20
So I fasted seven days, mourning and weeping, as the angel Uriel had commanded me.
21
After seven days the thoughts of my heart were very grievous to me again.
22
Then my soul recovered the spirit of understanding, and I began once more to speak words in the presence of the Most High.
23
I said, "O sovereign Lord, from every forest of the earth and from all its trees you have chosen one vine,
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and from all the lands of the world you have chosen for yourself one region, and from all the flowers of the world you have chosen for yourself one lily,
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and from all the depths of the sea you have filled for yourself one river, and from all the cities that have been built you have consecrated Zion for yourself,
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and from all the birds that have been created you have named for yourself one dove, and from all the flocks that have been made you have provided for yourself one sheep,
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and from all the multitude of peoples you have gotten for yourself one people; and to this people, whom you have loved, you have given the law that is approved by all.
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And now, O Lord, why have you handed the one over to the many, and dishonored the one root beyond the others, and scattered your only one among the many?
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And those who opposed your promises have trampled on those who believed your covenants.
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If you really hate your people, they should be punished at your own hands."