2 Maccabees 2:29

29 I am not the builder of a new house who is concerned with every detail of the structure, but simply a painter whose only concern is to make the house look attractive.

2 Maccabees 2:29 In-Context

27 It is as difficult as preparing a banquet that people of different tastes will enjoy. But I am happy to undergo this hardship in order to please my readers.

28 I will leave the matter of details to the original author and attempt to give only a summary of the events.

29 I am not the builder of a new house who is concerned with every detail of the structure, but simply a painter whose only concern is to make the house look attractive.

30 The historian must master his subject, examine every detail, and then explain it carefully,

31 but whoever is merely writing a summary should be permitted to give a brief account without going into a detailed discussion.