14
When the end was approaching, he said, "Death at the hands of humans is preferable, since we look forward to the hope that God gives of being raised by him. But for you there will be no resurrection to life."
15
Immediately afterward, they led the fifth brother forward and began to torture him.
16
While looking at the king he said, "You, though human, have power among human beings and do what you want. But don't think that God has abandoned our people.
17
Just wait and observe his great strength, when God will torture you and your children."
18
After him they brought forward the sixth brother. As he was about to die, he said, "Don't deceive yourself in vain. We suffer these things because of our own sins against our God. Things worthy of wonder have happened.
19
But don't think you will escape unpunished after trying to fight against God."
20
The mother was particularly amazing and worthy of an honorable memory. She watched her seven sons die in the course of a single day but accepted it with a stout heart because of her hope in the Lord.
21
She encouraged each of them in their native language. Filled with noble thoughts, she fired up her womanly reasoning with manly courage, saying to them,
22
"I don't know how you grew in my womb, nor did I grant the breath of life to you or arrange what makes you who you are.
23
For this reason, the creator of the world—who brought about the beginning of humanity and searched out the origin of all things—will again mercifully give you both spirit and life, since you disregard yourselves because of his laws."
24
Antiochus thought that he was being treated with contempt and was suspicious of the tone of her voice. So he appealed to the youngest son, since he was still alive, not only through words but also through solemn pledges. If the young man turned from his ancestral practices, Antiochus promised him, he would make him both rich and prosperous, he would be considered a political advisor, and he would be entrusted with public affairs.