee, and shall have appointed
+thee prince over Israel; that this shall be no grief unto thee, nor
+offence of heart unto my lord, either that thou hast shed blood
+causeless, or that my lord hath avenged himself: and when the Lord shall
+have dealt well with my lord, then remember thine handmaid."
+
+And David said to Abigail, "Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel,
+which sent thee this day to meet me: and blessed be thy wisdom, and
+blessed be thou, which hast kept me this day from bloodguiltiness, and
+from avenging myself with mine own hand. For in very deed, as the Lord,
+the God of Israel, liveth, which hath withholden me from hurting thee,
+except thou hadst hasted and come to meet me, surely there had not been
+left unto Nabal by the morning light so much as one man child."
+
+So David received of her hand that which she had brought him: and he
+said unto her, "Go up in peace to thine house; see, I have hearkened to
+thy voice, and have accepted thy person."
+
+
+D. THE END OF NABAL
+
+And Abigail came to Nabal; and, behold, he held a feast in his house,
+like the feast of a king; and Nabal's heart was merry within him, for he
+was very drunken: wherefore she told him nothing, less or more, until
+the morning light. And it came to pass in the morning, when the wine was
+gone out of Nabal, that his wife told him these things, and his heart
+died within him, and he became as a stone. And it came to pass about
+ten days after, that the Lord smote Nabal, that he died.
+
+And when David heard that Nabal was dead, he said, "Blessed be the Lord,
+that hath pleaded the cause of my reproach from the hand of Nabal, and
+hath kept back his servant from evil; and the evil-doing of Nabal hath
+the Lord returned upon his own head."
+
+And David sent and spake concerning Abigail, to take her to him to wife.
+And when the servants of David were come to Abigail to Carmel, they
+spake unto her, saying, "David hath sent us unto thee, to take thee to
+him to wife."
+
+And she arose, and bowed herself with her face to the earth, and said,
+"Behold, thine handmaid is a servant to wash the feet of the servants of
+my lord." And Abigail hasted, and arose, and rode upon an ass, with five
+damsels of hers that followed her; and she went after the messengers of
+David, and became his wife.
+
+
+=Sec.73. David's Generosity to Saul= (I Sam. 26:2-25; 27:1-4)
+
+A. THE SLEEPING ENEMY
+
+And Saul arose, and went down to the wilderness, having three thousand
+chosen men of Israel with him, to seek David. David therefore sent out
+spies and knew where Saul was come. And David arose, and came to the
+place where Saul had pitched: and David beheld the place where Saul
+lay, and Abner, the captain of his host: and Saul lay within the place
+of the wagons, and the people pitched round about him. Then answered
+David and said to Ahimelech the Hittite, and to Abishai, "Who will go
+down with me to Saul to the camp?"
+
+And Abishai said, "I will go down with thee."
+
+So David and Abishai came to the people by night: and, behold, Saul lay
+sleeping within the place of the wagons, with his spear stuck in the
+ground at his head: and Abner and the people lay round about him.
+
+Then said Abishai to David, "God hath delivered up thine enemy into
+thine hand this day: now therefore let me smite him, I pray thee, with
+the spear to the earth at one stroke, and I will not smite him the
+second time."
+
+And David said to Abishai, "Destroy him not: for who can put forth his
+hand against the Lord's anointed, and be guiltless?" And David said, "As
+the Lord liveth, either the Lord shall smite him; or his day shall come
+to die; or he shall go down into battle, and perish. The Lord forbid
+that I should put forth mine hand against the Lord's anointed: but now
+take, I pray thee, the spear that is at his head, and the cruse of
+water, and let us go."
+
+So David took the spear and the cruse of water from Saul's head; and
+they gat them away, and no man saw it, nor knew it, neither did any
+awake: for they were all asleep; because a deep sleep from the Lord was
+fallen upon them.
+
+
+B. SAUL'S REPENTANCE
+
+Then David went over to the other side, and stood on the top of the
+mountain afar off; a great space being between them: and David cried to
+the people, and to Abner, saying, "Answerest thou not, Abner?"
+
+Then Abner answered and said, "Who art thou that criest to the king?"
+
+And David said to Abner, "Art not thou a valiant man? and who is like to
+thee in Israel? wherefore then hast thou not kept watch over thy lord
+the king? for there came one of the people in to destroy the king thy
+lord. This thing is not good that thou hast done. As the Lord liveth, ye
+are worthy to die, because ye have not kept watch over your lord, the
+Lord's anointed. And now, see, where the king's spear is, and the cruse
+of water that was at his head."
+
+And Saul knew David's voice, and said, "Is this thy voice, my son
+David?"
+
+And David said, "It is my voice, my lord, O king. Wherefore doth my lord
+pursue after his servant? for what have I done? or what evil is in mine
+hand? for the king of Israel is come out to seek a flea, as when one
+doth hunt a partridge in the mountains."
+
+Then said Saul, "I have sinned: return, my son David: for I will no more
+do thee harm, because my life was precious in thine eyes this day:
+behold, I have played the fool, and have erred exceedingly."
+
+And David answered and said, "Behold the spear, O king! let then one of
+the young men come over and fetch it. And the Lord shall render to every
+man his righteousness and his faithfulness: forasmuch as the Lord
+delivered thee into my hand to-day, and I would not put forth mine hand
+against the Lord's anointed. And, behold, as thy life was much set by
+this day in mine eyes, so let my life be much set by in the eyes of the
+Lord, and let him deliver me out of all tribulation."
+
+Then Saul said to David, "Blessed be thou, my son David: thou shalt both
+do mightily, and shalt surely prevail." So David went his way, and Saul
+returned to his place.
+
+
+C. DAVID'S FLIGHT FROM ISRAEL
+
+And David said in his heart, "I shall now perish one day by the hand of
+Saul: there is nothing better for me than that I should escape into the
+land of the Philistines; and Saul shall despair of me, to seek me any
+more in all the borders of Israel: so shall I escape out of his hand."
+
+And David arose, and passed over, he and the six hundred men that were
+with him, unto Achish the king of Gath. And David dwelt with Achish at
+Gath, he and his men. And it was told Saul that David was fled to Gath:
+and he sought no more again for him.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+244. It was clear to David that Saul had determined to kill him. He
+therefore decided to flee to his own tribe of Judah and to dwell in the
+mountains where it would be hard for Saul to reach him. The caves in the
+Judean hills have been the refuge all through the centuries for those
+who were in danger from the government. In thus fleeing from the king,
+David became an outlaw, that is, one who refuses to be under the law. Of
+course he was obliged to do so by the king's tyranny.
+
+245 (Sec.72A). Adullam was probably about twelve miles from Bethlehem.
+David would have friends near his own town. He gathered to him all his
+own relatives, who otherwise might have been killed by the king. Three
+classes of people are mentioned as joining him: who are they? The first
+would be those who were oppressed, the second those who were likely to
+be sold as slaves for debt, the third those who had some grievance. It
+has often happened in countries where there was no free government that
+men have banded together in sufficient strength to defy the rulers. In
+English history we read of Robin Hood and his outlaws, who made the rich
+pay tribute, when they caught them in the forest. Of course in our
+modern free states there is no excuse for any such life, and we rightly
+put down all bandits as criminals. How many men did David have at the
+first?
+
+246 (Sec.72A). News soon came to David that the people of Keilah, a few
+miles south of Adullam, were being robbed by the old enemies, the
+Philistines. They had come when the people were threshing the grain, and
+intended to steal it. How did David use his band of adventurers against
+the Philistines? What food supply did he secure?
+
+247 (Sec.72A). How was David's expedition brought to an end? How large had
+his band grown to be? He must have been an able chieftain to attract
+these men to him. The next story shows how he provided for them.
+
+248 (Sec.72B). Find Maon and Carmel on the map, just south of Hebron. Who
+was the rich sheep owner? What kind of man was he and what kind of wife
+had he? It is evident that David's men had protected the shepherds. What
+request did he make at the time of the shearing feast? Was this a
+reasonable request? There were so many bands of robbers abroad that it
+was a great advantage to the Judean shepherds to have David's
+protection. Of course he in turn needed supplies for his men.
+
+249 (Sec.72B). What answer did Nabal send back? How did he sneer at David's
+band? What did David decide to do? How did he divide his men?
+
+250 (Sec.72C). What report was brought to Abigail? What did the shepherds
+think of David? What did Abigail immediately do? David was in a great
+rage with Nabal, though of course he really had no right to any pay from
+the man. What vengeance had he decided to take? What do you think of
+that? How thankful it makes us feel that we live in times when we have
+strong laws, and no man is permitted to take the law in his own hands.
+
+251 (Sec.72C). Notice how beautifully Abigail speaks to David, telling him
+that she knows he will never be sorry that he was merciful. How does
+David respond? What do you think of a man who gives up his purpose so
+suddenly?
+
+252 (Sec.72D). Note the character of the drunken fellow and his cowardice
+when he learned of his escape. Probably his drunkenness and the shock of
+his terror seriously affected him. How long afterward did he die? When
+David heard the news, what message did he send to the beautiful Abigail?
+How did she reply?
+
+253 (Sec.73A). Saul had not given up his determination to kill David. He
+had made several unsuccessful attempts to capture him. At last he heard
+of David's hiding-place. How many men did he take with him? But David
+was ever on the watch. How did he discover that Saul was coming?
+
+254 (Sec.73A). Tell the story of the sleeping camp, of David's stealthy
+approach with a single companion, of the proposal of Abishai, of David's
+reply, of the spear and the jug of water. What did we mean when we said
+Abraham was "magnanimous"? Would you say that David was magnanimous?
+Read Rom. 12:19-21. Where does David appear best--when he threatens
+Nabal or when he spares Saul?
+
+255 (Sec.73B). Tell the story of the conversation with Saul: David's
+summons to the sleepers, his reproach of the captain, Saul's
+recognition, David's appeal, Saul's repentance, the peaceful separation.
+
+256 (Sec.73C). David knew that he could not trust Saul. There was constant
+danger from the jealous king, so he decided to leave the country. We are
+surprised to find that he found refuge with Israel's enemies. Where did
+he go? Locate the city on the map. How was he received? What did Saul
+decide? But David could afford to wait. In a little while everything was
+going to turn to his advantage.
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Imagine that you were Abishai. Write the story as though you were
+telling your brother Joab about that night when you crept with David to
+the sleeping camp. Describe all that happened and tell what you thought
+of David.
+
+
+
+
+XXIV. DAVID, THE KING
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.74. The Way to the Throne= (I Sam. 31:1-6; II Sam. 1:1-4, 17, 19, 20,
+23, 24, 26, 27; 2:1-4, 8-11; 3:1; 5:1-3)
+
+A. THE BATTLE OF GILBOA
+
+Now the Philistines fought against Israel: and the men of Israel fled
+from before the Philistines, and fell down slain in mount Gilboa. And
+the Philistines followed hard upon Saul and upon his sons; and the
+Philistines slew Jonathan, and Abinadab, and Malchi-shua, the sons of
+Saul. And the battle went sore against Saul, and the archers overtook
+him; and he was greatly distressed by reason of the archers. Then said
+Saul to his armorbearer, "Draw thy sword, and thrust me through
+therewith; lest these Philistines come and thrust me through, and abuse
+me."
+
+But his armorbearer would not; for he was sore afraid. Therefore Saul
+took his sword, and fell upon it. And when his armorbearer saw that Saul
+was dead, he likewise fell upon his sword, and died with him. So Saul
+died, and his three sons, and his armorbearer, and all his men, that
+same day together.
+
+
+B. DAVID'S DIRGE OVER SAUL AND JONATHAN
+
+And it came to pass after the death of Saul, that a man came out of the
+camp from Saul with his clothes rent, and earth upon his head: and so it
+was, when he came to David, that he fell to the earth, and did
+obeisance. And David said unto him, "From whence comest thou?"
+
+And he said unto him, "Out of the camp of Israel am I escaped."
+
+And David said unto him, "How went the matter? I pray thee, tell me."
+
+And he answered, "The people are fled from the battle, and many of the
+people also are fallen and dead; and Saul and Jonathan his son are dead
+also."
+
+And David lamented with this lamentation over Saul and over Jonathan his
+son:
+
+ Thy glory, O Israel, is slain upon thy high places!
+ How are the mighty fallen!
+
+ Tell it not in Gath,
+ Publish it not in the streets of Ashkelon;
+ Lest the daughters of the Philistines rejoice,
+ Lest the daughters of the enemy triumph.
+
+ Saul and Jonathan were lovely and pleasant in their lives,
+ And in their death they were not divided;
+ They were swifter than eagles,
+ They were stronger than lions.
+
+ Ye daughters of Israel, weep over Saul,
+ Who clothed you in scarlet delicately,
+ Who put ornaments of gold upon your apparel.
+
+ I am distressed for thee, my brother Jonathan:
+ Very pleasant hast thou been unto me:
+ Thy love to me was wonderful,
+ Passing the love of women.
+
+ How are the mighty fallen,
+ And the weapons of war perished!
+
+
+C. DAVID MADE KING
+
+And it came to pass after this, that David enquired of the Lord, saying,
+"Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah?"
+
+And the Lord said unto him, "Go up."
+
+And David said, "Whither shall I go up?"
+
+And he said, "Unto Hebron."
+
+So David went up thither, and his men that were with him did David bring
+up: and they dwelt in the cities of Hebron. And the men of Judah came,
+and there they anointed David king over the house of Judah.
+
+Now Abner, the captain of Saul's host, had taken Ish-bosheth the son of
+Saul, and made him king over Israel. But the house of Judah followed
+David. And the time that David was king in Hebron over the house of
+Judah was seven years and six months.
+
+Now there was long war between the house of Saul and the house of
+David: and David waxed stronger and stronger, but the house of Saul
+waxed weaker and weaker, and when Ish-bosheth was dead, then came all
+the tribes of Israel to David unto Hebron, and spake, saying, "Behold,
+we are thy bone and thy flesh. In times past, when Saul was king over
+us, it was thou that leddest out and broughtest in Israel: and the Lord
+said to thee, 'Thou shalt feed my people Israel, and thou shalt be
+prince over Israel.'"
+
+So all the elders of Israel came to the king to Hebron; and king David
+made a covenant with them in Hebron before the Lord: and they anointed
+David king over Israel.
+
+
+=Sec.75. David's Great Reign= (I Chron. 11:4-9; II Sam. 5:17-25; 8:2-6, 13,
+14; 10:6, 17-19; 11:1; 12:29-31; 5:11, 12; 23:14-17)
+
+A. THE NEW CAPITAL
+
+And David and all Israel went to Jerusalem, where the Jebusites were,
+the inhabitants of the land. And the inhabitants said to David, "Thou
+shalt not come hither."
+
+Nevertheless David took the stronghold of Zion. And David said,
+"Whosoever smiteth the Jebusites first shall be chief and captain."
+
+So Joab the son of Zeruiah went up first, and was chief. And David dwelt
+in the stronghold; therefore they called it the city of David. And he
+built the city round about, from Millo, even round about: and Joab
+repaired the rest of the city. So David waxed greater and greater: for
+the Lord of hosts was with him.
+
+
+B. DAVID'S WARS OF DEFENSE
+
+And when the Philistines heard that they had anointed David king over
+Israel, they went up and spread themselves in the valley of Rephaim.
+
+And David enquired of the Lord, saying, "Shall I go up against the
+Philistines? wilt thou deliver them into my hand?"
+
+And the Lord said unto David, "Go up; for I will certainly deliver the
+Philistines into thy hand."
+
+And David went up and smote them; and he said, "The Lord hath broken
+down mine enemies before me like the breaking of waters."
+
+And the Philistines came up yet again, and spread themselves in the
+valley of Rephaim. And when David enquired of the Lord, he said, "Thou
+shalt not go up. Go about to their rear and come upon them opposite the
+mulberry trees. And it shall be, when thou hearest the sound of marching
+in the tops of the mulberry trees, that then thou shalt bestir thyself;
+for then is the Lord gone out before thee to smite the host of the
+Philistines."
+
+And David did so as the Lord commanded him, and smote the Philistines,
+and subdued them.
+
+And he smote Moab. And the Moabites became servants to David and brought
+tribute.
+
+And David put garrisons in Damascus; and the Syrians became servants to
+David, and brought tribute. And the Lord gave victory to David
+whithersoever he went.
+
+And David got him a name when he returned from smiting Edom in the
+valley of salt, even eighteen thousand men. And he put garrisons in
+Edom; and all the Edomites became servants to David.
+
+And the children of Ammon hired the Syrians. And it was told David; and
+he gathered all Israel together, and passed over the Jordan. And the
+Syrians set themselves in array against David, and fought with him. And
+the Syrians fled before Israel; and David slew the men of seven hundred
+chariots of the Syrians, and forty thousand horsemen, and smote the
+captain of their host.
+
+And when all the kings saw that they were smitten before Israel, they
+made peace with Israel, and served them. So the Syrians feared to help
+the children of Ammon any more.
+
+And it came to pass, at the return of the year, that David sent Joab,
+and his servants with him, and all Israel; and they destroyed the
+children of Ammon. And David went to Rabbah, and fought against it, and
+took it. And he brought forth the spoil of the city exceeding much. And
+thus did he unto all the cities of the children of Ammon.
+
+And Hiram king of Tyre sent messengers to David, and cedar trees, and
+carpenters, and masons: and they built David a house. And David
+perceived that the Lord had established him king over Israel, and that
+he had exalted his kingdom for his people Israel's sake.
+
+
+C. DAVID'S KNIGHTS
+
+And at one time David was in the stronghold, and the garrison of the
+Philistines was then in Bethlehem. And David longed, and said, "Oh that
+one would give me drink of the water of the well of Bethlehem, which is
+by the gate!"
+
+And the three mighty men brake through the host of the Philistines, and
+drew water out of the well of Bethlehem, that was by the gate, and took
+it, and brought it to David: nevertheless he would not drink thereof,
+but poured it out unto the Lord. And he said, "Be it far from me, O
+Lord, that I should do this: shall I drink the blood of the men that
+went in jeopardy of their lives?" therefore he would not drink it.
+
+These things did these three mighty men.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+257. David spent many years as captain of his outlaw band, first in the
+mountains of Judah and then in Philistia. The Philistines thought he had
+given up his own people and become one of them. Fortunately, however,
+they did not wish him to fight against Saul, so he was not obliged to
+meet that difficulty. He had simply to wait till the end of Saul's
+reign. It came very tragically.
+
+258 (Sec.74A). The battles of Israel were generally fought on the broad
+plain of Esdraelon. Find it on the map southeast of Mt. Carmel. In this
+case, however, Saul had entrenched his army on the high ground to the
+south of the plain. But the terrible enemies who had troubled Israel so
+long were too strong for him. How did the battle result? Who were
+killed? How did Saul die?
+
+259 (Sec.74B). David was still in the Philistine town of Ziklag. He had
+been fighting the Amalekites who had attacked him. How was the news of
+the battle of Gilboa brought to him? How would you expect him to feel
+about Saul's death? how about Jonathan's? As a matter of fact he forgot
+all his wrongs, and remembered only how he had loved Saul and honored
+him in the early days, and of course he remembered his great friendship
+with Jonathan. Was this "magnanimous"?
+
+260 (Sec.74B). A dirge means a song for the dead. David was a fine poet and
+he sang this beautiful song of lamentation over the king and the prince.
+Notice the six stanzas. The first and the last are a refrain. The second
+is a hope that the Philistines will not know the sad news. The third is
+a praise of Saul and Jonathan. The fourth is a special praise of Saul,
+whose victories had brought spoil to Israel. The fifth is the tender
+lament of the singer for his friend. This would be a noble poem to learn
+by heart.
+
+261 (Sec.74C). After Saul's death, it was a question whether David should
+return home. Tell what happened. Find Hebron on the map in the south.
+But Saul's general had another policy. What did he do? So there was war
+between the north and south. At last Ish-bosheth, Saul's son, was
+murdered by two men who thought they would get reward from David. He
+punished them of course, but the way was open for David to be king of
+the whole land. Tell how David was elected king.
+
+262 (Sec.75A). When the thirteen American colonies adopted the Constitution
+and became the United States, it was necessary to have a capital that
+should not be in any one state. So two of the states gave a piece of
+land, which was called a District: what is its full name? What is the
+name of the city that was built to be the capital of our country? Does
+it belong to any one of the states in particular? Saul had not had a
+definite capital, except his own town. David had his headquarters at the
+old town of Hebron. But it would not do to have a town of Judah as
+capital of all Israel. There was a strong town that had never been
+conquered and occupied by the Israelites, but was still inhabited by the
+old Jebusites. David decided to capture this city and make it his
+capital. What is the name of the city that is still after 3,000 years
+the chief city in Palestine? Find it on the map. The fortress was so
+strong that there was a proverb that it could be defended even by the
+blind and the lame. Tell the story of the capture.
+
+263 (Sec.75B). The first necessity was to prevent the enemies all around
+Israel from interfering with the new kingdom. Who was the first enemy
+subdued? Locate their territory. In several campaigns these old enemies
+were prevented from giving any more trouble. The next enemy was in the
+southeast: who were they? Locate their territory. The next was an old
+city in the north, then a people in the south, then a nation to the east
+who hired northern allies. Locate all these, and note that David subdued
+all his troublesome neighbors. One people was left on the northwest
+coast, but they were a commercial and not a military people. What
+alliance did David make with them?
+
+264 (Sec.75C). David was able to conquer all these enemies because he had a
+noble company of knights about him. They were brave and loyal to their
+king. We study one fine passage that tells of a heroic deed during one
+of the Philistine campaigns. What do you think of the bravery of the
+heroes and the conduct of the king?
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Draw an outline map of Canaan. Mark Jerusalem which David made his
+capital. Mark the territory of each of the enemies whom David conquered.
+You will find that you will have to go all around the map showing that
+David had to defend his people on every side.
+
+
+
+
+XXV. DAVID AND HIS REBEL SON
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.76. The Treacherous Son and the Loyal Friends= (II Sam. 14:25, 26;
+15:1-15, 18-37)
+
+A. ABSALOM'S BEAUTY AND TREACHERY
+
+Now in all Israel there was none to be so much praised as Absalom for
+his beauty: from the sole of his foot even to the crown of his head
+there was no blemish in him. And when he cut the hair of his head, (now
+it was at every year's end that he cut it: because the hair was heavy on
+him, therefore he cut it:) he weighed the hair of his head at two
+hundred shekels, after the king's weight.
+
+And Absalom prepared him a chariot and horses, and fifty men to run
+before him. And Absalom rose up early, and stood beside the way of the
+gate: and it was so, that when any man had a suit which should come to
+the king for judgment, then Absalom called unto him, and said, "Of what
+city art thou?"
+
+And he said, "Thy servant is of one of the tribes of Israel."
+
+And Absalom said unto him, "See, thy matters are good and right; but
+there is no man deputed of the king to hear thee." Absalom said
+moreover, "Oh that I were made judge in the land, that every man which
+hath any suit or cause might come unto me, and I would do him justice!"
+
+And it was so, that when any man came nigh to do him obeisance, he put
+forth his hand, and took hold of him, and kissed him. And on this manner
+did Absalom to all Israel that came to the king for judgment: so Absalom
+stole the hearts of the men of Israel.
+
+And it came to pass at the end of four years, that Absalom said unto the
+king, "I pray thee, let me go and pay my vow, which I have vowed unto
+the Lord, in Hebron."
+
+And the king said unto him, "Go in peace."
+
+So he arose, and went to Hebron. But Absalom sent spies throughout all
+the tribes of Israel, saying, "As soon as ye hear the sound of the
+trumpet, then ye shall say, 'Absalom is king in Hebron.'"
+
+And with Absalom went two hundred men out of Jerusalem, that were
+invited, and went in their simplicity; and they knew not any thing. And
+Absalom sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David's counselor, from his
+city, even from Giloh, while he offered the sacrifices. And the
+conspiracy was strong; for the people increased continually with
+Absalom.
+
+
+B. DAVID'S FLIGHT
+
+And there came a messenger to David, saying, "The hearts of the men of
+Israel are after Absalom."
+
+And David said unto all his servants that were with him at Jerusalem,
+"Arise, and let us flee; for else none of us shall escape from Absalom:
+make speed to depart, lest he overtake us quickly, and bring down evil
+upon us, and smite the city with the edge of the sword."
+
+And the king's servants said unto the king, "Behold, thy servants are
+ready to do whatsoever my lord the king shall choose."
+
+And the king went forth, and all his household after him. And all his
+servants passed on beside him; and all the Cherethites, and all the
+Pelethites, and all the Gittites, six hundred men which came after him
+from Gath, passed on before the king.
+
+Then said the king to Ittai the Gittite, "Wherefore goest thou also with
+us? return, and abide with the king: for thou art a stranger, and also
+an exile; return to thine own place. Whereas thou camest but yesterday,
+should I this day make thee go up and down with us, seeing I go whither
+I may? return thou, and take back thy brethren; mercy and truth be with
+thee."
+
+And Ittai answered the king, and said, "As the Lord liveth, surely in
+what place my lord the king shall be, whether for death or for life,
+even there also will thy servant be."
+
+And David said to Ittai, "Go and pass over."
+
+And Ittai the Gittite passed over, and all his men, and all the little
+ones that were with him. And all the country wept with a loud voice,
+and all the people passed over: the king also himself passed over the
+brook Kidron, and all the people passed over, toward the way of the
+wilderness.
+
+And, lo, Zadok also came, and all the Levites with him, bearing the ark
+of the covenant of God; and they set down the ark of God, until all the
+people had done passing out of the city.
+
+And the king said unto Zadok, "Carry back the ark of God into the city:
+if I shall find favor in the eyes of the Lord, he will bring me again,
+and show me both it, and his habitation: but if he say thus, 'I have no
+delight in thee;' behold, here am I, let him do to me as seemeth good
+unto him."
+
+
+C. DAVID'S PLAN
+
+The king said unto Zadok the priest, "Return into the city in peace.
+See, I will tarry at the fords of the wilderness, until there come word
+from you." Zadok therefore carried the ark of God again to Jerusalem:
+and they abode there.
+
+And David went up by the ascent of the mount of Olives, and wept as he
+went up; and he had his head covered, and went barefoot: and all the
+people that were with him covered every man his head, and they went up,
+weeping as they went up.
+
+And one told David, saying, "Ahithophel is among the conspirators with
+Absalom."
+
+And David said, "O Lord, I pray thee, turn the counsel of Ahithophel
+into foolishness."
+
+And it came to pass, that when David was come to the top of the ascent,
+behold, Hushai came to meet him with his coat rent, and earth upon his
+head: and David said unto him, "If thou passest on with me, then thou
+shalt be a burden unto me: but if thou return to the city, and say unto
+Absalom, 'I will be thy servant, O king; as I have been thy father's
+servant in time past, so will I now be thy servant': then shalt thou
+defeat for me the counsel of Ahithophel. And hast thou not there with
+thee Zadok and Abiathar the priests? therefore it shall be, that what
+thing soever thou shalt hear out of the king's house, thou shalt tell it
+to Zadok and Abiathar the priests. Behold, they have there with them
+their two sons; and by them ye shall send unto me everything that ye
+shall hear."
+
+So Hushai, David's friend, came into the city.
+
+
+=Sec.77. The Folly and Fate of Absalom= (II Sam. 16:15, 16, 20; 17:1-16,
+22, 24; 18:1-17, 21, 24, 25, 31-33)
+
+A. ABSALOM'S COUNCIL OF WAR
+
+And Absalom, and all the people, the men of Israel, came to Jerusalem,
+and Ahithophel with him. And it came to pass, when Hushai, David's
+friend, was come unto Absalom, that Hushai said unto Absalom, "God save
+the king, God save the king."
+
+Then said Absalom to Ahithophel, "Give your counsel what we shall do."
+
+And Ahithophel said unto Absalom, "Let me now choose out twelve thousand
+men, and I will arise and pursue after David this night: and I will come
+upon him while he is weary and weak-handed, and will make him afraid:
+and all the people that are with him shall flee; and I will smite the
+king only: and I will bring back all the people unto thee: so all the
+people shall be in peace."
+
+And the saying pleased Absalom well, and all the elders of Israel.
+
+Then said Absalom unto Hushai, "Ahithophel hath spoken after this
+manner: shall we do after his saying? if not, speak thou."
+
+And Hushai said unto Absalom, "The counsel that Ahithophel hath given
+this time is not good. Thou knowest thy father and his men, that they be
+mighty men, and they be chafed in their minds, as a bear robbed of her
+whelps in the field: and thy father is a man of war, and will not lodge
+with the people. Behold, he is hid now in some pit, or in some other
+place: and it will come to pass, when some of them be fallen at the
+first, that whosoever heareth it will say, 'There is a slaughter among
+the people that follow Absalom.' And even he that is valiant, whose
+heart is as the heart of a lion, shall utterly melt: for all Israel
+knoweth that thy father is a mighty man, and they which be with him are
+valiant men. But I counsel that all Israel be gathered together unto
+thee, from Dan even to Beer-sheba, as the sand that is by the sea for
+multitude; and that thou go to battle in thine own person. So shall we
+come upon him in some place where he shall be found, and we will light
+upon him as the dew falleth on the ground: and of him and of all the men
+that are with him we will not leave so much as one. Moreover, if he be
+gotten into a city, then shall all Israel bring ropes to that city, and
+we will draw it into the river, until there be not one small stone found
+there."
+
+And Absalom and all the men of Israel said, "The counsel of Hushai is
+better than the counsel of Ahithophel."
+
+Then said Hushai unto Zadok and to Abiathar the priests, "Thus and thus
+did Ahithophel counsel Absalom and the elders of Israel; and thus and
+thus have I counselled. Now therefore send quickly, and tell David,
+saying, 'Lodge not this night at the fords of the wilderness, but in any
+wise pass over; lest the king be swallowed up, and all the people that
+are with him.'"
+
+Then David arose, and all the people that were with him, and they passed
+over Jordan: by the morning light there lacked not one of them that was
+not gone over Jordan. And when Ahithophel saw that his counsel was not
+followed, he saddled his ass, and arose, and gat him home, unto his
+city, and set his house in order, and hanged himself; and he died, and
+was buried in the sepulchre of his father.
+
+
+B. THE BATTLE AND THE DEATH OF ABSALOM
+
+And David numbered the people that were with him, and set captains of
+thousands and captains of hundreds over them. And David sent forth the
+people, a third part under the hand of Joab, and a third part under the
+hand of Abishai, Joab's brother, and a third part under the hand of
+Ittai the Gittite. And the king said unto the people, "I will surely go
+forth with you myself also."
+
+But the people said, "Thou shalt not go forth: for if we flee away, they
+will not care for us; neither if half of us die, will they care for us:
+but thou art worth ten thousand of us: therefore now it is better that
+thou be ready to succor us out of the city."
+
+And the king said unto them, "What seemeth you best I will do."
+
+And the king stood by the gate side, and all the people went out by
+hundreds and by thousands. And the king commanded Joab and Abishai and
+Ittai, saying, "Deal gently for my sake with the young man, even with
+Absalom."
+
+And all the people heard when the king gave all the captains charge
+concerning Absalom. So the people went out into the field against
+Israel: and the battle was in the forest of Ephraim. And the people of
+Israel were smitten there before the servants of David, and there was a
+great slaughter there that day of twenty thousand men. For the battle
+was there spread over the face of all the country: and the forest
+devoured more people that day than the sword devoured. And Absalom
+chanced to meet the servants of David. And Absalom rode upon his mule,
+and the mule went under the thick boughs of a great oak, and his head
+caught hold of the oak, and he was taken up between the heaven and the
+earth; and the mule that was under him went on.
+
+And a certain man saw it, and told Joab, and said, "Behold, I saw
+Absalom hanging in an oak."
+
+And Joab said unto the man that told him, "And, behold, thou sawest it,
+and why didst thou not smite him there to the ground? and I would have
+given thee ten pieces of silver, and a girdle."
+
+And the man said unto Joab, "Though I should receive a thousand pieces
+of silver in mine hand, yet would I not put forth mine hand against the
+king's son: for in our hearing the king charged thee and Abishai and
+Ittai, saying, 'Beware that none touch the young man Absalom.' Otherwise
+if I had dealt falsely against his life, (and there is no matter hid
+from the king,) then thou thyself wouldest have set thyself against me."
+
+Then said Joab, "I may not tarry thus with thee." And he took three
+darts in his hand, and thrust them through the heart of Absalom, while
+he was yet alive in the midst of the oak. And ten young men that bare
+Joab's armor compassed about and smote Absalom, and slew him. And Joab
+blew the trumpet, and the people returned from pursuing after Israel:
+for Joab held back the people. And they took Absalom, and cast him into
+the great pit in the forest, and raised over him a very great heap of
+stones: and all Israel fled every one to his tent.
+
+
+C. DAVID'S GRIEF
+
+Then said Joab to the Cushite, "Go tell the king what thou hast seen."
+And the Cushite bowed himself unto Joab, and ran.
+
+Now David sat between the two gates: and the watchman went up to the
+roof of the gate unto the wall, and lifted up his eyes, and looked, and,
+behold, a man running alone. And the watchman cried, and told the king.
+And the king said, "If he be alone, there is tidings in his mouth." And,
+behold, the Cushite came; and the Cushite said, "Tidings for my lord the
+king: for the Lord hath avenged thee this day of all them that rose up
+against thee."
+
+And the king said unto the Cushite, "Is it well with the young man
+Absalom?"
+
+And the Cushite answered, "The enemies of my lord the king, and all that
+rise up against thee to do thee hurt, be as that young man is."
+
+And the king was much moved, and went up to the chamber over the gate,
+and wept: and as he went, thus he said, "O my son Absalom, my son, my
+son Absalom! would God I had died for thee, O Absalom, my son, my son!"
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+265. David did not bring up his sons well and there were very bad family
+quarrels. At last Absalom murdered one of his brothers and was obliged
+to flee. The king allowed him to return, but the wicked young man
+planned to rebel against his father.
+
+266 (Sec.76A). What are we told of this handsome young man? Beauty of face
+and figure is very desirable, but it frequently makes a person vain and
+selfish. Probably Absalom had been admired and spoiled, and had come to
+think only of himself.
+
+267 (Sec.76A). How did the young prince make a fine appearance? We see that
+people were accustomed to come to the king to have their matters of law
+decided. He was the supreme court. Of course it was not always possible
+to hear all the cases at once. How did Absalom persuade the people that
+he would make a better king than his father? Note how the prince
+pretended to be democratic. What do you think of all this conduct?
+
+268 (Sec.76A). This deceitful conduct continued for four years until
+Absalom thought he was ready to strike the blow. He decided to make
+Hebron the headquarters of his rebellion. Locate Hebron. It was where
+David had his capital when he was king of Judah. Can you think of any
+reason why that city might have been dissatisfied? What excuse did
+Absalom give for a journey to Hebron? How did he plan to gather an army?
+How many innocent men went with him? What wise man did Absalom get on
+his side?
+
+269 (Sec.76B). What did David decide upon as soon as he heard the news?
+Notice that he had a body guard of 600 Philistine soldiers. The old
+enemies were good warriors and he had taken them into his service.
+David had a wonderful way of gaining friends. Tell the story of Ittai.
+How did the people feel about the flight of the old king?
+
+270 (Sec.76B). It was customary for the ark to be taken when the army went
+to battle (Sec.61A). So the priest thought he ought to carry it with David.
+But the king sent it back again, saying that he would trust in the Lord.
+Moreover he was glad to have a friend in the city. How did he arrange
+with Zadok to have news sent to him? Describe the sad journey up the
+Mount of Olives. What signs of grief did they show?
+
+271 (Sec.76C). Whom did David hear had joined Absalom? How did he plan that
+bad advice might be given to Absalom? How did he arrange for news to be
+brought to him? Let us get the movement of the story before us. Absalom
+is marching from Hebron with his counselor and his army; David is in
+flight with his 600 guards and some faithful friends, but he has left
+some friends in the city to send him news; presently Absalom marches
+into the city.
+
+272 (Sec.77A). The first act of the new king is to decide what to do.
+Ahithophel advised immediate pursuit of David. Tell what he said.
+Absalom decided to ask the wise old Hushai his advice also. Whose side
+was Hushai really on? What advice did he give? How did he frighten
+Absalom and how did he flatter him? Why was this advice good for David?
+What was decided?
+
+273 (Sec.77A). How was David informed of the council? He decided to cross
+the river at once, so as to have the swift stream between himself and
+his pursuers. Locate the Jordan. Did he succeed in getting his whole
+company over? What became of Ahithophel? Meantime Absalom was gathering
+a considerable army. After a lapse of a little time he followed his
+father, who had been gathering all the people that were loyal to him.
+The matter could only be settled by battle.
+
+274 (Sec.77B). How many divisions were there of David's army? Why did he
+not go himself to battle? Notice how he reviewed the troops as they went
+forth. What special command did he give to the captains? Why did he do
+this? Give an account of the battle.
+
+275 (Sec.77B). In the battle, which was going against him, Absalom met
+David's guards. What accident happened to him as he was trying to
+escape? What dispute took place between the soldier and Joab? What did
+Joab do? There was no need for further pursuit, so Joab called back his
+troops. What was done with Absalom? We see that with the death of the
+leader the rebels fled to their homes. Joab called a Cushite, that is a
+negro slave: what command did he give him?
+
+276 (Sec.77C). Where was David during the battle? What conversation took
+place between the king and the Cushite? How was David affected? What do
+you think of David in all this matter?
+
+
+A REVIEW OF DAVID
+
+David was one of those men who loved others and could make them love
+him. It will be interesting to make a list of all those of whom we have
+studied who felt the influence of his winning disposition. Read I Sam.
+16:12, 21; 18:1, 20; 24:16; 25:42; II Sam. 1:26; 2:4; 5:3; 15:21, 32;
+18:3; 23:15, 16. Write a little paper telling of all the people who
+loved David.
+
+
+
+
+REVIEW
+
+ XXVI. TEN HEROES OF ISRAEL
+
+
+
+
+XXVI. TEN HEROES OF ISRAEL
+
+After we had studied the heroes of Israel's wanderings we looked back
+over the stories and tried to remember the great characters we had
+learned to know. Now we have added ten more heroes to our acquaintance
+since Moses. Let us look back over the stories of these ten, and see if
+we can remember about them.
+
+277. Moses brought the people near to Canaan and then sent twelve spies
+into the land to find out about it. Ten of the men were afraid, and said
+that the Hebrews could not conquer it, but two men were brave, and told
+their countrymen to trust in the Lord and go up. Tell the story of these
+two and what happened to them later. (Sec.44; Josh. 1:1, 2; 14:13.[1])
+
+[1: Very short Scripture references are given--just enough to
+recall the story. Read these and glance over the section in the textbook
+to refresh the memory.]
+
+278. After the Hebrews had settled in Canaan they were greatly troubled
+by enemies. Many heroes arose who delivered them. One, who was called by
+the Lord, gathered a large army, then sent home all who were not fit and
+reduced his army to 300 men. He then devised a strange plan to frighten
+the enemy. Tell the story. (Sec.46; Judg. 7:19, 20.) What reward did this
+hero refuse? (Sec.47; Judg. 8:22, 23.)
+
+279. One of the heroes of Israel was a man of enormous strength. What
+were some of the stories told about him? How did he foolishly sin and
+lose his strength? (Sec.51; Judg. 15:14, 15; 16:18, 19.)
+
+280. Who was the heroine of whom we studied? Tell what you remember of
+her. (Sec.54.)
+
+281. Do you remember the story of the good old priest who had two wicked
+sons, and of the little boy who came to live with him? Tell the story of
+how the boy came, and what happened one special night, and how the old
+priest died. (Sec.Sec.60, 61; I Sam. 3:10, 11; 4:18.)
+
+282. The little boy grew up to be a great prophet. He saw that the
+people could never be saved from their enemies without a strong king.
+One day a young man who was seeking some straying animals came to see
+him. Tell the story of what happened. What great blow for liberty did
+this young man strike and so become king? (Sec.64; I Sam. 11:6-11.)
+
+283. The new king had a brave son. This young man determined to help
+free his people from their oppressors. Tell the story of his bold attack
+upon the Philistines. (Sec.65; I Sam. 14:13.) How did Saul follow up the
+attack?
+
+284. The young man who was to be the great king of Israel performed a
+wonderful feat of arms. One of the Philistine heroes challenged the
+Hebrews to send a single man against him. Who accepted the challenge
+and how did the combat turn out? (Sec.68; I Sam. 17:48,49.)
+
+285. Who were the two hero friends? Tell the story of their parting.
+(Sec.71; I Sam. 20:35-39.)
+
+286. Why was David an outlaw? Tell the story of his sparing the king's
+life. (Sec.73; I Sam. 26:9-12.)
+
+287. David had a company of heroes about him. Tell the story of the
+knights who brought him the drink of water. (Sec.75C; II Sam. 23:14-17.)
+
+288. David had a bitter trial in his wicked son who rebelled against
+him. But many loyal friends stood by him: who were these, and how did
+they show their loyalty? (Sec.76; II Sam. 15:19-34.)
+
+289. Write down the names of the ten heroes in a column. How many were
+great patriots? How many trusted God? How many showed fine leadership?
+How many showed weakness of character? Who showed a great love? How many
+were unselfish? Which of them do you think the greatest?
+
+
+
+
+SOLOMON
+
+ XXVII. SOLOMON, THE WISE KING
+
+
+
+
+XXVII. SOLOMON, THE WISE KING
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.78. Solomon's Wise Choice= (I Kings 2:12; 3:3-15)
+
+Solomon sat upon the throne of David his father; and his kingdom was
+established greatly. And Solomon loved the Lord, walking in the statutes
+of David his father.
+
+And the king went to Gibeon to sacrifice there; for that was the great
+high place: a thousand burnt offerings did Solomon offer upon that
+altar. In Gibeon the Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream by night: and
+God said, "Ask what I shall give thee."
+
+And Solomon said, "Thou hast showed unto thy servant David my father
+great kindness, according as he walked before thee in truth, and in
+righteousness, and in uprightness of heart with thee; and thou hast kept
+for him this great kindness, that thou hast given him a son to sit on
+his throne, as it is this day. And now, O Lord my God, thou hast made
+thy servant king instead of David my father: and I am but a little
+child; I know not how to go out or come in. And thy servant is in the
+midst of thy people which thou hast chosen, a great people, that cannot
+be numbered nor counted for multitude. Give thy servant therefore an
+understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between
+good and evil; for who is able to judge this thy great people?"
+
+And the speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing. And
+God said unto him, "Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not
+asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor
+hast asked the life of thine enemies, but hast asked for thyself
+understanding to discern justice; behold, I have done according to thy
+word: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that
+there hath been none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any
+arise like unto thee. And I have also given thee that which thou hast
+not asked, both riches and honor, so that there shall not be any among
+the kings like unto thee, all thy days. And if thou wilt walk in my
+ways, to keep my statutes and my commandments, as thy father David did
+walk, then I will lengthen thy days."
+
+And Solomon awoke, and, behold, it was a dream: and he came to
+Jerusalem, and stood before the ark of the covenant of the Lord, and
+offered up burnt offerings, and offered peace offerings, and made a
+feast to all his servants.
+
+
+=Sec.79. Solomon and the Temple= (I Kings 5:1-12; 6:1, 2, 7, 15, 16, 19,
+21, 22, 38; 8:1, 6, 10, 11, 22, 23, 26, 27, 30, 54-58, 62)
+
+A. PREPARATIONS FOR THE TEMPLE
+
+And Hiram king of Tyre sent his servants unto Solomon; for he had heard
+that they had anointed him king in the room of his father: for Hiram
+was ever a lover of David.
+
+And Solomon sent to Hiram, saying, "Thou knowest how that David my
+father could not build a house for the name of the Lord his God for the
+wars which were about him on every side, until the Lord put them under
+the soles of his feet. But now the Lord my God hath given me rest on
+every side, so that there is neither adversary nor evil occurrence. And,
+behold, I purpose to build a house for the name of the Lord my God, as
+the Lord spake unto David my father, saying, 'Thy son, whom I will set
+upon thy throne in thy room, he shall build a house for my name.' Now
+therefore command thou that they cut me cedar trees out of Lebanon; and
+my servants shall be with thy servants: and I will give thee hire for
+thy servants according to all that thou shalt say: for thou knowest that
+there is not among us any that knoweth how to cut timber like unto the
+Sidonians."
+
+And it came to pass, when Hiram heard the words of Solomon, that he
+rejoiced greatly, and said, "Blessed be the Lord this day, which hath
+given unto David a wise son over this great people."
+
+And Hiram sent to Solomon, saying, "I have heard the message which thou
+hast sent unto me: I will do all thy desire concerning timber of cedar,
+and concerning timber of fir. My servants shall bring them down from
+Lebanon unto the sea: and I will make them into rafts to go by sea unto
+the place that thou shalt appoint me, and will cause them to be broken
+up there, and thou shalt receive them, and thou shalt accomplish my
+desire, in giving food for my household."
+
+[Illustration: CEDARS OF LEBANON]
+
+So Hiram gave Solomon timber of cedar and timber of fir according to all
+his desire. And Solomon gave Hiram twenty thousand measures of wheat
+for food to his household, and twenty measures of pure oil: thus gave
+Solomon to Hiram year by year.
+
+And the Lord gave Solomon wisdom, as he promised him; and there was
+peace between Hiram and Solomon; and they two made a league together.
+
+
+B. THE BUILDING OF THE TEMPLE
+
+And it came to pass in the fourth year of Solomon's reign, in the second
+month, that he began to build the house of the Lord. And the house was
+sixty cubits in length, twenty cubits in breadth, and thirty cubits in
+height. And the house was built of stone made ready at the quarry; and
+there was neither hammer nor axe nor any tool of iron heard in the
+house, while it was in building.
+
+And he built the walls of the house within with boards of cedar: and he
+covered the floor of the house with boards of fir.
+
+And he built an oracle, even the most holy place, in the midst of the
+house within, to set there the ark of the covenant of the Lord. Solomon
+overlaid the house within with pure gold: and he drew chains of gold
+across before the oracle; and he overlaid it with gold. Also the whole
+altar that belonged to the oracle he overlaid with gold.
+
+And in the eleventh year, in the eighth month, was the house finished
+throughout all the parts thereof, and according to all the fashion of
+it. So was he seven years in building it.
+
+
+C. THE DEDICATION OF THE TEMPLE
+
+Then Solomon assembled the elders of Israel, and all the heads of the
+tribes, the princes of the children of Israel, to bring up the ark of
+the covenant of the Lord. And the priests brought in the ark of the
+covenant of the Lord unto its place, into the oracle of the house, to
+the most holy place. And it came to pass, when the priests were come out
+of the holy place, that the cloud filled the house of the Lord so that
+the priests could not stand to minister by reason of the cloud; for the
+glory of the Lord filled the house.
+
+Then Solomon stood before the altar of the Lord in the presence of all
+the assembly of Israel, and spread forth his hands toward heaven; and he
+said, "O Lord, the God of Israel, who keepest covenant and
+lovingkindness with thy servants, that walk before thee with all their
+heart, let thy word, I pray thee, be verified, which thou spakest unto
+thy servant David my father. But will God in very deed dwell on the
+earth? behold heaven and the heaven of heavens cannot contain thee; how
+much less this house that I have builded! Yet hearken thou to the
+supplication of thy servant, and of thy people Israel, when they shall
+pray toward this place: yea, hear thou in heaven thy dwelling place; and
+when thou hearest, forgive."
+
+
+D. THE BENEDICTION
+
+And it was so, that when Solomon had made an end of praying all this
+prayer and supplication unto the Lord, he arose from before the altar of
+the Lord, from kneeling on his knees with his hands spread forth toward
+heaven. And he stood, and blessed all the congregation of Israel with a
+loud voice, saying, "Blessed be the Lord, that hath given rest unto his
+people Israel, according to all that he promised: there hath not failed
+one word of all his good promise, which he promised by Moses his
+servant. The Lord our God be with us, as he was with our fathers: let
+him not leave us, nor forsake us: that he may incline our hearts unto
+him, to walk in all his ways, and to keep his commandments, and his
+statutes, and his ordinances, which he commanded our fathers."
+
+And the king, and all Israel with him, offered sacrifice before the
+Lord.
+
+
+=Sec.80. The Greatness of Solomon= (I Kings 10:1-10, 13, 23-25)
+
+A. THE VISIT OF THE QUEEN OF SHEBA
+
+And when the queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon concerning the
+name of the Lord, she came to prove him with hard questions.
+
+And she came to Jerusalem with a very great train, with camels that bare
+spices, and very much gold, and precious stones: and when she was come
+to Solomon, she communed with him of all that was in her heart. And
+Solomon told her all her questions: there was not anything hid from the
+king, which he told her not.
+
+And when the queen of Sheba had seen all Solomon's wisdom, and the house
+that he had built, and the food of his table, and the sitting of his
+servants, and the attendance of his ministers, and their apparel, and
+his cupbearers, and his ascent by which he went up unto the house of the
+Lord; there was no more spirit in her. And she said to the king, "It was
+a true report that I heard in mine own land of thy acts and of thy
+wisdom. Howbeit I believed not the words, until I came, and mine eyes
+had seen it: and, behold, the half was not told me: thy wisdom and
+prosperity exceed the fame which I heard. Happy are thy men, happy are
+these thy servants, which stand continually before thee, and that hear
+thy wisdom. Blessed be the Lord thy God, which delighted in thee, to set
+thee on the throne of Israel: because the Lord loved Israel for ever,
+therefore he made thee king, to do justice and righteousness."
+
+And she gave the king a hundred and twenty talents of gold, and of
+spices very great store, and precious stones: there came no more such
+abundance of spices as these which the queen of Sheba gave to king
+Solomon.
+
+And king Solomon gave unto the queen of Sheba all her desire,
+whatsoever she asked, besides that which Solomon gave her of his royal
+bounty. So she turned and went to her own country, she and her servants.
+
+
+B. HIS WEALTH AND WISDOM
+
+So king Solomon exceeded all the kings of the earth in riches and
+wisdom. And all the earth sought the presence of Solomon, to hear his
+wisdom, which God had put in his heart. And they brought every man his
+tribute, vessels of silver, and vessels of gold, and raiment, and armor
+and spices, horses, and mules, a rate year by year.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+290. We are to study the story of the man whom the Hebrews loved to
+think of as one of their heroes, because of his great wisdom and wealth.
+He was the most splendid of all their kings. To be sure he laid very
+heavy taxes upon the people to raise money for his magnificence, but the
+later ages forgot all that in admiration of his glory.
+
+291 (Sec.78). When David died he left a throne to his son that was secure
+from all enemies. The young king had a great opportunity to be a noble
+ruler. Read carefully the story of the young man's dream. What offer did
+God make to him in the dream? In what spirit did Solomon reply? When he
+says he is a little child he means that he is young and inexperienced.
+Remember that one of the important duties of an eastern king was to hear
+cases, as a kind of chief justice. What quality did Solomon ask for? Why
+was the Lord pleased? What did he give Solomon?
+
+292 (Sec.78). It is often true that the young man who desires above all
+things to fit himself to do his duty, without thinking of honor or
+wealth, actually obtains those also. Washington never sought greatness,
+but what do we think of him? Tennyson wrote of the great Duke of
+Wellington,
+
+ Not once or twice in our fair island story
+ The path of duty was the way to glory.
+
+Learn these lines.
+
+293 (Sec.79A). One of David's great hopes was that he could build a noble
+house of worship. He had been unable to do so, partly because of his
+many wars. Solomon therefore decided to carry out his father's plan. But
+the Hebrews were not skilful as artists or mechanics. They were at that
+time mostly farmers and shepherds. Solomon therefore decided to secure
+the help of the people of Phoenicia, called the Sidonians, who lived on
+his northwest border. Locate the country. What are its two chief cities?
+Who was the king who sent to congratulate Solomon on his succession to
+the throne?
+
+294 (Sec.79A). Read carefully Solomon's message to Hiram. What proof does
+he give that he is able to build the temple? What trees does he ask for?
+These were the noble trees that grew in the mountains of Lebanon. Locate
+this region to the north of Israel. What reason does Solomon give why
+the Sidonians (that is, the people of Sidon) should cut the trees?
+
+295 (Sec.79A). Read Hiram's reply. Notice the plan of getting the timber to
+Jerusalem. The lumbermen from Tyre and Sidon would cut it in the
+mountains. It would be hauled by the nearest route to the sea. Note on
+the map where that would be. Then how was it to be taken by sea to the
+port nearest to Jerusalem? This port was probably Joppa. Locate it. What
+then was to be done with it before it was hauled up the steep roads to
+Jerusalem? It was a hard job in those days when they had no railways.
+How different from the way our lumber trains carry the great timbers!
+What was Solomon to give Hiram in exchange? This is a very old story of
+trade between nations.
+
+296 (Sec.79B). When did Solomon begin to build? The building itself was not
+very large. A cubit is rather less than two feet, so the structure was
+about 100 feet long, 35 feet wide, and 50 feet high. Do you know any
+building about that size? Inside, one-third of the space was partitioned
+off for the ark. How was this room ornamented? How long did it take to
+finish the work?
+
+297 (Sec.79C). What solemn procession was held? How was the glory of the
+Lord shown? Read carefully the prayer of Solomon and see that it is
+reverent and trustful. What is his great hope that God will do for the
+people when they pray? We are quite sure that God will do that. Read I
+John 1:9.
+
+298 (Sec.79D). Who pronounced the benediction upon the people? What does he
+feel that God has done for them? What does he hope that God will do for
+them?
+
+299 (Sec.80A). This is one of the stories showing the fame of Solomon.
+Sheba was in Arabia. Note how much information the story gives us of the
+products of those times. Tell the story of the visit.
+
+300 (Sec.80B). What does the story tell us finally of Solomon's wealth and
+wisdom?
+
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Recall the lines about the Duke of Wellington and write them in your
+notebook. Find out if there is any man in your own state of whom that
+would be true. Find someone in politics or business or in one of the
+professions who has been more anxious to do his duty than for anything
+else and to whom reward has come. Write an account of it.
+
+
+
+
+TWO PROPHETS
+
+
+ XXVIII. ELIJAH, THE CHAMPION OF PURE RELIGION
+
+ XXIX. ELIJAH, THE CHAMPION OF JUSTICE
+
+ XXX. ELISHA, THE HEALER AND COUNSELOR
+
+
+
+
+
+XXVIII. ELIJAH, THE CHAMPION OF PURE RELIGION
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.81. Elijah and the Drought= (I Kings 16:30-17:24)
+
+A. THE STARTLING PROPHECY
+
+Ahab the son of Omri did that which was evil in the sight of the Lord
+above all that were before him. And it came to pass, that he took to
+wife Jezebel the daughter of Ethbaal king of the Sidonians, and went and
+served Baal, and worshipped him. And he reared up an altar for Baal in
+the house of Baal, which he had built in Samaria. And Ahab did yet more
+to provoke the Lord, the God of Israel, to anger than all the kings of
+Israel that were before him.
+
+And Elijah the Tishbite, who was of the sojourners of Gilead, said unto
+Ahab, "As the Lord, the God of Israel, liveth, before whom I stand,
+there shall not be dew nor rain these years, but according to my word."
+
+
+B. ELIJAH AT THE BROOK
+
+And the word of the Lord came unto him, saying, "Get thee hence, and
+turn thee eastward, and hide thyself by the brook Cherith, that is
+before Jordan. And it shall be, that thou shalt drink of the brook; and
+I have commanded the ravens to feed thee there."
+
+So he went and did according unto the word of the Lord: for he went and
+dwelt by the brook Cherith, that is before Jordan. And the ravens
+brought him bread and flesh in the morning, and bread and flesh in the
+evening; and he drank of the brook. And it came to pass after a while,
+that the brook dried up, because there was no rain in the land.
+
+
+C. THE WIDOW'S CAKE
+
+And the word of the Lord came unto him, saying, "Arise, get thee to
+Zarephath, which belongeth to Sidon, and dwell there: behold, I have
+commanded a widow woman there to sustain thee."
+
+So he arose and went to Zarephath; and when he came to the gate of the
+city, behold, a widow woman was there gathering sticks: and he called to
+her, and said, "Fetch me, I pray thee, a little water in a vessel, that
+I may drink."
+
+And as she was going to fetch it, he called to her, and said, "Bring me,
+I pray thee, a morsel of bread in thine hand."
+
+And she said, "As the Lord thy God liveth, I have not a cake, but an
+handful of meal in the barrel, and a little oil in the cruse: and,
+behold, I am gathering two sticks, that I may go in and dress it for me
+and my son, that we may eat it, and die."
+
+And Elijah said unto her, "Fear not; go and do as thou hast said: but
+make me thereof a little cake first, and bring it forth unto me, and
+afterward make for thee and for thy son. For thus saith the Lord, the
+God of Israel, 'The barrel of meal shall not waste, neither shall the
+cruse of oil fail, until the day that the Lord sendeth rain upon the
+earth.'"
+
+And she went and did according to the saying of Elijah: and she, and he,
+and her house, did eat many days. The barrel of meal wasted not, neither
+did the cruse of oil fail, according to the word of the Lord, which he
+spake by Elijah.
+
+
+D. THE WIDOW'S SON
+
+And it came to pass after these things, that the son of the woman, the
+mistress of the house, fell sick; and his sickness was so sore, that
+there was no breath left in him. And she said unto Elijah, "O thou man
+of God? thou art come unto me to bring my sin to my remembrance, and to
+slay my son!"
+
+And he said unto her, "Give me thy son."
+
+And he took him out of her bosom, and carried him up into the chamber,
+where he abode, and laid him upon his own bed. And he cried unto the
+Lord, and said. "O Lord my God, hast thou also brought evil upon the
+widow with whom I sojourn, by slaying her son?" And he stretched himself
+upon the child three times, and cried unto the Lord, and said, "O Lord
+my God, I pray thee, let this child's soul come into him again."
+
+And the Lord hearkened unto the voice of Elijah; and the soul of the
+child came into him again, and he revived. And Elijah took the child,
+and brought him down out of the chamber into the house, and delivered
+him unto his mother: and Elijah said, "See, thy son liveth."
+
+And the woman said to Elijah, "Now I know that thou art a man of God,
+and that the word of the Lord in thy mouth is truth."
+
+
+=Sec.82. Elijah's Victory= (I Kings 18:1-46)
+
+A. THE SEARCH FOR PASTURAGE
+
+And it came to pass after many days, that the word of the Lord came to
+Elijah, in the third year, saying, "Go, show thyself unto Ahab; and I
+will send rain upon the earth." And Elijah went to show himself unto
+Ahab.
+
+And the famine was sore in Samaria. And Ahab called Obadiah, who was
+over the household. (Now Obadiah feared the Lord greatly: for it was so,
+when Jezebel cut off the prophets of the Lord, that Obadiah took a
+hundred prophets, and hid them by fifty in a cave, and fed them with
+bread and water.) And Ahab said unto Obadiah, "Go through the land, unto
+all the fountains of water, and unto all the brooks: peradventure we may
+find grass and save the horses and mules alive, that we lose not all the
+beasts."
+
+So they divided the land between them to pass throughout it: Ahab went
+one way by himself, and Obadiah went another way by himself.
+
+
+B. ELIJAH'S CHALLENGE TO THE KING
+
+And as Obadiah was in the way, behold, Elijah met him: and he knew him,
+and fell on his face, and said, "Is it thou, my lord Elijah?"
+
+And he answered him, "It is I: go, tell thy lord, 'Behold, Elijah is
+here.'"
+
+And he said, "Wherein have I sinned, that thou wouldest deliver thy
+servant into the hand of Ahab, to slay me? As the Lord thy God liveth,
+there is no nation or kingdom, whither my lord hath not sent to seek
+thee: and when they said, 'He is not here,' he took an oath of the
+kingdom and nation, that they found thee not. And now thou sayest, 'Go,
+tell thy lord, Behold, Elijah is here.' And it shall come to pass, as
+soon as I am gone from thee, that the spirit of the Lord shall carry
+thee whither I know not; and so when I come and tell Ahab, and he cannot
+find thee, he shall slay me: but I thy servant fear the Lord from my
+youth. Was it not told my lord what I did when Jezebel slew the prophets
+of the Lord, how I hid a hundred men of the Lord's prophets by fifty in
+a cave, and fed them with bread and water? And now thou sayest, 'Go,
+tell thy lord, Behold Elijah is here': and he shall slay me."
+
+And Elijah said, "As the Lord of hosts liveth, before whom I stand, I
+will surely show myself unto him to-day."
+
+So Obadiah went to meet Ahab, and told him: and Ahab went to meet
+Elijah. And it came to pass, when Ahab saw Elijah, that Ahab said unto
+him, "Is it thou, thou troubler of Israel?"
+
+And he answered, "I have not troubled Israel; but thou, and thy father's
+house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the Lord, and thou
+hast followed the Baalim. Now therefore send, and gather to me all
+Israel unto mount Carmel, and the prophets of Baal four hundred and
+fifty, which eat at Jezebel's table."
+
+
+C. THE TEST AT CARMEL
+
+So Ahab sent unto all the children of Israel, and gathered the prophets
+together unto mount Carmel.
+
+And Elijah came near unto all the people, and said, "How long halt ye
+between two opinions? if the Lord be God, follow him: but if Baal, then
+follow him." And the people answered him not a word.
+
+Then said Elijah unto the people, "I, even I only, am left a prophet of
+the Lord; but Baal's prophets are four hundred and fifty men. Let them
+therefore give us two bullocks; and let them choose one bullock for
+themselves, and cut it in pieces, and lay it on the wood, and put no
+fire under: and I will dress the other bullock, and lay it on the wood,
+and put no fire under. And call ye on the name of your god, and I will
+call on the name of the Lord: and the God that answereth by fire, let
+him be God."
+
+And all the people answered and said, "It is well spoken."
+
+And Elijah said unto the prophets of Baal, "Choose you one bullock for
+yourselves, and dress it first; for ye are many; and call on the name of
+your god, but put no fire under."
+
+And they took the bullock which was given them, and they dressed it, and
+called on the name of Baal from morning even until noon, saying, "O
+Baal, hear us." But there was no voice, nor any that answered. And they
+leaped about the altar which was made.
+
+And it came to pass at noon, that Elijah mocked them, and said, "Cry
+aloud: for he is a god; either he is musing, or he is gone aside, or he
+is on a journey, or peradventure he sleepeth, and must be awaked."
+
+And they cried aloud, and cut themselves after their manner with knives
+and lances, till the blood gushed out upon them. And it was so, when
+midday was past, that they prophesied until the time of the offering of
+the evening sacrifice; but there was neither voice, nor any to answer,
+nor any that regarded.
+
+And Elijah said unto all the people, "Come near unto me." And all the
+people came near unto him.
+
+And he repaired the altar of the Lord that was thrown down. And Elijah
+took twelve stones, according to the number of the tribes of the sons of
+Jacob. And with the stones he built an altar in the name of the Lord;
+and he made a trench about the altar, as great as would contain two
+measures of seed. And he put the wood in order, and cut the bullock in
+pieces, and laid it on the wood. And he said, "Fill four barrels with
+water, and pour it on the burnt offering, and on the wood." And he said,
+"Do it the second time." And they did it the second time. And he said,
+"Do it the third time." And they did it the third time. And the water
+ran round about the altar; and he filled the trench also with water.
+
+And it came to pass at the time of the offering of the evening
+sacrifice, that Elijah the prophet came near, and said, "O Lord, the God
+of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this day that thou
+art God in Israel, and that I am thy servant, and that I have done all
+these things at thy word. Hear me, O Lord, hear me, that this people may
+know that thou, Lord, art God, and that thou hast turned their heart
+back again."
+
+Then the fire of the Lord fell, and consumed the burnt offering, and the
+wood, and the stones, and the dust, and licked up the water that was in
+the trench. And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces:
+and they said, "The Lord, he is God; the Lord, he is God."
+
+And Elijah said unto them, "Take the prophets of Baal; let not one of
+them escape."
+
+And they took them: and Elijah brought them down to the brook Kishon,
+and slew them there.
+
+
+D. THE COMING OF THE RAIN
+
+And Elijah said unto Ahab, "Get thee up, eat and drink; for there is the
+sound of abundance of rain." So Ahab went up to eat and to drink.
+
+And Elijah went up to the top of Carmel; and he bowed himself down upon
+the earth, and put his face between his knees. And he said to his
+servant, "Go up now, look toward the sea."
+
+And he went up, and looked, and said, "There is nothing."
+
+And he said, "Go again," seven times. And it came to pass at the seventh
+time, that he said, "Behold, there ariseth a cloud out of the sea, as
+small as a man's hand."
+
+And he said, "Go up, say unto Ahab, 'Make ready thy chariot, and get
+thee down, that the rain stop thee not.'"
+
+And it came to pass in a little while, that the heaven grew black with
+clouds and wind, and there was a great rain. And Ahab rode, and went to
+Jezreel. And the hand of the Lord was on Elijah; and he girded up his
+loins, and ran before Ahab to the entrance of Jezreel.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+301. In the beautiful city of Florence in Italy there was once a great
+prince named Lorenzo, whose reign was very splendid, but who oppressed
+the people and lived an evil life. The people followed his bad example
+and there was great immorality in Florence. But a fearless preacher came
+to the city who told the prince and the people plainly of their sins.
+Great crowds went to hear him and he became the most influential man in
+Florence. By his stirring words he compelled the government to give back
+the liberties to the people, and he led the citizens to promise to serve
+God with good lives. His enemies finally proved too strong for him and
+killed him, but this noble Italian preacher, Savonarola, left an
+influence that has lasted to this day.
+
+Among the heroes of Israel were some bold preachers, called prophets,
+who did not hesitate to denounce the sins of kings and people. One of
+the greatest of these was Elijah.
+
+302 (Sec.81A). Ahab was a very wicked king who married a princess from
+Sidon. Locate the city on the coast of Palestine. The Sidonians
+worshipped a god called Baal, and so the king built a temple for this
+idol in his capital. He thought he could go on serving the Lord and
+serve Baal also. Suddenly a man appeared in the court. He was roughly
+clad, not a man of the city. What startling message did he bring?
+
+303 (Sec.81B). While the drought came upon Israel the prophet was taken
+care of. Tell the story of Elijah at the brook. What happened to the
+brook at last?
+
+304 (Sec.81C). Elijah was east of the Jordan. He was sent to Zarephath near
+Sidon. Locate it. Tell the story of his conversation with the widow. The
+"cruse" was a flask or small jug for holding liquids.
+
+305 (Sec.81D). Many wonderful stories were told of this great prophet. Tell
+the story of the widow's son. Think of the prophet waiting all this
+time till he should be sent back to the king.
+
+306 (Sec.82A). At last Elijah's message came. How long had he waited?
+Meantime what was the condition in Israel, and Samaria the capital? Who
+was Obadiah? What had he done? What did the king and Obadiah undertake?
+
+307 (Sec.82B). Tell the story of Elijah's conversation with the timid
+Obadiah. This man was good, but he was having a hard time as the servant
+of a bad king. What bold answer did Elijah make to the king? What is a
+challenge? What challenge did Elijah make?
+
+308 (Sec.82C). This is the important part of the story. Find Mt. Carmel on
+the coast. Imagine the scene: the king, the prophets of Baal, and
+Elijah, as the actors, and the great crowd as an audience. What was
+Elijah's first question to the people? We have a saying that no one can
+be on the fence: everyone must be on one side or the other. Whenever
+there is a right and wrong, people must take sides.
+
+309 (Sec.82C). What test did Elijah propose? Who prepared the bullock for
+the sacrifice first? How did they try to gain the attention of their
+god? Could Baal hear them? How did Elijah mock them? What was the result
+of all the excitement?
+
+310 (Sec.82C). Notice how serious Elijah was. How did he prepare for the
+sacrifice? How did he arrange so that nobody could say there was a
+trick? What prayer did Elijah offer? Learn this noble prayer so that you
+can recite it. What happened? How did it affect the people?
+
+311 (Sec.82C). Those were days when men were very stern. What awful
+punishment did Elijah inflict on the false prophets?
+
+312 (Sec.82D). Elijah was sure that the drought would now be over. What did
+he say to Ahab? They had eaten nothing all day, so everyone went eagerly
+to the food. But Elijah went back to the mountain. Who went with him?
+What happened? What message did the prophet send to Ahab? Notice how
+quickly the storm came up. Elijah was a man of the desert, hardy and
+strong; he was also under great excitement from the events of the day.
+It was sixteen miles from Carmel to Jezreel. Locate these places on the
+map. The king drove his horses hard in the storm. What did Elijah do?
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Imagine yourself present at the scene on Mt. Carmel and that your
+parents were unable to go. How would you tell them the story of all that
+happened that day? Write it out just as you would have told it, if you
+were a young Israelite on that great occasion.
+
+
+
+
+XXIX. ELIJAH, THE CHAMPION OF JUSTICE
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.83. Elijah's Discouragement= (I Kings 19:1-21)
+
+A. THE BITTER DISAPPOINTMENT
+
+And Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, and how he had slain all
+the prophets with the sword. Then Jezebel sent a messenger unto Elijah,
+saying, "So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I make not thy life
+as the life of one of them by to-morrow about this time."
+
+And when he saw that, he arose, and went for his life, and came to
+Beer-sheba, which belongeth to Judah, and left his servant there. But he
+himself went a day's journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down
+under a juniper tree: and he requested for himself that he might die;
+and said, "It is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life; for I am not
+better than my fathers."
+
+And he lay down and slept under a juniper tree; and, behold, an angel
+touched him, and said unto him, "Arise and eat."
+
+And he looked, and, behold, there was at his head a cake baked on the
+coals, and a bottle of water. And he did eat and drink, and laid himself
+down again.
+
+And the angel of the Lord came again the second time, and touched him,
+and said, "Arise and eat; because the journey is too great for thee."
+
+And he arose, and did eat and drink, and went in the strength of that
+food forty days and forty nights unto Horeb the mount of God.
+
+
+B. ELIJAH COMFORTED AND INSTRUCTED
+
+And he came thither unto a cave, and lodged there; and, behold, the word
+of the Lord came to him, and he said unto him, "What does thou here,
+Elijah?"
+
+And he said, "I have been very jealous for the Lord, the God of hosts;
+for the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine
+altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword: and I, even I only, am
+left; and they seek my life, to take it away."
+
+And he said, "Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the Lord."
+
+And, behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the
+mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the Lord; but the Lord
+was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the Lord was
+not in the earthquake: and after the earthquake a fire; but the Lord was
+not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice. And it was so,
+when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in his mantle, and went
+out, and stood in the entering of the cave. And, behold, there came a
+voice unto him, and said, "What doest thou here, Elijah?"
+
+And he said, "I have been very jealous for the Lord, the God of hosts;
+for the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine
+altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword; and I, even I only, am
+left; and they seek my life, to take it away."
+
+And the Lord said unto him, "Go, return on thy way to the wilderness of
+Damascus: and when thou comest, thou shalt anoint Hazael to be king over
+Syria: and Jehu shalt thou anoint to be king over Israel: and Elisha the
+son of Shaphat shalt thou anoint to be prophet in thy room. And it shall
+come to pass, that him that escapeth from the sword of Hazael shall Jehu
+slay: and him that escapeth from the sword of Jehu shall Elisha slay.
+Yet will I leave me seven thousand in Israel, all the knees which have
+not bowed unto Baal, and every mouth which hath not kissed him."
+
+
+C. THE CALL OF ELISHA
+
+So he departed thence, and found Elisha the son of Shaphat, who was
+plowing, with twelve yoke of oxen before him, and he with the twelfth:
+and Elijah passed over unto him, and cast his mantle upon him. And he
+left the oxen, and ran after Elijah, and said, "Let me, I pray thee,
+kiss my father and my mother, and then I will follow thee."
+
+And he said unto him, "Go back again; for what have I done to thee?"
+
+And he returned from following him, and took the yoke of oxen, and slew
+them, and boiled their flesh with the instruments of the oxen, and gave
+unto the people, and they did eat. Then he arose, and went after Elijah,
+and ministered unto him.
+
+
+=Sec.84. Elijah and the Tyrant= (I Kings 21:1-24)
+
+A. AHAB COVETS NABOTH'S VINEYARD
+
+And it came to pass after these things, that Naboth the Jezreelite had a
+vineyard, which was in Jezreel, hard by the palace of Ahab king of
+Samaria. And Ahab spake unto Naboth, saying, "Give me thy vineyard, that
+I may have it for a garden of herbs, because it is near unto my house;
+and I will give thee for it a better vineyard than it: or, if it seem
+good to thee, I will give thee the worth of it in money."
+
+And Naboth said to Ahab, "The Lord forbid it me, that I should give the
+inheritance of my fathers unto thee."
+
+And Ahab came into his house heavy and displeased because of the word
+which Naboth the Jezreelite had spoken to him: for he had said, "I will
+not give thee the inheritance of my fathers." And he laid him down upon
+his bed, and turned away his face, and would eat no bread.
+
+But Jezebel his wife came to him, and said unto him, "Why is thy spirit
+so sad, that thou eatest no bread?"
+
+And he said unto her, "Because I spake unto Naboth the Jezreelite, and
+said unto him, 'Give me thy vineyard for money; or else, if it please
+thee, I will give thee another vineyard for it': and he answered, 'I
+will not give thee my vineyard.'"
+
+And Jezebel his wife said unto him, "Dost thou now govern the kingdom of
+Israel? arise, and eat bread, and let thine heart be merry: I will give
+thee the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite."
+
+
+B. JEZEBEL'S PLOT
+
+So she wrote letters in Ahab's name, and sealed them with his seal, and
+sent the letters unto the elders and to the nobles that were in the
+city, and that dwelt with Naboth. And she wrote in the letters, saying,
+"Proclaim a fast, and set Naboth on high among the people: and set two
+wicked men before him, and let them bear witness against him, saying,
+'Thou didst curse God and the king.' And then carry him out, and stone
+him, that he die."
+
+And the men of his city, even the elders and the nobles who dwelt in his
+city, did as Jezebel had sent unto them, according as it was written in
+the letters which she had sent unto them. They proclaimed a fast, and
+set Naboth on high among the people. And the two wicked men came in and
+sat before him: and the men bare witness against him, even against
+Naboth, in the presence of the people, saying, "Naboth did curse God and
+the king." Then they carried him forth out of the city, and stoned him
+with stones, that he died. Then they sent to Jezebel, saying, "Naboth is
+stoned, and is dead."
+
+And it came to pass, when Jezebel heard that Naboth was stoned, and was
+dead, that she said to Ahab, "Arise, take possession of the vineyard of
+Naboth the Jezreelite, which he refused to give thee for money: for
+Naboth is not alive, but dead."
+
+And it came to pass, when Ahab heard that Naboth was dead, that he rose
+up to go down to the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite, to take
+possession of it.
+
+
+C. ELIJAH'S STARTLING SENTENCE
+
+And the word of the Lord came to Elijah the Tishbite, saying, "Arise, go
+down to meet Ahab king of Israel, who dwelleth in Samaria: behold, he is
+in the vineyard of Naboth, whither he is gone down to take possession of
+it. And thou shalt speak unto him, saying, 'Thus saith the Lord, Hast
+thou killed, and also taken possession?' and thou shalt speak unto him,
+saying, 'Thus saith the Lord, In the place where dogs licked the blood
+of Naboth, shall dogs lick thy blood, even thine.'"
+
+And Ahab said to Elijah, "Hast thou found me, O mine enemy?"
+
+And he answered, "I have found thee: because thou hast sold thyself to
+do that which is evil in the sight of the Lord. Behold, I will bring
+evil upon thee, and will utterly sweep thee away, and will cut off from
+Ahab every man child, and him that is shut up and him that is left at
+large in Israel, for the provocation wherewith thou hast provoked me to
+anger, and hast made Israel to sin. And of Jezebel also spake the Lord,
+saying, 'The dogs shall eat Jezebel by the rampart of Jezreel.' Him that
+dieth of Ahab in the city the dogs shall eat; and him that dieth in the
+field shall the fowls of the air eat."
+
+
+=Sec.85. The Old Prophet and the New Prophet= (II Kings 2:1-15)
+
+A. THE FAREWELL OF THE OLD PROPHET
+
+And it came to pass, when the Lord would take up Elijah by a whirlwind
+into heaven, that Elijah went with Elisha from Gilgal. And Elijah said
+unto Elisha, "Tarry here, I pray thee; for the Lord hath sent me as far
+as Beth-el."
+
+And Elisha said, "As the Lord liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not
+leave thee."
+
+So they went down to Beth-el. And the sons of the prophets that were at
+Beth-el came forth to Elisha, and said unto him, "Knowest thou that the
+Lord will take away thy master from thy head to-day?"
+
+And he said, "Yea, I know it; hold ye your peace."
+
+And Elijah said unto him, "Elisha, tarry here, I pray thee; for the Lord
+hath sent me to Jericho."
+
+And he said, "As the Lord liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not
+leave thee."
+
+So they came to Jericho. And the sons of the prophets that were at
+Jericho came near to Elisha, and said unto him, "Knowest thou that the
+Lord will take away thy master from thy head to-day?"
+
+And he answered, "Yea, I know it; hold ye your peace."
+
+And Elijah said unto him, "Tarry here, I pray thee; for the Lord hath
+sent me to Jordan."
+
+And he said, "As the Lord liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not
+leave thee."
+
+And they two went on. And fifty men of the sons of the prophets went,
+and stood over against them afar off: and they two stood by Jordan. And
+Elijah took his mantle, and wrapped it together, and smote the waters,
+and they were divided hither and thither, so that they two went over on
+dry ground. And it came to pass, when they were gone over, that Elijah
+said unto Elisha, "Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken from
+thee."
+
+And Elisha said, "I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be
+upon me."
+
+And he said, "Thou hast asked a hard thing: nevertheless, if thou see me
+when I am taken from thee, it shall be so unto thee; but if not, it
+shall not be so."
+
+And it came to pass, as they still went on, and talked, that, behold,
+there appeared a chariot of fire, and horses of fire, which parted them
+both asunder; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven. And Elisha
+saw it, and he cried, "My father, my father, the chariots of Israel and
+the horsemen thereof!"
+
+
+B. THE NEW PROPHET
+
+And he saw him no more: and he took hold of his own clothes, and rent
+them in two pieces. He took up also the mantle of Elijah that fell from
+him, and went back, and stood by the bank of Jordan. And he took the
+mantle of Elijah that fell from him, and smote the waters, and said,
+"Where is the Lord, the God of Elijah?" and when he also had smitten the
+waters, they were divided hither and thither: and Elisha went over.
+
+And when the sons of the prophets which were at Jericho over against him
+saw him, they said, "The spirit of Elijah doth rest on Elisha." And they
+came to meet him, and bowed themselves to the ground before him.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+313. How did the great day close after Elijah had defeated the prophets
+of Baal? How do you think Ahab felt about it? Elijah probably hoped to
+see a complete return of the people to the Lord and he expected the
+wicked queen Jezebel to be prevented from interfering with the prophets
+of the Lord.
+
+314 (Sec.83A). What did Ahab do when he returned home? What did Jezebel
+decide? Was she willing to give up her power? Elijah saw that nothing
+had been gained, for the wicked queen was still in control. Where did he
+go? Follow his journey on the map. Mention all the circumstances that
+would make Elijah tired out. His discouragement was largely due to his
+exhaustion from hunger and travel. What kind thing did the Lord do for
+the tired prophet?
+
+315 (Sec.83B). Where did Elijah go? Horeb is another name for Mount Sinai.
+Do you remember what great hero led the people to Sinai? (Sec.40A.) Elijah
+wanted to go back to the mountain where his people had heard of the
+Lord. Tell the story of what happened at the cave. The Lord would show
+Elijah that the people could not be saved by great contests, but by
+gentle means. He also told him that it would take time to get rid of the
+idolatry. He told him three important persons would all have a part in
+the work, even after he was dead: who were these?
+
+316 (Sec.83B). Elijah was mistaken in thinking that he was the only
+faithful man left. How many were there? There are often more good people
+than we think.
+
+317 (Sec.83C). Tell the story of the call of Elisha.
+
+318 (Sec.84A). Locate Jezreel on the map. We found it before, near Mt.
+Carmel. King Ahab had a fine palace there, though his capital was in
+Samaria. But the king needed some more land to make a garden. How did he
+try to get it? Why would not the man sell it? We must remember that in
+those times a farm would sometimes remain in one family for centuries.
+How did Ahab behave? What did Jezebel say that she would do?
+
+319 (Sec.84B). A king of Israel could not do as he pleased. He was bound to
+respect the rights of his people. Jezebel therefore thought out a plan
+to have Naboth killed. What was the plan and how did it work?
+
+320 (Sec.84B). When Jezebel heard of the success of her plot she told the
+king. What did he do? What ought he to have done?
+
+321 (Sec.84C). The king and queen had forgotten all about Elijah. How did
+he suddenly appear? Imagine how frightened the king must have been when
+he saw the stern prophet coming to meet him in the garden. So conscience
+suddenly speaks when we have forgotten it. What did Elijah say?
+
+322 (Sec.84C). We have seen Elijah the champion of pure religion, now we
+see him the champion of justice. There was no one else who dare speak
+against the king's tyranny. Do you think he was brave? Why did not Ahab
+kill him?
+
+323 (Sec.85A). Tell the story of the last journey of Elijah and Elisha.
+Follow the journey on the map. Imagine the fearful mountain storm on the
+east of Jordan in the midst of which Elijah was carried away. Is it not
+a grand story of the end of such a stormy life?
+
+324 (Sec.85B). How did the new prophet begin his work?
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Ahab, although in many respects an able king, showed himself in this
+incident a bully. A bully is one who does wrong to a person who is too
+weak to resist. There is generally a bully in every school. Is there
+also a hero? Write what you think a hero ought to do with a bully.
+
+
+
+
+XXX. ELISHA, THE HEALER AND COUNSELOR
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.86. The Payment of the Widow's Debt= (II Kings 4:1-7)
+
+Now there cried a certain woman of the wives of the sons of the prophets
+unto Elisha, saying, "Thy servant my husband is dead: and thou knowest
+that thy servant did fear the Lord: and the creditor is come to take
+unto him my two children to be slaves."
+
+And Elisha said unto her, "What shall I do for thee? tell me; what hast
+thou in the house?"
+
+And she said, "Thine handmaid hath not any thing in the house, save a
+pot of oil."
+
+Then he said, "Go, borrow thee vessels abroad of all thy neighbors, even
+empty vessels; borrow not a few. And thou shalt go in, and shut the door
+upon thee and upon thy sons, and pour out into all those vessels; and
+thou shalt set aside that which is full."
+
+So she went from him, and shut the door upon her and upon her sons; they
+brought the vessels to her, and she poured out. And it came to pass,
+when the vessels were full, that she said unto her son, "Bring me yet a
+vessel."
+
+And he said, "There is not another vessel."
+
+And the oil stopped. Then she came and told the man of God. And he said,
+"Go, sell the oil, and pay thy debt, and live thou and thy sons on the
+rest."
+
+
+=Sec.87. The Healing of the Leper= (II Kings 5)
+
+A. NAAMAN'S VISIT TO ISRAEL
+
+Now Naaman, captain of the host of the king of Syria, was a great man
+with his master, and honorable, because by him the Lord had given
+victory unto Syria: he was also a mighty man of valor, but he was a
+leper. And the Syrians had gone out in bands, and had brought away a
+captive out of the land of Israel a little maid; and she waited on
+Naaman's wife. And she said unto her mistress, "Would God my lord were
+with the prophet that is in Samaria! then would he recover him of his
+leprosy."
+
+And one went in, and told his lord, saying, "Thus and thus said the maid
+that is of the land of Israel."
+
+And the king of Syria said, "Go to, go, and I will send a letter unto
+the king of Israel."
+
+And he departed, and took with him ten talents of silver, and six
+thousand pieces of gold, and ten changes of raiment. And he brought the
+letter to the king of Israel, saying, "And now when this letter is come
+unto thee, behold, I have sent Naaman my servant to thee, that thou
+mayest recover him of his leprosy."
+
+And it came to pass, when the king of Israel had read the letter, that
+he rent his clothes, and said, "Am I God, to kill and to make alive,
+that this man doth send unto me to recover a man of his leprosy? but
+consider, I pray you, and see how he seeketh a quarrel against me."
+
+
+B. NAAMAN HEALED
+
+And it was so, when Elisha the man of God heard that the king of Israel
+had rent his clothes, that he sent to the king, saying, "Wherefore hast
+thou rent thy clothes? let him come now to me, and he shall know that
+there is a prophet in Israel."
+
+So Naaman came with his horses and with his chariots, and stood at the
+door of the house of Elisha. And Elisha sent a messenger unto him,
+saying, "Go and wash in Jordan seven times, and thy flesh shall come
+again to thee, and thou shalt be clean."
+
+But Naaman was wroth, and went away, and said, "Behold, I thought, He
+will surely come out to me, and stand, and call on the name of the Lord
+his God, and wave his hand over the place, and recover the leper. Are
+not Abanah and Pharpar, the rivers of Damascus, better than all the
+waters of Israel? may I not wash in them, and be clean?"
+
+So he turned and went away in a rage. And his servants came near, and
+spake unto him, and said, "My father, if the prophet had bid thee do
+some great thing, wouldest thou not have done it? how much rather then,
+when he saith to thee, 'Wash, and be clean'?"
+
+Then went he down, and dipped himself seven times in Jordan, according
+to the saying of the man of God: and his flesh came again like unto the
+flesh of a little child, and he was clean.
+
+
+C. NAAMAN'S GRATITUDE
+
+And he returned to the man of God, he and all his company, and came, and
+stood before him: and he said, "Behold now, I know that there is no God
+in all the earth, but in Israel: now therefore, I pray thee, take a
+present of thy servant."
+
+But he said, "As the Lord liveth, before whom I stand, I will receive
+none."
+
+And he urged him to take it; but he refused. And Naaman said, "If not,
+yet I pray thee let there be given to thy servant two mules' burden of
+earth; for thy servant will henceforth offer neither burnt offering nor
+sacrifice unto other gods, but unto the Lord."
+
+And he said unto him, "Go in peace."
+
+So he departed from him a little way.
+
+
+D. PUNISHMENT OF GREED AND DECEIT
+
+But Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of God, said, "Behold, my
+master hath spared this Naaman the Syrian, in not receiving at his hands
+that which he brought: as the Lord liveth, I will run after him, and
+take somewhat of him."
+
+So Gehazi followed after Naaman. And when Naaman saw one running after
+him, he lighted down from the chariot to meet him, and said, "Is all
+well?"
+
+And he said, "All is well. My master hath sent me, saying, 'Behold, even
+now there be come to me from the hill country of Ephraim two young men
+of the sons of the prophets; give them, I pray thee, a talent of silver,
+and two changes of raiment.'"
+
+And Naaman said, "Be content, take two talents."
+
+And he urged him and bound two talents of silver in two bags, with two
+changes of raiment, and laid them upon two of his servants; and they
+bare them before him. And when he came to the hill, he took them from
+their hand, and bestowed them in the house: and he let the men go, and
+they departed. But he went in, and stood before his master.
+
+And Elisha said unto him, "Whence comest thou, Gehazi?"
+
+And he said, "Thy servant went no whither."
+
+And he said unto him, "Went not mine heart with thee, when the man
+turned again from his chariot to meet thee? Is it a time to receive
+money, and to receive garments, and oliveyards and vineyards, and sheep
+and oxen, and menservants and maidservants? The leprosy therefore of
+Naaman shall cleave unto thee, and unto thy seed for ever."
+
+And he went out from his presence a leper as white as snow.
+
+
+=Sec.88. Mysterious Capture of the Syrian Soldiers= (II Kings 6:8-23)
+
+A. THE SYRIANS' FEAR OF ELISHA
+
+Now the king of Syria warred against Israel; and he took counsel with
+his servants, saying, "In such and such a place shall be my camp."
+
+And the man of God sent unto the king of Israel, saying, "Beware that
+thou pass not such a place; for thither the Syrians are coming down."
+
+And the king of Israel sent to the place which the man of God told him
+and warned him of; and he saved himself there, not once nor twice.
+
+And the heart of the king of Syria was sore troubled for this thing; and
+he called his servants, and said unto them, "Will ye not show me which
+of us is for the king of Israel?"
+
+And one of his servants said, "Nay, my lord, O king: but Elisha, the
+prophet that is in Israel, telleth the king of Israel the words that
+thou speakest in thy bedchamber."
+
+And he said, "Go and see where he is, that I may send and fetch him."
+
+And it was told him, saying, "Behold, he is in Dothan."
+
+
+B. THE UNSEEN ARMY OF THE LORD
+
+Therefore sent he thither horses, and chariots, and a great host: and
+they came by night, and compassed the city about. And when the servant
+of the man of God was risen early, and gone forth, behold, an host with
+horses and chariots was round about the city. And his servant said unto
+him, "Alas, my master! how shall we do?"
+
+And he answered, "Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they
+that be with them." And Elisha prayed, and said, "Lord, I pray thee,
+open his eyes, that he may see."
+
+And the Lord opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold,
+the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha.
+And when they came down to him, Elisha prayed unto the Lord, and said,
+"Smite this people, I pray thee, with blindness." And he smote them with
+blindness according to the word of Elisha.
+
+And Elisha said unto them, "This is not the way, neither is this the
+city: follow me, and I will bring you to the man whom ye seek." And he
+led them to Samaria.
+
+
+C. THE RELEASE OF THE PRISONERS
+
+And it came to pass, when they were come into Samaria, that Elisha said,
+"Lord, open the eyes of these men, that they may see." And the Lord
+opened their eyes, and they saw; and, behold, they were in the midst of
+Samaria.
+
+And the king of Israel said unto Elisha, when he saw them, "My father,
+shall I smite them? shall I smite them?"
+
+And he answered, "Thou shalt not smite them: wouldest thou smite those
+whom thou hast taken captive with thy sword and with thy bow? set bread
+and water before them, that they may eat and drink, and go to their
+master."
+
+And he prepared great provision for them: and when they had eaten and
+drunk, he sent them away, and they went to their master. And the bands
+of Syria came no more into the land of Israel.
+
+
+=Sec.89. Elisha's Last Counsel= (II Kings 13:14-19)
+
+Now Elisha was fallen sick of the sickness of which he died: and Joash
+the king of Israel came down unto him, and wept over him, and said, "My
+father, my father, the chariots of Israel and the horsemen thereof!"
+
+And Elisha said unto him, "Take bow and arrows." And he took unto him
+bow and arrows.
+
+And he said to the king of Israel, "Put thine hand upon the bow." And he
+put his hand upon it. And Elisha laid his hands upon the king's hands.
+
+And he said, "Open the window eastward." And he opened it.
+
+Then Elisha said, "Shoot." And he shot.
+
+And he said, "The Lord's arrow of victory, even the arrow of victory
+over Syria: for thou shalt smite the Syrians in Aphek, till thou have
+consumed them."
+
+And he said, "Take the arrows." And he took them.
+
+And he said unto the king of Israel. "Smite upon the ground." And he
+smote thrice, and stayed.
+
+And the man of God was wroth with him, and said, "Thou shouldest have
+smitten five or six times; then hadst thou smitten Syria till thou hadst
+consumed it: whereas now thou shalt smite Syria but thrice."
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+325. Different kinds of men are needed for different times. Severe
+contests require vigorous men: times of trouble require patient men.
+When the king and all Israel were going into heathen worship, the
+strong, stern Elijah was the man to force them back to right conduct.
+But when the kingdom of Israel fell into great weakness and was beaten
+again and again by the Syrians, there was need of a prophet who could
+comfort and encourage the nation. The young man who had been trained by
+Elijah was fitted for this work. What was his name? He must have been a
+most kindly and helpful man as there are more wonderful stories gathered
+about his name than about any of the other heroes of Israel. We shall
+study four of these stories.
+
+326 (Sec.86). This story shows us how harsh the old law of debt was. Why
+were the widow's two sons to be sold as slaves? She came to Elisha in
+her trouble, and he said that they would use whatever she had. What did
+she have? How was the debt paid?
+
+327 (Sec.87A). Locate Syria on the map to the north of Israel. What is the
+capital? These people had been fighting against Israel and had taken
+many prisoners and made slaves of them. What was the name of the Syrian
+general? He was a great man, but he had the terrible disease of leprosy.
+It is a most frightful malady, slowly eating away the body. The
+general's wife had a little Hebrew slave. How did she get her? What did
+the little slave say to her mistress? Tell the story of Naaman's visit
+to Israel.
+
+328 (Sec.87B). How was the king of Israel troubled, and what did Elisha say
+to him? Describe the grand visit of the general with all his servants to
+the simple home of the prophet. What message did Elisha send? Why was
+Naaman angry? What did his servants say to him? How did it all turn out?
+
+329 (Sec.87C). What great change of feeling came over Naaman? What did he
+wish to give Elisha? The prophet did not want any present, because he
+wished Naaman to know that the Lord's prophet would help anyone in need
+without money.
+
+330 (Sec.87D). What did Elisha's servant think of this conduct of his
+master? Tell the story of his greed and deceit. Notice how one sin leads
+to another and one lie leads to another. But the prophet understood the
+wicked servant. What terrible punishment came upon him?
+
+331 (Sec.88A). How did Elisha help his people against the plans of the
+Syrians? What did the Syrian king think of it? It seems evident that
+Elisha was the counselor of Israel. Locate Dothan on the map.
+
+332 (Sec.88B). Tell the story of the two armies, one of them visible and
+the other invisible. This is a beautiful way of telling of God's power
+and care that are always over us. How did Elisha lead the army to
+Samaria?
+
+333 (Sec.88C). How did the Syrians find that they were in the capital of
+their enemies? What did the king want to do to them? How did Elisha say
+they should be treated? Do you remember that several times we have
+called the heroes "magnanimous"? Elisha has this character. After all,
+forgiveness is the best revenge.
+
+334 (Sec.89). At last the old prophet who had been the counselor of several
+kings was about to die. Who visited him? Notice he used the same words
+of him that Elisha had used of Elijah. What did it mean? Tell the story
+of the bow and arrows. The king was not a strong character and he showed
+it in this little bit of play. Elisha meant to tell him that great
+things in the world can only be done by determination. In the Civil War
+our great generals did not give up after three endeavors. Grant said "I
+propose to fight it out on this line, if ..." (finish the quotation),
+and Lee held together his gallant army to the last limit of endurance.
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Tell your parents, or some friend, what you have learned about Elisha,
+and explain that you are to write a short story in your notebook on "A
+Hero of Helpfulness." Ask them if they can tell you about some good
+doctor who was unselfish and kindly and gave himself for the good of
+others. Or perhaps they know some pastor who was always seeking to help
+his people and cared very little what good things he got himself. Or
+they may be able to tell you of a good woman who spent her life in doing
+good to people. She would be "A Heroine of Helpfulness." Find out some
+strong character who did good unselfishly like Elisha, and write the
+story for the next class.
+
+
+
+
+PATRIOTS IN TROUBLOUS TIMES
+
+ XXXI. NEHEMIAH, THE BUILDER
+
+ XXXII. ESTHER, THE PATRIOT QUEEN
+
+ XXXIII. JUDAS, THE HAMMERER
+
+ XXXIV. DANIEL AND HIS FRIENDS
+
+
+
+
+
+XXXI. NEHEMIAH, THE BUILDER
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.90. Nehemiah's Plans= (Neh. 1:1-4, 11. 2:1-9, 11-13, 16-18)
+
+A. NEHEMIAH'S SORROW FOR JERUSALEM
+
+Now it came to pass as I was in Shushan the palace, that Hanani, one of
+my brethren, came, he and certain men out of Judah; and I asked them
+concerning the Jews that had escaped, which were left of the captivity,
+and concerning Jerusalem. And they said unto me, "The remnant that are
+left of the captivity there in the province are in great affliction and
+reproach: the wall of Jerusalem also is broken down, and the gates
+thereof are burned with fire."
+
+And it came to pass, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept,
+and mourned certain days; and I fasted and prayed before the God of
+heaven, and said, "O Lord, I beseech thee, let now thine ear be
+attentive to the prayer of thy servant, and to the prayer of thy
+servants, who delight to fear thy name: and prosper, I pray thee, thy
+servant this day, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man." (Now I
+was cupbearer to the king.)
+
+
+B. THE KING'S PERMISSION TO REBUILD
+
+And it came to pass in the month Nisan, in the twentieth year of
+Artaxerxes the king, when wine was before him, that I took up the wine,
+and gave it unto the king. Now I had not been before-time sad in his
+presence. And the king said unto me, "Why is thy countenance sad, seeing
+thou art not sick? this is nothing else but sorrow of heart."
+
+Then I was very sore afraid. And I said unto the king, "Let the king
+live for ever: why should not my countenance be sad, when the city, the
+place of my father's sepulchres, lieth waste, and the gates thereof are
+consumed with fire?"
+
+Then the king said unto me, "For what dost thou make request?"
+
+So I prayed to the God of heaven. And I said unto the king, "If it
+please the king, and if thy servant have found favor in thy sight, that
+thou wouldest send me unto Judah, unto the city of my fathers'
+sepulchres, that I may build it."
+
+And the king said unto me, (the queen also sitting by him,) "For how
+long shall thy journey be? and when wilt thou return?"
+
+So it pleased the king to send me; and I set him a time. Moreover I said
+unto the king, "If it please the king, let letters be given me to the
+governors beyond the river, that they may let me pass through till I
+come unto Judah; and a letter unto Asaph the keeper of the king's
+forest, that he may give me timber to make beams for the gates of the
+castle, and for the wall of the city, and for the house that I shall
+enter into."
+
+And the king granted me, according to the good hand of my God upon me.
+
+
+C. NEHEMIAH'S ARRIVAL IN JERUSALEM
+
+Then I came to the governors beyond the river, and gave them the king's
+letters. Now the king had sent with me captains of the army and
+horsemen. So I came to Jerusalem, and was there three days.
+
+And I arose in the night, I and some few men with me; neither told I any
+man what my God put into my heart to do for Jerusalem: neither was there
+any beast with me, save the beast that I rode upon. And I went out by
+night by the valley gate, and viewed the walls of Jerusalem, which were
+broken down, and the gates thereof were consumed with fire. And the
+rulers knew not whither I went, or what I did; neither had I as yet told
+it to the Jews, nor to the priests, nor to the nobles, nor to the
+rulers, nor to the rest that did the work.
+
+
+D. THE BEGINNING OF THE WORK
+
+Then said I unto them, "Ye see the evil case that we are in, how
+Jerusalem lieth waste, and the gates thereof are burned with fire: come
+and let us build up the wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more a
+reproach." And I told them of the hand of my God which was good upon me;
+as also of the king's words that he had spoken unto me.
+
+And they said, "Let us rise up and build." So they strengthened their
+hands for the good work.
+
+
+=Sec.91. Nehemiah's Difficulties= (Neh. 4:1-4, 6-9, 16-20; 6:1-9)
+
+A. SCORNFUL JEALOUSY OF THE ENEMIES
+
+But it came to pass that, when Sanballat heard that we builded the wall,
+he was wroth, and took great indignation, and mocked the Jews. And he
+spake before his brethren and the army of Samaria, and said, "What do
+these feeble Jews? will they fortify themselves? will they sacrifice?
+will they make an end in a day? will they revive the stones out of the
+heaps of rubbish, seeing they are burned?"
+
+Now Tobiah the Ammonite was by him, and he said, "Even that which they
+build, if a fox go up, he shall break down their stone wall."
+
+"Hear, O our God; for we are despised: and turn back their reproach upon
+their own head; for they have provoked thee to anger before the
+builders."
+
+So we built the wall; and all the wall was joined together unto half the
+height thereof: for the people had a mind to work.
+
+
+B. CONSPIRACY OF THE ENEMIES
+
+But it came to pass that, when Sanballat, and Tobiah, and the Arabians,
+and the Ammonites, and the Ashdodites, heard that the repairing of the
+walls of Jerusalem went forward, and that the breaches began to be
+stopped, that they were very wroth; and they conspired all of them
+together to come and fight against Jerusalem, and to cause confusion
+therein. But we made our prayer unto our God, and set a watch against
+them day and night, because of them. And it came to pass from that time
+forth, that half of my servants wrought in the work, and half of them
+held the spears, the shields, and the bows, and the coats of mail; and
+the rulers were behind all the house of Judah. They that builded the
+wall and they that bore burdens laded themselves, every one with one of
+his hands wrought in the work, and with the other held his weapon; and
+the builders, every one had his sword girded by his side, and so
+builded. And he that sounded the trumpet was by me. And I said unto the
+nobles, and to the rulers and to the rest of the people, "The work is
+great and large, and we are separated upon the wall, one far from
+another: in what place soever ye hear the sound of the trumpet, resort
+ye thither unto us; our God shall fight for us."
+
+
+C. PLOTS OF THE ENEMIES
+
+Now it came to pass, when it was reported to Sanballat and Tobiah, and
+to Geshem the Arabian, and unto the rest of our enemies, that I had
+builded the wall, and that there was no breach left therein (though even
+unto that time I had not set up the doors in the gates); that Sanballat
+and Geshem sent unto me, saying, "Come, let us meet together in one of
+the villages in the plain of Ono."
+
+But they thought to do me mischief. And I sent messengers unto them,
+saying, "I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down: why should
+the work cease, whilst I leave it, and come down to you?"
+
+And they sent unto me four times after this sort; and I answered them
+after the same manner. Then sent Sanballat his servant unto me in like
+manner the fifth time with an open letter in his hand; wherein was
+written, "It is reported among the nations, and Gashmu saith it, that
+thou and the Jews think to rebel; for which cause thou buildest the
+wall: and thou wouldest be their king, according to these words. And
+thou hast also appointed prophets to preach of thee at Jerusalem,
+saying, 'There is a king in Judah': and now shall it be reported to the
+king according to these words. Come now therefore, and let us take
+counsel together."
+
+Then I sent unto him, saying, "There are no such things done as thou
+sayest, but thou feignest them out of thine own heart." For they all
+would have made us afraid, saying, "Their hands shall be weakened from
+the work, that it be not done." But now, O God, strengthen thou my
+hands.
+
+
+=Sec.92. Nehemiah's Success= (Neh. 6:15, 16; 7:1-3; 12:27, 31, 38, 40, 43;
+Ps. 122:2,3)
+
+A. THE COMPLETION OF THE WALL
+
+So the wall was finished in the twenty and fifth day of the month Elul,
+in fifty and two days. And it came to pass, when all our enemies heard
+thereof, that all the heathen that were about us feared, and were much
+cast down in their own eyes: for they perceived that this work was
+wrought of our God.
+
+Now it came to pass, when the wall was built, and I had set up the
+doors, that I gave my brother Hanani, and Hananiah the governor of the
+castle, charge over Jerusalem: for he was a faithful man, and feared God
+above many. And I said unto them, "Let not the gates of Jerusalem be
+opened until the sun be hot; and while they stand on guard, let them
+shut the doors, and bar ye them: and appoint watches of the inhabitants
+of Jerusalem, every one in his watch, and every one to be over against
+his house."
+
+
+B. THE DEDICATION OF THE WALL
+
+And at the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem they sought the Levites
+out of all their places, to bring them to Jerusalem, to keep the
+dedication with gladness, both with thanksgivings, and with singing,
+with cymbals, psalteries, and with harps. Then I brought up the princes
+of Judah upon the wall, and appointed two great companies that gave
+thanks and went in procession; whereof one went on the right hand upon
+the wall eastward. And the other company of them that gave thanks went
+to meet them, and I after them, with the half of the people, upon the
+wall. And the two companies of them that gave thanks met in the house of
+God, and stood still, and the singers sang loud:
+
+ Our feet are standing
+ Within thy gates, O Jerusalem,
+ Jerusalem, that art builded
+ As a city that is compact together.
+
+And they offered great sacrifices that day, and rejoiced; for God had
+made them rejoice with great joy; and the women also and the children
+rejoiced: so that the joy of Jerusalem was heard even afar off.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+335. When a man has been prominent in a great undertaking it is very
+interesting to have his own account of it. General Grant was persuaded
+by friends to write a story of his own campaigns. It was called
+"Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S. Grant," the word "memoirs" meaning his
+own recollections of the events. Perhaps the first man who ever wrote
+such a personal story was the Governor of Judah, 2,300 years ago. The
+story we study here might be called "Personal Memoirs of Nehemiah."
+
+336. Nehemiah was a great patriot. It is easy to be a patriot when it
+simply means shouting for a great, prosperous country. But this man had
+never seen his own land. His great-grandparents had been taken away as
+prisoners, and the family had been one hundred and fifty years in the
+foreign land. But they had never forgotten their own beloved country.
+Nehemiah was rich, and in a high office in Persia, but he loved
+Jerusalem and longed to be able to serve her. Read (and learn) Ps.
+137:5, 6, and you will see how the patriotic Jews in the East felt about
+their fatherland. Let us read this personal story of the patriot and see
+what he did.
+
+337 (Sec.90A). Look at the map of the Semitic world and find Persia in the
+East. Find Susa, which is the same as Shushan. It is a long way from
+Jerusalem. But one day some of the Jews came from Jerusalem to the
+palace of the Persian king to tell the story of the sad condition of
+their city. What did they tell Nehemiah? How did the story affect him?
+What office did he hold? Look up the description of this office that we
+had some time ago (62).
+
+338 (Sec.90B). Oriental kings are very arbitrary and the courtiers have to
+be most careful not to offend them. Note how cleverly Nehemiah managed,
+so that he obtained all that he wanted from the king. What did he
+obtain?
+
+339 (Sec.90C). Look again at the map. What is the river that Nehemiah
+mentions? Recall the first journey that we followed from the East to
+Palestine (Sec.Sec.3, 5). Note that the Governor traveled with a body guard.
+What did he do first in Jerusalem?
+
+340 (Sec.90D). The people who had lived so long in the ruined city were
+discouraged. How did Nehemiah cheer them? How did they respond?
+
+341 (Sec.91A). There were jealous enemies all around Judah, so Nehemiah
+soon found himself in difficulties. First they despised his efforts. How
+did he meet this ridicule?
+
+342 (Sec.91B). When the enemies could not stop him by laughing at him, what
+did they try? How did Nehemiah plan his work so as not to be surprised?
+
+343 (Sec.91C). What plots did the enemies devise? How did Nehemiah meet the
+plots?
+
+344 (Sec.92A). In the old times, cities had to have walls all around them
+to prevent attacks. How long did it take this vigorous governor to
+repair the fortifications? How did he plan to guard the city?
+
+345 (Sec.92B). What help did Nehemiah feel that he had in all his work?
+"Dedication" means an offering to God. They gave the city to God. Tell
+the story of this joyful patriotic service. Learn the song that they
+sang.
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+You will probably find that people to-day are opposed in their
+determination to do what is right in just the same three ways that
+Nehemiah suffered. Keep a good lookout during the week and see if you
+can find anyone, young or old, trying to do some right thing while
+somebody else laughs, or while somebody tries to stop it by force, or
+while somebody tells falsehoods about it. If you find any hero who goes
+straight on in right-doing in spite of these oppositions, give a short
+account of it in your notebook.
+
+
+
+
+XXXII. ESTHER, THE PATRIOT QUEEN
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.93. Esther Made Queen= (Esther 1:1, 5, 7, 9, 11-13, 15, 16, 19, 21;
+2:1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 15-18, 20)
+
+A. QUEEN VASHTI DEPOSED
+
+King Ahasuerus made a feast unto all the people that were present in
+Shushan the palace, both great and small, seven days in the court of the
+garden of the king's palace. And they gave them in vessels of gold royal
+wine in abundance, according to every man's pleasure.
+
+Also Vashti the queen made a feast for the women in the royal house. On
+the seventh day, when the heart of the king was merry with wine, he
+commanded to bring Vashti the queen before the king with the crown
+royal, to show the peoples and the princes her beauty: for she was fair
+to look on. But the queen Vashti refused to come at the king's
+commandment by the chamberlains: therefore was the king very wroth, and
+his anger burned in him.
+
+Then the king said to the wise men, "What shall we do unto the queen
+Vashti according to law, because she hath not done the bidding of the
+king?"
+
+And Memucan answered before the king and the princes, "If it please the
+king, let there go forth a royal commandment from him, and let it be
+written among the laws of the Persians and the Medes, that it be not
+altered, that Vashti come no more before king Ahasuerus; and let the
+king give her royal estate unto another that is better than she."
+
+And the saying pleased the king and the princes; and the king did
+according to the word of Memucan.
+
+
+B. THE SELECTION OF ESTHER
+
+After these things, when the wrath of king Ahasuerus was pacified, he
+remembered Vashti, and what she had done, and what was decreed against
+her. Then said the king's servants that ministered unto him, "Let there
+be fair young maidens sought for the king in all his kingdom; and let
+the maiden which pleaseth the king be queen instead of Vashti." And the
+thing pleased the king; and he did so.
+
+There was a certain Jew, whose name was Mordecai, who had brought up
+Esther, his uncle's daughter: for she had neither father nor mother, and
+the maiden was fair and beautiful; and when her father and mother were
+dead, Mordecai took her for his own daughter. So it came to pass, when
+the king's commandment and his decree was heard, and when many maidens
+were gathered together unto Shushan the palace, that Esther was taken
+into the king's house.
+
+Now when the turn of Esther was come to go in unto the king, she
+required nothing but what the keeper of the women appointed. And Esther
+obtained favor in the sight of all them that looked upon her. So Esther
+was taken unto king Ahasuerus into his house royal in the tenth month,
+in the seventh year of his reign. And the king loved Esther above all
+the women, and she obtained grace and favor in his sight more than all
+the virgins; so that he set the royal crown upon her head, and made her
+queen instead of Vashti.
+
+Then the king made a great feast unto all his princes and his servants,
+even Esther's feast; and he gave gifts, according to the bounty of the
+king.
+
+Esther had not yet showed her kindred nor her people; as Mordecai had
+charged her: for Esther did the commandment of Mordecai, like as when
+she was brought up with him.
+
+
+=Sec.94. The Plot against the Jews= (Esther 3:1, 2, 5, 6, 8-13; 4:1, 2, 4,
+5, 8, 11-17)
+
+A. THE ENMITY OF HAMAN
+
+After these things did king Ahasuerus promote Haman, and advanced him,
+and set his seat above all the princes that were with him. And all the
+king's servants, that were in the king's gate, bowed down, and did
+reverence to Haman: for the king had so commanded concerning him. But
+Mordecai bowed not down, nor did him reverence.
+
+And when Haman saw that Mordecai bowed not down, nor did him reverence,
+then was Haman full of wrath. But he thought scorn to lay hands on
+Mordecai alone; for they had showed him the people of Mordecai:
+wherefore Haman sought to destroy all the Jews that were throughout the
+whole kingdom of Ahasuerus, even the people of Mordecai.
+
+And Haman said unto king Ahasuerus, "There is a certain people scattered
+abroad and dispersed among the peoples in all the provinces of thy
+kingdom; and their laws are diverse from those of every people; neither
+keep they the king's laws: therefore it is not for the king's profit to
+suffer them. If it please the king, let it be written that they be
+destroyed."
+
+And the king took his ring from his hand and gave it unto Haman, and
+said, "The people is given to thee to do with them as it seemeth good to
+thee."
+
+Then were the king's scribes called, and letters were sent by posts into
+all the king's provinces, to destroy, to slay, and to cause to perish,
+all Jews, both young and old, little children and women, in one day,
+even upon the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, which is the month
+Adar, and to take the spoil of them for a prey.
+
+
+B. MORDECAI'S APPEAL TO ESTHER
+
+Now when Mordecai knew all that was done, Mordecai rent his clothes, and
+put on sackcloth with ashes, and went out into the midst of the city,
+and cried with a loud and a bitter cry: and he came even before the
+king's gate: for none might enter within the king's gate clothed with
+sackcloth. And in every province, whithersoever the king's commandment
+and his decree came, there was great mourning among the Jews, and
+fasting, and weeping, and wailing; and many lay in sackcloth and ashes.
+
+And Esther's maidens and her chamberlains came and told it her; and the
+queen was exceedingly grieved: and she sent her chamberlain to Mordecai
+to know what this was, and why it was.
+
+And Mordecai gave him a copy of the writing of the decree that was given
+out in Shushan to destroy them, to show it unto Esther, and to declare
+it unto her; and to charge her that she should go in unto the king, to
+make supplication unto him, and to make request before him, for her
+people.
+
+And he came and told Esther the words of Mordecai. Then Esther gave him
+a message unto Mordecai, saying: "All the king's servants, and the
+people of the king's provinces, do know, that whosoever, whether man or
+woman, shall come unto the king into the inner court, who is not called,
+there is one law for him, that he be put to death, except such to whom
+the king shall hold out the golden sceptre, that he may live: but I have
+not been called to come in unto the king these thirty days."
+
+And they told to Mordecai Esther's words. Then Mordecai bade them return
+answer unto Esther, "Think not with thyself that thou shalt escape in
+the king's house, more than all the Jews. For if thou altogether
+holdest thy peace at this time, then shall relief and deliverance arise
+to the Jews from another place, but thou and thy father's house shall
+perish: and who knoweth whether thou art not come to the kingdom for
+such a time as this?"
+
+Then Esther bade them return answer unto Mordecai, "Go, gather together
+all the Jews that are present in Shushan, and fast ye for me, and
+neither eat nor drink three days, night or day: I also and my maidens
+will fast in like manner; and so will I go in unto the king, which is
+not according to the law: and if I perish, I perish."
+
+So Mordecai went his way, and did according to all that Esther had
+commanded him.
+
+
+=Sec.95. Esther's Brave Intercession= (Esther 5:1-5; 7:2-6, 9, 10; 8:1-8,
+9, 11, 15-17; 9:1, 2, 5, 20-23, 32)
+
+A. THE DANGEROUS INTERVIEW
+
+Now it came to pass on the third day, that Esther put on her royal
+apparel, and stood in the inner court of the king's house, over against
+the king's house: and the king sat upon his royal throne in the royal
+house, over against the entrance of the house. And it was so, when the
+king saw Esther the queen standing in the court, that she obtained favor
+in his sight: and the king held out to Esther the golden sceptre that
+was in his hand. So Esther drew near, and touched the top of the
+sceptre. Then said the king unto her, "What wilt thou, queen Esther?
+and what is thy request? it shall be given thee even to the half of the
+kingdom."
+
+[Illustration: _From Price, "The Monuments and the Old Testament"_
+ESTHER'S PALACE]
+
+And Esther said, "If it seem good unto the king, let the king and Haman
+come this day unto the banquet that I have prepared for him."
+
+Then the king said, "Cause Haman to make haste, that it may be done as
+Esther hath said."
+
+So the king and Haman came to the banquet that Esther had prepared. And
+the king said unto Esther, "What is thy petition, queen Esther? and it
+shall be granted thee: and what is thy request? even to the half of the
+kingdom it shall be performed."
+
+Then Esther the queen answered and said, "If I have found favor in thy
+sight, O king, and if it please the king, let my life be given me at my
+petition, and my people at my request: for we are sold, I and my people,
+to be destroyed, to be slain, and to perish."
+
+Then spake the king Ahasuerus and said unto Esther the queen, "Who is
+he, and where is he, that durst presume in his heart to do so?"
+
+And Esther said, "An adversary and an enemy, even this wicked Haman."
+
+Then Haman was afraid before the king and the queen. Then said one of
+the chamberlains that were before the king, "Behold also, the gallows
+fifty cubits high, which Haman hath made for Mordecai standeth in the
+house of Haman."
+
+And the king said, "Hang him thereon."
+
+So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai.
+Then was the king's wrath pacified.
+
+
+B. THE DELIVERANCE OF THE JEWS
+
+On that day did the king Ahasuerus give the house of Haman the Jews'
+enemy unto Esther the queen. And Mordecai came before the king; for
+Esther had told what he was unto her. And the king took off his ring,
+which he had taken from Haman, and gave it unto Mordecai. And Esther set
+Mordecai over the house of Haman.
+
+And Esther spake yet again before the king, and fell down at his feet,
+and besought him with tears to put away the mischief of Haman and his
+device that he had devised against the Jews. Then the king held out to
+Esther the golden sceptre. So Esther arose, and stood before the king.
+And she said, "If it please the king, and if I have found favor in his
+sight, and the thing seem right before the king, and I be pleasing in
+his eyes, let it be written to reverse the letters devised by Haman
+which he wrote to destroy the Jews which are in all the king's
+provinces: for how can I endure to see the evil that shall come unto my
+people? or how can I endure to see the destruction of my kindred?"
+
+Then the king Ahasuerus said unto Esther the queen and to Mordecai the
+Jew, "Behold, I have given Esther the house of Haman, and him they have
+hanged upon the gallows, because he laid his hand upon the Jews. Write
+ye also to the Jews, as it liketh you, in the king's name, and seal it
+with the king's ring: for the writing which is written in the king's
+name, and sealed with the king's ring, may no man reverse."
+
+Then were the king's scribes called at that time, and it was written
+according to all that Mordecai commanded unto the Jews, and to the
+satraps, and the governors and princes of the provinces, that the king
+granted the Jews which were in every city to gather themselves together,
+and to stand for their life, to destroy, to slay, and to cause to
+perish, all the power of the people and province that would assault
+them, their little ones and women, and to take the spoil of them for a
+prey.
+
+And Mordecai went forth from the presence of the king in royal apparel
+of blue and white, and with a great crown of gold, and with a robe of
+fine linen and purple: and the city of Shushan shouted and was glad. The
+Jews had light and gladness, and joy and honor. And in every province,
+and in every city, whithersoever the king's commandment and his decree
+came, the Jews had gladness and joy, a feast and a good day. And many
+from among the peoples of the land became Jews; for the fear of the Jews
+was fallen upon them.
+
+
+C. THE FEAST OF THE DELIVERANCE
+
+Now in the twelfth month, which is the month Adar, on the thirteenth day
+of the same, when the king's commandment and his decree drew near to be
+put in execution, in the day that the enemies of the Jews hoped to have
+rule over them; whereas it was turned to the contrary, that the Jews had
+rule over them that hated them; the Jews gathered themselves together in
+their cities throughout all the provinces of the king Ahasuerus, to lay
+hand on such as sought their hurt: and no man could withstand them; for
+the fear of them was fallen upon all the peoples. And the Jews smote all
+their enemies with the stroke of the sword, and with slaughter and
+destruction, and did what they would unto them that hated them.
+
+And Mordecai wrote letters unto all the Jews that were in all the
+provinces of the king Ahasuerus, both nigh and far, to enjoin them that
+they should keep the fourteenth day of the month Adar, and the fifteenth
+day of the same, yearly, as the days wherein the Jews had rest from
+their enemies, and the month which was turned unto them from sorrow to
+gladness, and from mourning into a good day: that they should make them
+days of feasting and gladness, and of sending portions one to another,
+and gifts to the poor. And the Jews undertook to do as they had begun,
+and as Mordecai had written unto them.
+
+And the commandment of Esther confirmed these matters of the feast of
+Purim; and it was written in the book.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+346. Among the stories of their heroes the Jews preserved several
+stories of heroines, and none is more striking than that of the patriot
+queen, whose extraordinary bravery saved her people. There are many
+kinds of bravery, some in doing, some in suffering. Let us try to get a
+correct judgment of Esther.
+
+347 (Sec.93A). The first part of the story shows how Esther became the
+queen of Persia. What kind of feast did the king give? What command did
+he give to Vashti? Let us remember that ladies in the East do not often
+appear in public before men. How did it happen that Vashti was deposed?
+
+348 (Sec.93B). What plan was proposed to secure a most beautiful wife for
+the king? Who was Mordecai? How did he get Esther introduced to the
+king? How did she become queen? Note that her cousin had advised her not
+to let it be known that she was a Jewess, because there was a prejudice
+against her nation.
+
+349 (Sec.94A). The villain of the story is Haman. What high place did he
+hold? How did Mordecai offend him? What revenge did he plan?
+
+350 (Sec.94B). Mordecai knew that when a royal decree had been issued it
+could not be changed. How did he behave? What did he request Esther to
+do?
+
+351 (Sec.94B). Notice the strict rule of the Persian court. No one could
+see the king unless summoned by him. How different from our democratic
+government, where any citizen may at least ask permission to see the
+president! But Mordecai urged Esther to risk her life to save her
+people. Now see how brave she was. She might have said, "No one knows
+that I am a Jewess. I am quite safe as the king's wife. I will keep
+silent. It would be folly to risk my life by offending the king." But
+she decided to risk her great place with its wealth and luxury, and also
+her life, because her duty to her people required it. What answer did
+she send to Mordecai?
+
+352 (Sec.95A). Describe Esther's approach to the king. The tyrant happened
+to be in a good humor, so she was safe. What invitation did she extend?
+
+353 (Sec.95A). Haman was delighted with the great honor the queen did him.
+He had no idea that his enemy, whom he had planned to hang on a high
+gallows, was the queen's cousin. How did it all turn out?
+
+354 (Sec.95B). How was Mordecai promoted? We must remember that although
+Haman was dead, the king's decree for the slaughter of the Jews could
+not be changed. But permission could be given to the Jews to defend
+themselves on the day of the massacre. How was this arranged?
+
+355 (Sec.95C). Of course this is an old story of times when people took
+fierce revenge, so we learn that the Jews slaughtered their enemies. But
+it was a great deliverance, and Mordecai and Esther planned that a great
+feast should be kept to celebrate it. What kind of feast was it?
+
+356 (Sec.95C). The Jews still keep the Feast of Purim. It is one of the
+merriest times they have. They have all kinds of fun and give presents,
+as we do at Christmas. And they still honor the beautiful queen, who
+stood with her own people in their peril, and saved them by her wit and
+courage.
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Recall Mordecai's suggestion to Esther (p. 356). In the days of chivalry
+knights had a motto: _Noblesse oblige_ meaning that those of noble rank
+had an obligation to serve those in need. Any strength or good we have
+is not for our own use, but to help others with. Take this as your
+motto. Draw a banner and inscribe in colors: _Noblesse oblige_.
+
+
+
+
+XXXIII. JUDAS, THE HAMMERER
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.96. The Tyrant and the Heroes= (I Macc. 1:41-50, 54-57; 2:1-7, 14, 15,
+17-25, 27, 28, 44, 45, 48-50, 64-66, 70)
+
+A. THE TYRANNY OF ANTIOCHUS
+
+Antiochus, king of Syria, who had rule over many peoples and over the
+Jews, wrote to his whole kingdom, that all should be one people, and
+that each should forsake his own laws. And all the nations agreed
+according to the word of the king, and many of Israel consented to his
+worship, and sacrificed to the idols, and profaned the sabbath. And the
+king sent letters by the hand of messengers unto Jerusalem and the
+cities of Judah, that they should follow laws strange to the land, and
+should profane the sabbaths and feasts, and pollute the sanctuary; that
+they should build altars, and temples for idols, and should sacrifice
+swine's flesh and unclean beasts. And whosoever shall not do according
+to the word of the king, he shall die.
+
+And they built an abomination of desolation upon the altar, and in the
+cities of Judah they built idol altars. And they rent in pieces the
+books of the law which they found, and set them on fire. And wheresoever
+was found with any a book of the covenant, and if any consented to the
+law, the king's sentence delivered him to death.
+
+
+B. THE OLD HERO AND HIS FIVE SONS
+
+In those days rose up Mattathias the priest, who dwelt at Modin. And he
+had five sons, John, Simon, Judas who was called Maccabaeus (the
+Hammerer), Eleazar, Jonathan. And he saw the blasphemies that were
+committed in Judah and in Jerusalem, and he said. "Woe is me! wherefore
+was I born to see the destruction of my people and of the holy city?
+Wherefore should we live any longer?"
+
+And Mattathias and his sons rent their clothes, and put on sackcloth,
+and mourned exceedingly.
+
+And the king's officers came into the city Modin to sacrifice. And they
+spake to Mattathias saying, "Thou art a ruler and an honorable and great
+man in this city, and strengthened with sons and brethren; now therefore
+come thou first and do the commandment of the king, as all the nations
+have done, and the men of Judah, and they that remain in Jerusalem: and
+thou and thy house shall be in the number of the king's Friends, and
+thou and thy sons shall be honored with silver and gold and many gifts."
+
+And Mattathias answered and said with a loud voice, "If all the nations
+that are in the king's dominion hearken unto him, to fall away each one
+from the worship of his fathers, and have made choice to follow his
+commandments, yet will I and my sons and my brethren walk in the
+covenant of our fathers. We will not hearken to the king's words, to go
+aside from our worship, on the right hand, or on the left."
+
+And when he had left speaking these words, there came a Jew in the sight
+of all to sacrifice on the altar which was at Modin, according to the
+king's commandment. And Mattathias saw it, and his zeal was kindled, and
+he showed forth his wrath, and ran and slew him upon the altar. And the
+king's officer, who compelled men to sacrifice, he killed at that time,
+and pulled down the altar. And he cried with a loud voice, "Whosoever is
+zealous for the law, let him come forth after me."
+
+And Mattathias and his sons fled into the mountains, and they mustered a
+host and smote sinners in their anger, and they went round about, and
+pulled down the altars, and they rescued the law out of the hand of the
+Gentiles.
+
+And the days of Mattathias drew near that he should die, and he said
+unto his sons, "My children, be ye zealous for the law, and give your
+lives for the covenant of your fathers. Be strong and show yourselves
+men in behalf of the law; for therein shall ye obtain glory. And,
+behold, Simon your brother, I know that he is a man of counsel; give ear
+unto him alway: he shall be a father unto you. And Judas Maccabaeus, he
+hath been strong and mighty from his youth: he shall be your captain,
+and shall fight the battle of the people."
+
+And he blessed them, and was gathered to his fathers. And all Israel
+made great lamentation for him.
+
+
+=Sec.97. The Great Deliverance= (I Macc. 3:1, 2, 13, 15-23, 25, 34, 35;
+4:14, 25, 28, 34, 36-40, 42, 43, 47, 48, 53-56, 58; 9:20-22)
+
+A. THE VICTORIES OF JUDAS
+
+And his son Judas, who was called Maccabaeus, rose up in his stead. And
+all his brethren helped him, and so did all they that clave unto his
+father. And they fought with gladness the battle of Israel.
+
+And Seron, the commander of the host of Syria, heard that Judas had
+gathered a congregation of faithful men with him, and of such as went
+out to war. And he went up with a mighty army of the ungodly to take
+vengeance on the children of Israel.
+
+And Judas went forth to meet him with a small company. But when they saw
+the army coming to meet them they said unto Judas, "What? shall we be
+able, being a small company, to fight against so great and strong a
+multitude? And we for our part are faint, having tasted no food this
+day."
+
+And Judas said, "It is an easy thing for many to be shut up in the hands
+of a few; and with heaven it is all one to save by many or by few: for
+victory in battle standeth not in the multitude of a host; but strength
+is from heaven. They come to destroy us and our wives and our children:
+but we fight for our lives and our laws. Be ye not afraid of them."
+
+Now when he had left off speaking, he leapt suddenly upon them, and
+Seron and his army were discomfited before him.
+
+And the fear of Judas and his brethren, and the dread of them, began to
+fall upon the nations round about them. And king Antiochus gave Lysias
+half of his forces, and the elephants, and gave him charge to destroy
+the strength of Israel, and the remnant of Jerusalem. And Lysias chose
+three mighty men; and with them he sent forty thousand footmen, and
+seven thousand horse, to go into the land of Judah, and to destroy it.
+And Judas joined battle, and the Gentiles were discomfited. And Israel
+had a great deliverance that day.
+
+And the next year Lysias gathered together sixty thousand chosen
+footmen, and five thousand horse. And Judas met them with ten thousand
+men. And they joined battle; and there fell of the army of Lysias about
+five thousand men.
+
+
+B. THE TEMPLE CLEANSED
+
+Judas and his brethren said, "Behold, our enemies are discomfited; let
+us go up to cleanse the holy place and to dedicate it afresh."
+
+And all the army was gathered together, and they went up unto mount
+Zion. And they saw the sanctuary laid desolate, and the altar profaned
+and the gates burned up, and shrubs growing in the court as in a forest,
+and the priests' chambers pulled down. And they rent their clothes, and
+made great lamentation, and put ashes upon their heads, and fell on
+their faces to the ground, and cried toward heaven.
+
+Then Judas chose blameless priests, and they cleansed the holy place.
+And they built a new altar after the fashion of the former; and they
+built the holy place, and the inner parts of the house; and they
+hallowed the courts.
+
+
+C. THE OLD WORSHIP RESTORED
+
+And they offered sacrifice according to the law upon the new altar of
+burnt offerings which they had made. At what time and on what day the
+Gentiles had profaned it, even on that day was it dedicated afresh, with
+songs and harps and lutes, and with cymbals. And all the people fell
+upon their faces, and worshipped, and gave praise unto heaven, which had
+given them good success. And they kept the dedication of the altar eight
+days, and offered burnt offerings with gladness, and sacrificed a
+sacrifice of deliverance and praise. And there was exceeding great
+gladness among the people, and the reproach of the Gentiles was turned
+away.
+
+
+D. THE DEATH OF JUDAS
+
+And when Judas died all Israel made great lamentation for him, and
+mourned many days, and said, "How is the mighty fallen, the Savior of
+Israel!"
+
+And the rest of the acts of Judas, and his wars, and the valiant deeds
+which he did, and his greatness, they are not written; for they were
+exceeding many.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+357. Three hundred years ago King Philip II of Spain was the most
+powerful king in Europe. He was a bitter tyrant, determined to rule his
+people according to his own will. He was a Roman Catholic and hated all
+Protestants. The little country of Holland was part of his territory and
+he ordered the people to become Roman Catholics. They refused, for they
+were loyal to their own religion. He sent against them a great army
+under the command of a brutal general, Alva, and all Europe thought that
+the little people would be crushed. But they fought for their faith and
+their homes so valiantly that the tyrant was compelled to withdraw. It
+is almost impossible to destroy patriots.
+
+358. We always admire the heroism of those who resist tyrants. The Jews
+were often bitterly persecuted and they had many a hero who defended
+them. One of the greatest of all their heroes was Judas, who was called
+the Maccabee, or the Hammerer. With a great faith in God and a wonderful
+courage he defeated large armies. His story is not found in the Old
+Testament, but in another collection of Hebrew books called "The
+Apocrypha." The book is I Maccabees.
+
+359 (Sec.96A). At the time of this story the Jews were under the rule of
+Antiochus, the king of Syria. What was the wish of this tyrant? What
+insults were offered to the religion of the Jews?
+
+360 (Sec.96B). An old priest was living in one of the villages of Judah
+with his five noble sons. They were very much distressed about the sad
+state of their people: but what could they do against the strong king?
+At last the king's officers came to this village to order the heathen
+sacrifices. What did they demand of Mattathias, and what did they
+promise him? How did the old priest answer? What followed?
+
+361 (Sec.96B). The priest and his sons went to the hills, where they could
+find refuge in the caves. Who joined them? What did they do? The fierce
+contest was too severe for the old man, and he soon fell ill. What were
+his last words to his sons?
+
+362 (Sec.97A). Who took the lead after the death of the old priest? Note
+that there was no jealousy among those noble brothers. Tell the story of
+the first victory over the Syrians.
+
+363 (Sec.97A). The king was astonished that his forces should be defeated
+by the little army of patriots. Great preparations to crush the Jews
+were made. Note that elephants with armed men were employed. What was
+the result of the campaigns?
+
+364 (Sec.97B). At last the victories were so conclusive that they thought
+it safe to go to Jerusalem and clean out the abominations from the
+temple. In what condition did they find the temple? How did it affect
+them? How did Judas purify it?
+
+365 (Sec.97C). Note how happy they were when they could worship once more
+in the house of God. Describe the celebration.
+
+366 (Sec.97D). One can imagine how greatly the Jews would honor such a
+deliverer as Judas. How did they mourn for him at his death?
+
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Imagine yourself a boy (or girl) about thirteen years old, living in the
+village of Modin a little over two thousand years ago. Imagine that you
+were present on the day when the officers came to command the heathen
+sacrifice. Then imagine yourself writing a letter describing everything
+that took place that day. Write it in the first person to some friend
+who was absent. Describe the whole scene just as it lies in your mind,
+and tell what you think of the heroes.
+
+
+
+
+XXXIV. DANIEL AND HIS FRIENDS
+
+THE STORY
+
+
+=Sec.98. The Training of the Young Men= (Daniel 1:1-19)
+
+When Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, came against Jerusalem and
+captured it, certain of the youths of the nobility were taken and given
+into the charge of the master of the king's servants that he should
+teach them the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans. And the king
+appointed for them a daily portion of the king's meat, and of the wine
+which he drank, and that they should be nourished three years; that at
+the end thereof they might stand before the king. Now among these were,
+of the children of Judah, Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. And
+the master gave names unto them: unto Daniel he gave the name of
+Belteshazzar; and to Hananiah, of Shadrach; and to Mishael, of Meshach;
+and to Azariah, of Abed-nego.
+
+But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with
+the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he
+requested of the master that he might not defile himself. Now God made
+Daniel to find favor and compassion in the sight of the master. And he
+said unto Daniel, "I fear my lord the king, who hath appointed your meat
+and your drink: for why should he see your faces worse liking than the
+youths which are of your own age? so should ye endanger my head with the
+king."
+
+Then said Daniel to the steward, whom the master had appointed over
+them, "Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, ten days; and let them give
+us vegetables to eat, and water to drink. Then let our countenances be
+looked upon before thee, and the countenance of the youths that eat of
+the king's meat; and as thou seest, deal with thy servants."
+
+So he hearkened unto them in this matter, and proved them ten days. And
+at the end of ten days their countenances appeared fairer, and they were
+fatter in flesh, than all the youths which did eat of the king's meat.
+So the steward took away their meat, and the wine that they should
+drink, and gave them vegetables. Now as for these four youths, God gave
+them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had
+understanding in all visions and dreams. And at the end of the days
+which the king had appointed for bringing them in, the master brought
+them in before Nebuchadnezzar. And the king communed with them; and
+among them all was found none like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and
+Azariah: therefore stood they before the king.
+
+
+=Sec.99. The Golden Image and the Fiery Furnace= (Dan. 3:1, 2, 4-30)
+
+A. THE WORSHIP OF THE GOLDEN IMAGE
+
+Nebuchadnezzar the king made an image of gold, whose height was sixty
+cubits, and its breadth six cubits: he set it up in the plain of Dura in
+the province of Babylon. Then the king sent to gather together all the
+rulers of the provinces to come to the dedication of the image.
+
+Then the herald cried aloud, "To you it is commanded, O peoples,
+nations, and languages, that at what time ye hear the sound of the
+cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, dulcimer, and all kinds of
+music, ye fall down and worship the golden image that Nebuchadnezzar the
+king hath set up: and whoso falleth not down and worshippeth shall the
+same hour be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace."
+
+Therefore at that time, when all the peoples heard the music, they fell
+down and worshipped the golden image that Nebuchadnezzar the king had
+set up.
+
+
+B. THE THREE JEWS DEFY THE KING
+
+Wherefore at that time certain Chaldeans came near, and brought
+accusation against the Jews, and said to Nebuchadnezzar, "O king, live
+for ever. Thou, O king, hast made a decree, that every man that shall
+hear the sound of the music, shall fall down and worship the golden
+image: and whoso falleth not down and worshippeth, shall be cast into
+the midst of a burning fiery furnace. There are certain Jews whom thou
+hast appointed over the affairs of the province of Babylon, Shadrach,
+Meshach, and Abed-nego; these men, O king, have not regarded thee: they
+serve not thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set
+up."
+
+Then Nebuchadnezzar in his rage and fury commanded to bring Shadrach,
+Meshach, and Abed-nego. Then they brought these men before the king.
+Nebuchadnezzar said unto them, "Is it of purpose, O Shadrach, Meshach,
+and Abed-nego, that ye serve not my god, nor worship the golden image
+which I have set up? Now if ye be ready that at what time ye hear the
+sound of the music, ye fall down and worship the image which I have
+made, well: but if ye worship not, ye shall be cast the same hour into
+the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who is that god that shall
+deliver you out of my hands?"
+
+Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego answered and said to the king, "O
+Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer thee in this matter. If it be
+so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery
+furnace; and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not,
+be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor
+worship the golden image which thou hast set up."
+
+
+C. DELIVERANCE FROM THE FIERY FURNACE
+
+Then was Nebuchadnezzar full of fury, and the form of his visage was
+changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego: therefore he spake,
+and commanded that they should heat the furnace seven times more than it
+was wont to be heated. And he commanded certain mighty men that were in
+his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, and to cast them into
+the burning fiery furnace. Then these men were bound in their hose,
+their tunics, and their mantles, and their other garments, and were cast
+into the midst of the burning fiery furnace. Therefore because the
+king's commandment was urgent, and the furnace exceeding hot, the flame
+of the fire slew those men that took up Shadrach, Meshach, and
+Abed-nego. And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, fell
+down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace.
+
+Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonished and rose up in haste: he
+spake and said unto his counselors, "Did not we cast three men bound
+into the midst of the fire?"
+
+They answered and said unto the king, "True, O king."
+
+He answered and said, "Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of
+the fire, and they have no hurt; and the aspect of the fourth is like a
+son of the gods."
+
+Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the mouth of the burning fiery furnace:
+he spake and said, "Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, ye servants of the
+Most High God, come forth, and come hither."
+
+Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, came forth out of the midst of
+the fire. And the satraps, the deputies, and the governors, and the
+king's counselors, being gathered together, saw these men, that the fire
+had no power upon their bodies, nor was the hair of their head singed,
+neither were their hose changed, nor had the smell of fire passed on
+them.
+
+Nebuchadnezzar spake and said, "Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach,
+and Abed-nego, who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that
+trusted in him, and have changed the king's word, and have yielded their
+bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own
+God. Therefore I make a decree, that every people, nation, and language,
+which speak anything amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and
+Abed-nego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a
+ruin: because there is no other god that is able to deliver after this
+sort."
+
+Then the king promoted Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, in the province
+of Babylon.
+
+
+=Sec.100. Daniel and the Lions= (Dan. 6:1-28)
+
+A. THE DECREE OF KING DARIUS
+
+It pleased Darius to set over the kingdom a hundred and twenty satraps,
+which should be throughout the whole kingdom; and over them three
+presidents, of whom Daniel was one; that these satraps might give
+account unto them, and that the king should have no damage. Then this
+Daniel was distinguished above the presidents and the satraps, because
+an excellent spirit was in him; and the king thought to set him over the
+whole realm.
+
+Then the presidents and the satraps sought to find occasion against
+Daniel as touching the kingdom; but they could find none occasion nor
+fault; forasmuch as he was faithful, neither was there any error or
+fault found in him. Then said these men, "We shall not find any occasion
+against this Daniel, except we find it against him concerning the law of
+his God."
+
+Then these presidents and satraps assembled together to the king, and
+said thus unto him, "King Darius, live for ever. All the presidents of
+the kingdom, the deputies and the satraps, the counselors and the
+governors, have consulted together, to establish a royal statute, and to
+make a strong decree, that whosoever shall ask a petition of any god or
+man for thirty days, save of thee, O king, he shall be cast into the den
+of lions. Now, O king, establish the decree, and sign the writing, that
+it be not changed, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which
+altereth not."
+
+Wherefore king Darius signed the writing and the decree.
+
+
+B. DANIEL AT HIS PRAYERS
+
+And when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house
+(now his windows were open in his chamber toward Jerusalem); and he
+kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks
+before his God, as he did aforetime. Then these men assembled together,
+and found Daniel making petition and supplication before his God.
+
+Then they came near, and spake before the king concerning the king's
+decree; "Hast thou not signed a decree, that every man that shall make
+petition unto any god or man within thirty days, save unto thee, O king,
+shall be cast into the den of lions?"
+
+The king answered and said, "The thing is true, according to the law of
+the Medes and Persians, which altereth not."
+
+Then answered they and said before the king, "That Daniel, which is of
+the children of the captivity of Judah, regardeth not thee, O king, nor
+the decree that thou hast signed, but maketh his petition three times a
+day."
+
+Then the king, when he heard these words, was sore displeased, and set
+his heart on Daniel to deliver him: and he labored till the going down
+of the sun to rescue him.
+
+Then these men assembled together unto the king and said unto the king,
+"Know, O king, that it is a law of the Medes and Persians, that no
+decree nor statute which the king establisheth may be changed."
+
+
+C. DANIEL DELIVERED FROM THE LIONS
+
+Then the king commanded, and they brought Daniel, and cast him into the
+den of lions. Now the king spake and said unto Daniel, "Thy God whom
+thou servest continually, he will deliver thee."
+
+And a stone was brought, and laid upon the mouth of the den; and the
+king sealed it with his own signet, and with the signet of his lords;
+that nothing might be changed concerning Daniel.
+
+Then the king went to his palace, and passed the night fasting: neither
+were instruments of music brought before him: and his sleep fled from
+him. Then the king arose very early in the morning, and went in haste
+unto the den of lions. And when he came near unto the den to Daniel, he
+cried with a lamentable voice: the king spake and said to Daniel, "O
+Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest
+continually, able to deliver thee from the lions?"
+
+Then said Daniel unto the king, "O king, live for ever. My God hath sent
+his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, and they have not hurt me:
+forasmuch as before him innocency was found in me; and also before thee,
+O king, have I done no hurt."
+
+Then was the king exceeding glad, and commanded that they should take
+Daniel up out of the den. So Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no
+manner of hurt was found upon him, because he had trusted in his God.
+
+And the king commanded, and they brought those men which had accused
+Daniel, and they cast them into the den of lions, them, their children,
+and their wives; and the lions had the mastery of them, and break all
+their bones in pieces, or ever they came at the bottom of the den.
+
+
+D. THE PROSPERITY OF DANIEL
+
+Then king Darius wrote unto all the peoples, nations, and languages,
+that dwell in all the earth; "Peace be multiplied unto you. I make a
+decree, that in all the dominion of my kingdom men tremble and fear
+before the God of Daniel: for he is the living God, and stedfast for
+ever, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed, and his
+dominion shall be even unto the end: he delivereth and rescueth, and he
+worked signs and wonders in heaven and in earth; who hath delivered
+Daniel from the power of the lions."
+
+So this Daniel prospered in the reign of Darius, and in the reign of
+Cyrus the Persian.
+
+
+THE MEANING OF THE STORY
+
+367. In the last chapter we studied the bitter persecution of the Jews
+in the time of Antiochus. God sent them a great deliverer in Judas the
+Hammerer. He also sent them a helper who told them heroic stories of
+the olden time to encourage them to believe that God would surely
+deliver them. These stories were of Daniel and his three friends who
+were taken to Babylon in the captivity. They were under great temptation
+to be untrue to their religion. We can see how these stories would help
+the people to be faithful.
+
+368 (Sec.98). In the old times the food and wine for the king's table would
+first be offered to the heathen gods, so Daniel felt that he would
+really be an idolator if he took them. What request did he make? How did
+the master think it would be discovered that he had not fed them on rich
+food? What test did Daniel propose? How did it turn out? Of course it
+was really much more healthy for the young men to live simply. It took
+some courage to stand out against the officer, but it was a matter of
+conscience with Daniel and his friends.
+
+369 (Sec.99A). Imagine the great golden image 100 feet high. What was the
+king's command to the people? What was to be the penalty if they refused
+to obey? How would a faithful servant of the Lord feel about it?
+
+370 (Sec.99B). We do not know where Daniel was at this time, but what did
+his three friends do? What did the king say to them? What did they
+answer him? Notice carefully that they said they were sure God could
+save them, but whether he did or not they would be faithful. God does
+not always save people from death. The noble army of martyrs have been
+faithful unto death. But God has always brought good out of their
+sufferings.
+
+371 (Sec.99C). Describe the scene when these men were thrown into the
+furnace? What did the king think he saw? What did he do to the three?
+What impression did it make on the king? We can understand how the Jews
+would have told such a wonderful story as this to cheer those who were
+under great temptation to give up their faith.
+
+372 (Sec.100A). Long after, when Daniel was an old man, another great
+danger arose. He had meantime been promoted to the highest station.
+Great men always have many enemies who are jealous of them. All our
+great Americans have had those who envied them. What foolish thing did
+Daniel's enemies persuade the king to do? There seems to have been a
+rule that if the king gave an order it could not be changed.
+
+373 (Sec.100B). What had been Daniel's custom regarding prayer? How did he
+change it when he heard of the decree? Would he have been wiser to pray
+secretly? Some of our soldier boys that went to the war were ashamed to
+kneel down and pray at night, but some of them were not afraid even when
+their companions jeered them. Do you remember a story like that in _Tom
+Brown at Rugby_? How did the king feel when he found that Daniel had
+refused to obey the decree? Why could not the king pardon him? Notice
+how bitterly his enemies insisted on the penalty.
+
+374 (Sec.100C). What did the king say to Daniel? How did the king pass the
+night? What happened in the morning? What was done to his enemies?
+
+375 (Sec.100D). What message did the king send to his people? Daniel's
+bravery made the king respect his religion. What was the result of all
+this to Daniel? Suppose Daniel had been killed by the lions, what would
+you think of him?
+
+
+WRITTEN REVIEW
+
+Think about Daniel's refusal to do wrong. You have probably
+known one of your companions who refused to do some wrong when
+it was hard to refuse. Young people can be heroes in standing
+up for duty. Write about anybody whom you have known who did
+this. Or perhaps you will find somebody actually doing such a
+thing now. Make a good story of it for your notebook.
+
+
+
+
+REVIEW
+
+ XXXV. SEVEN HEROIC NAMES
+
+
+
+
+XXXV. SEVEN HEROIC NAMES
+
+376. The Hebrews always looked back to their magnificent king, whom they
+thought of as the wisest of men. What was his name? Tell the story of
+his great building. (Sec.79; I Kings 5:2-6.[2])
+
+[2: Very short Scripture references are given, just enough to
+recall the story. It might be well to read these as well as to look at
+the section in the textbook.]
+
+377. What great prophet was the champion of pure religion? Tell the
+story of the test at Mount Carmel. (Sec.82; I Kings 18:20-24.)
+
+378. King Ahab had a fine palace in Jezreel and Naboth had a vineyard
+near by. Tell the story of the king's covetousness. Why did Elijah
+interfere? (Sec.84; I Kings 21:17-23.)
+
+379. Who was the prophet that followed Elijah? Why did we call him the
+healer and counselor? We read a number of stories of his kindly deeds to
+the people. Tell one of them.
+
+380. One of Israel's heroes was a man who had always lived far away from
+Jerusalem. He had a high office, and would have found it more profitable
+not to trouble himself about his countrymen. But he heard of their sad
+condition and persuaded the king to let him help them. Tell the story of
+Nehemiah building the wall of Jerusalem. (Sec.91; Neh. 6:15, 16.)
+
+381. Two books in the Old Testament are named after women. One was a
+foreigner who came into Israel, the other was the beautiful Jewess who
+married the Persian king. Who was the wicked man that wanted to kill all
+the Jews? How did the queen risk her life to save her people? (Sec.95;
+Esther 4:13-17.)
+
+382. We studied about one hero, whose story is not in the Old Testament.
+What did his surname Maccabaeus mean? How did he deliver his people?
+(Sec.97.)
+
+383. Sometimes the noblest heroism is just to refuse to be frightened
+away from doing right. Who was the man who prayed three times a day when
+the king had commanded that no prayers should be offered except to
+himself. Tell the story of the den of lions. (Sec.100.)
+
+384. Write down these seven heroic names. Which of them was honored as
+the kindly helper of the needy and the wise adviser of his nation in
+days of trouble? Which was the gallant soldier who defeated the tyrant?
+Who risked life and fortune to save the people? Who started out in his
+youth to be a good judge and ruler of the people? Who was loyal to his
+conscience at the risk of his life? Who was the stern rebuker of
+injustice? Who gave up his ease to work for his troubled people? Note
+that there are many ways to be a hero.
+
+ * * * * *
+
+
+
+
+CONSTRUCTIVE BIBLE STUDIES
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+ =A Short History of Christianity in the Apostolic Age.= By
+ GEORGE H. GILBERT. $1.00 net; postpaid $1.14.
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+ HARPER. $1.00 net; postpaid $1.12.
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+ HARPER. $1.00 net; postpaid $1.10.
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+ postpaid 54 cents.
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+
+ Transcribers Note: skekels changed to shekels Sect. 68 A
+ thuo changed to thou Sect. 68 C
+ Eljiah changed to Elijah Sect. 82 B
+ Scripture references have been standardised as
+ this example (Gen. 21:2, 3; 22:1-19)
+ Punctuation moved inside end quote on the following
+ lines:--
+ "Drink, my lord:" Sect. 9 B
+ "Lest peradventure the people repent when they
+ see war, and they return to Egypt:" Sect. 38 A
+ Word hyphenation has been standardised.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's Heroes of Israel, by Theodore Gerald Soares
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