4 Maccabees 9:4

4 We consider your pity, which offers safety at the cost of breaking our Law, to be more bitter than death.

4 Maccabees 9:4 In-Context

2 We would be a disgrace to our parents if we didn't maintain our commitment to the Law and to Moses our chief advisor.

3 You, tyrant, advise lawless behavior. In your hatred for us, don't pity us more than we pity ourselves!

4 We consider your pity, which offers safety at the cost of breaking our Law, to be more bitter than death.

5 You are trying to frighten us with threats of torture and death as if you've learned nothing from Eleazar just a short while ago.

6 If the old men among the Hebrews fulfilled their duty toward God by enduring torture for the sake of godly character, it would be even more appropriate for us who are young to die with contempt for the same torture that our aged teacher defeated.