25
Wherefore it is that we eat not the unclean; for believing that the law was established by God, we are convinced that the Creator of the world, in giving his laws, sympathises with our nature.
26
Those things which are convenient to our souls, he has directed us to eat; but those which are repugnant to them, he has interdicted.
27
But, tyrant-like, thou not only forcest us to break the law, but also to eat, that thou mayest ridicule us as we thus profanely eat:
28
but thou shalt not have this cause of laughter against me;
29
nor will I transgress the sacred oaths of my forefathers to keep the law.
30
No, not if you pluck out my eyes, and consume my entrails.
31
I am not so old, and void of manliness, but that my rational powers are youthful in defence of my religion.
32
Now then; prepare your wheels, and kindle a fiercer flame.
33
I will not so compassionate my old age, as on my account to break the law of my country.
34
I will not belie thee, O law, my instructor! or forsake thee, O beloved self-control!
35
I will not put thee to shame, O philosopher Reason; or deny thee, O honoured priesthood, and science of the law.