16
"My sons, you have been summoned to an honorable contest, in which you will give evidence that will prove your nation's worth. Compete willingly for the Law of our ancestors.
14
Mother, you were a soldier for God in the cause of the godly way of life, though you were old and a woman! You even conquered a tyrant with your resolution. You have proved to be stronger than a man in both speech and action!
15
When you and your sons had been arrested and you were watching Eleazar being tortured, you began to say to your children in the Hebrew language:
16
"My sons, you have been summoned to an honorable contest, in which you will give evidence that will prove your nation's worth. Compete willingly for the Law of our ancestors.
17
It would really be a disgrace if you young men lost your nerve in the face of this torture after an old man endured so much suffering out of respect for God.
18
Remember that you have had a place in this world and enjoyed life only because of God.