THE MORIAD; OR, no nf te |etbie State BY BEN ASAPH, A CHRISTIAN JEW OF THE THIRD CENTURY. TRANSLATED FROM THE SYRIAC HEBREW, BY ANSELM KORLSTOFF. NASHVILLE, TENN.: PRINTED BY A. A. STITT. 1857.

 

 

COPYRIGHT SECURED ACCORDING TO ACT OF CONGRESS.

 

 

JI t nransIator to tc.(hitor. DAMASCUS, (Syria,) March, 1853. DEAR SIR: According to promise, I send you my translation of the first Book of the MORIAD, or End of the Jewish State; an Epic Poem, by BEN ASAPH, a Christian Jew of the third century. I have met with more difficulties than I expected, when I made my engagement with you; and unless you can bring out the work to advantage, my share of the profits will not compensate me for my labor and the many difficulties I have had to surmount. For, In the first place, my good friend, Abdallah, although a Moslem, is also a real antiquary, and somewhat jealous; so that it took all the strength of the old man's friendship for me, and not a little coaxing, to obtain the original for the length of time that will be necessary to make the translation. Nothing but the service which I had rendered him, which brought on our acquaintance, of which I told you before, and which procured me the first sight of the MORIAD, could have overcome his repugnance to letting me take, from his old box, the manuscript to my office. But the good old Moslem really loves me -so I succeeded. Again, as I informed you, the work is written in the Syriac Hebrew; and though I yield to none in my knowledge of that language, yet the handwriting is far from being good; and many letters, and even words, are wanting. Indeed, it is my opinion, that the author has never copied or corrected his (iii)

 

 

iv IN T It 0 D UCTI 0 N. poem; and that the original, now before me, remained in the bureau of the poet till Damascus was taken by the Saracens; and after lying there for centuries, finally came, as an heirloom, into the possession of my friend Abdallah. But, worse still, many parts are worn off, or obliterated by time, leaving chasms; in which cases, instead of leaving a hiatus, I have supplied the deficiency by guess, (as you Yankees say,) as well as I could. In these places, I suspect I have failed most. Though, no doubt, take it as a whole, my version is very imperfect; for in addition to all the above-mentioned difficulties, I am (as you well know) agent for the house of the Rothschilds, in'this part of the world; so that I can truly plead want of time, as an excuse for the many imperfections you may detect in the copy I send you. Thus. far, as relates to myself, and errors as translator: of the merit or demerit of the poem, or poet, I have little to say. You and the world must judge of them. But I will observe, that the Syriac Hebrew is not a language well suited to poetry. It is rather harsh, and laconic; so that, short and abrupt as my version appears, it has more amplitude than the text! It is only in the more perfect languages you will find the best poets or poems. The time in which Ben Asaph wrote, and the subject he chose, rendered it impossible for him to make the MORIAD a great Epic Poem. History, and the theology of the day, confined him! They gave him no IEpic hero-nor could he dare to make one. The outlines of the Destruction of Jerusalem → were matter of history, and well known. Titus, though a great prince and good general, was no.Epic hero; nor would the knowledge of the day let him be made one. Simon and John were tyrants-mere Rolands and Robespierres; nor could they be made any-thing else. Phineas, Lysander, and Salathiel, on the other side; and Sempronius, Manlius, and Maxus, on the other, were all brave war

 

 

INTRODUCTION. V riors, but could. not be made.Epic heroes! Milton made Messiah do some wonders in'heaven, but he could not make him his hero:! Indeed; he:has none. Satan comes the nearest; for he went through much, suffered much, fought well, planned.' well, and finally succeeded-but Paradise Lost is without. a hero; yet lives in glory! The MORIAD, also, is without a Hero; but whether it will live at all, is another thing. Ben Asaph was equally circumscribed by the theology of his day, as to Elevating Machines. Homer was cumbered with them; he had the gods, big and little, lying round him like tools; and no one can now say him nay; for it was the faith of his time! Milton could have Messiah raging through heaven on his chariot, and good and bad angels fighting under spear and shield, in the guise of tremendous giants, and this without offence to good taste; for his action is laid at a time when there was nobody else to fight. Now, for all this, our poet has "fallen on evil days!" He did not dare (who would, under the history and theology of the day?) make good angels attack and devils defend Jerusalem; or bring Messiah forward, under dreadful panoply, in gigantic form, hewing down the Jews as Achilles did the Trojans! History, and the then faith, would not permit this; and he wisely forbore. Witchcraft and demon-possession was all the machinery time had left him; and of them, I am sorry to say, he has made but a very timid use! I think he might have worked them to more purpose! Hence the MORIAD is too historic-it is not daring and unbounded enough for a great Epic, even if it had not other faults. But considering the action of his poem, and the time in; which he wrote, Ben Asaph could not, perhaps, have safely sailed in higher latitudes. He could not take Homeric or Miltonic liberties; for he did not stand on their unknown grounds.

 

 

Vi INTROD UCTION. I would advise you to publish in numbers, half a book each, which, on an average, will contain about 550 verses, fifteen or sixteen of which number will comprise the work. Should it ever be thought worth while to give the numbers a volume shape, I will add a preface, giving all the account I can gather of the author, his birth, death, and whether he left any other works beside the MORIAD. You will, for your own advantage, try and bring out the poem by subscription, notices, &c., as well as you can. I shall send the second Book the first opportunity. In the mean time, I remain yours, &c., Very respectfully, ANSELM KORLSTOFF.

 

 

BOOK I. CAIUS, walking in his Palace, and stimulated by I3YBLUS, decrees to have divine honors paid him-The Gentiles receive it well-The Jews are thrown into consternation-The Golden Eagle is displayed on the porch of the Temple-The Jews assemble in sedition-JJUDEAS harangues them-The Golden Eagle is cut down-The Jews dispersed by the Roman guard, in Antonia-The acts of Phineas-Ten of the Jews who cut down the Eagle taken, and sentenced to the cross next day —The Chiefs of Jerusalem meet by night in council-Their debate and sundry arguments-Judeas cuts it short by stating that the war was commenced already; how that the Romans had attacked Salathiel, Prince of Napthalia, in his own house, who defeated them, and then went and surprised Massada-They resolve to storm Antonia-The attack-Dreadful conflict under the walls-The combatants parted by a storm of wind and rain —The Romans agree to release their prisoners and retire to Cestus-The Jews exult, and hold a great feast to the Lord-The Zealots in private council doom the peace-party to death, as friends of Rome-This, and their dances and social sins, offensive to heaven. THE wrath Divine, which sunk the Jewish state, And Salem piled in heaps, O muse, relate. That burning wrath, which o'er Moriah spread, And choked the Kidron with th' untimely dead! And 0!..hou Spirit pure, th' Inspiring One, 5 Which rapt in vision the beloved John, Who, on the Lord's day, in his exiled home, Showed him things present, past, and things to come! (vii)

 

 

8 THE MDORIAD. [BOOK I. Be thou my muse! For thou canst deeds unfold, Though hid by ages, over ages roll'd: 10 Say who the agent; how that war began, Which poured such vengeance on offending man.'Twas Rome's vain.Emperor; for as Caius strode His palace hall, (magnificent abode,) In which a thousand lamps, profusely fed 15 With oil perfumed, a mellow radiance shed, While gorgeous hangings, rich with Tyrian dye And Egypt's azure, rivalling the sky; Festooned with crimson, gold, and diamonds bright, Added new radiance, and more sparkling light- 20 As through this dome, in his rich purple robe, (Which in soft folds down to the carpet flow'd,) He walked-then stood-his heart beat high with pride, "And this, and all the world is mine," he cried. "East, West, and North, and Afric's burning sky, 25 Beholds my triumphs, sees my eagles fly! Mars, worshipped as the dreadful God of War, Excels me not, when on my splendid car I dash through hosts: Apollo's form divine, Though beauteous, is surpassed, I think, by mine; 30 And for sweet music, from the sounding lyre, Notes swelled to war, or soft with sweet desire, Though he's the God of song, I well might dare To claim like honors, and with him compare. Why should I not, then,'mongst the Gods be placed? 35 With worship, and with equal honors graced?" While thus the tyrant spoke, or would have spoke, His proud, vain musings by his slave were broke; Byblus, a freedman from the Isle of Crete, Of mean appearance-great in smooth deceit- 40

 

 

BOOK I.] THE MORIAD. 9 (By many wiles,, with sycophantic art, He gained at last th' imperial tyrant's heart;) Entering with bows, he took th' accustomed stand; Then said, " Great Coesar, lo! at thy command, Thy slave has come-and now would prostrate fall, 45 And worship thee, as sovereign of all! Honors should to thee as a God be paid, And offerings duly on thy altars laid!" Urged by some demon, thus his fulsome words Chimed in, and seemed an echo of his lord's. 50 The tyrant smiled, and aped a Jove-like nod, And cried, "Byblus, you're. right: I'll be a God! Soon shall the splendid, rich Diana's fane, The world's seventh wonder, on the Asian plain, Receive my statue: in famed Delphos, too, 55 I'll place my altars, and have worship due: In great Minerva's Temple soon I'll stand, Beside the Goddess, in her Attic land! My ensigns (1) soon shall blaze on the proud porch Of every temple and of every church. 60.The Judean Temple, on Moriah's top, Called, by those bigots, Earth's most holy spot, There their strange God, invisible, alone, No more shall hold an undivided throne: Within their Sanctum shall the world behold 65 My image, godlike, glittering with gold! This is decreed-so with to-morrow's sun, Command our governors that the work be done." Fame soon this fiat through the empire sent, And all the Gentile nations seemed content; 70 But when this mandate, from imperial Rome, (Sad harbinger of many woes to come,) 2

 

 

10 THE MORIAD. [BOOK I. Fame spread through Judea, with each passing gale, Spread o'er her mountains, and swept down each vale, Like the Simoom-when its hot sultry breath 75 Comes tainted from the distant fields of death And withers crowds-so, mentally o'erthrown, Israel sent forth one universal groan! Bul most the Zealots wailed the threatened crime, And profanation of their sacred shrine! 80 Thus night fell down on Judea's troubled coast, A factious people, fated to be lost. But when the rising sun, with orient light, Drove down to western seas the yielding night, When o'er Asphaltes shot his slanting rays, 85 And wrapt Moriah in a golden blaze, Vast crowds of Jews filled.all her sacred courts, Enraged all gazing on the Temple's porch, Where the Imperial eagle's wings, spread wide, Five cubits' length, displayed on either side; 90 The ruffled arching neck, and fiery eye, Seemed in the act of stooping from on high On dangerous prey!-Murmurs from man to man, With lightning speed, through all the concourse ran. At length Judeas, of the Asmonean line, 95 (A hero zealous of the law divine,) Arose majestic, and with bearing proud Waved round his arm, and thus addressed the crowd: "Ye sons of Jacob, lo! the day has come, Big with the fate of Israel, or Rome. 100 Yon heathen ensign on God's Temple spread, But —-but precedes pollution still more dread! Our Holiest of all Holies soon must hold The tyrant's image bright with heathen gold.

 

 

BOOK I.] THE MORIAD. 11 His altars soon will smoke with flesh abhorred, 105 Placed by the sacred altar of the Lord! " A smothered groan of rage ran through the throng, Checked by their fears.-The hero then went on: "Was't not enough?-ye priests and princes, say! Ten years we've been the proud oppressor's prey; 110 Our priests and rulers into exile driven, Our fruitful vales to heathen pillage given: iIrom Lebanon, whence Jordan's founts flow down, And lofty Hermon, with his snow-capped crown; From hills and vales, whence sacred Jordan flows, 115 Down to the awful lake of sin and woes; From Bashan's pastures, filled with lowing herds, To Sharon's flowery vales and singing-birds, Israel lies crushed!-The Roman sword we see Wave o'er Napthalia-over Galilee! 120 Through all this once blest land, our fathers' boast, Our nation's rights are trampled down and lost! All this (for sake of peace) long time we've bore; But shall we suffer on-still suffer more? Stand trembling by, and see before our face, 125 Yon sacred Temple covered with disgrace? The Sanctum of I AM (all gods above) Defiled by yon rapacious bird of Jove? The holy law, to our forefathers given, Midst lightning's flash, and thunder-peals from heaven, 130 From Sinai's towering top, midst fire and smoke, Whose basis trembled as Jehovah spoke; While Moses, God's own friend, who Israel led Through parching deserts, quaked with holy dreadShall we forsake this law, thus given from heaven, 135 And be, like slaves, to bestial worship driven?

 

 

12 THE MORtAD. [BOOKI I. And all for what?-for coward fear of death!'Tis glorious in such cause to yield our breath. Brethren, then rise at once, and rend away Yon (2) impious image of the bird of prey! " 140 Loud shouts succeed the fiery Zealot's speech, And soon the Temple's roof six heroes reach. As when from the high cliffs of Thula's isle, Round which the Northern oceans rage and boil, The hardy isles-men's rope suspended swings; 145 Down to the region of the sea-fowl's wings, With staff in hand, by gentle bounds they move, Gathering the nestlings which their children love, Though deep below them raging whirlpools roar, And surging billows lash the sounding shore! 150 So from the Temple's roof, with axe in hand, Three youths descended, of that daring band: Loud sounds the axe, and axe to axe replies, And lo! the wing in glittering fragments flies! Next the fierce head, and ample golden bust, 155 Torn from their fastenings, sparkle in the dust. As the demolished ensign struck the ground, " Glory to God on high! " was echoed round and round. But now the Roman guard, aroused at last, (A scout informed the chief of all that passed,) 160 Quick round Antonia's massive towers they stood, All ready armed, for deeds of death and blood: Their chief, Severus, high above the rest, Stood on a mound, and thus his men addressed: " Romans! that ensign, which, wherever spread 165 O'er Rome's brave legions, still to victory ledThat Eagle, in its most resplendent form, By bigot hands is from yon Temple torn!

 

 

BOOK I.] THE-MORIAD. 13 The banner of great Caesar, Rome's chief trust, Lies, by barbarians trampled in the dust! 170 Shall we bear this, and let a Jewish mob Defy our Emperor, for their unseen God? No! down on all! Let those who did the deed Be put in bonds-to-morrow they shall bleed! Should' the low groundlings to their coverts fly, 175 Pursue them not; but let resisters die. " On this the cohort (midst a cloud of spears) Rushed on the mob, unarmed, and struck with panic fears! As in a grove, or lawn, strewed thick with leaves, All seared and dry, the harvest of the trees,.180 Should a fierce blast rush from the western sky, The light, dry leaves in wild confusion fly, To right and left, light whirling on before, To different points the scattered foliage pour; So from the Roman shields, and gleaming arms, 185 Dispersed the Jewish crowd,.in wild alarms: Without defensive arms, to stay was vain, And to resist was only to be slain. Yet some old warriors but receded slow, With step oblique, oft turning to the foe; 190 As when a hunted boar, in some wild glen, Close pressed by clamorous hounds and armed men, Sidelong retreats; his tusks embossed with foam; Darts on his foes, then seeks his mountain home; So Phineas, of the Aaronic line, 195 Of power superior and of form divine, Who with reluctance made his slow retreat, Towards a narrow, unfrequented street, Pressed by a decade-(Nisus led them on)Seized from the side-way a huge craggy stone: 200

 

 

14 THE MORIAD. [BOO K I. The vain Descurian, with his ported spear, (His shield was down, he saw no arms to fear,) Received the shock, and thundered to the ground, Front, face, and eyes, one undistinguished wound; To sieze his sword, his weighty spear and shield, 205 Which with a clang bestrewed that narrow field, Was with the victor but a moment's feat; And then as quick and sudden his retreat, To the small opening of the narrow street. Now fierce the pursuit; but the Roman's spear 210 Transfixed the foremost in his hot career; The sword then gleamed; and him the next.before Fell headless, both parts streaming forth hot gore; A third, a fourth, a fifth, then quick succeeds; Third, fourth, and fifth in quick succession bleeds! 215 There stayed the rest, and fearful drew their breath, Nor dared to further trace that lane of death; All but their chief, whose rage and high disdain Urged him to where a street received the lane: There loud he cried, "Turn, murderous Jew, and try 220 Your arm with mine, nor like a coward fly. By force or magic, you've six Romans slain; Their corpses bleeding lie in yon dark lane: If as a warrior you these deeds have done, Meet me in combat, and I'll call you one. 225 In me you'll find a foe you'll scarcely killOne that will call forth all your strength and skill. From the great Julian line I trace my birthA mighty name, that fills the spacious earth: Though but the leader of an hundred spears, 230 Yet mightiest warriors rank me with their peers! If thou art noble, scorning coming aid, We'll meet, and one sinks to the Stygian shade."

 

 

BOOK I.] THE MORIAD. 15 To whom thus Phineas, (frowning as he spoke:) " Roman, I'm one who scorns the Roman yoke: 235 Further, if thou wouldst learn my noble line, Attend and know, it far transcendeth thine. From Aaron, first high-priest, (ordained of God,) Who stood by Moses, when the Nilean flood Was changed from limpid sweetness into blood; 240 From him through Phineas, (whose great name I bear,) Who, through the adulteress, sent the atoning spear. For the dire plague, for Heaven-forbidden lust, Strewed crowds on crowds, pale, withering in the dust. As by the Simoom's blast for this vile sin, 245 Our fathers fell, all black and withering! This foul commingling with the Midian fair, ) Devised (3) by Balaam, Syria's famous seer, Brought down this plague, and proved a deadly snare! With zeal enraged, my sire impetuous went - 250 Where Zimri lay enraptured in his tent, And through the fulsome pair his javelin sent; J On which the plague was stayed-and would to God I too might save my country by your blood! If not-but know I waste no further words; 255 Our fates must now be settled by our swords." Here ended parle-and quick each falchion gleams, And flashes back the sun's retiring beams; Blow, following blow, from either arm descends; But the strong shield each warrior's life defends: 260 At length the Roman's glance an opening spied, And plunged his weapon through the Hebrew's side. The strong arched rib turned the sword's point athwart, Which else had pierced the valiant warrior's heart! Enraged, in quick return, between the joint 265 Of helm and cuirass, Phineas drove the point

 

 

16 THE MORIAD. [B O OK I. Of his keen sword: the neck receives the wound, And the brave Roman thunders to the ground. That instant Phineas saw new foes in sight, And knew his life was' staked on rapid flight. 270 This he effected: all the streets were known To him, and twilight saw him safe at home; While the centurion, by his sorrowing band, Was kindly borne to the chirurgeon's hand. Meantime, ten Jews of the dispersed were caught, 275 Chief actors, and before the Tribune brought, Who sentenced them that night to pass in chains, And next day suffer crucifixion's pains! The sun had now sunk to the western main, And peaceful ebon night commenced his reign: 280 O'er towers and trees he spread his raven wings, And hid in darkness all terrestrial things; Fit time to re'llume the light within, And paint more vivid all the eyes had seen; A time when mortals, not oppressed with woes, 285 Sink down to rest in slumberous repose. But Salem, on that: night, slept not profound; A mental earthquake shook the city round: Their brethren chained, who, through their zeal for God, Lay doomed, next morn to stain the cross with blood! 290 This dread event had through Jerusalem ran, From house to house, and caught from man to man, As when a shop, combustible and dry, Bursts out in flames, and no assistance nigh: Should strong west winds drive it upon the town, 295 Fast roll the flames, and blazing showers come down On half their houses, till, in wild amaze, They see their town one universal blaze;

 

 

BOOK I. THE MORIAD. 17 So spread the dreadful news from one to all; } And priests and people felt th' instinctive call, 300 To maeet instanter in the Council Hall. From all parts of the city, vast and great; From Zion's towers to the Damascus gate; From the west suburbs to the sacred fane; From every part, Zealots and warriors came. 305 For Salem's chief alone, for every tribe, From Jordan's springs to Carmel's flowery side; From Mamre's oak, where God with Abram stood, To Dan's cool fountains, source of Jordan's flood, Were many chiefs, whom business or fate 310 Had brought to the metropolis of the State At this sad juncture: they with equal zeal Pressed forward to consult the public weal, Silence obtained, Annas, the great High Priest, Slowly arose, and thus the crowd addressed: 315 "Brethren and Princes, fathers of the State, What calls us here is needless to relate: Ten of our brethren, chained, are doomed to death, In lingering pains to pant away their breath! It seems to me that dreadful day draws near, 320 Foretold, long since, by many a holy seer: A sad alternative is more than nigh, When we must bow as slaves, or freemen die! But how we may avert the captive's fate, Is now the point-of that we now debate. 325 There only are two ways-there are no more: One, is to sue for mercy, beg, imploreOr rise in arms with all Jerusalem's power, And scale the ramparts of Antonia's tower. What's the best, let some advise."-Then Jeptha rose, 330 Around his hand and fiery glance he throws; 3

 

 

18 THE MORIAD. [BOOK I. So large his ample chest, so dark his frown, It seemed to cast portentous darkness round. He came trom where the Jor, swift rolling on, Receives the Dan, and thus unites in one; 335 Whence, over rocks, the mingled billows break, And roll impetuous down to Merom's lake: "I rise," he cried, "to say, if ruled by me, To Rome's proud power no Jew shall bend the knee; No prayer be offered; no atonement made; 340 First let Jerusalem be in ashes laid! What then! Why, rise to war-war to the knife, And save our brethren — or each lose his life! Soon as the morning sun salutes the skies, Let all Jerusalem's noble warriors rise 345 In arms of death; and should they dare deny To yield their captives up to liberty, Tear down the tower, or undermine its walls, And slay the tyrants, as the turret falls! Does any fear to take this noble course, 350 Made cowards thinking of the heathen's force? Does any think I am too bold in words? This arm shall make them good, midst clashing swords; This sword, which, when Vespasian's robber host Swept over Ashur and Napthalia's coast, 355 Was often drenched in gore, and thinned the ranks.Of the marauders, on swift Jabbok's banks! Nor deem that singly I this ardor feel; Thousands on thousands burn with equal zeal; Let but this battle-cry be flung abroad,- 360'Our nation's freedom, and the Sword of God;' Let but the Judean banner float on high, And'Victory, or death!' will thousands cry; While signal-signs will show that aid from Heaven Shall to the asserters of the law be given! 365

 

 

B OOK I.] THE MORIAD. 19 I am for force-for war! You have my mind; Now let us hear how others are inclined." Deep murmurs of approval, fierce and loud, Like air disturbed, soon circled round the crowd. Then Socius spoke, (he dwelt on Zion's hill,) 370 A lawyer rich and learned, though honest still: "Elders and Chiefs," he said, "I feel no less The nation's danger and our deep distress, Than those whose cry is war; nor is my hate Less fixed against the oppressors of the State; 375 Nor will the minions of rapacious Rome More spare my coffers, or respect my home, Than any present. But to rush to War, I deem the work of madness and despair! Have those whose zeal would urge us to that course 380 Thought of their legions-that o'erpowering force Which Rome's dread tyrant at his pleasure wields- ) Those towering helmets and those brazen shields Which still have triumphed o'er a hundred fields? On Danube's frozen plains and rushing flood, 385 What tribe or nation have their power withstood? The valiant Gauls, who nobly stood their ground, Are slain, or mourn their lanJ in bondage bound. The giant Germans stopped not their career, But sunk beneath the brazen shield and spear; 390 Nor North alone, but Afric's burning sands, Where Hannibal once issued forth commands, With conquered Nile, the broad Euphrates yields, And Tigris shoots through subjugated fields; In fact, from where the Euxine darkly roars, 395 Westward unto the great Atlantic's shores, All nations are subjected to the will Of Rome-and Roman arms subject them still!

 

 

20 THE MORIAD. [BOOK I. Say you'twas fortune, or a timid foe? A thousand fields of blood will answer No; 400'Twas by discipline, skilful, stern, and rough, And powerful arms, wielded in armor proof. I've seen their legions, and with awe admired How all the mass was with one soul inspired: They marched, they wheeled, evolved, re-marched again, 405 Exact as heaven's host o'er the ethereal plainAll armed complete: their helmets and broad shields, When joined, strong-roofed their wide embattled fields, From which, beneath the sun's reflecting rays, Streamed forth a wide and sight-subduing blaze; 410 And as they marched across th' extended plain, They seemed a moving continent of flame! Such are their arms and training; nor no less, The wealth and plundering power this race possess. What temple midst surrounding nations stands, 415 Not pillaged by their sacrilegious hands? The votive offerings, and most holy things, The people's tribute, and the gift of kings; Our sacred fane, where God's Shekinah shone, Old Crassus pillaged for himself or Rome: 420 All, all were swept, and the vast coffer fills Of earth's proud Empress, on her seven-fold hills! Nor less their engines of o'erwhelming war, Their catapults, death-dealing from afar, And battering-rams, before whose impulse powers, 425 To their foundations shake the strongest towers; Hurled by a thousand men, rock walls are vain; The walls soon totter, and bestrew the plain! Against such veteran troops, such wealth, such arms,A power that shakes all nations with alarms,- 430

 

 

BOOK I.] THE MORIAD. 21 Alas! my brethren, how can we contend! Say what our means, and what the final end? And first our means:-Some hunters, (brave, no doubt,)' Shepherds, vine dressers, and a mixed-up rout Of citizens and factious robbers, sent 435 To lead us, spell-bound, to our punishment: Men more disposed to trample on all laws, Than fight as patriots in their country's cause! By troops like these, half-armed, unpaid, untrainedt Can victory and freedom be obtained? 440 With such a force, can we, with hope, oppose The mighty power of such unconquered foes? Fathers, believe it not-nor yet believe That supernatural power we shall receive: So deep our nation's sins, (all unforgiven,) 445 Forbids vain hopes of miracles from Heaven! What, then, the end? Your city overthrown, And desolation wide still marching on, You then will see whole streets enwrapt in fire, And smoke and flames from all your domes aspire! 450 Then will you hear your dying fathers' sighs, Your ravished maidens' and your matrons' cries; You' 11 see our Temple, and its sacred floor, Hemmed round with heaps of slain and streams of gore; And worse, ah! worse-yon glorious fabric burns- 455 Flames up to heaven, then down to ashes turns! Such is the end-unless from war you cease, Bow to the yoke, and safety seek in peace." Tears streaming from his eyes, he then sat down Midst smothered sobs and sighs responsive round. 460 Then Phineas slowly rose: his wounded side Induced much weaknes, as he thus replied:

 

 

22 THE MORIAD. [BOOK I. "The arguments, I own, have power and weight, Which Socius deems it duty thus to state. The power of Rome is great, we all must know, 465 And Israel's weak, compared with such a foe, And dreadful our defeat.-But we are brave. Hebrews will fight before an opening grave; When roused to arms by wrongs, although untrained, Their rush by veterans cannot be sustained: 470 Each individual reckless of his life, Still comes off victor in the single strife, But the last evening, six proud slaves of Rome, I, in succession, sent to their long home; Nor do I doubt that many thousands are 475 My match in prowess-as devoid of fear!'Tis discord,'tis disunion, that I dread; That baleful pest, through all the nation spread; Some fierce for war, and some to peace ihelined, Cursed with a timid, base, life-loving mind; 480 And half of those who such bold patriots seem, Care not for country, but of plunder dream. Should this disunion last, with grief I own All hopes of victory and of freedom's gone! Would Israel rise, from Beersheba to Dan,- 485 In union rise, united as one man,The largest army Rome so far could send, In blood and carnage soon would meet its end! The heathen nations, all together joined, Would fly before us, if we were combined. 490 Firm and united Israel's sons might stand, A wall of fire around our holy land! Nor do I think our sins, though unforgiven, Would turn aside the saving arm of Heaven: As Abram's seed, (although we feel the rod,) 495 We heir the promises of Abram's God.

 

 

BOOK I.] THE MORIAD. 23'I'll be a God to thee and to thy seed,' Has been made good in times of deepest need. See yon Assyrian camp, without your town, Where nine score thousand foes, in health, lay down: 500 Heaven's angel waved his sword, and furious drove Myriads of death-tipped arrows from above — Invisible the wounds, but instant death With corpses filled the camp: none drew a second breath! Was Judah sinless then? Yet God heard prayer, 505 And saved our fathers in their last despair! More instances there are. But I am weakMy late wound bleeds afresh-let others speak, Rome grants no pardon to such men as me My fate is sealed, unless Jerusalem's free." 510 The sinking chief by friends was kindly borne, And safely couched in his desired home. Meanwhile the question, in the Council Hall, Of peace or war, deep pressed the minds of all; When Eldad, from the plains of Jericho, 515 Gravely arose, deliberate and slow:' "I come," he said,'e from where this aid from Heaven, In ancient times, was to our fathers given. The heaps of rubbish on our fertile plains Of Jericho, (the lingering last remains,) 520 Points out the scene, where, at the trumpet's sound, Her massive walls lay level with the ground, Our God did this-Nay, more: I've wondering stood, And viewed the high spring-tide of Jordan's flood; With veneration marked that sacred ford, 525 Where God's bare will, like a dissevering sword, Cut off the waters; and the floods below Throbbed down to Sodom's silent sea of woe,

 

 

24 THE MORIAD. [BOOK I. While those above, walled up by heavenly force, Rolled gently back, refluent to their source; 530 And thus the ransomed tribes, dry-shod, passed o'er, And pitched their tents on Canaan's promised shore.'Tis said we are too few; by factions rent; So wicked, aid from Heaven will not be sent, Thus thought Elijah once, and raised his prayer 585 -As if in vengeance half, and half despair:'They've dug thy altars down, thy prophets slain; Of all, 0 Lord! I, only I remain,' But what said God? I have reserved to me Seven thousand men, who never bent the knee 540 To Baal.' And for this little faithful band, God spread his aegis o'er the apostate land! Seven times seven thousand, in this town alone, Are found, who never bowed to Baal, or Rome.! Then trust in God; for holy men of old, 545 Prophets of God, have glorious days foretold, When great Messiah, that all-conquering One, The son of David, shall ascend his throne, Subdue the nations, all our foes disperse, And reign the Sovereign of the universe! 550 About this time,'tis said, he will appear, And well I trust that grand event draws near, Perhaps Heaven's hour is at our utmost need,(4) And Israel first must for transgression bleed. Now, should Rome's legions round our ramparts lay, 555 Our faces pale with famine and dismay When he appears-Oh! what a glorious sight His vengeance flaming, and his foes in flight; His saints pursuing: blood pours down in rills, And corpses load the valleys and the hills: 560 His conquering arm will soon all welfare end, And God's blest kingdom o'er the world extend! "

 

 

BOOK I.] THE MORIAD. 25 Great was the applause of those who did believe; But some the prophecy could not receive. Of these was Jairus, (from the fertile plains,) 565 Where lay in heaps proud Corazin's remains. 5 He was an Essene, virtuous and good, Averse to war, and all the works of blood. "Brethren," he said,' I call you to reflect: God never did a factious race protect. 570 I pray you also, now, to call to mind, ('Twill make you to your burdens more resigned,) Our fathers, more than one-third of the time That Judah's throne was filled by David's line, By gifts and tribute bought the nation's peace; 575 And while they did so, saw their wealth increase. But Zedekiah, when he seized the crown, By Babylon's aid, and cast his brother down, He took an oath, by all the powers above, He would a faithful tributary prove; 580 Yet (through false prophets) perjured did rebel; And soon our city and the nation fell Pale famine strewed their streets with dead, and moans Of starving children echoed through their homes! Did Heaven then save them? No! their prayer it spurns; 585 Their walls lay levelled, and their Temple burns! The wretched monarch drags a captive's chain, And sees before his eyes his children slain: His last sad sight was that of kindred gore- 59.0 The fiend then plucked his eyes-he saw no more Shall we not warning take from such deep woes, Nor madly make a mightier power our foes? Some prophesy Messiah s6on will come, And as chaff scatter all the power of Rome! 595 4

 

 

26 THE MORIAD. [BOOI I. I speak with trembling, but I've often thought He's come already, but we know him not. Jesus of Nazareth, whom you crucified, Claimed to be Christ; and for that claim he died. When I look back to that majestic face, 600 So full of wisdom, dignity, and grace; With what vast, humble power, he walked this clod, And worked as with the finger of a God; When I remember, dead and dying men His word, or touch, restored to health again; 605 And at his death (procured by perjured crimes) What awful wonders! what tremendous signs!Dead saints arose, and through the city went; The Temple's vail from top to bottom rent; While the earth shook, as if in dread affright, 610 And the sun's radiance darkened into night!When I remember this, I'm forced to fear He'll come in vengeance, should he now appear! His choice disciples, the far-famed Eleven, Who testify they saw him rise to heaven, 615 Also declare, he had pronounced this doom,That of the Temple's buildings, not a stone Should on another lie, that's not cast down; While want and war should desolate your town; And more: that some of the then listening mass 620 Should live, till all those judgemnts came to pass! If this be true, we may be well assured 6 Messiah's arm will wield the Roman sword! " The Council audience gave, though vexed: at last, His words their worn-out patience all surpassed. 625 " Turn out that Christian dog!" some raging said; Others called loudly, " Cleave th' apostate's head " But Elam Judas, of majestic size, Fearless in combat and in council wise,

 

 

BOOKI.] THE MORIAD. 27 Raised high his voice:-" Brethren, I think, with you, 630 He ought to die, with all his treacherous crew, Who whines for peace-yet this when time shall fitBut now, why should this Council longer sit, Spending our precious time, debating thus On peace or war? War has determined us! 635 Our morning's outbreak, and th' heroic deed Of Phineas' arm, by which six heathen bleed, Brings vengeance on us in the shape of war, Or executions-answering every prayer! But more:-Last evening, late, I did receive 640 News glorious and authentic, I believe: So wonderful, if true, its wide alarms Will force both nations instantly to arms. Do you wish to know? My post these tidings brings: That Massada, the pride of mighty kings, 645 And deemed impregnable, but three days since Was stormed and taken by Napthalia's prince! His tribe's brave flag now waves o'er Herod's towers, And calls around him all the neighboring powers! My courier did from first to last relate 650 This glorious action. I can only state The cause (for want of time) and the event, Which seems to say, Supernal power was lent! Informed by spies, or dreams, we know not which, Cestus believed the brave Salathiel rich; 655 And that he had with other leaders planned To rise in arms, and free his native land. On this he sent a hundred chosen men, To reach by night the chieftain's lovely glen; His house thus, under darkness, to surround, 660 Break, seize his wealth, and bring the owner bound. Part Milo did with skill, and laid in wait His troops. Then thundered at the castle gate:

 

 

28 THE MORIAD. [BOOK I. The answer was, the trumpet's signal-blast, That all who heard should arm and come in haste, 665 Armed as they might, with bludgeon, spear or sword, To save the castle and defend their lord. Meantime the chieftain, midst these wild alarms, With his brave son, assumed their ready arms; Then rushed impetuous to the castle gate, 670 Inflamed by danger and vindictive hate;, Demanded their demands; which quick were told By the centurion; cool, collected, bold, The hero thus replied: "You say I must Bring forth my treasures, yield them to your trust; 675 Then have my hands bound-yes, behind my back! If restive, tightly; but if humble, slack; Then mount a led-horse, and submissive come To Cestus-dread procurator of Rome! And should I his high mandate treat with scorn, 680 You'll burst my gates, and take my house by storm! I open then the gate-let who will come, And take my answer to Imperial Rome. My arm's still free, and deeply will I write, In blood, my answer to your lord this night." 685 Two foremost pressed: one feels Salathiel's sword, The other's breast Lysander's spear has gored! The slaughter swells, where'er the heroes stood, And falling corpses swelled the streams of blood. The household servants now in aid appear, 690 Armed as they might, with shovel, club, and spear; But still the Romans through the gateway pour, And press the warriors to the mansion door: By effort toiled, their swords more lightly fellWhen from the mountain rose a mingled yell; 695 Screams and fierce shouts, and loud triumphant cries, Roll round the castle, and invade the skies!

 

 

BOO K I.]. THE MOR IAD. 29 Down from the mountains, armed with club and spear, Three hundred men rushed on the robber's rear; Then heads fell crushed beneath the bludgeon's blow, 700 And boar-spears thrust the foemen through and through. In twenty minutes, (save a few that fled,) The Roman cohort and their chief lay dead. Salathiel saw at once the die was cast, The crisis come, he knew would come at last. 705 His household sent to a safe friendly glen, He chose from out his tribe five hundred men, Then silently marched south, till, the third night, From a deep vale, they gazed Massada's height; Then slowly climbed the narrow serpent path, 710 Like a long line of silent, moving death; Scaled the first wall, by means I cannot state, And safely stood before the second gate; A battering-ram (as placed by heavenly power) Gave war's first signal to the sleeping tower: 715 Hurled by two hundred men, its iron head The solid door in shivered fragments spread: Bolts, hinges, bars, in all directions fly, And hissing sing beneath the midnight sky! The garrison, by those dread sounds alarmed, 720 To combat poured, all frightened, and half armed: Then came the infuriate strife, night's pall beneath: Each party felt'twas victory or death. Deep gored Napthalia's boar-spears; and the sound Of helms and mountain axes echoed round. 725 Lysander and the prince led on the tide; Their dreadful sword-strokes fell on every side, And through the cohorts made a passage wide. The Roman chief (a demi-giant) cries: "Yield not the ground to such base enemies; 730

 

 

30 THE MORIAD. [BOOK I. Mind that your sires were conquerors of the world, And from their thrones the mightiest monarchs hurled! Romans, I'll stop those demons which you fear!" And, bounding forward, raised his sword in air Above.Salathiel's head-but arm and steel, 735 In death-pain's grip, the following moment fell! Lysander's arm, and keen Damascus blade, Thus maimed the chief, who, faint, for mercy prayed; Twas granted on surrender-and unarmed, To go where'er they pleased, safe and unharmed. 740 And now the conqueror strode to Floraus' room: His heart was vengeance, and his eyes were gloom: He found the wretch helpless, through wine and fear, With only strength to pour a coward's prayer. "0! do not slay me! spare my life!" he cried. 745 "What! pity you?" the indignant chief replied: "What!-you? The vilest wretch that yet has come From that detested nest of tyrants, Rome! A human fiend, whose thirst for blood and gold Was by no pity, by no laws controlled! 750 A tyrant, red all o'er with tortured bloodFor you, you wretch, a sudden death's too good; It were but just, those tortures you did use Should their keen pains through all your limbs diffuse; But I forbear." With that the falchion sped, 755 And clove down to the chin the trembling head! I've said this much of this thrice-glorious deed, To prove we are at war, and should proceed By force of arms, and have our brethren freed. By acclamation let the vote be given, 760 And all dissentients to perdition driven.

 

 

BOOK I.] THE MORIAD. 81 The word is war-now give it long and loud! And War! War! War I rose from the excited crowd! Then Annas, rising, thus: "To-morrow morn,'Tis now decreed, Antonia's Tower we'll storm. 765 Death lies before the Jew who does not come, Whether'through cowardice, or love of Rome." The Council then dissolved, and all sought rest, Some high in hopes, and some with fears distressed, When meek-eyed morning looked from Eastern bowers, 770 And shed Heaven's smiles o'er fields, and flocks, and flowers, Night's.dew-drops, pendant from each flower and spray, Like diamonds glanced beneath the rising ray; Then trumpet-blasts announced that Salem's powers Were gathering to surround Antonia's towers. 775 As when the populace of Rome pours forth, When victors triumph, from the north or south, The various clumps press through each stteet and lane, All to one centre, all intents the same; Till, met from all points, none can further pass, 780 But form a dense, extended, moving mass: So came the Hebrew warriors from all parts Of their vast city, with like vengeful hearts; The Judean banner, waving o'er them high, Gold, scarlet, blue, tints of the Egyptian sky; 785 Till on Moriah's top the squadrons meet, Crowding the extensive square and neighboring street. The Roman cohort on the ramparts stood, And with emotion viewed the living flood; Their general, with raised arm and accents loud, 790 Stood forth to gain the attention of the crowd: Then cried: "Ye princes of Jerusalem, Why this sedition? Why this host of men?

 

 

32 THE MORIAD. [BOOK I. What do you want, and what is your design? Let some chief speak, for precious is the time." 795 The Roman thus-and thus the high-priest replied: "Release those youths you would have crucified; Then leave this tower, unharming and unharmed, With all your stores, in panoply and armed. Should you, through pride, these easy terms refuse, 800 Then dread the vengeance of infuriate Jews! No mercy will be shown, should you oppose The power resistless which your walls enclose." To anger moved, the indignant Roman chief Thus sternly answered, and in acccents brief: 805 "The slaves you seek, and deem so great a loss, You soon may find,, exalted on the crpss: And should you not disperse and hide at home, Round every cross a hundred more shall groan, And all your city hear a general moan i" 810 Thus the parle ended, and the reverend priest Passed to the holy Temple, deep distressed. This was the sign-and clouds of arrows fled From bows drawn double to the barbed head. As when from the deep-wooded Tairian Hills, 815 Whence rapid Tigris draws his thousand rills, Dense clouds of pigeons, greedy, seeking food, Whirl o'er a village, to a distant wood; So clouds of missiles, in successive showers, Swept o'er the arena of Antonia's towers. 820 The Romans drop, as when the autumnal blast Shakes from the oak, o'er rocks, the rattling mast. Thus from the battlements the unguarded foe, Fell headlong, crushed upon the rocks below!

 

 

BOOK I.] THE MORIAD. 33 Surprised, unarmed, so swift the missiles flew, 825 Decades were slain, before the rest withdrew. At length, behind their works, with rage intense, From their machines fierce vengeance they dispense; Their catapults and cross-bows, slanting down, Sent storms of missiles hissing towards the town. 830 From all their engines on the masses pour Rocks, spears, and javelins, with heart-sinking roar. The thundering rocks wide lanes of horror made, While naked breasts the whizzing darts invade. The carnage swells around in vain they pour 835 Their darts and arrows, in continuous shower; Safe under covert the disciplined foe Sent death in storms on all the crowd below. " Retreat, retreat," the Jewish leaders call; "Retreat behind the Temple's lofty wall, 840 Or other safeguard; nor thus vainly die, Slain by a dastard, hidden enemy!" This soon was done; but midst the Hebrews slain, Malchus of Shechem rose, then fell again; On one sound limb (the other crushed in blood) 845 The second time he rose, and staggering stood; This saw a Roman of great pride and power, And rushed to drag him to Antonia's tower. The helpless chief he grasped, and would have led Him, dragged and mangled, o'er the scatter'd dead; 850 But Judas saw, and with a furious bound (As lioness bereaved on pilfering hound) Rushed on the Roman, and with hurried blow Hurled his gay helmet on the dust below. The next stroke had been death, but his thick hair 855 Obliqued the sword, which, with averted share,. Hewed from the hero's head his dexter ear! ) 5

 

 

34 THE MORIAD. [BO OK I. His friends perceived, and, like brave friends and true, Five of his decade to the rescue flew; Then twice that number of the Hebrews fly 860 To aid their friends: their shouts invade the sky! As when the headmost branch of the vast Sinde Pours down his mountain slopes, south plains to find, He gathers aids by his commanding roar, And streams from every side successive pour; 865 Rivers, not rills, at length roll down their force, Till wild it spreads, resistless in its course; So to the combat aid succeeded aid, Till either host their utmost power displayed. The Romans durst not their huge engines use; 870'Twould slaughter Romans, as it slaughtered Jews! Forced thus to combat'gainst such mighty odds, They roused their courage, and invoked the Gods. Completely armed, with helmet, shield, and spear, Their strokes were death: blood streamed through their career. 875 The infuriate struggle raged and spread around Antonia's tower, and all the holy ground, All lack of arms defensive was supplied By Jewish vengeance and fanatic pride. As bounding tigers, in their rage secure, 880 Heedless of spears, at Roman throats they pour: The foremost as a sheath receives the sword; The next drags down to earth its hapless lord, And, in a moment, out his heart's-blood poured! Thus on both wings, in wild infuriate strife, 885 The Jews rushed on, regardless of their life: Wounded or slain, the masses pressed on still, And died to give their friends a chance to kill! The two first chiefs that issued to the plain, And led this conflict, chanced to meet again: 890

 

 

BOOK I.] THE MORIAD. 35 "You circumcised dog!" the Roman cries, "In a wished hour, again you meet my eyes." "You heathen wretch!" Judeas cries, "accursed! Of all idolaters, the basest, worst; Who meanly pounced upon a wounded man, 895 But when you felt me, screamed for aid and ran! To dark Gehenna's pit, now, now descend, Where worms die not, and fires shall have no end!" The furious clash of arms succeeds to words; In fearful circles sweep their weighty swords: 900 The Hebrew's arm receives a half-spent blow, Almost the instant that against the foe He drove his sword's point; but the firm cuirass Withstood the thrust, that hurled him on the grass. Upon the chief, prostrate, (as if Heaven smote,) 905 Judeas plunged; (his sword to splinters broke;) They rolled, they rose, they fell; but nature's arms Stopped short of death, or great external harms. As when two mastiffs, urged by men or boys, To throttling rush, with snarls, and snaps, and noise; 910 They grapple, rear, then tumble on the ground, With stifled growls, and suffocating sound: Thus they. At length the Hebrew caught his knife, And ope'd the fountain of the Roman's life: Raging with pain, he rolled upon his side; 915 Grasping the dust, he cursed the Jew and died! Thus raged the mob-like war on every side, And death wide revelled in the crimson tide. But when at length the fervid Syrian sun Had more than half his heavenly circuit run, 920 The horrid conflict faltered, paused, then ceased; For dense gloomed clouds rolled wildly from the East,

 

 

36 THE MORIAD. [BOOK I. In deep, dark masses, heaped above the town, And black Egyptian darkness settled down! From pole to pole the zigzag lightning sprung, 925 And peals of thunder bid the tempest come. As if in signs from heaven of pending woes, Moriah's mount shook with convulsive throes! Spires, towers, and Temple, tremble with the shock, And from the mountains hurls the impending rock! 930 The aerial giants through the concave roar, Rend the dark clouds, and bid the torrents pour. Prone to the earth descends the copious flood, And corpses float, commingled with their blood. As when grim bull-dogs, with ferocious heart, 935 Hold fast their grips, and can't be torn apart; Should a full tub of water sluice them o'er, They part-they fly; nor think of combat more; So the wild tempest and full floods of rain Drove the unconquered parties from the plain! 940 The Roman cohorts gained Antonia's gates, Breathless, yet glad t' escape the impending fates. The Jewish crowd, each struggling, sought their homes; Some to low huts, and some to princely domes. Now, when the dreadful tempest had swept by, 945 And Sol smiled peaceful from the western sky, A flag of truce the Jewish council sends, That both the hosts might save their wounded friends, And sad inhume their dead! Then, if mild peace Should not descend, and bid the slaughter cease, 950 The rising sun should end the short accord, And recommit the event to the sword. The truce was granted, ('twas each foeman's wish,) And'to the blood-field weeping kindred rush

 

 

BOOK I.] THE MORIAD. 37 Matrons now childless, and betrothed maids, 955 And hoary sires, fast sinking to the shades; Brothers and sisters, all those sacred ties, With smothered grief their mournful office plies; The slain consigned to tombs, and every wound Of mangled patriots with affection bound. 960 Nor less the Romans like attention paid; Care for the living-honor to the dead. Thus war's red banner was in sorrow furled, And night's deep darkness canopied the world. Now when, next morn, majestic seemed to rise 965 The shining ruler of terrestrial skies, As up heaven's path his flaming orb he rolled, And all his planetary worlds controlled, The Jewish leaders called forth all their bands, Renewed their courage, and re-armed their hands; 970 Yet from death's engines at safe distance stood, As fearful of that recent field of blood, Safe in the Temple; and around the tower, They placed a strong and overwhelming power; Resolved by famine to subdue the foe, 975 As the best method, though it should be slow. Meanwhile the skilful Roman general saw Post after post around their fortress draw. He knew the intent, and instant gave the call For all his chiefs to meet in council-hall. 980 "Friends-Officers of Rome!" he thus began" Man cannot act beyond the powers of man. Our ranks are thinned by that dire hour of blood, Stopped only by a preternatural flood. Hemmed in by numerous hosts of desperate men, 985 The infuriate dregs of all Jerusalem,

 

 

38 THE MORIAD. LBOOR I. With not five days' subsistence-say, then, say, Which is the better and the wisest way? Yield to their terms?-Or brave their plain designs? This council's called to ascertain your minds." 990 On this the bold centurion, Manlius, rose, And fiercely cried; "All yielding I oppose. Can Rome's brave cohorts bear to have it said, For fear of danger, you submission made? You who, beneath Rome's eagle and your shields, 995 Have triumphed o'er a hundred bloody fields; Who, from the rapid Tigris to the Rhine, Have conquerors marched o'er famine, foes, and clime; Shall we Rome's brilliant glories now lay down, And leave as fugitives, the accursed town, 1000 For fear of famine? Why, ere ten days run, Brave Cestus will to our deliverance come, And well avenge the deeds those Jews have done. You have my council-honor loudly calls Here to remain and guard Antonia's walls." 1005 To whom thus Scarus, second in command, (Who studied war in the Italian band:) "I have for Roman fame as much regard, And hold myself as well for death prepared As any here; but yet feel bound to say, 1010'Tis wisdom now to give sedition way. If Cestus, with his powers, can storm yon gate In time to save us from impending fate, Sure, with our aid, he soon may do the same, And Rome instate in all her power again; 1015 Save waste of blood, and on the rebel Jews, At fitting time, give vengeance all its dues.

 

 

BOOK I.] THE MORIAD. 89 Bravery, though good, is not so great a good As prudence, which avoids a waste of blood." In this opinion all the council joined, 1020 And to the Hebrews soon revealed their mind. The Jewish chiefs, true to their former word, Exchanged right hands, to bind the firm accord. As night fell down, the Romans took their march, And passed beneath the wide Damascus arch: 1025 That night the full-orbed moon, bright, beauteous, fair, Filled with wild radiance all the Syrian air; As splendid through heaven's arch sublime she rode, Her glorious train enveloped half the globe. The placid seas gleamed bright; and every stream, 1030 Like stripes of silver, gloried in her beam. As under flaming torches a long train Of silent mourners leave a sacred fane, Where, with deep sorrow, they've interred their Lord, Made sacred by his goodness and his sword; 1035 So Rome's battalia,'neath those splendid skies, Marched, breathing vengeance and indignant sighs. With banners furled, in silent, arned array, ) Adown Bethoron's vale they took their way, And gained their general's camp the following day. 1040 Not thus the Hebrews viewed. the lovely light: All hearts were joyful, and all faces bright. Through the vast city songs and cymbals rung, And gratulations flowed from.every tongue. Praise to their chiefs and Heaven resounded loud,' 1045 And long hosannas burst from all the crowd. The high-priest then proclaimed by trumpet's sound (Whose tones re-echoed from the mountains round,)

 

 

40 THE MORIAD. [BOK I. A common feast a solemn sacrifice To Israel's God, ruler of earth and skies; 1050 That all should come-the greatest with the leastAnd hold, next day, the glad fraternal feast For the release and safety of their friends, And the great victory which secured those ends. Then Salem's crowds, though deep in sins immersed, 1055 With shouts and vain presumptuous hopes dispersed. The trumpet's joyful sound awoke the morn, Whose opening flush the towers and hills adorn; A glorious sun, with its ascending rays, Shrouded the temple in a silvery blaze; 1060 Like a white mountain worthy of a God, The holy fane in all its glory stood: When Salem's multitudes with joy arose, That primal city, (first that history knows,) Zion's fair daughters, gay in festive dress, 1065 Flower-crowned, with songs to God's high altar press. Young men and blooming youths, in vestments grand; Gray sires and chiefs, the guardians of the land; All to Moriah's Temple held the road, To sacrifice and feast before the Lord! 1070 Great was the congregation; and sublime That sight of splendor round the holy shrine! Then came the chief musicians, with their train, In grand procession; and their joyous strain Filled all the air above that sea of heads- 1075 Charms every heart, and round the temple spreads. Next came the Pontiff Annas, great high priest, In the rich vestments of his office dressed. Th' Aaronic mitre on his head was placed, And "HOLINESS TO GOD" the frontlet graced. 1080

 

 

BOOK I.] THE MORIAD. 41 Twelve onyx stones, deep with the names impressed Of Israel's tribes, hung sparkling on his breast. Scarlet and blue, his sacerdotal gown, All rich embroidered, gracefully fell down; While round the pontiff, of his tribe and blood, 1085 The inferior priesthood in their orders stood. At trumpet-sound the gathering music ceased, And to the crowd thus spoke the reverend priest: "Now let a song of praise rise to the Lord, And let it rise with loud and full accord: 1090 Let that rapt strain which holy David sung, Now roll in harmony from every tongue." On this, the chief musician Shaphaa's voice (7) Was heard, sweet-toned:' Let Israel now rejoice! Praise ye the Lord, his people-praise your king, 1095 And let high praises round his temple ring! Let all creation praise him-earth, air, flame, Sun, moon and stars, give glory to his name! Let all earth's almoners, that feebly creep, And all the rolling monsters of the deep; 1100 Let Lebanon, with its tall cedars, join, And Herman, snow-capped, towering and sublime; Let the quick lightning, fierce volcanic blaze, And rolling thunder, sound their Maker's praise: Let all created things, with one accord, 1105 Loud praises sing-hosannas to the Lord!" Ten thousand voices the sweet concert raise, And through Jerusalem send this song of praise; Which fills the temple, loads each passing gale, And sinks melodious down fair Cedron's vale. 1110 But now from every point were victims led, With offerers' hands on every victim's head; 6

 

 

42 THE MORIAD. [B'O I. The appropriate priests, to take the bowls of blood, And sprinkle round the altar, ready stood The dexterous flamen then proceed to kill, 1115 And sever all the parts with nicest skill. The brazen altar, twenty cubits square, Soon sent its savory odors through the air; The glowing coals beneath rich morsels burn; Above the coals, the priests each fragment turn; 1120 The sacred salt from canisters they pour, And with sweet. spices strew the offerings o'er. But the great altar would not now suffice For such a wide-extended sacrificeTwo thousand bullocks and two thousand rams, 1125 A thousand goats, and fifteen hundred lambs; Hence scores of altars soon were flaming round, (For all Moriah's mount was hallowed ground;) (s) Nor less in rich meat-offerings was the toil; Fine flour, mingled with sweet wine and oil, 1130 Baked in unnumbered pans, with spices dressed, Which still more savory made the sacred feast. Meanwhile fit servitors continual went, Bringing the banquet round to every tent; The chosen shoulder and substantial chine, 1135 With baked meat-offerings and inspiring wine! Through all the city, o'er the sacred mound, Joy went on singing carols round and round; Excifement wild attuned to songs the crowd, While incense-vapor spread a spacious cloud! 1140 In vain the songs and odors sought the skies: A firmament of sins forbade their riseMurders, adultery, theft, and every vice, Polluted all their Psalms and sacrifice! These sad indictions of a dying State, 1145 Forerunners of inexorable fate,

 

 

BOOK. i.] THE MORIAD. 43 Were seen that night in Salem-a dark set Of furious zealots and fell murderers met: Simon of Gorias village led them on, And that arch-hypocrite, Gi'schalias John! 1150 There, in dark conclave, they with oaths decreed) War to the Sacri should at once proceed, And all peace-pleaders by the poignard bleed. They strove for glorious freedom and God's law, Through crimes, the blackest nations ever saw! 1155 The end they seemed to seek was noble, just; Their means, deeds dark, with cruelty and lust. Soon through the land their power and edicts spread, And struck the friends of peace with awe and dreadA strong minority, who mourning felt 1160 Their bondage a just punishment of guilt. Nor tyrant cabals through that night alone Were to all-seeing eye of Heaven made known: Numbers of leading youths, in splendor gay, To various saloons took their destined way; 1165 Each with their band, dark pleasures their design; Each flown with insolence, and lust, and wine. (9) The appointed domes displayed, when opened wide, Voluptuous beauties, dressed in radiant pride; In numbers equal those whose steps invade.1170 The House-as if by assignation made! Blazing with light, flashed wide the Cupid dome Where sin-flushed beauties in full dresses shone. Bracelets of finest gold clasped every arm, And broidered stomachers concealed no charm; 1175 Jewels, and crisping-pins, and diamonds bright, Pendent in earrings, glanced commingled light. Their veils and wimples all were cast aside, As down the dance with wanton steps they glide.

 

 

44 THE MORIAD. [BOOK I. Their glancing feet, with golden anklets bound, 1180 Gave forth sweet music, with a tinkling sound From smallest silver bells, which at each move Seemed serenading higtier zones of love. All was enchanting. As each amorous pair ) Paused in the dance, as others did their share, 1185 Words understood still thrilled the fair one's ear. For near the bottom of this splendid hall A door stood veiled-and yet well known to all: Through this screened passage, ever and anon, A pair, and then another pair, was gone; 1190 And then another-As from that dread steep, The Gangean falls, drift after drift-woods leap; So, in succession, partners glide away To lower chambers, where entranced they lay, Laying up wrath against the avenging day.19 And thus their festal day in sins went down, And guilt and darkness canopied the town.

 

 

BOOK II. GOD, in the midst of assembled angels, discloses his dealings with the human family-Tells Christ that the time has come for him t6 descend, and end the Mosaic Institution, and make way for the Gospel-Cestus, with the Roman army, attacks Jerusalem-When he has almost taken it, he suddenly retreats-The cause-He explains it to his army-The approach of Salathiel's band from Massada-Cestus retreats towards Bethhoron-Hard fighting through the day-Salathiel comes up and rallies the flying JewsFurious combat-The Romans hold their ground-Night separates the parties-Cestus encamps near the gorge of Bethhoron, and Salathiel at some distance in his rear-The Roman army continue their march down the valley-The Jews attack them on both sides from the cliff, and press them in their rear-The Romans endeavor to make battle, but the cliffs are too high for their javelins to kill, or their horsemen to ascend-They march under conjoined shields-The Jews break their cover by rolling large rocks f