BARUCH TO INDEX
The book of prophesy
Chapter 1
Jerusalem to be destroyed
1. And
it came to pass in the 25th year of Jechoniah king of Judah, that the word of the
Lord came to Baruch the son of Neriah, and said to him;
2.
"Have
you seen all that this people are doing to Me, how the evil that the two tribes
have done is more than what the ten tribes did that were away, into captivity?
3.
For the
former tribes were forced by their kings to sin, but these have compelled their
king to sin.
4.
Behold
therefore, I shall bring evil upon this city and upon its inhabitants, and for a
time it will be taken away from before my presence.
5.
I shall
scatter this people among the nations that they may do good to the nations, and my people will be chastened.
Then they will come to long for times passed, in which they were
prosperous.
6. This I
have said to you, that you may repeat it to Jeremiah and to all those like you,
that you may depart from this city, for your works for this city is like a firm
pillar, and your prayer like a strong wall."
7. And I
said; "O Lord my Lord, have I
therefore come into the world to see the disaster of my mother?
8.
No my
Lord, if now I have found grace in Thy sight, take my spirit away that I may go
to my fathers, and not see the destruction of my mother.
9.
For from
both sides I am hard pressed, I cannot resist Thee, nor can my soul behold the
destruction of my mother.
10. Yet this
one thing I wish to speak in Thy presence O Lord, what, I ask Thee, will happen
after these things? For if Thou
destroy the city and give up Thy country to those who hate us, how will the name
of Israel be remembered again?
11.
Or how
shall we speak again about Thy glorious deeds, and to whom then will Thy law be
explained? Or how Lord, will the
world again return to its being, to return to its original silence?
12.
Will the
multitude of the souls be taken away so that there be no more of man?
And what then will become of all that Thou has said to Moses concerning
us?"
13. And the
Lord said to me, "This City will be delivered up for a time, and the people
will be chastened for a time, but the world will not be forgotten.
14.
Or do you
think that this is the city of which I said; on the palms of my hands have I
carved you? No!
It is not this building that is now in your midst - that is revealed by
Me.
15. But it is
that which will be revealed with Me, which was already prepared from the moment
that I decided to create Paradise.
16.
I showed
it to Adam before he sinned, but when he transgressed the commandment it was
taken away from him, as also Paradise.
17.
After
this I showed it to My servant Abraham in the night between the portions of the
victims, and again I showed it to Moses on mount Sinai when I showed him the
likeness of the tabernacle and all its vessels.
18.
Behold,
it is preserved with Me, and also Paradise, so go now and do as I commanded
you."
Preparations before Jerusalem is given up
19. And I
answered; Shall I then be guilty for Zion when Thy enemies come into this place
and pollute Thy sanctuary to carry Thy heritage into captivity, and to rule over
them that Thou love?
20. And when
these return to their land of idols and boast before Thee, what then wilt Thou
do for Thy great name?
21. And the
Lord said to me; "My name and My glory shall last unto eternity, My
judgment however shall assert its right in its own time.
22. And with
your own eyes you shall see that it is not the enemy that shall destroy neither
Zion nor Jerusalem, but they shall serve the Judge for a time.
You then go and do all that I have said to you."
23. And I
went and took with me Jeremiah, Adu, Seraiah, Jabish, Gedaliah, and all the
nobles of the people, and brought them to the valley of Kidron.
24. And I
told them all that had been said to me, and they raised their voices lamenting,
and we sat there fasting until evening.
25. Then on
the following day the army of the Chaldeans surrounded the city, and at evening
I Baruch left the people, and going outside I set myself down by an oak.
26. For I was
grieved over Zion and sighed because of the captivity which had come upon the
people.
27. And
behold; a sudden strong wind lifted me up and carried me above the wall of
Jerusalem, and I beheld four angels at the four corners of the city, each with a
burning torch in their hand.
The precious things hidden
28. And
another angel came down from heaven saying to them, "Hold your torches, do
not light them before I tell you to, because I was sent to speak a word to the
earth, and to deposit therein what the Lord Most High has commanded me."
29. And I saw
that he descended in the holy of holiest and took the vale from there, and the
holy Ephod, the mercy seat, the two tables, the holy raiment of the priests, the
alter of incense, and the forty eight precious stones with which the priests
were clothed, together with all the holy vessels of the tabernacle.
30. And with
a loud voice he said to the earth; "Earth! Earth! Hear the
word of the mighty God, and receive the things, which I commit to you, and guard
them until the last times, so that you may restore them when you are so ordered
to, so that strangers may not get possession of them.
31. For the
time has arrived that Jerusalem will be delivered up for a time, until the time
it will be said that it will be restored forever."
And the earth opened its mouth and swallowed them up.
32.
Then
after these things I heard this angel saying to the angels who held the torches,
"destroy now the walls and overthrow them to their foundations.
33.
So that
the enemies cannot boast saying, We have overthrown the walls of Zion, nor we
burned down the place of the mighty God."
Chapter 2
The enemies allowed to enter
1.
The
angels then did as he had commanded them, and when they had broken up the
corners of the wall, and the wall had fallen, a voice was heard from the midst
of the temple saying. "Enter,
enemies, and come you adversaries, because He who guarded the house has left it.
2. And I
Baruch went away. Then thereafter
the army of the Chaldeans entered and took the house and all that was around it.
3.
And they
carried the people into captivity, and killed some of them, and they put the
king in irons so sending him to the king of Babylon.
4.
And I
Baruch came with Jeremiah whose heart was found to be pure from sins, and who
was not captured during the seizure of the city. And we rent our garments weeping and mourning and fasting for
seven days.
Baruch’s lamentation
5. Then
after these seven days, the word of the Lord came to me saying; "Tell
Jeremiah to go and support the captives at Babylon.
6. You
however stay here in the desolation of Zion, and I shall show you what will
happen after these days at the end of days."
7. And I
spoke to Jeremiah as the Lord had commanded me, and he went with the people, but
I Baruch came back and seated myself in front of the doors of the temple, and
raised the following lamentation.
8. Blessed
is he who is not born, or he that was born but died, for woe to us the living,
because we have seen the afflictions of Zion, and what has befallen Jerusalem.
9. I will
call to the sirens of the sea, and you Lilin come from the desert, and you
demons and dragons from the woods, awaken, gird your loins to mourn, and raise a
lamentation with me, mourn with me.
10.
Sow not
again you farmers, and why do you yet give the fruit of the harvest O you earth?
Keep the sweetness of your substance within you.
11. And you
vine, why do you still give your wine? For
an offering will not again be given from you in Zion, nor will the first fruits
again be offered.
12. And you
heaven, keep your dew within you, do not open the treasures of rain, and you
sun, keep the light of your rays within you.
13. And you
moon, extinguish the glory of your light, for why should the light of day rise
again when the light of Zion is darkened?
14. And you
bridegrooms, do not enter, nor let the brides adorn themselves.
And you wives do not pray to bear children, for the barren should rejoice
more.
15. Those who have no children should be glad, while those that have children are to grieve, for why should they bear in pain only to bury them in grief? Or why again should men have children at all?
16. Or why
should the generation of their kind be named again wherein the mother is lonely,
her children having been carried away in captivity?
From henceforth do no longer speak of beauty, nor speak of gracefulness.
17.
Take away
the keys of the sanctuary you priests, cast them to the high heaven, give them
to the Lord and say; Guard Thy house Thyself, for behold we have been found to
be false stewards.
18. And you
virgins who spin fine linen and silk with gold of Ophir, make haste to take all
these things and cast them into the fire, that the fire may carry them to Him
who made them.
19. That the
flame may send them to Him whom created them, so that the enemies do not take
possession of them.
20. This now
I Baruch say to you Babylon; if you had lived in happiness, and Zion were
inhabited in its glory, it would be of great sorrow to us that you were equal to
Zion.
21. But now
our grief is without end, and our pain measureless, for now you are happy while
Zion has been destroyed. Who will
be judge over these now? Or to whom
shall we complain about that which was has befallen us?
22. O Lord -
how has Thou allowed this to happen? Our
fathers went to rest without grief, and the righteous sleep at rest in the
earth, they did not know this anguish, nor did they hear what has befallen us.
23. Would O earth that you had ears, and that you O dust had a heart, so that you might go and announce it in the realms of death, to say to the dead; You are happier than we who live.
24. I shall
speak what is on my heart, and raise my voice to you O land of prosperity, hear:
25. The
afternoon will not always burn, nor will the rays of the sun always give light,
do not think, nor expect that you will always have happiness and joy.
26. Do not
pride yourself so much upon our captivity, for in its time wrath shall surely
arise against you, even though it is currently held back with the reins of long
suffering.
27. And
having said these words, I fasted seven days.
Chapter 3
Judgment to come on the nations
1. After
these things I Baruch was standing on mount Zion and a voice came from the high
heavens saying. "Stand upon
your feet Baruch and hear the word of the Most High God.
2. Because
you have been astonished at that which has befallen Zion, you will surely be
preserved until the end of times - to be for a testimony.
3. If
ever these happy cities will say, Why has the mighty God brought this
retribution upon us? - You, and
those like you that have seen this evil and retribution come on them in their time, that they
may say to them;
4. These
evils and pains came upon you because you abused our nation. Expect then that
this nation shall be thoroughly punished. And
when they ask; for how long?" You
will say to them:
5. You who have drunk the clarified wine, you now shall drink its dregs. For the judgment of the Most High is impartial.
6. Therefore did He not spare His own sons first, but He afflicted them as his own enemies, for they sinned.
7. Therefore they were once punished, that they might be forgiven.
8. But now you nations and tribes are guilty, because all this time you have trodden the earth, and misused creation shamefully.
9. For I have always been good to you, but you have always denied the benefice."
Baruch reasons
10.
And I
answered saying; "Behold, Thou has shown me the course of the times, that
which will happen after these things.
11. And Thou
has told me of the retribution, that which Thou did say was to come upon the
nations.
12. I now
know that there are many who have sinned and lived in happiness, and have left
the world. But few nations will be left in those times to which these words as
Thou has said, can be spoken unto.
13. What then
may be the advantage? Or what evil
can be worse than that which has befallen us?
And what are we yet to expect?
14.
But I
will continue to speak before Thee, for what profit did they have - that had
wisdom before Thee, that did not walk in vanity like the rest of the nations,
who did not say to their works - give us life, but who at all times feared Thee,
not leaving Thy ways?
15.
For
behold, they were diligent, and yet Thou did not have mercy on Zion on their
account.
16.
For
although some did evil, should then not Zion have been forgiven on account of
the works of them that did good works? That
it should not have been overwhelmed for the works of them that acted
unrighteous?
17.
" O Lord my
God, who can understand Thy judgments? Who
can explore the depths of Thy way? Or,
who can discern the majesty of Thy path, or Thy incomprehensible counsel?
18.
Who of
those that are born has ever discovered the beginning or the end of Thy wisdom?
For we all are like a breath.
19.
Like as
breath ascends and vanishes, so it is with the nature of man.
They depart contrary to their own will, nor do they know what will happen
to them in the end.
20. Still,
the righteous have good hopes for the end, and depart from this world without
fear - since they possess a store of good works with Thee, which are preserved
by Thee as treasures.
21. Therefore
also do they leave this world without fear being confident of the world, which
Thou has promised them with an expectation full of joy.
22.
But woe
to those of us who now are treated shamefully, who in addition to this must yet
await the evils of that later time.
23.
Thou of
course know exactly what Thou has made of Thy servants, for we are not able to
understand that which is good as Thou our Creator knows.
24. And yet
more will I speak before Thy presence O Lord my Lord, for in the beginning when
the world did not yet exist with its inhabitants, Thou did confer with Thyself,
and speaking a word - immediately Thy creation stood before Thee.
25. Thou said
that Thou would make man as a guardian over Thy works, and that it should be
known to him that he was not created for the world, but rather the world for
him.
26.
But now I
behold the world which was made for us, and it remains, we however - for whom it
was made, we depart."
The Lord replies
27. And the
Lord answered saying; "You are rightly astonished at man's departure, but
your judgment about the evils which befell those who sin is incorrect with
regards to what you said concerning the righteous how they are taken away while
the wicked ones are happy.
28.
And with
regards to what you said - that man does not know My judgments, - listen, and I
shall answer you, pay attention, and I shall let My word be heard.
29.
It is
true that man would not have understood My judgments if he had not received the
law, and if he were not instructed with understanding.
30.
But
now that he has knowingly trespassed, he shall also knowingly suffer pain, for
he has understanding.
31. And with regard to the righteous ones for whom you said the world came on their account, and for that also which is coming on their account.
32. This
world is for them a struggle, an effort with much trouble, but
they bear it for the great crown and glory that is to come."
33.
Then I
said; "O Lord my Lord, behold; the present years are few and evil, and who
can inherit that which is immeasurable in this short time?"
34.
And the
Lord answered; "With the Most High no account is taken of much time, nor of
few years, for what did it profit Adam that he lived 930 years and transgressed
that which he was commanded?
35. The
multitude of time therefore in which he lived did not profit him, but brought
death, and it cut off the years of those, which were born of him.
36. Or what
did it harm Moses that he lived only 120 years and subjected himself to Him who
created him? He brought the law to
the descendants of Jacob, and lighted a lamp to the generations of Israel."
37.
And I
answered saying; "He who lighted the light took from the light, and few are they
who imitated him, but the many for whom he lighted the lamp took of the darkness
of Adam, and did not rejoice in the light of the lamp.
38. And He
answered saying; "For that reason did he appoint a covenant for them at
that time and said to them; behold, I appoint for you life and death.
39. And he
called heaven and earth to witness against them, for he knew that his time was
short, but that heaven and earth will stay forever.
40. They
however sinned and trespassed after his death though they knew that they had the
law to reprove them, a light in which nothing could err, and also the spheres
witnessed, and I also, I judge everything that exists.
41. You
however ought not to not think any further about this in your heart, nor pain
yourself for the things, which have been.
42.
For the
end of time is now at stake and not it’s beginning, whether it be property,
happiness, or shame.
43. For when
a man is happy in his youth, but treated badly in his old age, he then forgets
all the happiness he had. And
likewise when a man is badly treated in his youth, but is happy at the end, he
no longer remembers his disgrace.
44. For
again, if everyone had been continually happy since the day that death was
decreed against those that trespass, and they at end be destroyed, everything
would then have been in vain.
45. Therefore
behold; the days will come that the times will hasten more than before, and the
periods will hasten more than those which are gone, and the years pass more
quickly than the present ones.
46.
It is for that reason that I have now taken away Zion, so that I may the sooner visit the
world in its time. Keep therefore
everything, which I have commanded you, and seal it within your mind.
47. Then
shall I show you My strong judgment and My in-explorable ways.
Go therefore and sanctify yourself for seven days, do not eat bread or
drink water, and do not speak to anyone.
48. And after
that time come to this place and I shall reveal Myself to you, and speak to you
the things of truth and teach you the course of the times, for they will come
and not tarry.
Chapter 4
Baruch’s prayer
1. And
I went from there and sat in the valley of Kidron in a cave of the earth and
sanctified myself there, I ate no bread yet I was not hungry, nor did I drink
water nor was I thirsty.
2.
There I
stayed until the seventh day as He had commanded me, after which went to the
place where He had spoken with me.
3.
And at
the time of sunset my soul received many thoughts, and I began to speak before
the Lord Most High saying;
4.
"Hear
me O Lord, Thou who created the earth, who fixed the firmament by Thy word and
who fastened the heights of heaven by Thy Spirit.
5. Thou who
from the beginning of the world called that which did not as yet exist and they
obeyed Thee.
6.
Thou who
commanded the air with Thy sign, and who beholds that which is to come, as well
as that which is passed.
7. Thou who
reigns over the powers which stand before Thee with great mastery who rules with
indignation the countless holy beings of flame and fire that stand around Thy
throne whom Thou created from the beginning.
8. For Thou
alone art able to create Thy will at once, Thou art the one who causes the rain
to fall on the earth with a specific number of drops, and Thou alone knows the
end of times before it has arrived.
9. Hear my
prayer O Lord, for Thou only can sustain them that are now, and that have gone,
as those that are yet to come, those who sin, and those who do righteously,
since Thou art the living One the inscrutable One.
10. Thou does
know the number of men and which of them have sinned, and the number of those,
which have done righteously.
11.
If now
only this life existed that everyone has here, then there would be nothing more
bitterly than this, for of what use is strength, which again becomes weak?
12. Or of
what use is the abundance of food when again it turns into famine, or beauty,
which changes to ugliness?
13. For the
nature of man is always changeable, as we were formerly so we are no longer, and
as we are now - we shall not remain so in the future.
14. For
considering, if there shall not be an end of things, how then is there spoken of
a beginning?
15. But O
Lord let me know all that which comes from Thee, and have regard for that which
I asked of Thee, enlighten me O Lord.
16. How long
will the corruption remain? And
till what time will mortals be prosperous?
Shall these O Lord who perish with the world - have yet a long life with
their great wickedness?
17.
Command
therefore according to Thy mercy O Lord, and confirm all that Thou has
promised, so that Thy power may be recognized by such who entertain that Thy
long-suffering means weakness.
18. And to
show them that still do not perceive that what has befallen both our city and us
is in agreement with the long suffering of Thy power that all this is on account
of Thy name, and on account of Thy beloved people.
19. Every
creature here is in a state of dying, reprove therefore O Lord the angel of
death, and let Thy glory appear, and let the greatness of Thy beauty be known.
20. Let the
realm of death be sealed that from now on it may no longer receive the dead, and
let the stores of the souls restore those, which are enclosed in them.
21.
For many
are the years that have passed since Abraham Isaac and Jacob and all that were
like them, who sleep in the earth.
22. For it
was on their account of which Thou said; Thou had created the world.
Show then Thy glory so much the sooner, and do not postpone that which
was promised by Thee.
23. And it
happened that when I had ended the words of this prayer, I became very weak.
Chapter 5
The Lord answers Baruch
1. Then
thereafter, I beheld the heaven being opened, and strength was given me, and a
voice sounded from on high saying to me;
2.
"Baruch,
Baruch, why are you disturbed? Who
starts on a journey and does not complete it?
Or who shall be satisfied in making a voyage at sea, unless he shall be
able to reach a harbor?
3.
Or if one makes a promise to give a present, but then he does not give, shall it
not then be a theft?
Or
if one sows seed in the earth, but he does not in time harvest the fruits, will
he not lose everything?
4. Can
anyone who plants a plant expect fruit thereof if not first it is grown?
Or shall a pregnant woman not surely kill the child if she bears
untimely?
5. Or if one
builds a house, but does not construct a roof upon it, nor otherwise finishes
it, can it then be called a house? Tell
this to me first."
6. And I
answered saying; "No my Lord." And He
said to me; "Why then are you so disturbed about that which you do not
know, and restless concerning that of which you have no knowledge?
7.
For just
as I have not forgotten those who live now, nor those who have passed away, so
will I remember those who are yet to come.
8. For when
Adam sinned and death was decreed against those who were to be born of him, then
the multitude thereof was numbered.
9. And for
that multitude a place was prepared where the living ones might live, and also
where the dead might be preserved.
10.
No
creature therefore will live again unless the appointed number has been
completed, for My Spirit creates the living, and the realm of death receives the
dead.
11. But you
have yet to hear that which will come after these times, for My salvation has
truly drawn near, it is not as far away as before.
12. For
behold, the days are coming that the books will be opened in which are written
the sins of all those that have sinned, and also written are the treasures of
righteousness of all them that have proven themselves righteous.
13. At that
time you, and many with you, shall see the long-suffering of the Most High,
which He had from generation to generation.
14. How He
has been long-suffering towards all that were born, to both those that sinned,
and those who proved themselves to be righteous."
15. Then
answered I saying; "But behold Lord, no man knows the number of things that have
passed away, nor of those which are yet to come.
16.
For I
know what has befallen me, but that which will happen to our enemies, and as to
when Thou wilt visit Thy works, that I do not know."
17. And He
answered me; "You also will be preserved until that sign which the Most
High will bring about before the inhabitants of the earth - at the end of days.
18. And this
will be the sign; when horror seizes the inhabitants of the earth, and when they
fall into many tribulations, and also great torments will befall them.
19.
And it
will come to pass, that because of their great tribulations they will say in
their thoughts; The mighty One no longer remembers the earth.
When therefore they lose hope, it is then that the time shall
awaken."
20. And I answered, "That tribulation which will be, will it last a long time? And the distress, will it embrace many years
Chapter 6
Signs of the end of time
1. And
He answered saying; "That time will be divided into twelve parts, and each
part has been preserved for that for which it is appointed.
2. In the
first part, the beginning of commotion’s.
In the second part the slaughtering of the great.
In the third part, the fall of many into death.
3.
In the
fourth part, the drawing of the sword. In
the fifth part famine, and the withholding of rain.
In the sixth part, earthquakes and terrors.
4. In the seventh part; … …
5. In the eight part, a multitude of ghosts the appearances of demons. In the ninth part, the fall of fire. In the tenth part; rape and much violence.
6. In the
eleventh part; injustice and unchastely. And
in the twelfth part, disorder and a mixture of all that has been before.
7. And parts
of all these are so preserved, that at that time they will be mixed with one
another, and minister to each other.
8. For some
will withhold a part of themselves, and taking from others will accomplish that
which belongs to them - and to the others.
9. Hence,
Those
who live on the earth in those days, they will not understand that it is the end
of time.
10.
But
everyone who does understand - will be wise at that time, for the measure and
the calculation of that time will be two parts, weeks of seven weeks."
11. And I
answered; "It is good that man should come that far to behold this, but
better yet that he should not come that far - lest he fall.
12. But this
also I will yet ask; Will he that is incorruptible despise those that are
corruptible, and will he despise what happens to them, having eyes for only
those that are incorruptible?
13. O Lord if
I have found grace in Thy sight, let me also know this, that when these things,
which are surely to come, of which Thou has spoken, will they be in one place,
in one part of the earth, or will they be seen by the whole earth?"
14. And He
answered saying; "That which will happen at that time bears upon the whole
earth, wherefore everyone that lives will see it.
15. At that
time I will protect only those that are found in this land, and when everything
that was to come in that time has been accomplished, then the Anointed One will
begin to reveal himself.
16. Then will
also Behemoth reveal itself from its place, and Leviathan will rise from the
sea, which are the two great monsters, which I created on the fifth day of
creation - which I kept until that time.
17. And they
will be nourishment for all that are left, the earth will yield fruit in
thousand-folds, on one vine will be a thousand branches, and one branch will
produce a thousand clusters, and one cluster produce a thousand grapes, and one
grape produce a core of wine.
18. And those
that are hungry will enjoy themselves, and behold marvels every day, for winds
will go out from before Me each morning to bring the fragrance of aromatic
fruits, and clouds at the end of day - to distill the dew of health.
19. At that
time the treasure of Manna will again come down from on high, the people in
those years will eat thereof, because they are they that have arrived at the
consummation of time.
20. Then
after these things, when the time of the Anointed One is full, and He returns
with glory, then all those who sleep in hope of Him - will rise.
21. At that
time the stores in which the souls of the righteous are kept, will be opened,
and they will go out, the whole multitude of them, and they will appear together
in one assemblage, and of one mind.
22. And the
first will enjoy themselves, nor shall the last be sad, for they know that the
time has arrived of which it was said - that it is the end of times.
23. But the
souls of the wicked, when they see this, will waste away even more, for they
realize that their torment has come, that their perdition has arrived."
Chapter 7
Baruch speaks to the people
1. After
these things it came to pass that I went to the people and said to them;
"Assemble to me all our elders, and I shall speak to you."
2.
And they
all assembled in the valley of Kidron, and I began to speak to say to them;
3.
"Hear
O Israel - and I shall speak to you, and you seed of Jacob pay attention and I
shall teach you. Do not forget
Zion, but remember the distress of Jerusalem.
4. For
behold, the days are coming that all that, which has been, will be destroyed,
and it will become as though it had not been.
5. You
however, if you prepare your minds to sow into them the fruit of the law, He
shall protect you in the time in which the Mighty One shall shake the entire
creation.
6. For after
a short time, the building of Zion will be shaken in order that it may be
rebuild. That building then will
neither remain, but after some time will again be uprooted, and for a time
remain desolate.
7. Then
afterwards, it shall be renewed in glory, and be perfected into eternity.
8. We
therefore should not be so sad regarding the evil, which is now, but instead
more for that which is in the future, for still greater evils than these two
will be for trial when the Mighty One renews His creation.
9. And now,
do not draw near to me for some days, and do not call upon me until I shall come
to you."
10. And
having said this, I Baruch went my way, but the people seeing that I went away
raised their voices and lamenting they said;
11. "Where
are you going from us Baruch? Will
you leave us as a father who leaves his children as orphans to go away from
them? Is this the commandment which
your friend Jeremiah the prophet gave you as he said;
12. Watch
over this people during the time that I am absent while I help the rest of our
brothers in Babylon against whom the sentence was declared that should be
carried away into captivity.
13. If then you abandon us also, it would have been better for us all that we first die rather than you abandoning us."
14. And I
answered the people; "God forbid that I should abandon you, or that I
should go away from you.
15. No, but I
shall go to the holy of holiest to ask from the Mighty One on behalf of you and
Zion, so that in some way I may receive more light, and afterwards I shall
return to you."
Chapter 8
The vision of the fountain
1. And
I Baruch went to the holy place and sat on the ruins, and weeping I said;
2. O that my
eyes were springs, and my eyelids a fountain of tears.
How shall I sigh over Zion and lament over Jerusalem?
3.
For at
the place where I am now prostrate the high priests used to offer sacrifices,
and placed incense of fragrant spices thereon.
4. Now
however, that of which we are proud has become dust, and that which our souls
desired is ashes.
5. And
having said this, I fell asleep at that place and beheld a vision in the night.
6. And
behold; there was a forest with trees planted on a plain, which was surrounded
by high mountains and rugged rocks.
7. And the
forest occupied much space, and over against it a vine arose, and from under it
a fountain ran peacefully.
8. And that
fountain came to the forest and became a great stream the waves of which
submerged the forest, for as in a moment it uprooted the entire forest and
overthrew all the mountains, which surrounded it.
9. Thus the
whole height of the forest became low, and the tops of the mountains became
flat, that fountain became so strong that it left nothing of that great forest
except one cedar.
10. And when
it had cast also that one down, it left nothing to remain of the forest, so much
so that even its place became unknown.
11. Then the
vine came forth with the fountain in great peace and tranquility, and arrived at
a place not far from where the cedar had been.
12. And they
brought to Him that cedar which had been cast down, and I beheld the vine
opening its mouth and saying to the cedar
13. Are you
not that cedar which remained of the forest of wickedness?
For because of you wickedness remained, and was exercised during all
these years, and never any goodness.
14. You
possessed power over that which did not belong to you and you did not even show
compassion to that which did not belong to you.
15. But you
extended your power over those, which were living far from you, and you also
kept those who were close to you in the nets of your wickedness.
16.
You
uplifted your soul as one who could not be uprooted, but now your time has come
quickly, you hour has arrived.
17.
Therefore
O cedar follow the forest which has departed before you, and become ashes with
it, and let your ashes be mixed together with it.
18. Sleep now
in distress, and rest in pain until your last time shall arrive in which you
will return to be tormented even more.
19. Then
after this, I saw how the cedar was burning, but the vine growing while it and
all around it became a valley full of unfailing flowers.
20. And I
awoke and arose and prayed saying; O Lord my Lord Thou always enlightens those
who conduct themselves with understanding, Thy law is life, and Thy wisdom the
right way.
21. Show me
now the interpretation of the vision, for Thou does know that my soul has always
walked according to Thy law, and that I did not depart from Thy wisdom from my
earliest days.
Interpretation of the vision
22. And He
answered me; "This Baruch is the explanation of the vision which you have
seen, of the great forest surrounded by high and rocky mountains.
23.
Behold
the days will arrive when this kingdom that once destroyed Zion will itself be
destroyed, and be subjected to that which comes after it.
24. Then
after some time that also will be destroyed. And another, a third will rise in
its time possessing power, and it also will be destroyed.
25. Afterwards,
a fourth kingdom will arise that is harsher and more evil than those from before
it, and will reign a multitude of times like the trees on the plain.
26. And it
will rule in its time and exalt itself more than the cedars of Lebanon, and
in it the truth will hide itself.
27. And all
they that are polluted with sins will flee to it, like the evil beasts, flee and
creep into the forest.
28. And when
the time of its fulfillment in which it will fall approaches, that is the time
in which the dominion of my Anointed One - which is like the fountain and the
vine - will be revealed.
29. And when
He has shown himself, He will uproot the multitude of its host.
30. And in
respect to the tall cedar which remained of the forest and all the words spoken
to it by the Vine as you have heard, this is the meaning;
31. The last
ruler left at that time will be bound and its multitude destroyed, and they will
carry him to mount Zion, and my Anointed One will convict him of his wicked
deeds and assemble to set before him all the works of his host.
32. After
this He will kill him, and protect the rest of my people who will be found in
the place that I have chosen.
33. And His dominion will last forever, till the ending of the world of corruption when that which I mentioned to you before has been fulfilled. This is your vision and its interpretation."
Baruch asks for more answers
34.
And I
answered saying; for whom and for how many will these things be?
Or who will be worthy to live in that time?
35.
For I
will now speak all that I think, and ask about the things about which I
meditate, for I see many of Thy people who separate themselves from Thy
statutes, having cast away the yoke of Thy law.
36.
While I
saw others that left their vanity behind and fled under Thy wings, what
therefore will happen to these?
37. How will
that time receive them? For surely,
their time will not be weighed nor judged as the scales indicate?"
38.
And He
answered; "All these things I shall show you, and as for what you asked to
whom and to how many these things will be, know that the good mentioned will be
to those who have believed, with the opposite for those who despised it.
39. And in
regards to those who drew near, and then withdrew, this is the explanation;
40.
Those
which first subjected themselves but later withdrew, mingling themselves with
the seed of the mingled nations, their first time will not be considered.
41. And those
who at first did not know life, but later knew it exactly, and who mingled with
the seed of the people that separated themselves, their first time likewise will
not be recalled.
42. And times
will inherit times, and periods - periods, and they will receive from one
another, and at the end they will all be compared according to the measures of
the times and the hours of the periods.
43. For
corruption will take away those who belong to it, and life will take those who
belong to it, and the dust will be called and told; Give back that which does
not belong to you, and, raise up all that you have kept until its time.
44.
But you
Baruch, strengthen your heart in view with all that has been said to you, and
understand what has been revealed to you, for you have many consolations which
will last forever.
45. For you
will go from this place leaving the regions which are now before you, and you
shall forget that which is corruptible, and not again remember that which is
among the mortal ones.
46. Go
therefore, admonish your people, and return to this place, and fast for seven
days, then shall I come and speak with you."
Chapter 9
Baruch speaks to the people
1. And
I Baruch went from there and came to my people, and calling my first born son
and the Gallians, my friends, and seven of the elders of the people, and I said
to them:
2. Behold; I
go to my fathers in the manner with the way of the whole earth, you however do
not withdraw from the way of the law, but guard and admonish the people that are
left lest you depart from the commandments of the Mighty One.
3. For you
have seen that He whom we serve is righteous, and that our Creator is impartial.
Behold what has befallen Zion, and what happen to Jerusalem, for therein
is seen the judgment of the Mighty One that His ways are inscrutable and right.
4. For if
you endure and persevere in His fear, and not forget His law, then the time will
take a turn for the better for you, and you will participate in the consolations
of Zion.
5. For that
which is now is nothing, but that which will be in the future, will be very
great.
6. For all
that is corruptible will pass away, and all that is mortal will depart, and all
present time will be forgotten, and there will be no remembrance of this present
time that is polluted with sin.
7. For he
who runs now, runs in vain, and he who is happy, will soon fall and be
humiliated.
8. For we
look to the future hoping for that, which comes hereafter, for a time that does
not pass away, a period that remains forever.
9. A
new world, which does not carry back to corruption those that enter into it's
beginning, nor does it have mercy on those who come into torments, nor does that
world carry to perdition.
10. For these
are they who will inherit the time of which I spoke to you, it is that heritage
of the promised time for you who prepared for yourselves treasures of wisdom,
for them by whom stores of insight are found.
11. For those
who did not withdraw from mercy, and who kept the truth of the law, unto these
shall the coming world be given, but the habitation of the many others; will be
in the fire.
12. Admonish
therefore the people as much as you can, for this is our due labor, for when you
instruct them - you will make them alive."
13. Then, my
son and the elders said to me; "Will the Mighty One humiliate us to such an
extend that He will take you away from us so soon?
14. And shall
we truly be in darkness then, will there not anymore be light for the people
that are left? For where shall we
again investigate the law, or who will distinguish for us between life and
death?"
15. And I
said to them; "I cannot resist the throne of the Mighty One, nor will
Israel be in want of a wise man, nor the tribes of Jacob for a son of the law.
16. But
prepare your heart so that you may obey the law, and subject yourselves to those
who are wise and understanding with fear. And prepare your souls that you do not depart from them.
17.
If you
will do this, then the good tidings of which I spoke to you earlier will come to
you, and you will not fall into the torment of which I also spoke to you."
18. But in
regards to me being taken up, this I did not let them know, not even to my son.
19. After I
then had dismissed them and left to return, I said; Behold, I go to Hebron, for
unto there the Mighty One has directed me.
20. And I
arrived there at the place where the word was spoken to me, and sat there
fasting seven days.
Chapter 10
Baruch prays
1. After
these days then I prayed before the Mighty One, and said:
2. "O
Lord Thou summons the coming of the times, and they stand before Thee, by the
display of Thy power the worlds pass away, nor do they resist Thee.
3. Thou
arranged the course of the periods, and they obey Thee, only Thou know the
length of the generations, and Thy secrets Thou does not reveal to many.
4. Thou does
know the multitude of the fire, and weigh out the weight of the winds, Thou
investigates the ends of the heights, and scrutinize the depths of the darkness.
5. Thou
command the number, which will pass away, and that which will be preserved, and
prepares a house for them that will be.
6. Thou
remembers the first, which Thou created, and does not forget that destruction is
to come. At Thy command Thou
changes the winds into flames of fear and dread.
7. With a
word Thou brings to life that which is not, and holds with Thy great power all
that which is yet to come.
8. Thou
instruct Thy creation with understanding, and gives wisdom to the spheres that
they may minister to Thee accordingly.
9.
Innumerable
hosts stand before Thee, peacefully serving Thee according to their tasks.
10. Hear Thy
servant and regard my appeal O Lord, for in a short time we are born and in a
short time we return. With Thee
however, the hours are like eons, and the days like generations.
11.
Be
therefore not angry with man, for he is nothing, nor take account of his works,
for what are we? For behold, by Thy
gift we come into the world, and we depart not of our own will.
12. We did
not say to our parents; beget us. Nor
did we sent to the realm of death saying; Receive us.
What therefore is our strength that we should bear Thy wrath, or endure
Thy judgments?
13. Protect
us in Thy grace, and in Thy mercy help us, look at the small ones who submit to
Thee, and save all those that come to Thee.
14. Do not
take away the hope of our people, nor shorten the time of our help, for these
are the people, which Thou has elected, a nation of which Thou found no equal.
15. But now I
will speak to Thee as I think in my heart, for in Thee have we placed our trust,
for behold, Thy law is with us, and we know that we shall not fail as long as we
keep Thy statutes.
16. We shall
always be blessed as long as we do not mingle with the nations, for we, the
people of Thy name, who received but one law from One, and which is with us to
help us, it is that excellent wisdom which will support us."
The Lord answers Baruch
17. And
having prayed these things I became very weak, and He answered me saying;
18. "You
have prayed uprightly Baruch, and all your words have been heard, but
My judgment asks its own, and My law demands its right.
19.
From your
words I will answer you, and from your prayer I will speak with you, for it is
as follows;
20. There is
nothing that will be destroyed unless it acted wickedly while they were able to
recall my goodness and could have accepted My long-suffering.
21. For this
reason you will surely be taken up as I promised you.
And the time, of which I spoke to you, it will arrive, and when it
appears, it will bring afflictions.
22. For it
will come with great vehemence, and in the heat of indignation it will be
turbulent, and the inhabitants of the earth in those days will live in peace with one
another, for they realize not that My judgment has come near.
23. In that
time there will not be found many wise men, nor any intelligent ones, but those
that are wise will rather be more and more silent.
24. And there
will be many tidings, and not a few rumors, and works of illusions will be
visible, and not a few promises will be told, some idle, and some affirmed.
25. Honor
will change into shame, strength will be humiliated to contempt, and the strong
will be broken down, beauty will become contemptible.
26. And many
will say to many in that time; where did the multitude of intelligence hide
itself, and whereto did the multitude of wisdom depart?
27. And as
they think concerning these matters then jealousy will arise in those who did
not think much of themselves, and passions will take hold of those who were
peaceful.
28. And many will be agitated in wrath to injure many, and they will raise armies to shed blood and perish with them in that time it will become obviously visible to everyone that a change is to occur.
29.
For in all ages they polluted themselves causing oppression, and each one
walked in his own doings, and did not remember the law of the Mighty One.
30. Therefore,
a fire will consume their thoughts, and a flame the meditations of their
inwards, for the Judge will come, and He will not hesitate, since each one of
the inhabitants of the earth knew that they acted unrighteously, and for their
pride knew not the law.
31. Then many
will surely weep at that time, and that more because of being alive, than
dead."
32. And I
answered saying; "O Adam what have you done to all who were born of you?
And what will be said of the first Eve who obeyed the serpent so that now
this whole multitude is going to destruction, for countless are those which are
devoured by the fire."
Chapter 11
The
new form of the righteous
1. And
He answered saying to me; "Listen to this word Baruch, and write in the
memory of your heart all that you shall hear.
2.
For at
that time, the earth will surely give back the dead, it receives them now in
order to keep them not changing anything in their form, but just as it receives
them, so also it will return them, as I delivered them to it, so it will raise
them.
3.
For then it will be necessary to show them that are alive that the
dead are living again, that those who went away, did return.
4. And when they recognize each other, having known each other at that
time, then my judgment will be strong, and the things of which I spoke to you
will come.
5. Then after that appointed day is over, then both the shape of those who are found to be guilty, as also the glory of those who proved to be righteous, shall be changed.
6. For the
shape of those who now act wickedly - will be made more evil, so they shall
suffer torment.
7. And for
the glory of those who walked righteously according to My law, who in their life
had intelligence, who planted the root of wisdom in their hearts, their splendor
will then be glorified by transformation.
8. The form of their faces will be changed into the light of their
beauty so they may acquire and receive the undying world promised to them.
9. But these
others will at that time be especially sad since they despised My law, and
stopped their ears lest they might hear wisdom and receive intelligence.
10. When they
therefore will see those over whom they are now exalted to be more exalted and
glorified over them, then both these and they will be
changed.
11. These
into the splendor of angels, while the others shall be changed into startling
horrible shapes, and thus will waste away even more, for first they will see,
and then go to be tormented.
12. And to
those who are saved for their works for whom now the law is their hope,
intelligence, expectation, and wisdom, will be miracles at that time.
13.
For they
shall behold that world which is currently invisible to them, and see a time,
which is now hidden from them, nor will time any longer age them.
14. For
they will live in the heights of that world, being like the angels, and equals
to the stars.
15. They will
be changed into any form they desire, from beauty to loveliness, and from light
to the splendor of glory.
16.
For the
extend of Paradise will be laid open for them. To them will be shown the beauty of the majesty of the living
beings under the throne, as well as the host of angels which are now withheld by
My word - lest they show themselves, that by My command they may stand at their
places when their coming has arrived.
17.
Then the
excellence of the righteous ones will be greater than that of the angels, and
the first will receive the last whom they expected, and the last those of whom
they had heard that they had departed.
18. For they
were saved from this world of affliction and lost the burdens of anguish for
which men lost their lives, and for which they on earth exchanged their souls.
19. For once
they chose for themselves that time which cannot pass without afflictions, they
chose for themselves that end which is full of lamentations and evils.
20. They
denied the world in which one does not age when he enters into it, they despised
that time which brought glory, so that now they cannot enter into its glory of
which I spoke to you before."
21. Then I
answered saying; "How shall we forget those for whom at that time woe is
preserved? Shall we then again be
sad for those who must die, for those who will go into the realm of death?
22. The
lamentations should be kept for the beginning of that coming torment, and our
tears for its coming. But with a
view to these things I will yet speak concerning the righteous ones as to what
is best for them to do now.
23. Enjoy
yourself in the suffering in which you now suffer, and do not look to the
decline of your enemies.
24. But
prepare your souls for that which is kept for you, and ready your souls for the
reward which is preserved for you." And
having said these, I fell asleep.
Chapter 12
The vision of the cloud
1. And
I beheld a vision, A cloud came up from the sea, and as I saw, it was entirely
filled with black water, and many colors within it.
2. And
something like great lightning appeared at its top, and I beheld the cloud
passing rapidly passing over and covering the whole earth.
3. And the
cloud began to pour its water upon the earth, and I saw that the waters, which
descended, were not all alike.
4. At first
it was very black for a time, then I saw the water become bright, but there was
not much thereof.
5. And after
this I saw the black water again, and then bright again, and black again and
again bright, this happened twelve times, but the black was always more than the
bright.
6. And at
the end it poured black water blacker, darker than the waters which I had seen
before, and with it was fire mingled, and whenever that water descended, it
brought about devastation and destruction.
7. Then
after this I saw how the lightning, which was at its top, seized the cloud and
pressed it down upon the earth.
8. That
lightning then shone so bright that it lighted the whole earth and healed the
regions where the last black waters had descended and brought about destruction,
and it occupied the whole earth taking command thereof.
9. Afterwards
I beheld twelve rivers coming from the sea, surrounding the lightning, and
became subject to it. And for fear,
I awoken.
Baruch
asks for the interpretation.
10. And I
asked the Mighty One saying; "Thou alone O Lord knew the heights of the
world beforehand, and that which is to happen at the times which Thou brings
forth by Thy word.
11. And Thou
hastens the time against the works of the inhabitants of the earth, and the end
of all period, also Thou only knows.
12. Unto Thee
there is nothing difficult, and Thou accomplishes all things by Thyself.
13. Thou art
the One unto whom both the depths and the heights come together, and by whose
word the first of all things came.
14. Thou art
He who reveals to those that fear Thee what is prepared for them, so that Thou
may comfort them, and show Thy mighty works to such as knew not.
15. Thou does
close the blinds on those that are ignorant and boast in darkness, and Thou does
reveal Thy secrets to those that are spotless, to those who subject themselves
to Thee and to Thy law in faith.
16. Thou did
show this vision to Thy servant, open now also its exposition to me, for I know
that I have received the answer regarding the things of which I asked, and that
Thou has given me a revelation thereto.
17.
To let me
know with what voice I should honor Thee, and from what members I should cause
glory and praise to go up before Thee.
18. For if my
members were mouths, and the hairs of my head were voices, even then I would not
be able to honor Thee properly, nor pronounce Thy glory, or express the
excellence of Thy beauty.
19. For who
am I among men, or what is my significance among those who are more excellent
than I, that I have heard all these marvelous things from the Most High, and the
multitude of promises from Him who created me?
20.
Blessed
is my mother among those who bear, and praised among women is she who bore me,
for I shall not be silent honoring the Mighty One, but with the voice of glory I
shall narrate His marvelous works.
21. For who
is able to imitate Thy miracles O God, or understand Thy deep thoughts of life?
For with Thy counsel Thou reigns over all creation, which Thou made with
Thy right hand, and Thou established the whole fountain of life with Thyself,
and prepared under Thy throne the treasures of wisdom.
22. And those
who do not love Thy law are justly perishing; the torment of judgment will fall
rightly upon those who did not subject themselves to Thy power.
23. For
although Adam was the first to sin and brought death upon all those who were not
in his time, yet each of those who came from him, prepared the coming torments
for themselves.
24. And each
one chose for himself the coming glory, for he who believes will truly receive
the reward.
25. You
that are unrighteous, living now, you turn yourself to destruction, for you will
be visited suddenly, because you once rejected the understanding of the Most
High.
26. For His
works taught you nothing, nor did the artful works of His creation persuade you.
Not Adam is therefore the cause, except only for himself, but
each one of us has become his own Adam.
27. Thou however O Lord, explain to me what it is Thou revealed to me, and inform me of what I asked, for at the end of this world retribution will be demanded of the wicked ones in measure with their wickedness
28. And Thou wilt glorify the faithful ones according to their faith, for Thou rules those which are Thy own, and these who sin, Thou does blot out from among Thy own.
Chapter 13
Baruch meditating
1. And
it came to pass having finished these words of prayer that I sat down under a
tree to rest in the shadow of its branches.
2. And I was
surprised and astonished pondering in my thoughts concerning the multitude of
goodness, which the sinners on earth have rejected, and concerning the great
punishment, which they invited while they knew that they would be punished for
them.
3.
While I
was thus thinking these and other things, behold, Ramael, the angel who was set
over true visions, was sent to me and said;
4.
"Why
does your heart trouble you Baruch, why are you so disturbed in your thoughts?
For if you are now already while only hearing about the judgment, what
when you see it openly with your eyes?
5.
For if
you are already so disturbed by the expectation of what you expect on the day of
the Mighty One, what about when it arrives?
6. If you
are so terrified by the announcement of the punishment of those who have
transgressed, how much the more will the event itself terrify you?
7.
If you
are grieved having heard the words of good and evil for the time to come, what
then when you behold what His Majesty will reveal to convict some, and cause
others to rejoice?
Interpretation of the vision
8. But now
since you have asked the Most High to reveal to you the explanation of the
vision, which you have seen. I have been sent by Him to give you to know the
course of times, namely those which have passed, and which are to come in this
world from its creation to its end.
9. These
then are known in deceit and in truth, for as you saw a great cloud coming up
from the sea and covering the earth; this is the length of the world, which the
Mighty One created when He took counsel to create the world.
10. It then
is so, that when His word went from Him, that the duration of the world stood
as something small, and was established according to the abundance of
His intelligence.
11. What you
saw first, the black waters on top of the cloud, the first, which came down upon
the earth this, is the transgression of Adam, the first sin.
12. For when
he transgressed came untimely death into being, mourning made its entry,
afflictions were prepared, illness was created, labor came, and pride also took
hold.
13. And death
began to ask to be served with blood, and the conception of children came about,
and the passion of the parents was produced, the loftiness of man was humiliated
and goodness vanished.
14. What therefore could have been blacker than all these? This is the beginning of the black waters, which you saw.
15. Then
other dark waters were born from these, waters very dark in origin, for he who
was a danger to himself was also a danger to angels, since in time, they the
angels, had freedom.
16. And some
of these came down and mingled themselves with women, and those who did these
things at that time, are now tormented in chains.
17. But the
rest of the multitude of the angels, which is without number, restrained
themselves.
18. These
then that lived on earth perished together in the waters of the flood.
These are the first black waters.
The first bright waters
19. After
these you saw the bright waters, this is the fountain of Abraham and his
generation, the coming of his son, and his son sons, and all those like them.
20. For at
that time, the unwritten law was in force among them by which the deeds of the
law were accomplished, and also the faith in the coming judgment was brought
about.
21. And also
the hope of the world, which was to be renewed, was at that time established,
and the promise of the life afterwards was planted in their hearts.
22. These
then are the bright waters, which you have seen.
Third black waters
23. And the
third black waters which you saw; is the mingling which the nations performed
afterwards, after the departure of these righteous men
24. And also the wickedness of the land of Egypt in acting wickedly with oppression against their sons, but at end these also perished.
Chapter 14
Fourth bright waters
1. And
the fourth bright waters which you saw, is the coming of Moses and of Aaron and
of Miriam and Joshua the son of Nun, and of Caleb, and all those like them.
2. For at
that time the lamp of the eternal law, which exists forever and ever,
illuminated all those who sat in darkness, announcing to them that the promise
of their reward, and on the other hand, the fire as punishment for those who
denied it.
3. At that
time the heavens were shaken, which is to say, the heavens, which are under the
throne of the Mighty One, were severely shaken when He received Moses to Him.
4. For He
showed him many warnings together with the ways of the law, and showed him the
time of the end even as is shown to you, and He showed him the likeness of Zion
with its measurements which was to be made after the likeness of the present
sanctuary.
5. He also
at that time showed him the measures of the fire, the depths of the abyss, the
weight of the winds, the number of raindrops, the suppression of wrath, the
abundance of long-suffering, the truth of judgment, the root of wisdom, the
riches of understanding, the fountain of knowledge, and the heights of the air.
6. As well
as the greatness of Paradise, the end of the periods, the beginning of the day
of judgment, the number of offerings, the worlds which had not yet come, the
mouth of hell, the place of vengeance, the place of faith, the region of hope.
7. The
picture of the coming judgment, the multitude of the angels which cannot be
counted, the powers of the flame, the splendor of lightning's, the voice of the
thunders, the orders of the archangels the treasures of light, the changes of
the times, and the inquiries into the law.
8. These are the fourth bright waters, which you have seen.
The fifth black waters
9. And the
fifth black waters, which you saw, pouring down; are the works, which the
Amorites have done, the wickedness of their mysteries, and the mingling of their
pollution.
10. And
Israel also was polluted with sins in the days of the judges even though they
had seen many signs from Him who created them.
The sixth bright waters
11. And the
sixth bright waters, which you saw, this is the time in which David and Solomon
were born.
12. At that
time the building of Zion took place, and the dedication of the sanctuary, and
the shedding of much blood of the nations, which sinned at that time.
13. And the
many offerings, which were offered at that time at the inauguration of the
sanctuary, and rest and peace, reigned at that time.
14. Wisdom
was heard in the assembly, and the riches of understanding was magnified in the
congregations.
15. And the
holy festivals were fulfilled with happiness and much joy, and also the judgment
of the rulers at that time was without deceit.
16.
And the
righteousness of the commandments of the Mighty One was at that time
accomplished in truth.
17. The land
at that time-received mercy since its inhabitants did not sin and were praised
above all countries and regions.
18. These are
those bright waters, which you have seen.
The seventh black waters
19. And the
seventh black waters which you have seen; is the perversion of the ideas of
Jeroboam who planned to make two golden calves, and the iniquities done by the
kings who succeeded him.
20. And the
course of Jezebel, and the idolatry, which Israel practiced at that time, and
the withholding of rain, with famines of such kind that they ate the fruit of
their womb.
21. And the
time of their exile which befell the nine and one half tribes because they lived
in many sins, and Salmanasar the king of Assyria came and carried them away
into captivity.
22. And much
could be said concerning the nations how they acted unrighteously and wickedly,
and how they never proved them-selves to be righteous.
23. These are
the seventh black waters, which you saw.
The eight bright waters
24. And the
eight bright waters which you have seen, is the righteousness and integrity of
Hezekiah, king of Judah, and the grace, which came upon him.
25. For at
that time Sennacherib was roused in wrath, so that he led the multitude of the
nations that went with him, also to destruction.
26. For when Hezekiah the king heard what the Assyrian king had devised, to come and destroy his people, the two and a half tribes that were left, and that he also wanted to destroy Zion.
27. Then
Hezekiah trusted in his works and hoped upon his righteousness, and he spoke
with the Mighty One saying; Pay attention, behold, Sennacherib is ready to
destroy us, and he will boast, and be uplifted when he has destroyed Zion.
28. And the
Mighty One heard him, for Hezekiah was wise, and paid attention
to his prayers, for
he was righteous.
29. And the
Mighty One commanded his angel Ramael, who now speaks with you, went and
destroyed their multitude, the number with their chiefs were 185.000, I at that
time burned their bodies within preserving their clothes and their armament on
the outside.
30. So that
still more of the marvelous works of the Mighty One might be seen, and so that
His name might be mentioned throughout the entire earth.
31. Thus Zion
was saved and Jerusalem delivered from its tribulations, and those who were in
the Holy Land rejoiced.
32. And the name of the Mighty One was praised so that it was spoken of. These are these bright waters, which you have seen.
Chapter 15
The ninth black waters
1. And
the ninth black waters is the wickedness which existed in the days of Manasseh,
the son of Hezekiah, for he acted very wickedly, killing the righteous.
2. He
perverted judgment, shed innocent blood, and violently polluted the married
women; he overturned altars abolishing their offerings, and drove the priests
away lest they should minister in the sanctuary.
3. And he
made a statute with five faces, four looking into the directions of the winds,
and the fifth on top was to challenge the zeal of the Mighty One.
4. Then the
wrath of the Mighty One went out, for Zion to be uprooted, and so it happened in
your days.
5. But
judgment also went out against the two and a half tribes for them to be carried
into captivity, as you have seen.
6.
The
impiety of Manasseh increased to such a degree that the glory of the Most High
removed itself from the sanctuary.
7. Therefore
was Manasseh called the impious one, at that time, and finally his habitation
was in the fire.
8.
For
although the Most High had heard his prayer, in the end, when he fell into the
brazen horse, and it was melted, it became to him as a sign regarding his hour.
9. For he
had not lived perfectly since he was not worthy, but this was so that he might
henceforth know by whom at end he should be punished, for He who is able to
benefit is also able to punish.
10. This
Manasseh sinned, and he thought in his time that the Mighty One would not call
him accountable for these things.
11. These are
those ninth black water you have seen.
Tenth bright waters
12. And the
tenth bright waters which you have seen; is the purity of the generation of
Josiah, the king of Judah, who was the only one in his time who subjected
himself to the Mighty One with his whole heart and soul.
13. He
purified the country from the idols, and sanctified the vessels, which were
polluted, and restored the offerings to the altar, raising the horn of the holy,
and he exalted the righteous and honored all those who were wise with
understanding.
14. He
brought the priests back to their ministry, and destroyed and removed the
magicians, the enchanters and diviners from the land.
15. And not
only did he kill the impious that were living, but also the bones of the dead
were taken out and burned with fire.
16. He
established the festivals and the Sabbaths with their holy practices, and burned
the polluted with fire.
17. And also
the prophets that were still alive, who deceived the people, these he burned
with fire, and he also cast the people who obeyed them for the remainder of
their life in the Kidron valley, and heaped stones on them.
18. With his
whole soul he was zealous for the Mighty One, he alone was strong in the law at
that time.
19. He left
no one un-circumcised, nor anyone who acted wickedly in the whole of the
country, all the days of his life.
20. He
therefore is one who shall receive an eternal reward, and be honored with the
Mighty One more than many, in the last age.
21. For on
his account and on account of those like him, the precious glories have been
created and prepared which were spoken of to you earlier.
22. These are
those bright waters, which you have seen.
The eleventh black waters
23. And the
eleventh black waters, which you saw, is the disaster, which has now befallen
Zion.
24. Do you
think that there is no mourning among the angels before the Mighty One that Zion
is delivered up in this way?
25. Behold,
the nations rejoice in their hearts, these multitudes are before their idols
saying; She who has trodden down others for such a long time has herself been
trodden down, she who subjugated, has been subjugated.
26. Do you
think that the Most High rejoices in these things, or that His name has been
glorified? But how else will be His
righteous judgment?
27. For after
this, those scattered among the nations will endure tribulations, and live in
shame in every place.
28. For ever
since Zion has been delivered up, and Jerusalem laid waste, the idols of the
cities of the nations are happy.
29. And the
savor of the smoke of the incense of the righteousness of the law has been put
out everywhere in the regions of Zion.
30. For
behold, the smoke of impiety is here, and the king of Babylon will arise, the
one who destroyed Zion, and he will boast over the people, and speak proudly in
his heart before the Most High.
31. Yet
finally he too will fall. These
then are those black waters.
The twelfth bright waters
32. And the
twelfth bright waters which you saw; this is the meaning; After these there will
come a time that your people will fall into such a distress that they are
altogether in danger of perishing. [ww-2]
33. They
however will be saved, and their enemies will fall before them, and to them will
fall much joy one-day.
34. At that time then, after a short time, Zion will be build again,
[1948]
and
offerings restored, the priest will again return to their ministry.
35. And the nations will again come to honor it, but not as fully as before, but it will come to pass after these things that there will be a fall of many nations.
36. These are
these bright waters you have seen.
Chapter 16
The last black waters
1. The
last black waters then, which you saw, which were blacker than all the
preceding, which came after the twelfth, those, which were brought together,
they
apply to the whole world.
2. For the
Most High in the beginning made a division, and only He knows what will happen
in the future.
3. He
foresaw six times for the ungodly, and six times of the good works, which the
righteous should accomplish, with the exclusion of that which He Himself will
accomplish at the end of the world.
4. These
waters therefore are not black waters mixed with black, nor bright with bright,
for this is the end.
5. Hear then
the exposition of these last black waters, which will come after the black
waters.
6.
For
behold, the days are coming that the time of the world shall be ripe to harvest
what is sown of good, and what is sown of evil, then the Mighty shall cause
confusion of spirit, and amazement of the heart over its inhabitants and over
its rulers.
7. And they
will hate one another, and provoke one another to fight, the despised will rule
over the honorable, and the unworthy will raise themselves over the illustrious.
8. And many
will be delivered to the few, those who were nothing will rule over the strong,
and the poor will be greater in number than the rich.
9. The
impious will exalt themselves over the brave, the wise will be silent, and the
foolish will speak.
10. The plans
of men will not be realized then, nor the counsel of the strong, nor the hope of
those who hope will be realized.
11. Then the
things will occur of which I spoke to you before, and confusion will fall upon
all men, some will fall in war, others perish in tribulations, and again others
will be troubled by those of their own.
12. Then the
Most High will give a sign to those nations, which He has prepared, and they
will come and wage war with the rulers who then remain.
13. And
everyone, who will save himself from war, will die in an earthquake, and he, who
saves himself from the earthquake, will be burned by fire, and he who saves
himself from the fire will perish by famine.
14.
And
everyone who escapes from all these things, both the victors and those that have
been overcome, these all will be delivered into the hands of My Servant, the
Anointed One.
15. For
the whole earth will devour its inhabitants, but the Holy Land at that time will find mercy
and protect its inhabitants.
16. This is
the vision, which you have seen, and its interpretation, for I have come to tell
you these things, since the Most High has heard your prayer.
Bright waters at the end
17. Hear now
also concerning the bright waters, which came at the end, after these black
ones.
18. For after
the signs of which I spoke to you, have come, when the nations are moved, and
the time of My Anointed One has come, He will call all nations, and some He will
spare while others He will kill.
19. And this
will befall the nations, which will be spared by Him.
Every nation that has not known Israel, which has
not trodden down the seed of Jacob, they will live.
20. This is
so because, some from among the nations have subjected themselves to your
people, but those who have ruled over you or that has known you, will be
delivered to the sword.
21. And after
He has brought down everything which is in the world, and has sat down in
eternal peace on the throne of His kingdom, then joy will be revealed, and rest
will appear.
22.
Then
health will descend as dew, and illness will vanish, fear, tribulation, and
lamentations will pass away from among men, and joy will embrace the earth, and
no one again will die untimely, or be overtaken by sudden adversity.
23. Judgment,
condemnations, contentions, revenging, murder, passions, zeal, hate, and all
such things will go into condemnation, because they will be uprooted.
24. For
because of these things the earth was filled with evils, by them it that the
life of man came in yet greater confusion.
25. And wild
beasts will come from the forest and serve man, and the asp and dragons will
come out of their holes to subject themselves to a child.
26. And women
will no longer have pain when they bear, they will not be tormented when they
yield the fruit of their womb.
27. In those
days the reapers will not become tired, nor will the farmers wear themselves
out, for the produce will of itself come forth speedily while they work on them
in full tranquility.
28. For that
time is the end of that which is corruptible, and the beginning of that which is
incorruptible, wherefore the good of which I spoke before will be in it.
29. Therefore
also is she far from those that are evil, but near to those, which do not die.
These are these last bright waters.
Chapter 17
Baruch praises the Lord
1. And
I answered saying; who can equal Thy goodness O Lord, for it is
incomprehensible, or who can fathom Thy grace, which is without end, or
understand Thy intelligence?
2. Who can
narrate the thoughts of Thy Spirit, who of those that are born can hope to
arrive at these things, except those to whom Thou art merciful and gracious.
3.
If Thou
were not merciful to men, those who gather under Thy right hand, they would not
be able to comprehend, nor attain to be named among Thy number.
4.
But we
who are, when we shall know why we have come, and subject ourselves to Him who
brought us out of Egypt, then we shall remember that which has passed away, and
rejoice in the things that will be.
5. But if we
do not know why we have come, nor recognize the sovereignty of Him who brought
us out of Egypt, we will be asking for that which is now, and be severely
grieved for that which has happened.
6. And He
answered saying to me; Since the revelation of the vision has been explained to
you as you asked for, hear now the words of the Most High in what will happen to
you after these things.
7. For you
will surely depart from this world, but not to death, but to be kept to the end
of times.
8. Therefore
go up to the top of the mountain, and all the nations of the earth will pass
before you. The likeness of the
inhabited world, the height of the mountains, the depths of the valleys, the
depths of the seas, and the number of rivers, so that you may see that which you
leave, and where you are going.
9.
This will
be done to you after forty days, during these days therefore go and instruct the
people as much as you can so they may learn, lest they die in the last times.
Baruch speaks to the people
10. And I
Baruch went from there to my people and assembled them from the greatest to the
smallest and said to them. Hear O
children of Israel, look how many are left of the twelve tribes of Israel.
11. It is to
you above all nations that the Lord gave the law, but because your brothers
transgressed the commandments of the Most High, He brought vengeance on them and
on you.
12. He did
not spare your ancestors in the past, and now He has given the descendants into
captivity leaving no remnant of them.
13. You
however are here with me at this place, if you therefore will make your ways
straight then you will not be going as your brothers went but they will rather
come to you.
14. For He
whom you honor, and in whom you hope, is merciful and gracious and true to do
good to you, and not evil.
15. Have you
not seen what befell Zion? Or do
you think that the place itself has sinned that it was destroyed for that
reason?
16. Or that
the country has done some crime, that it for such cause is delivered up?
17. Do you
not known that it is because of "those who sinned" that even those who
did not sin were destroyed? That
because of those who did evil, those had not gone astray had to go and be
delivered up to their enemies?
The people answer Baruch
18.
And the
whole people answered me; “Everything which we are able to recall of the good
things which the Mighty One has done to us we shall remember, and what we are
not able to recall, He knows in his grace.
19.
But
perform this for us your people, write to our brothers in Babylon a letter of
doctrine, a role of hope so you may strengthen them before you go from us.
20. For the
shepherds of Israel have perished, the lamps, which gave light, are
extinguished, and the fountains from which we used to drink have withheld their
streams. And we are left in
darkness as in a thick forest, and as in the aridness of the desert."
21. So I
answered them; "Shepherds, lamps and fountains came from the law, and even
though we go, the law remains, if therefore you look upon the law, and are
intend upon wisdom, then the lamp will not be wanting, nor the shepherds be
departed, nor the fountain be dry.
22. Nevertheless,
I will write to your brothers in Babylon as you asked of me, and sent it to them
by means of men, Furthermore I shall also write to the nine and one half tribes,
and sent it them by means of a bird."
Sending of the letters
23. On the
21st day then of the ninth month I Baruch came and sat under the oak in the
shadow of its branches, and no one was with me.
24. And I
wrote two letters, one I sent by means of an eagle to the nine and a half
tribes, the other I sent by means of three men to those in Babylon.
25. And I
called an eagle speaking to him these words; the Most High has created you that
you should be higher than any other bird.
26. And now
go, and do not stay in this place, do not enter a nest, nor sit on any tree
until you have crossed over the waters of the river Euphrates and have come to
the people that live there, and cast down to them this letter.
27. Remember
that Noah at the time of the flood received the fruit of the olive tree from a
dove when he sent it away from the ark, and also the ravens served Elijah when
they brought food to him as they were commanded.
28. And
Solomon in the time of his kingship commanded a bird where he wanted to sent a
letter, and it obeyed him in whatever he was in need of, like as he commanded
it.
29. Do not be
reluctant therefore, nor deviate to the right nor to the left but fly going the
shortest way that you may preserve the command of the Mighty One as I speak to
you.
Chapter 18
The letter to the 9-l/2 tribes
1. The
letter of Baruch, the son of Neriah, which he wrote to the nine and a half
tribes.
2. Thus
speaks Baruch the son of Neriah to the brothers who were carried away in
captivity, grace, and peace be to you.
3. My
brothers I remember constantly the love of Him who created me, who loved us from
the beginning, who never hated us, but on the contrary, He chastised us
4. I know it
well that all the twelve tribes are bound by one captivity, since we all descend
from one father.
5.
It is for
that reason that I have been more diligent to leave you these words by means of
this letter before I shall die, so that you may be comforted regarding the
evils, which have befallen you.
6.
And also,
that you may be grieved with regards to the evils which has come to your
brothers, to the intend that you may consider the righteous judgment of Him who
decreed that you should be carried into captivity.
7.
What you
in fact have suffered, is smaller than what you have done, which is so that in
the last times, you may be found worthy of your fathers.
8.
If
therefore you consider that your suffering is for your own good, so that at end
you may not be condemned and tormented, you will receive the eternal hope.
9. This is
of course if you remove the vain error from your hearts, for which reason also
you had to depart from here, for if you do this, He will remember you always.
10. He is He,
who on our behalf has always promised to those who are more excellent than us,
that He will never forget nor forsake our offspring, but that with great mercy
He would again assemble them that were dispersed.
11. Learn
then first my brothers what befell Zion, namely, that Nebuchadnezzar, king of
Babylon, came up against us, for we had sinned against Him who created us, not
observing the commandments, which He ordered us to keep.
12. And yet
He did not chastise us as we well deserved, and that which befell you, we also
had to suffer, since it befell us also.
13. And now
my brothers I make known to you that when the enemy had surrounded the city,
angels from the Most High were sent, and they demolished the fortifications of
the strong wall, and destroyed the solid iron corners, which were unbreakable.
14. And they
hid the holy items, so the enemy could not pollute them, and having done these
things they left the demolished wall, the emptied house, the burned temple, and
the people to the enemies.
15. This was
so lest they should say; we have overcome to such an extend that we have
destroyed the house of the Most High.
16. They then
bound your brothers and carried them to Babylon forcing them to live there, and
we have been left here with very few.
17. This is
the affliction about which I write to you, for I know it was a comfort to you as
long as you knew that Zion was still inhabited, and that that comfort was
greater than the afflictions which you endured in being separated from them.
God's vengeance to come upon His enemies
18. But hear
now yet also a word of comfort, for I mourned greatly for Zion, and asked for
grace from the Most High saying, Will these things be always so, will these
evils befall us to the end?
19. And the
Most High did according to His abundant grace, according to the multitude of his
mercy, He revealed to me words of comfort, showing me a vision that I might not
be sorrowful, He made known to me the mysteries of the times, and the coming of
the periods.
20.
Therefore
have I written my brothers, that you might find consolation in your many
tribulations, for you ought to know that our Creator will surely avenge us on
all our enemies according to all that they have done to us.
21. And that
the end which the Most High has purposed, is near, and also His grace which is
to come, the coming of his judgment is not far off.
22. For as of
yet we see them happy, that multitude of nations while they act wickedly, and
yet are but a vapor. And as yet we
behold their power while they act impiously, but they will be like a drop.
23. We see
the Power, while they at all times resist the Mighty One, but they will be
reckoned as spit, we ponder on the glory of their majesty while they do not keep
the statutes of the Most High, but as smoke, so they will pass away.
24. We think
on the beauty and glory, while they live in filthiness, but they will fade like
dead grass. And while we behold
their great cruelty, they do not consider the end, but they will be broken like
a passing wave.
25. We notice
the pride of their power, while they deny the goodness of God from whom they
received it, but as a passing cloud they will vanish.
Chapter 19
Verdict on the nations
1. For the Most High will surely hasten His times.
He will certainly cause His periods to arrive.
2. He
will surely judge those that are in this world.
He will truly inquire into everything regarding their works - which were
sins.
3. He
will certainly investigate the secret thoughts, all that is in the corner of
men. And He will manifest it before
everyone with blame.
4. Nothing therefore of the present things should come as a surprise to your hearts, but you should rather expect it, and let us wait for that which is promised to us to come
5. We should
not look upon the delight of the present nations, but let us think upon that
which has been promised to us in the end.
6. For all
times and periods will pass to their end with all that is in them, The end then,
in the judgment will demonstrate the great power of our Ruler.
7. Direct your hearts therefore to that which you have believed from of
old lest you should be captives in both worlds, first to be carried captive here
and then to be tormented there.
8. For that
which is now, what was, and what is to come, the evil that is in them, is not
fully evil, nor is the good fully good in them, since the health that is now
will change into illness, and might into weakness.
9. And the
powers that are now will change into miseries, and the strength of youth into
old age and pass to consummation.
10. All
beauty and glory that is now will wither and become ugly, all accursed pride
that is now will come into infamy and shame.
11. All the
glory of boasting of this time will change into shame and silence, and all
delight and splendor that is now, will go into ruin and contempt.
12. All joy and grace that is now will turn into worms and perdition, and all the proud talk that is now, will change into dust and defamation.
13. All
present wealth will go into hell, and all current greed and goods will pass unto
death, and all desires of the heart that are now, will pass unto punishment.
14. All
craftiness and cunning shall be tested by the truth, and all sweet smell of
ointment that is now, will go into judgment and condemnation, and all unsavory
friendship will lead to shameful silence.
15. Think
thus not that all that is happening now will not be avenged, for the end will
bring all things to light.
Baruch's last reminder to Israel
16. I have
given you knowledge while I am still alive, that you may learn His mighty
commandments, which He taught you, and I shall mention some of these before I
die.
17.
Remember
that Moses called heaven and earth to witness against you and said, If you
trespass, you shall be dispersed, and if you keep it, you shall be planted.
18. And yet
other things he said to you when the twelve tribes were gathered in the desert,
but after his death, you cast it away from you, therefore then came the thing,
which he said upon you.
19.
Moses
thus spoke to you before it came to you, and it came because you forsook the
law.
20. And I
also now say to you, after you having suffered these things, if you obey the
things that I have said to you, then you shall receive from the Mighty One
everything, which He has prepared and preserved for you.
21. Let
therefore this letter be a witness between you, and me that you may remember the
commandments of the Mighty One, and that it may serve as my defense in the
presence of Him who has sent me.
22. Remember
Zion and the law, and the Holy Land and your brothers, the covenant and your
fathers, and do not forget the festivals and the Sabbaths, and give this letter
and the traditions of the law to your children after you, as also your fathers
did to you.
23. Endure
always asking and praying seriously with your whole soul, that the Mighty One
may accept you in mercy, and not reckon to you the multitude of your sins, for
if He judges us not according to His great grace, woe to all that are born.
24. Know
further that in former times, the fathers and generations had prophets and holy
men to helpers, and when we were in our country they helped us when we sinned,
intervening for us with Him who created us, since they trusted in righteousness.
25.
And the
Mighty One heard them and purged us from our sins, but now the righteous have
been gathered, and the prophets are sleeping, and we have left our land, and
Zion has been taken away, and we have nothing except the Mighty One and his law.
26. If
therefore we direct and dispose our hearts to Him, we shall again receive
everything, which we lost many times over, for that which was lost, was
subjected to corruption, but that which we shall receive, will not be
corruptible.
27. We have
written to your brothers in Babylon also, so I may attest these things to them
also. Let everything, which I have
hereto said unto you be before you always as long as we are still at liberty in
the power of the Spirit to do so.
28. And
furthermore, the Most High is also long suffering towards us having shown us
what is to come, not concealing from us what is to happen in the end.
29. For now
that his judgment exacts its own, and his truth that which is His, let us
prepare ourselves that we may possess, and not be possessed.
30. And that
we may hope, and not be put to shame, and rest with our fathers, and not be
punished with those who hate us.
31. For the
youth of this world has passed away, and the power of creation is near
exhaustion, the coming of the time is near.
32. The
pitcher is near the well, and the ship to the harbor, and the journey nears the
city, and life - its end, so thus prepare yourself that when you sail and ascend
the ship, you may have rest and not be condemned for having gone away.
33. For the
Most High will cause all things to come, after which there will not be an
opportunity to repent. There will
not be an extension of periods of times, nor a chance to rest, nor opportunity
to pray, or to sent up petitions, nor the giving of knowledge, or love.
34. Nor
praying for others, nor prayers of the fathers, nor intercessions of the
prophets, nor help from the righteous, for there will be the proclamation of
judgment to destruction, and the way of the fire, the path that leads to the
oven.
35. Therefore
there is one law by One, and one world, and an end for all that live therein,
then will He give life to those whom He is able to forgive and purge them from
sin and at the same time destroy them that are smeared with sin.
36. When you
therefore receive this letter, read it carefully in your assemblies, and think
about it and in particular on your days of feasting, and remember me by means of
this letter in the same way as I remember you by means of this always.
37. And it happen when I had finished all the words of this letter, and written it carefully in full, I folded it, sealed it, and bound it to the neck of the Eagle, and I let it go sending it away.