4
but the 1prudenttookoil in flasks along with their lamps.
5
"Now while the bridegroom was delaying, they allgotdrowsy and began to sleep.
6
"But at midnight* there was a shout, 'Behold, the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.'
7
"Thenallthosevirginsrose and trimmed their lamps.
8
"The foolishsaid to the prudent, 'Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.'
9
"But the 2prudentanswered, 'No, there will not be enough for us and you too; goinstead to the dealers and buy some for yourselves.'
10
"And while they were goingaway to make the purchase, the bridegroomcame, and those who were 3readywent in with him to 4the weddingfeast; and 5the door was shut.
11
"Later the othervirginsalsocame, saying, '6Lord, lord, open up for us.'
12
"But he answered, 'Truly I say to you, I do not know you.'
13
"7Be on the alertthen, for you do not know the daynor the hour.
Parable of the Talents
14"8For it is justlike a man9about to go on a journey, who called his ownslaves and entrusted his possessions to them.