21
Although the ligaments joining his bones were already severed, the courageous youth, worthy of Abraham, did not groan,
22
but as though transformed by fire into immortality he nobly endured the rackings.
23
"Imitate me, brothers," he said. "Do not leave your post in my struggle or renounce our courageous brotherhood.
24
Fight the sacred and noble battle for religion. Thereby the just Providence of our ancestors may become merciful to our nation and take vengeance on the accursed tyrant."
25
When he had said this, the saintly youth broke the thread of life.
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.