11
Do not consider it amazing that reason had full command over these men in their tortures, since the mind of woman despised even more diverse agonies,
12
for the mother of the seven young men bore up under the rackings of each one of her children.
13
Observe how complex is a mother's love for her children, which draws everything toward an emotion felt in her inmost parts.
14
Even unreasoning animals, like mankind, have a sympathy and parental love for their offspring.
15
For example, among birds, the ones that are tame protect their young by building on the housetops,
Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright 1952 [2nd edition, 1971] by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.