Bethulia Is Delivered

Judith asked for Achior the Ammonite to be brought in. When he saw Holofernes’ head in the hand of a man before the gathered people, he collapsed. After he recovered, he bowed before Judith, blessed her, and asked her to tell what she had done. When she finished, the city shouted with joy.

Achior saw what the God of Israel had done and believed deeply. He was circumcised and joined the house of Israel. At daybreak, the people hung Holofernes’ head on the wall. Then the men took up their weapons and went out in bands toward the mountain ascents.

Those in the camp of Asshur sent word to their leaders. Bagoas went to wake Holofernes, expecting to find him asleep, but found him dead at the threshold, with his head taken away. He cried out, searched for Judith and did not find her, and then announced what had happened. The rulers of the army were thrown into panic.

When those in the tents heard the news, fear fell on them, and they fled in every direction across the plain and the hill country. Israel’s warriors rushed out after them. Ozias sent messages through the borders of Israel, and others joined the attack. The people of Bethulia plundered the camp, and towns and villages gathered much spoil.

Joakim the high priest and the elders came from Jerusalem to greet Judith and bless her for the good done to Israel, and the people answered, Amen. The camp was plundered for thirty days, and Holofernes’ tent and goods were given to Judith. Women and men celebrated with dancing, branches, garlands, armour, and songs.

When they came to Jerusalem, they worshipped God. After the people were purified, they offered burnt offerings, freewill offerings, and gifts. Judith dedicated the goods given to her to the Lord, including the canopy she had taken from Holofernes’ bedchamber. The people feasted before the sanctuary for three months, and Judith remained with them.