7
If it were possible for us to paint the history of your religion as an artist might, would not those who first beheld it have shuddered as they saw the mother of the seven children enduring their varied tortures to death for the sake of religion?
8
Indeed it would be proper to inscribe on their tomb these words as a reminder to the people of our nation:
9
"Here lie buried an aged priest and an aged woman and seven sons, because of the violence of the tyrant who wished to destroy the way of life of the Hebrews.
10
They vindicated their nation, looking to God and enduring torture even to death."
11
Truly the contest in which they were engaged was divine,
12
for on that day virtue gave the awards and tested them for their endurance. The prize was immortality in endless life.
13
Eleazar was the first contestant, the mother of the seven sons entered the competition, and the brothers contended.
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The tyrant was the antagonist, and the world and the human race were the spectators.
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Reverence for God was victor and gave the crown to its own athletes.
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Who did not admire the athletes of the divine legislation? Who were not amazed?
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The tyrant himself and all his council marveled at their endurance,