15
And the priests prostrated them- selves before the altar in their priests' vestments, and called upon him from heaven, who made the law concerning things given to be kept, that he would preserve them safe, for them that had deposited them.
16
Now whosoever saw the countenance of the high priest, was wounded in heart: for his face, and the changing of his colour declared the inward sorrow of his mind.
17
For the man was so compassed with sadness and horror of the body, that it was manifest to them that beheld him, what sorrow he had in his heart.
18
Others also came hocking together out of their houses, praying and making public supplication, because the place was like to come into contempt.
19
And the women, girded with haircloth about their breasts, came together in the streets. And the virgins also that were shut up, came forth, some to Onias, and some to the walls, and others looked out of the windows.
20
And all holding up their hands towards heaven, made supplication.
21
For the expectation of the mixed multitude, and of the high priest who was in an agony, would have moved any one to pity.
22
And these indeed called upon al- mighty God, to preserve the things that had been committed to them, safe and sure for those that had committed them.
23
But Heliodorus executed that which he had resolved on, himself being present in the same place with his guard about the treasury.
24
But the spirit of the almighty God gave a great evidence of his presence, so that all that had presumed to obey him, falling down by the power of God, were struck with fainting and dread.
25
For there appeared to them a horse with a terrible rider upon him, adorned with a very rich covering: and he ran fiercely and struck Heliodorus with his fore feet, and he that sat upon him seemed to have armour of gold.