21
Then it would have moved a man to pity to see the falling down of the multitude of all sorts and the fear of the high priest being in such an agony.
22
They then called upon the Almighty Lord to keep the things committed in trust safe and secure for those who had committed them.
23
Nevertheless Heliodorus executed that which was decreed.
24
Now as he was there present himself with his guard about the treasury, the Lord of our fathers and the Prince of all power caused a great apparition, so that all that presumed to come in with him were astonished at the power of God, and became faint and were sore afraid.
25
For there appeared unto them a horse with a terrible rider upon him and adorned with a very fair covering; and he ran fiercely and smote at Heliodorus with his forefeet. And it seemed that he that sat upon the horse had complete armor of gold.
26
Moreover, two other young men appeared before him, notable in strength, excellent in beauty, and comely in apparel, who stood by him on either side, and scourged him continually and gave him many sore stripes.
27
And Heliodorus fell suddenly onto the ground, and was encompassed by great darkness; but those who were with him took him up and put him onto a litter.
28
Thus he, that lately came with a great train and with all his guard into the said treasury, was carried out, being unable to help himself with his weapons. And they manifestly acknowledged the power of God.
29
For he by the hand of God was cast down, and lay speechless without all hope of life.
30
But they praised the Lord, who had miraculously honored His own place; for the temple, which a little before was full of fear and trouble, when the Almighty Lord appeared, was filled with joy and gladness.
31
Then straightway certain of Heliodorus' friends prayed Onias that he would call upon the Most High to grant him his life, who lay ready to give up the ghost.