The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) Day 251: Judith and Holofernes (2024)
Sep 7, 2024
Judith, a symbol of courage and virtue, teams up with the cunning Holofernes, whose narrative takes a surprising turn. They discuss Judith's strategic deception that leads to her monumental triumph over the general, showcasing her bravery. The conversation also highlights the chaos following Gedaliah's assassination, revealing the turmoil faced by the Israelites. Themes of divine guidance, loyalty, and the consequences of betrayal resonate throughout. Listeners are inspired to draw strength from these biblical figures in their own lives.
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Ishmael's Betrayal and Massacre
- Ishmael, of Judah's royal family, murdered Gedaliah, the Babylonian-appointed governor, breaking bread with him beforehand.
- He also slew pilgrims traveling to the destroyed temple and filled a cistern with their bodies.
The Remnant's Disobedience
- Fearing reprisals for Ishmael's actions, the remnant sought Jeremiah's counsel.
- Despite Jeremiah's warning of death if they fled to Egypt, and promise of safety if they stayed, they chose to disobey.
Judith's Courage and Strategy
- Judith, maintaining her virtue, gained Holofernes' trust and beheaded him in his drunken stupor.
- She instructed her people to stage a fake attack, leading to the Assyrian army's panicked rout.