51
I would have been ashamed to ask the emperor for infantry and cavalry to accompany us and protect us from our enemies,
52
because I had told him that our Lord by his strength blesses and protects those who trust him.
53
So once again we prayed for our Lord to protect us, and he answered our prayers.
54
From among the leading priests I chose Sherebiah, Hashabiah, and ten others.
55
Then I weighed out the silver, the gold, and the sacred utensils which the emperor, his advisers and officials, and the people of Israel had given to be used in the Temple, and I gave it to the priests.
Scripture taken from the Good News Translation - Second Edition, Copyright 1992 by American Bible Society. Used by Permission.