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Worst of all, Jerusalem, once marked as God's own city, has lost its glory and has been handed over to our enemies.
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So put aside all your sorrow and grief. May God Most High, the Almighty, be merciful to you and give you peace. May he give you rest from your troubles."
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While I was speaking to the woman, her face suddenly began to shine with a light that flashed like lightning. I was afraid to stand near her and wondered what all this meant.
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Suddenly she let out a loud and terrifying cry that shook the earth.
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When I looked up, I could no longer see the woman, but there was a city built on huge foundations. I was afraid and shouted,
1
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"Where is the angel Uriel, who came to me earlier? It is his fault that I am so confused. My prayer is useless, and I have nothing to hope for but death."
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I was still speaking when the angel Uriel appeared again. He saw me
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lying there unconscious like a corpse, so he took hold of my right hand, gave me strength, and stood me on my feet. Then he asked,
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"What's the matter? Why are you so disturbed and confused?"
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I answered, "You abandoned me completely! I did as you told me and came out to this field, but I cannot explain what I am seeing."
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"Stand up straight," he answered, "and I will explain it to you."
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"Sir," I answered, "please explain it to me. I will die in my frustration if you leave me,
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for I cannot understand what I have seen and heard.
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Or is my mind playing tricks on me, and is this just a bad dream?
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I beg you, sir, tell me what this vision means."
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The angel said, "Now listen closely, and I will explain the meaning of these things that you fear. God Most High has revealed many secrets to you
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because he has seen that you have lived a righteous life and have always grieved and mourned for your people and for Jerusalem.
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This is what the vision means: A woman appeared to you a little while ago,
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and when you saw that she was mourning, you tried to console her.
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The woman told you about the death of her son. Then she vanished from your sight, and a whole city appeared. This is the meaning: