Judith
The sacred writer of this Book is generally believed to be the high priest Eliachim (called also Joachim). The transactions herein related, most probably happened in his days, and in the reign of Manasses, after his repentance and return from captivity. It takes its name from that illustrious woman, by whose virtue and fortitude, and armed with prayer, the children of Israel were preserved from the destruction threatened them by Holofernes and his great army. It finishes with her canticle of thanksgiving to God.
Nabuchodonosor king of the Assyrians overcometh Arphaxad king of the Medes.
Nabuchodonosor sendeth Holofernes to waste the countries of the west.
Many submit themselves to Holofernes. He destroyeth their cities, and their gods, that Nabuchodonosor only might be called God.
The children of Israel prepare themselves to resist Holofernes. They cry to the Lord for help.
Achior gives Holofernes an account of the people of Israel.
Holofernes in great rage sendeth Achior to Bethulia, there to be slain with the Israelites.
Holofernes besiegeth Bethulia. The distress of the besieged.
The character of Judith: her discourse to the ancients.
Judith's prayer, to beg of God to fortify her in her undertaking.
Judith goeth out towards the camp, and is taken, and brought to Holofernes.
Judith's speech to Holofernes.
Judith goeth out in the night to pray: she is invited to a banquet with Holofernes.
Judith cutteth off the head of Holofernes, and returneth to Bethulia.
The Israelites assault the Assyrians, who finding their general slain, are seized with a panic fear.
The Assyrians flee: the Hebrews pursue after them, and are enriched by their spoils.
The canticle of Judith: her virtuous life and death.