Josephus Book 24b From the Siege of Gamala to the Coming of Titus to besiege Jerusalem

The wars of the Jews by Josephus, The wars of the Jews by Josephus, translated by William Whiston. Chapter translated by William Whiston. Chapter translated by William Whiston. Chapter 6. 6. 6. How the Zealots, when they were freed How the Zealots, when they were freed How the Zealots, when they were freed from the Idumaeans, slew a great many from the Idumaeans, slew a great many from the Idumaeans, slew a great many more of the citizens. more of the citizens. more of the citizens. And how Vespasian dissuaded the Romans, And how Vespasian dissuaded the Romans, And how Vespasian dissuaded the Romans, when they were very earnest to march when they were very earnest to march when they were very earnest to march against the Jews, against the Jews, against the Jews, from proceeding in the war from proceeding in the war from proceeding in the war at that time. at that time. at that time. The Idumaeans complied with these The Idumaeans complied with these The Idumaeans complied with these persuasions, and in the first place, persuasions, and in the first place, persuasions, and in the first place, they set those that were in the prisons they set those that were in the prisons they set those that were in the prisons at liberty, being about 2,000 of the at liberty, being about 2,000 of the at liberty, being about 2,000 of the populace, who thereupon fled away populace, who thereupon fled away populace, who thereupon fled away immediately to Simon, immediately to Simon, immediately to Simon, one whom we shall speak of presently. one whom we shall speak of presently. one whom we shall speak of presently. After which these Idumaeans retired from After which these Idumaeans retired from After which these Idumaeans retired from Jerusalem and went home, which departure Jerusalem and went home, which departure Jerusalem and went home, which departure of theirs was a great surprise to both of theirs was a great surprise to both of theirs was a great surprise to both parties. parties. parties. For the people, not knowing of their For the people, not knowing of their For the people, not knowing of their repentance, pulled up their courage for repentance, pulled up their courage for repentance, pulled up their courage for a while, as eased of so many of their a while, as eased of so many of their a while, as eased of so many of their enemies. enemies. enemies. While the Zealots grew more insolent, While the Zealots grew more insolent, While the Zealots grew more insolent, not as deserted by their confederates, not as deserted by their confederates, not as deserted by their confederates, but as freed from such men as might but as freed from such men as might but as freed from such men as might hinder their designs, hinder their designs, hinder their designs, and blood some stopped to their and blood some stopped to their and blood some stopped to their wickedness.

wickedness. wickedness. Accordingly, they made no longer any Accordingly, they made no longer any Accordingly, they made no longer any delay, nor took any deliberation in delay, nor took any deliberation in delay, nor took any deliberation in their enormous practices, but made use their enormous practices, but made use their enormous practices, but made use of the shortest methods for all their of the shortest methods for all their of the shortest methods for all their executions, and what they had once executions, and what they had once executions, and what they had once resolved upon, resolved upon, resolved upon, they put in practice sooner than anyone they put in practice sooner than anyone they put in practice sooner than anyone could imagine. could imagine. could imagine. But their thirst was chiefly after the But their thirst was chiefly after the But their thirst was chiefly after the blood of valiant men and men of good blood of valiant men and men of good blood of valiant men and men of good families. The one sort of which they families. The one sort of which they families. The one sort of which they destroyed out of envy, the other out of destroyed out of envy, the other out of destroyed out of envy, the other out of fear. fear. fear. For they thought their whole security For they thought their whole security For they thought their whole security lay in leaving no potent men alive, on lay in leaving no potent men alive, on lay in leaving no potent men alive, on which account they slew Gorion, a person which account they slew Gorion, a person which account they slew Gorion, a person eminent in dignity, eminent in dignity, eminent in dignity, and on account of his family also. and on account of his family also. and on account of his family also. He was also for democracy and of as He was also for democracy and of as He was also for democracy and of as great boldness and freedom of spirit as great boldness and freedom of spirit as great boldness and freedom of spirit as were any of the Jews whatsoever. were any of the Jews whatsoever. were any of the Jews whatsoever. The principal thing that ruined him, The principal thing that ruined him, The principal thing that ruined him, added to his other advantages, was his added to his other advantages, was his added to his other advantages, was his free speaking. free speaking. free speaking. Nor did Niger of Perea escape their Nor did Niger of Perea escape their Nor did Niger of Perea escape their hands. He had been a man of great valor hands. He had been a man of great valor hands. He had been a man of great valor in their war with the Romans, in their war with the Romans, in their war with the Romans, but was now drawn through the middle of but was now drawn through the middle of but was now drawn through the middle of the city, and as he went, he frequently the city, and as he went, he frequently the city, and as he went, he frequently cried out and showed the scars of his cried out and showed the scars of his cried out and showed the scars of his wounds.

wounds. wounds. And when he was drawn out of the gates And when he was drawn out of the gates And when he was drawn out of the gates and despaired of his preservation, he and despaired of his preservation, he and despaired of his preservation, he besought them to grant him a burial. besought them to grant him a burial. besought them to grant him a burial. But as they had threatened him But as they had threatened him But as they had threatened him beforehand not to grant him any spot of beforehand not to grant him any spot of beforehand not to grant him any spot of earth for a grave, earth for a grave, earth for a grave, which he chiefly desired of them, which he chiefly desired of them, which he chiefly desired of them, so did they slay him without permitting so did they slay him without permitting so did they slay him without permitting him to be buried. him to be buried. him to be buried. Now, when they were slaying him, he made Now, when they were slaying him, he made Now, when they were slaying him, he made this imprecation upon them, this imprecation upon them, this imprecation upon them, that they might undergo both famine and that they might undergo both famine and that they might undergo both famine and pestilence in this war, and besides all pestilence in this war, and besides all pestilence in this war, and besides all that, they might come to the mutual that, they might come to the mutual that, they might come to the mutual slaughter of one another. slaughter of one another. slaughter of one another. All which imprecations God confirmed All which imprecations God confirmed All which imprecations God confirmed against these impious men, against these impious men, against these impious men, and was what came most justly upon them, and was what came most justly upon them, and was what came most justly upon them, when not long afterward they tasted of when not long afterward they tasted of when not long afterward they tasted of their own madness in their mutual their own madness in their mutual their own madness in their mutual seditions one against another. seditions one against another. seditions one against another. So, when this Niger was killed, their So, when this Niger was killed, their So, when this Niger was killed, their fears of being overturned were fears of being overturned were fears of being overturned were diminished, diminished, diminished, and indeed, there was no part of the and indeed, there was no part of the and indeed, there was no part of the people but they found out some pretense people but they found out some pretense people but they found out some pretense to destroy them.

to destroy them. to destroy them. For some were therefore slain because For some were therefore slain because For some were therefore slain because they had had differences with some of they had had differences with some of they had had differences with some of them. them. them. And as to those that had not opposed And as to those that had not opposed And as to those that had not opposed them in times of peace, them in times of peace, them in times of peace, they watched seasonable opportunities to they watched seasonable opportunities to they watched seasonable opportunities to gain some accusation against them. gain some accusation against them. gain some accusation against them. And if anyone did not come near them at And if anyone did not come near them at And if anyone did not come near them at all, he was under their suspicion as a all, he was under their suspicion as a all, he was under their suspicion as a proud man. proud man. proud man. If anyone came with boldness, he was If anyone came with boldness, he was If anyone came with boldness, he was esteemed a contemner of them. esteemed a contemner of them. esteemed a contemner of them. And if anyone came as aiming to oblige And if anyone came as aiming to oblige And if anyone came as aiming to oblige them, he was supposed to have some them, he was supposed to have some them, he was supposed to have some treacherous plot against them. treacherous plot against them. treacherous plot against them. While the only punishment of crimes, While the only punishment of crimes, While the only punishment of crimes, whether they were of the greatest or whether they were of the greatest or whether they were of the greatest or smallest sort, was death. smallest sort, was death. smallest sort, was death. Nor could anyone escape unless he were Nor could anyone escape unless he were Nor could anyone escape unless he were very inconsiderable, either on account very inconsiderable, either on account very inconsiderable, either on account of the meanness of his birth or on of the meanness of his birth or on of the meanness of his birth or on account of his fortune. account of his fortune. account of his fortune. And now all the rest of the commanders And now all the rest of the commanders And now all the rest of the commanders of the Romans deemed the sedition among of the Romans deemed the sedition among of the Romans deemed the sedition among their enemies to be of great advantage their enemies to be of great advantage their enemies to be of great advantage to them. to them. to them. And they were very earnest to march to And they were very earnest to march to And they were very earnest to march to the city.

the city. the city. And they urged Vespasian, as their lord And they urged Vespasian, as their lord And they urged Vespasian, as their lord and general in all cases, to make haste and general in all cases, to make haste and general in all cases, to make haste and said to him and said to him and said to him that the providence of God is on our that the providence of God is on our that the providence of God is on our side by setting our enemies at variance side by setting our enemies at variance side by setting our enemies at variance against each other. against each other. against each other. That still the change in such cases may That still the change in such cases may That still the change in such cases may be sudden, and the Jews may quickly be be sudden, and the Jews may quickly be be sudden, and the Jews may quickly be at one again. at one again. at one again. After the case, they may be tired out After the case, they may be tired out After the case, they may be tired out with their civil miseries or repent them with their civil miseries or repent them with their civil miseries or repent them of such doings. of such doings. of such doings. But Vespasian replied that they were But Vespasian replied that they were But Vespasian replied that they were greatly mistaken in what they thought greatly mistaken in what they thought greatly mistaken in what they thought fit to be done. fit to be done. fit to be done. As those that upon the theater love to As those that upon the theater love to As those that upon the theater love to make a show of their hands and of their make a show of their hands and of their make a show of their hands and of their weapons. weapons. weapons. But do it at their own hazard without But do it at their own hazard without But do it at their own hazard without considering what was for their advantage considering what was for their advantage considering what was for their advantage and for their security. and for their security. and for their security. For that if they now go and attack the For that if they now go and attack the For that if they now go and attack the city immediately, they shall but city immediately, they shall but city immediately, they shall but occasion their enemies to unite together occasion their enemies to unite together occasion their enemies to unite together and shall convert their force, now it is and shall convert their force, now it is and shall convert their force, now it is in its height, against themselves. in its height, against themselves. in its height, against themselves. But if they stay a while, they shall But if they stay a while, they shall But if they stay a while, they shall have fewer enemies because they will be have fewer enemies because they will be have fewer enemies because they will be consumed in this sedition.

consumed in this sedition. consumed in this sedition. That God acts as a general of the Romans That God acts as a general of the Romans That God acts as a general of the Romans better than he can do. better than he can do. better than he can do. And is giving the Jews up to them And is giving the Jews up to them And is giving the Jews up to them without any pains of their own. without any pains of their own. without any pains of their own. And granting their army a victory And granting their army a victory And granting their army a victory without any danger. without any danger. without any danger. That therefore it is their best way, That therefore it is their best way, That therefore it is their best way, while their enemies are destroying each while their enemies are destroying each while their enemies are destroying each other with their own hands, and falling other with their own hands, and falling other with their own hands, and falling into the greatest of misfortunes, which into the greatest of misfortunes, which into the greatest of misfortunes, which is that of sedition, to sit still as is that of sedition, to sit still as is that of sedition, to sit still as spectators at the dangers they run into, spectators at the dangers they run into, spectators at the dangers they run into, rather than to fight hand-to-hand with rather than to fight hand-to-hand with rather than to fight hand-to-hand with men that love murdering, and are mad one men that love murdering, and are mad one men that love murdering, and are mad one against another. against another. against another. But if anyone imagines that the glory of But if anyone imagines that the glory of But if anyone imagines that the glory of victory, when it is gotten without victory, when it is gotten without victory, when it is gotten without fighting, will be more insipid, let him fighting, will be more insipid, let him fighting, will be more insipid, let him know this much, that a glorious success, know this much, that a glorious success, know this much, that a glorious success, quietly obtained, is more profitable quietly obtained, is more profitable quietly obtained, is more profitable than the dangers of a battle. than the dangers of a battle. than the dangers of a battle. For we ought to esteem these that do For we ought to esteem these that do For we ought to esteem these that do what is agreeable to temperance and what is agreeable to temperance and what is agreeable to temperance and prudence no less glorious than those prudence no less glorious than those prudence no less glorious than those that have gained great reputation by that have gained great reputation by that have gained great reputation by their actions in war.

their actions in war. their actions in war. That he shall lead on his army with That he shall lead on his army with That he shall lead on his army with greater force when their enemies are greater force when their enemies are greater force when their enemies are diminished, and his own army refreshed diminished, and his own army refreshed diminished, and his own army refreshed after the continual labors they had after the continual labors they had after the continual labors they had undergone. undergone. undergone. However, that this is not a proper time However, that this is not a proper time However, that this is not a proper time to propose to ourselves the glory of to propose to ourselves the glory of to propose to ourselves the glory of victory. victory. victory. For that the Jews are not now employed For that the Jews are not now employed For that the Jews are not now employed in making of armor or building of walls, in making of armor or building of walls, in making of armor or building of walls, nor indeed in getting together nor indeed in getting together nor indeed in getting together auxiliaries. auxiliaries. auxiliaries. While the advantage will be on their While the advantage will be on their While the advantage will be on their side who give them such opportunity of side who give them such opportunity of side who give them such opportunity of delay. delay. delay. But that the Jews are vexed to pieces But that the Jews are vexed to pieces But that the Jews are vexed to pieces every day by their civil wars and every day by their civil wars and every day by their civil wars and dissensions, dissensions, dissensions, and are under greater miseries than, if and are under greater miseries than, if and are under greater miseries than, if they were once taken, could be inflicted they were once taken, could be inflicted they were once taken, could be inflicted on them by us. on them by us. on them by us. Whether therefore anyone has regard to Whether therefore anyone has regard to Whether therefore anyone has regard to what is for our safety, he ought to what is for our safety, he ought to what is for our safety, he ought to suffer these Jews to destroy one suffer these Jews to destroy one suffer these Jews to destroy one another. Or whether he has regard to the another. Or whether he has regard to the another. Or whether he has regard to the greater glory of the action, we ought by greater glory of the action, we ought by greater glory of the action, we ought by no means to meddle with these men.

no means to meddle with these men. no means to meddle with these men. Now they are afflicted with a distemper Now they are afflicted with a distemper Now they are afflicted with a distemper at home. at home. at home. For should we now conquer them, it would For should we now conquer them, it would For should we now conquer them, it would be said the conquest was not owing to be said the conquest was not owing to be said the conquest was not owing to our bravery, but to their sedition. our bravery, but to their sedition. our bravery, but to their sedition. Footnote. Footnote. Footnote. This prediction that the city, This prediction that the city, This prediction that the city, Jerusalem, should then be taken and the Jerusalem, should then be taken and the Jerusalem, should then be taken and the sanctuary burned by right of war when a sanctuary burned by right of war when a sanctuary burned by right of war when a sedition should invade Jews and their sedition should invade Jews and their sedition should invade Jews and their own hands should pollute the temple own hands should pollute the temple own hands should pollute the temple or or or when anyone should begin to slay his when anyone should begin to slay his when anyone should begin to slay his countrymen in the city countrymen in the city countrymen in the city is wanting in our present copies of the is wanting in our present copies of the is wanting in our present copies of the Old Testament. Old Testament. Old Testament. But this prediction, as Josephus well But this prediction, as Josephus well But this prediction, as Josephus well remarks here, though remarks here, though remarks here, though with the other predictions of the with the other predictions of the with the other predictions of the prophets, it was now laughed at by the prophets, it was now laughed at by the prophets, it was now laughed at by the seditious, was by their very means soon seditious, was by their very means soon seditious, was by their very means soon exactly fulfilled. exactly fulfilled. exactly fulfilled. However, I cannot but here take notice However, I cannot but here take notice However, I cannot but here take notice of Grotius' positive assertion upon of Grotius' positive assertion upon of Grotius' positive assertion upon Matthew 26:9, Matthew 26:9, Matthew 26:9, here quoted by Dr. Hudson, here quoted by Dr. Hudson, here quoted by Dr. Hudson, that it ought to be taken for granted as that it ought to be taken for granted as that it ought to be taken for granted as a certain truth a certain truth a certain truth that many predictions of the Jewish that many predictions of the Jewish that many predictions of the Jewish prophets were preserved not in writing, prophets were preserved not in writing, prophets were preserved not in writing, but by memory.

but by memory. but by memory. Whereas it seems to me, so far from Whereas it seems to me, so far from Whereas it seems to me, so far from certain, that I think it has no certain, that I think it has no certain, that I think it has no evidence, nor probability at all. End of evidence, nor probability at all. End of evidence, nor probability at all. End of the footnote. the footnote. the footnote. And now the commanders joined in their And now the commanders joined in their And now the commanders joined in their approbation of what Vespasian had said, approbation of what Vespasian had said, approbation of what Vespasian had said, and it was soon discovered how wise an and it was soon discovered how wise an and it was soon discovered how wise an opinion he had given. opinion he had given. opinion he had given. And indeed many there were of the Jews And indeed many there were of the Jews And indeed many there were of the Jews that deserted every day and fled away that deserted every day and fled away that deserted every day and fled away from the Zealots, although their flight from the Zealots, although their flight from the Zealots, although their flight was very difficult, was very difficult, was very difficult, since they had guarded every passage out since they had guarded every passage out since they had guarded every passage out of the city and slew everyone that was of the city and slew everyone that was of the city and slew everyone that was caught at them caught at them caught at them as taking it for granted they were going as taking it for granted they were going as taking it for granted they were going over to the Romans. Yet did he who gave over to the Romans. Yet did he who gave over to the Romans. Yet did he who gave them money get clear off, while he only them money get clear off, while he only them money get clear off, while he only that gave them none was voted a traitor. that gave them none was voted a traitor. that gave them none was voted a traitor. So the upshot was this, that the rich So the upshot was this, that the rich So the upshot was this, that the rich purchased their flight by money, while purchased their flight by money, while purchased their flight by money, while none by the poor were slain. none by the poor were slain. none by the poor were slain. Along all the roads, also vast numbers Along all the roads, also vast numbers Along all the roads, also vast numbers of dead bodies lay in heaps. of dead bodies lay in heaps. of dead bodies lay in heaps. And even many of those that were so And even many of those that were so And even many of those that were so zealous in deserting at length, choose zealous in deserting at length, choose zealous in deserting at length, choose rather to perish within the city.

rather to perish within the city. rather to perish within the city. For the hopes of burial made death in For the hopes of burial made death in For the hopes of burial made death in their own city appear of the two less their own city appear of the two less their own city appear of the two less terrible to them. terrible to them. terrible to them. But these zealots came at last to that But these zealots came at last to that But these zealots came at last to that degree of barbarity degree of barbarity degree of barbarity as not to bestow a burial either on as not to bestow a burial either on as not to bestow a burial either on those slain in the city or on those that those slain in the city or on those that those slain in the city or on those that lay along the roads. lay along the roads. lay along the roads. But as if they had made an agreement to But as if they had made an agreement to But as if they had made an agreement to cancel both the laws of their country cancel both the laws of their country cancel both the laws of their country and the laws of nature. and the laws of nature. and the laws of nature. And at the same time that they defiled And at the same time that they defiled And at the same time that they defiled men with their wicked actions, men with their wicked actions, men with their wicked actions, they would pollute the divinity itself they would pollute the divinity itself they would pollute the divinity itself also. also. also. They left the dead bodies to putrefy They left the dead bodies to putrefy They left the dead bodies to putrefy under the sun. under the sun. under the sun. And the same punishment was allotted to And the same punishment was allotted to And the same punishment was allotted to such as buried any as to those that such as buried any as to those that such as buried any as to those that deserted, deserted, deserted, which was no other than death. which was no other than death. which was no other than death. While he that granted the favor of a While he that granted the favor of a While he that granted the favor of a grave to another would presently stand grave to another would presently stand grave to another would presently stand in need of a grave himself. in need of a grave himself. in need of a grave himself. To say all in a word, no other gentle To say all in a word, no other gentle To say all in a word, no other gentle passion was so entirely lost among them passion was so entirely lost among them passion was so entirely lost among them as mercy.

as mercy. as mercy. For what were the greatest objects of For what were the greatest objects of For what were the greatest objects of pity did most of all irritate these pity did most of all irritate these pity did most of all irritate these wretches. wretches. wretches. And they transferred their rage from the And they transferred their rage from the And they transferred their rage from the living to those that had been slain, and living to those that had been slain, and living to those that had been slain, and from the dead to the living. from the dead to the living. from the dead to the living. Nay, the terror was so very great that Nay, the terror was so very great that Nay, the terror was so very great that he who survived called them that very he who survived called them that very he who survived called them that very first dead happy first dead happy first dead happy as being the at rest already. as being the at rest already. as being the at rest already. As did those that were under torture in As did those that were under torture in As did those that were under torture in the prisons declare the prisons declare the prisons declare that upon this comparison, those that that upon this comparison, those that that upon this comparison, those that lay unburied were the happiest. lay unburied were the happiest. lay unburied were the happiest. These men therefore trampled upon all These men therefore trampled upon all These men therefore trampled upon all the laws of men and laughed at the laws the laws of men and laughed at the laws the laws of men and laughed at the laws of God. And for the oracles of the of God. And for the oracles of the of God. And for the oracles of the prophets, they ridiculed them as the prophets, they ridiculed them as the prophets, they ridiculed them as the tricks of jugglers. tricks of jugglers. tricks of jugglers. Yet did these prophets foretell many Yet did these prophets foretell many Yet did these prophets foretell many things concerning the rewards of virtue things concerning the rewards of virtue things concerning the rewards of virtue and punishments of vice, and punishments of vice, and punishments of vice, which when these zealots violated, they which when these zealots violated, they which when these zealots violated, they occasioned the fulfilling of those very occasioned the fulfilling of those very occasioned the fulfilling of those very prophecies belonging to their own prophecies belonging to their own prophecies belonging to their own country.

country. country. For there was a certain ancient oracle For there was a certain ancient oracle For there was a certain ancient oracle of those men that the city should then of those men that the city should then of those men that the city should then be taken and the sanctuary burned by be taken and the sanctuary burned by be taken and the sanctuary burned by right of war right of war right of war when a sedition should invade the Jews when a sedition should invade the Jews when a sedition should invade the Jews and their own hand should pollute the and their own hand should pollute the and their own hand should pollute the temple of God. temple of God. temple of God. Now, while these zealots did not quite Now, while these zealots did not quite Now, while these zealots did not quite disbelieve these predictions, they made disbelieve these predictions, they made disbelieve these predictions, they made themselves the instruments of their themselves the instruments of their themselves the instruments of their accomplishment. accomplishment. accomplishment. End of Book 4, Chapter 6. Book 6, Chapter 7 of The Wars of the Book 6, Chapter 7 of The Wars of the Jews. This is a LibriVox recording. All Jews. This is a LibriVox recording. All Jews. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public LibriVox recordings are in the public LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. domain. domain. For more information or to volunteer, For more information or to volunteer, For more information or to volunteer, please visit librivox.org. please visit librivox.org. please visit librivox.org. The Wars of the Jews by Josephus, The Wars of the Jews by Josephus, The Wars of the Jews by Josephus, translated by William Whiston. translated by William Whiston. translated by William Whiston. Chapter 7. Chapter 7. Chapter 7. How John tyrannized over the rest and How John tyrannized over the rest and How John tyrannized over the rest and what mischiefs the zealots did at what mischiefs the zealots did at what mischiefs the zealots did at Masada.

Masada. Masada. How only Vespasian took Gadara and what How only Vespasian took Gadara and what How only Vespasian took Gadara and what actions were performed by Placidus. actions were performed by Placidus. actions were performed by Placidus. By this time, John was beginning to By this time, John was beginning to By this time, John was beginning to tyrannize and thought it beneath him to tyrannize and thought it beneath him to tyrannize and thought it beneath him to accept of barely the same honors that accept of barely the same honors that accept of barely the same honors that others had. others had. others had. And joining to himself by degrees a And joining to himself by degrees a And joining to himself by degrees a party of the wickedest of them all, party of the wickedest of them all, party of the wickedest of them all, he broke off from the rest of the he broke off from the rest of the he broke off from the rest of the faction. faction. faction. This was brought about by his still This was brought about by his still This was brought about by his still disagreeing with the opinions of others disagreeing with the opinions of others disagreeing with the opinions of others and giving out injunctions of his own in and giving out injunctions of his own in and giving out injunctions of his own in a very imperious manner. a very imperious manner. a very imperious manner. So that it was evident he was setting up So that it was evident he was setting up So that it was evident he was setting up a monarchial power. a monarchial power. a monarchial power. Now some submitted to him out of their Now some submitted to him out of their Now some submitted to him out of their fear of him and others out of their fear of him and others out of their fear of him and others out of their goodwill to him. goodwill to him. goodwill to him. For he was a shrewd man to entice men to For he was a shrewd man to entice men to For he was a shrewd man to entice men to him him him both by deluding them and putting cheats both by deluding them and putting cheats both by deluding them and putting cheats upon them. upon them. upon them. Nay, many of there were that thought Nay, many of there were that thought Nay, many of there were that thought they should be safer themselves if the they should be safer themselves if the they should be safer themselves if the causes of their past insolent actions causes of their past insolent actions causes of their past insolent actions should now be reduced to one head and should now be reduced to one head and should now be reduced to one head and not to a great many.

not to a great many. not to a great many. His activity was so great and that both His activity was so great and that both His activity was so great and that both in action and in council in action and in council in action and in council that he had not a few guards about him. that he had not a few guards about him. that he had not a few guards about him. Yet was there a great party of his Yet was there a great party of his Yet was there a great party of his antagonists that left him. antagonists that left him. antagonists that left him. Among whom envy at him weighed a great Among whom envy at him weighed a great Among whom envy at him weighed a great deal. deal. deal. While they thought it a very heavy thing While they thought it a very heavy thing While they thought it a very heavy thing to be in subjection to one that was to be in subjection to one that was to be in subjection to one that was formerly their equal. formerly their equal. formerly their equal. But the main reason that moved men But the main reason that moved men But the main reason that moved men against him was the dread of monarchy. against him was the dread of monarchy. against him was the dread of monarchy. For they could not help easily to put an For they could not help easily to put an For they could not help easily to put an end to his power if he had once obtained end to his power if he had once obtained end to his power if he had once obtained it. it. it. And yet they knew that he would have his And yet they knew that he would have his And yet they knew that he would have his bright hands always against them bright hands always against them bright hands always against them that they had opposed him when he was that they had opposed him when he was that they had opposed him when he was first advanced. first advanced. first advanced. While everyone chose rather to suffer While everyone chose rather to suffer While everyone chose rather to suffer anything whatsoever in war than that anything whatsoever in war than that anything whatsoever in war than that when they had been in a voluntary for when they had been in a voluntary for when they had been in a voluntary for some time they should afterward perish. some time they should afterward perish. some time they should afterward perish. So the sedition was divided into two So the sedition was divided into two So the sedition was divided into two parts and John reigned in opposition to parts and John reigned in opposition to parts and John reigned in opposition to his adversaries over one of them.

his adversaries over one of them. his adversaries over one of them. But for their leaders they watched one But for their leaders they watched one But for their leaders they watched one another. another. another. Nor did they at all or at least very Nor did they at all or at least very Nor did they at all or at least very little meddle with arms in their little meddle with arms in their little meddle with arms in their quarrels. quarrels. quarrels. But they fought earnestly against the But they fought earnestly against the But they fought earnestly against the people people people and contended one with another which of and contended one with another which of and contended one with another which of them should bring home the greatest them should bring home the greatest them should bring home the greatest prey. prey. prey. But because the city had to struggle But because the city had to struggle But because the city had to struggle with three of the greatest misfortunes, with three of the greatest misfortunes, with three of the greatest misfortunes, war and tyranny and sedition, war and tyranny and sedition, war and tyranny and sedition, it appeared upon the comparison that the it appeared upon the comparison that the it appeared upon the comparison that the war was the least troublesome to the war was the least troublesome to the war was the least troublesome to the populace of them all. populace of them all. populace of them all. Accordingly, they ran away from their Accordingly, they ran away from their Accordingly, they ran away from their own houses to foreigners and obtained own houses to foreigners and obtained own houses to foreigners and obtained that preservation from the Romans which that preservation from the Romans which that preservation from the Romans which they despaired to obtain among their own they despaired to obtain among their own they despaired to obtain among their own people. people. people. And now a fourth misfortune arose in And now a fourth misfortune arose in And now a fourth misfortune arose in order to bring our nation to order to bring our nation to order to bring our nation to destruction. destruction. destruction. There was a fortress of a very great There was a fortress of a very great There was a fortress of a very great strength not far from Jerusalem, which strength not far from Jerusalem, which strength not far from Jerusalem, which had been built by our ancient kings both had been built by our ancient kings both had been built by our ancient kings both as a repository for their effects in the as a repository for their effects in the as a repository for their effects in the hazards of war hazards of war hazards of war and for the preservation of their bodies and for the preservation of their bodies and for the preservation of their bodies at the same time.

at the same time. at the same time. It was called Masada. It was called Masada. It was called Masada. Those that were called Sicari had been Those that were called Sicari had been Those that were called Sicari had been in possession of it formerly, but at in possession of it formerly, but at in possession of it formerly, but at this time they overran the neighboring this time they overran the neighboring this time they overran the neighboring countries aiming only to procure to countries aiming only to procure to countries aiming only to procure to themselves necessaries. themselves necessaries. themselves necessaries. For the fear they were then in prevented For the fear they were then in prevented For the fear they were then in prevented their further ravages. their further ravages. their further ravages. But when once they were informed that But when once they were informed that But when once they were informed that the Roman army lay still and that the the Roman army lay still and that the the Roman army lay still and that the Jews were divided between sedition and Jews were divided between sedition and Jews were divided between sedition and tyranny, tyranny, tyranny, they boldly undertook greater matters they boldly undertook greater matters they boldly undertook greater matters and at the feast of unleavened bread, and at the feast of unleavened bread, and at the feast of unleavened bread, which the Jews celebrate in memory of which the Jews celebrate in memory of which the Jews celebrate in memory of their deliverance from the Egyptian their deliverance from the Egyptian their deliverance from the Egyptian bondage, bondage, bondage, when they were sent back into the when they were sent back into the when they were sent back into the country of their forefathers, country of their forefathers, country of their forefathers, they came down by night without being they came down by night without being they came down by night without being discovered by those that could have discovered by those that could have discovered by those that could have prevented them prevented them prevented them and overran a certain small city called and overran a certain small city called and overran a certain small city called Engaddi, Engaddi, Engaddi, in which expedition they prevented those in which expedition they prevented those in which expedition they prevented those citizens that could have stopped them citizens that could have stopped them citizens that could have stopped them before they could arm themselves and before they could arm themselves and before they could arm themselves and fight them. fight them. fight them. They They dispersed them and cast them They They dispersed them and cast them They They dispersed them and cast them out of the city.

out of the city. out of the city. As for such as could not run away, being As for such as could not run away, being As for such as could not run away, being women and children, they slew of them women and children, they slew of them women and children, they slew of them about 700. about 700. about 700. Afterward, when they had carried Afterward, when they had carried Afterward, when they had carried everything out of their houses and had everything out of their houses and had everything out of their houses and had seized upon all the fruits that were in seized upon all the fruits that were in seized upon all the fruits that were in a flourishing condition, a flourishing condition, a flourishing condition, they brought them into Masada. they brought them into Masada. they brought them into Masada. And indeed, these men laid all the And indeed, these men laid all the And indeed, these men laid all the villages that were about the fortress villages that were about the fortress villages that were about the fortress waste waste waste and made the whole country desolate. and made the whole country desolate. and made the whole country desolate. While there came to them every day from While there came to them every day from While there came to them every day from all parts not a few men as corrupted all parts not a few men as corrupted all parts not a few men as corrupted themselves. themselves. themselves. At that time, all the other regions of At that time, all the other regions of At that time, all the other regions of Judea that had hitherto been at rest Judea that had hitherto been at rest Judea that had hitherto been at rest were in motion by means of the robbers. were in motion by means of the robbers. were in motion by means of the robbers. Now, as it is in a human body, if the Now, as it is in a human body, if the Now, as it is in a human body, if the principal part be inflamed, all the principal part be inflamed, all the principal part be inflamed, all the members are subject to the same members are subject to the same members are subject to the same distemper. distemper. distemper. So, by means of the sedition and So, by means of the sedition and So, by means of the sedition and disorder that was in the metropolis, disorder that was in the metropolis, disorder that was in the metropolis, had the wicked men that were in the had the wicked men that were in the had the wicked men that were in the country opportunity to ravage the same.

country opportunity to ravage the same. country opportunity to ravage the same. Accordingly, when every one of them had Accordingly, when every one of them had Accordingly, when every one of them had plundered their own villages, they then plundered their own villages, they then plundered their own villages, they then retired into the desert. retired into the desert. retired into the desert. Yet were these men that now got together Yet were these men that now got together Yet were these men that now got together and joined into a conspiracy by parties, and joined into a conspiracy by parties, and joined into a conspiracy by parties, too small for an army and too many for a too small for an army and too many for a too small for an army and too many for a gang of thieves. gang of thieves. gang of thieves. And thus did they fall upon the holy And thus did they fall upon the holy And thus did they fall upon the holy places and the cities. places and the cities. places and the cities. Footnote: Footnote: Footnote: By these hiera or holy places, as By these hiera or holy places, as By these hiera or holy places, as distinct from cities, distinct from cities, distinct from cities, must be meant proseuchae or houses of must be meant proseuchae or houses of must be meant proseuchae or houses of prayer out of cities, prayer out of cities, prayer out of cities, of which we find mention made in the New of which we find mention made in the New of which we find mention made in the New Testament and other authors. Testament and other authors. Testament and other authors. See Luke 6:12, Acts 16:13, 16. See Luke 6:12, Acts 16:13, 16. See Luke 6:12, Acts 16:13, 16. They were situated sometimes by the They were situated sometimes by the They were situated sometimes by the sides of rivers, Acts 16:13, or by the sides of rivers, Acts 16:13, or by the sides of rivers, Acts 16:13, or by the seaside. seaside. seaside. So, did the 72 interpreters go to pray So, did the 72 interpreters go to pray So, did the 72 interpreters go to pray every morning by the seaside before they every morning by the seaside before they every morning by the seaside before they went to their work. End of the footnote.

went to their work. End of the footnote. went to their work. End of the footnote. Yet did it now so happen that they were Yet did it now so happen that they were Yet did it now so happen that they were sometimes very ill-treated by those upon sometimes very ill-treated by those upon sometimes very ill-treated by those upon whom they fell with such violence whom they fell with such violence whom they fell with such violence and were taken by them as men are taken and were taken by them as men are taken and were taken by them as men are taken in war. in war. in war. But still they prevented any further But still they prevented any further But still they prevented any further punishment as do robbers punishment as do robbers punishment as do robbers who as soon as the ravages are who as soon as the ravages are who as soon as the ravages are discovered run their way. discovered run their way. discovered run their way. Nor was there now any part of Judea that Nor was there now any part of Judea that Nor was there now any part of Judea that was not in a miserable condition was not in a miserable condition was not in a miserable condition as well as its most eminent city also. These things were told Vespasian by These things were told Vespasian by deserters. deserters. deserters. For although the seditious watched all For although the seditious watched all For although the seditious watched all the passages out of the city and the passages out of the city and the passages out of the city and destroyed all whosoever they were that destroyed all whosoever they were that destroyed all whosoever they were that came thither came thither came thither yet were there some that had concealed yet were there some that had concealed yet were there some that had concealed themselves themselves themselves and when they had fled to the Romans and when they had fled to the Romans and when they had fled to the Romans persuaded their general to come to their persuaded their general to come to their persuaded their general to come to their city's assistance and save the remainder city's assistance and save the remainder city's assistance and save the remainder of the people of the people of the people informing him with all that it was upon informing him with all that it was upon informing him with all that it was upon account of the people's goodwill to the account of the people's goodwill to the account of the people's goodwill to the Romans that many of them were already Romans that many of them were already Romans that many of them were already slain and the survivors in danger of the slain and the survivors in danger of the slain and the survivors in danger of the same treatment.

same treatment. same treatment. Vespasian did indeed already pity the Vespasian did indeed already pity the Vespasian did indeed already pity the calamities these men were in calamities these men were in calamities these men were in and arose in appearance and arose in appearance and arose in appearance as though he was going to besiege as though he was going to besiege as though he was going to besiege Jerusalem Jerusalem Jerusalem but in reality to deliver them from a but in reality to deliver them from a but in reality to deliver them from a worse siege they were already under. worse siege they were already under. worse siege they were already under. However, he was obliged first to However, he was obliged first to However, he was obliged first to overthrow what remained elsewhere and to overthrow what remained elsewhere and to overthrow what remained elsewhere and to leave nothing out of Jerusalem behind leave nothing out of Jerusalem behind leave nothing out of Jerusalem behind him that might interrupt him in that him that might interrupt him in that him that might interrupt him in that siege. siege. siege. Accordingly, he marched against Gadara, Accordingly, he marched against Gadara, Accordingly, he marched against Gadara, the metropolis of Perea, which was a the metropolis of Perea, which was a the metropolis of Perea, which was a place of strength and entered that city place of strength and entered that city place of strength and entered that city on the fourth day of the month Dystrus on the fourth day of the month Dystrus on the fourth day of the month Dystrus Adar. Adar. Adar. For the men of power had sent an For the men of power had sent an For the men of power had sent an embassage to him embassage to him embassage to him without the knowledge of the seditious without the knowledge of the seditious without the knowledge of the seditious to treat about a surrender, which they to treat about a surrender, which they to treat about a surrender, which they did out of the desire they had of peace, did out of the desire they had of peace, did out of the desire they had of peace, and for saving their effects, because and for saving their effects, because and for saving their effects, because many of the citizens of Gadara were rich many of the citizens of Gadara were rich many of the citizens of Gadara were rich men. men. men. This embassy the opposite party knew This embassy the opposite party knew This embassy the opposite party knew nothing of, but discovered it as nothing of, but discovered it as nothing of, but discovered it as Vespasian was approaching near the city.

Vespasian was approaching near the city. Vespasian was approaching near the city. However, they despaired of being However, they despaired of being However, they despaired of being possession of the city as being inferior possession of the city as being inferior possession of the city as being inferior in number to their enemies, who were in number to their enemies, who were in number to their enemies, who were within the city. within the city. within the city. And seeing the Romans very near to the And seeing the Romans very near to the And seeing the Romans very near to the city, so they resolved to fly, but city, so they resolved to fly, but city, so they resolved to fly, but thought it dishonorable to do it without thought it dishonorable to do it without thought it dishonorable to do it without shedding some blood shedding some blood shedding some blood and revenging themselves on the authors and revenging themselves on the authors and revenging themselves on the authors of the surrender. of the surrender. of the surrender. So, they seized upon Dolesus, a person So, they seized upon Dolesus, a person So, they seized upon Dolesus, a person not only the first in rank and family in not only the first in rank and family in not only the first in rank and family in that city, that city, that city, but one that seemed the occasion of but one that seemed the occasion of but one that seemed the occasion of sending such an embassy, sending such an embassy, sending such an embassy, and slew him, and treated his dead body and slew him, and treated his dead body and slew him, and treated his dead body after barbarous manner. after barbarous manner. after barbarous manner. So very violent was their anger at him, So very violent was their anger at him, So very violent was their anger at him, and then ran out of the city. and then ran out of the city. and then ran out of the city. And as now the Roman army was just upon And as now the Roman army was just upon And as now the Roman army was just upon them, the people of Gadara admitted them, the people of Gadara admitted them, the people of Gadara admitted Vespasian with joyful acclamations, and Vespasian with joyful acclamations, and Vespasian with joyful acclamations, and received from him the security of his received from him the security of his received from him the security of his right hand, as also a garrison of right hand, as also a garrison of right hand, as also a garrison of horsemen and footmen to guard them horsemen and footmen to guard them horsemen and footmen to guard them against the excursions of the renegades.

against the excursions of the renegades. against the excursions of the renegades. For as to their wall, they had pulled it For as to their wall, they had pulled it For as to their wall, they had pulled it down before the Romans desired them to down before the Romans desired them to down before the Romans desired them to do so, that they might thereby give them do so, that they might thereby give them do so, that they might thereby give them assurance that they were lovers of assurance that they were lovers of assurance that they were lovers of peace, peace, peace, and that if they had a mind, they could and that if they had a mind, they could and that if they had a mind, they could not now make war against them. not now make war against them. not now make war against them. And now Vespasian sent Placidus against And now Vespasian sent Placidus against And now Vespasian sent Placidus against those that had fled from Gadara those that had fled from Gadara those that had fled from Gadara with 500 horsemen and 3,000 footmen, with 500 horsemen and 3,000 footmen, with 500 horsemen and 3,000 footmen, while he returned himself to Caesarea while he returned himself to Caesarea while he returned himself to Caesarea with the rest of the army. with the rest of the army. with the rest of the army. But as soon as these fugitives saw the But as soon as these fugitives saw the But as soon as these fugitives saw the horsemen that pursued them just upon horsemen that pursued them just upon horsemen that pursued them just upon their backs, and before they came to a their backs, and before they came to a their backs, and before they came to a close fight, they ran together to a close fight, they ran together to a close fight, they ran together to a certain village, which was called certain village, which was called certain village, which was called Bessenebris, Bessenebris, Bessenebris, where finding a great multitude of young where finding a great multitude of young where finding a great multitude of young men, and arming them, men, and arming them, men, and arming them, partly by their own consent, partly by partly by their own consent, partly by partly by their own consent, partly by force, force, force, they rashly and suddenly assaulted they rashly and suddenly assaulted they rashly and suddenly assaulted Placidus and the troops that were with Placidus and the troops that were with Placidus and the troops that were with him. him. him. These horsemen at the first onset gave These horsemen at the first onset gave These horsemen at the first onset gave way a little, as contriving to entice way a little, as contriving to entice way a little, as contriving to entice them further off the wall.

them further off the wall. them further off the wall. And when they had drawn them into a And when they had drawn them into a And when they had drawn them into a place fit for their purpose, place fit for their purpose, place fit for their purpose, they made their horse encompass them they made their horse encompass them they made their horse encompass them round, and threw their darts at them. round, and threw their darts at them. round, and threw their darts at them. So, the horsemen cut off the flight of So, the horsemen cut off the flight of So, the horsemen cut off the flight of the fugitives, while the foot terribly the fugitives, while the foot terribly the fugitives, while the foot terribly destroyed those that fought against destroyed those that fought against destroyed those that fought against them. them. them. For those Jews did no more than show For those Jews did no more than show For those Jews did no more than show their courage, and then were destroyed. their courage, and then were destroyed. their courage, and then were destroyed. For as they fell upon the Romans when For as they fell upon the Romans when For as they fell upon the Romans when they were joined close together, and as they were joined close together, and as they were joined close together, and as it were walled about with their entire it were walled about with their entire it were walled about with their entire armor, armor, armor, they were not able to find any place they were not able to find any place they were not able to find any place where the darts could enter, where the darts could enter, where the darts could enter, nor were they anyway able to break their nor were they anyway able to break their nor were they anyway able to break their ranks. ranks. ranks. While they were themselves run through While they were themselves run through While they were themselves run through by the Roman darts, and like the wildest by the Roman darts, and like the wildest by the Roman darts, and like the wildest of wild beasts, rushed upon the point of of wild beasts, rushed upon the point of of wild beasts, rushed upon the point of other swords. other swords. other swords. So, some of them were destroyed as cut So, some of them were destroyed as cut So, some of them were destroyed as cut with their enemies' swords upon their with their enemies' swords upon their with their enemies' swords upon their faces, faces, faces, and others were dispersed by the and others were dispersed by the and others were dispersed by the horsemen. horsemen. horsemen. Now, Placidus' concern was to exclude Now, Placidus' concern was to exclude Now, Placidus' concern was to exclude them in their flight from getting into them in their flight from getting into them in their flight from getting into the village, the village, the village, and causing his horse to march and causing his horse to march and causing his horse to march continually on that side of them.

continually on that side of them. continually on that side of them. He then turned short upon them, and at He then turned short upon them, and at He then turned short upon them, and at the same time his men made use of their the same time his men made use of their the same time his men made use of their darts, and easily took their aim at darts, and easily took their aim at darts, and easily took their aim at those that were the nearest to them. those that were the nearest to them. those that were the nearest to them. As they made those that were further off As they made those that were further off As they made those that were further off turn back by the terror they were in, turn back by the terror they were in, turn back by the terror they were in, till at last the most courageous of them till at last the most courageous of them till at last the most courageous of them break through those horsemen, and fled break through those horsemen, and fled break through those horsemen, and fled to the wall of the village. to the wall of the village. to the wall of the village. And now those that guarded the wall were And now those that guarded the wall were And now those that guarded the wall were in great doubt what to do, in great doubt what to do, in great doubt what to do, for they could not bear the thoughts of for they could not bear the thoughts of for they could not bear the thoughts of excluding those that came from Gadara, excluding those that came from Gadara, excluding those that came from Gadara, because of their own people that were because of their own people that were because of their own people that were among them. among them. among them. And yet, if they should admit them, they And yet, if they should admit them, they And yet, if they should admit them, they expected to perish with them, which came expected to perish with them, which came expected to perish with them, which came to pass accordingly. to pass accordingly. to pass accordingly. For as they were crowding together at For as they were crowding together at For as they were crowding together at the wall, the Roman horsemen were just the wall, the Roman horsemen were just the wall, the Roman horsemen were just ready to fall in with them. ready to fall in with them. ready to fall in with them. However, the guards prevented them and However, the guards prevented them and However, the guards prevented them and shut the gates. shut the gates. shut the gates. When Placidus made an assault upon them, When Placidus made an assault upon them, When Placidus made an assault upon them, and fighting courageously till it was and fighting courageously till it was and fighting courageously till it was dark, he got possession of the wall and dark, he got possession of the wall and dark, he got possession of the wall and of the people that were in the city.

of the people that were in the city. of the people that were in the city. When the useless multitude were When the useless multitude were When the useless multitude were destroyed, but those that were more destroyed, but those that were more destroyed, but those that were more potent ran away, potent ran away, potent ran away, and the soldiers plundered the houses and the soldiers plundered the houses and the soldiers plundered the houses and set the village on fire. and set the village on fire. and set the village on fire. As for those that ran out of the As for those that ran out of the As for those that ran out of the village, they stirred up such as were in village, they stirred up such as were in village, they stirred up such as were in the country, the country, the country, and exaggerating their own calamities, and exaggerating their own calamities, and exaggerating their own calamities, and telling them that the whole army of and telling them that the whole army of and telling them that the whole army of the Romans were upon them, they put them the Romans were upon them, they put them the Romans were upon them, they put them in great fear on every side. So, they in great fear on every side. So, they in great fear on every side. So, they got in great numbers together and fled got in great numbers together and fled got in great numbers together and fled to Jericho, to Jericho, to Jericho, for they knew no other place that could for they knew no other place that could for they knew no other place that could afford them any hope of escaping, afford them any hope of escaping, afford them any hope of escaping, it being a city that had a strong wall it being a city that had a strong wall it being a city that had a strong wall and a great multitude of inhabitants. and a great multitude of inhabitants. and a great multitude of inhabitants. But Placidus, relying much upon his But Placidus, relying much upon his But Placidus, relying much upon his horsemen and his former good success, horsemen and his former good success, horsemen and his former good success, followed them and slew all that he followed them and slew all that he followed them and slew all that he overtook as far as Jordan. overtook as far as Jordan. overtook as far as Jordan. And when he had driven the whole And when he had driven the whole And when he had driven the whole multitude to the riverside, where they multitude to the riverside, where they multitude to the riverside, where they were stopped by the current, for it had were stopped by the current, for it had were stopped by the current, for it had been augmented lately by rains and was been augmented lately by rains and was been augmented lately by rains and was not fordable, not fordable, not fordable, he put his soldiers in array over he put his soldiers in array over he put his soldiers in array over against them.

against them. against them. So, the necessity the others were in So, the necessity the others were in So, the necessity the others were in provoked them to hazard a battle, provoked them to hazard a battle, provoked them to hazard a battle, because there was no place whither they because there was no place whither they because there was no place whither they could flee. could flee. could flee. They then extended themselves a very They then extended themselves a very They then extended themselves a very great way along the banks of the river great way along the banks of the river great way along the banks of the river and sustained the darts that were thrown and sustained the darts that were thrown and sustained the darts that were thrown at them as well as the attacks of the at them as well as the attacks of the at them as well as the attacks of the horsemen who beat many of them and horsemen who beat many of them and horsemen who beat many of them and pushed them into the current. pushed them into the current. pushed them into the current. At which fight, hand-to-hand, 15,000 of At which fight, hand-to-hand, 15,000 of At which fight, hand-to-hand, 15,000 of them were slain them were slain them were slain while the number of those that were while the number of those that were while the number of those that were unwillingly forced to leap into Jordan unwillingly forced to leap into Jordan unwillingly forced to leap into Jordan was prodigious. was prodigious. was prodigious. There were besides 2,200 taken There were besides 2,200 taken There were besides 2,200 taken prisoners. prisoners. prisoners. A mighty prey was taken also consisting A mighty prey was taken also consisting A mighty prey was taken also consisting of asses and sheep and camels and oxen. of asses and sheep and camels and oxen. of asses and sheep and camels and oxen. Now, this destruction that fell upon the Now, this destruction that fell upon the Now, this destruction that fell upon the Jews, as it was not inferior to any of Jews, as it was not inferior to any of Jews, as it was not inferior to any of the rest in itself, the rest in itself, the rest in itself, so did it still appear greater than it so did it still appear greater than it so did it still appear greater than it really was. really was. really was. And this, because not only the whole And this, because not only the whole And this, because not only the whole country through which they fled was country through which they fled was country through which they fled was filled with slaughter filled with slaughter filled with slaughter and Jordan could not be passed over by and Jordan could not be passed over by and Jordan could not be passed over by reason of the dead bodies that were in reason of the dead bodies that were in reason of the dead bodies that were in it, it, it, but because the lake of Asphaltitis was but because the lake of Asphaltitis was but because the lake of Asphaltitis was also full of dead bodies that were also full of dead bodies that were also full of dead bodies that were carried down into it by the river.

carried down into it by the river. carried down into it by the river. And Noble Cidus, after this good success And Noble Cidus, after this good success And Noble Cidus, after this good success that he had, fell violently upon the that he had, fell violently upon the that he had, fell violently upon the neighboring smaller cities and villages. neighboring smaller cities and villages. neighboring smaller cities and villages. When he took Abila and Julius and When he took Abila and Julius and When he took Abila and Julius and Besemoth Besemoth Besemoth and all those that lay as far as the and all those that lay as far as the and all those that lay as far as the lake Asphaltitis lake Asphaltitis lake Asphaltitis and put such of the deserters into each and put such of the deserters into each and put such of the deserters into each of them as he thought proper. of them as he thought proper. of them as he thought proper. He then put his soldiers on board the He then put his soldiers on board the He then put his soldiers on board the ships and slew such as to the lake ships and slew such as to the lake ships and slew such as to the lake insomuch that all Perea had either insomuch that all Perea had either insomuch that all Perea had either surrendered themselves or were taken by surrendered themselves or were taken by surrendered themselves or were taken by the Romans as far as Machaerus. the Romans as far as Machaerus. the Romans as far as Machaerus. End of book six, chapter seven. Book four, chapter eight of The Wars of Book four, chapter eight of The Wars of the Jews. the Jews. the Jews. This is a LibriVox recording. All This is a LibriVox recording. All This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public LibriVox recordings are in the public LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. domain. domain. For more information or to volunteer, For more information or to volunteer, For more information or to volunteer, please visit librivox.org.

please visit librivox.org. please visit librivox.org. The Wars of the Jews by Josephus, The Wars of the Jews by Josephus, The Wars of the Jews by Josephus, translated by William Whiston. translated by William Whiston. translated by William Whiston. Chapter 8. Chapter 8. Chapter 8. How Vespasian, upon hearing of some How Vespasian, upon hearing of some How Vespasian, upon hearing of some commotions in Gaul, made haste to finish commotions in Gaul, made haste to finish commotions in Gaul, made haste to finish the Jewish war. the Jewish war. the Jewish war. A description of Jericho and of the A description of Jericho and of the A description of Jericho and of the great plain, with an account besides of great plain, with an account besides of great plain, with an account besides of the lake Asphaltitis. the lake Asphaltitis. the lake Asphaltitis. In the meantime, an account came that In the meantime, an account came that In the meantime, an account came that there were commotions in Gaul. there were commotions in Gaul. there were commotions in Gaul. Footnote: Greek Galatia, and so Footnote: Greek Galatia, and so Footnote: Greek Galatia, and so everywhere. End footnote. everywhere. End footnote. everywhere. End footnote. And that Vindex, together with the men And that Vindex, together with the men And that Vindex, together with the men of power in that country, had revolted of power in that country, had revolted of power in that country, had revolted from Nero, which affair is more from Nero, which affair is more from Nero, which affair is more accurately described elsewhere. accurately described elsewhere. accurately described elsewhere. This report, thus related to Vespasian, This report, thus related to Vespasian, This report, thus related to Vespasian, excited him to go on briskly with the excited him to go on briskly with the excited him to go on briskly with the war. war. war. For he foresaw already the civil wars For he foresaw already the civil wars For he foresaw already the civil wars which were coming upon them. Nay, that which were coming upon them. Nay, that which were coming upon them. Nay, that the very government was in danger. the very government was in danger. the very government was in danger. And he thought, if he could first reduce And he thought, if he could first reduce And he thought, if he could first reduce the eastern parts of the empire to the eastern parts of the empire to the eastern parts of the empire to peace, he should make the fears of Italy peace, he should make the fears of Italy peace, he should make the fears of Italy the lighter.

the lighter. the lighter. While, therefore, the winter was his While, therefore, the winter was his While, therefore, the winter was his hindrance from going into the field, hindrance from going into the field, hindrance from going into the field, he put garrisons into the villages and he put garrisons into the villages and he put garrisons into the villages and smaller cities for their security. smaller cities for their security. smaller cities for their security. He put the curions also into the He put the curions also into the He put the curions also into the villages and centurions into the cities. villages and centurions into the cities. villages and centurions into the cities. He besides this rebuilt many of the He besides this rebuilt many of the He besides this rebuilt many of the cities that had been laid waste. cities that had been laid waste. cities that had been laid waste. But at the beginning of the spring, he But at the beginning of the spring, he But at the beginning of the spring, he took the greatest part of his army took the greatest part of his army took the greatest part of his army and led it from Caesarea to Antipatris, and led it from Caesarea to Antipatris, and led it from Caesarea to Antipatris, where he spent two days in settling the where he spent two days in settling the where he spent two days in settling the affairs of that city. affairs of that city. affairs of that city. And then, on the third day, he marched And then, on the third day, he marched And then, on the third day, he marched on, laying waste and burning all the on, laying waste and burning all the on, laying waste and burning all the neighboring villages. neighboring villages. neighboring villages. And when he laid waste all places about And when he laid waste all places about And when he laid waste all places about the toparchy of Thamnas, the toparchy of Thamnas, the toparchy of Thamnas, he passed on to Lydda and Jamnia. he passed on to Lydda and Jamnia. he passed on to Lydda and Jamnia. And when both these cities had come over And when both these cities had come over And when both these cities had come over to him, to him, to him, he placed a great many of those that had he placed a great many of those that had he placed a great many of those that had come over to him from other places as come over to him from other places as come over to him from other places as inhabitants therein, inhabitants therein, inhabitants therein, and then came to Emmaus, and then came to Emmaus, and then came to Emmaus, where he seized upon the passage which where he seized upon the passage which where he seized upon the passage which led thence to their metropolis, led thence to their metropolis, led thence to their metropolis, and fortified his camp, and fortified his camp, and fortified his camp, and leaving the fifth legion therein, he and leaving the fifth legion therein, he and leaving the fifth legion therein, he came to the toparchy of Beth Letephon.

came to the toparchy of Beth Letephon. came to the toparchy of Beth Letephon. He then destroyed that place and the He then destroyed that place and the He then destroyed that place and the neighboring places by fire, and neighboring places by fire, and neighboring places by fire, and fortified at proper places the fortified at proper places the fortified at proper places the strongholds all about Idumea. strongholds all about Idumea. strongholds all about Idumea. And when he had seized upon two villages And when he had seized upon two villages And when he had seized upon two villages which were in the very midst of Idumea, which were in the very midst of Idumea, which were in the very midst of Idumea, Betharus and Caphartobas, Betharus and Caphartobas, Betharus and Caphartobas, he slew above 10,000 of the people, and he slew above 10,000 of the people, and he slew above 10,000 of the people, and carried into captivity above a thousand, carried into captivity above a thousand, carried into captivity above a thousand, and drove away the rest of the and drove away the rest of the and drove away the rest of the multitude, and placed no small part of multitude, and placed no small part of multitude, and placed no small part of his own forces in them, his own forces in them, his own forces in them, who overran and laid waste the whole who overran and laid waste the whole who overran and laid waste the whole mountainous country, mountainous country, mountainous country, while he, with the rest of his forces, while he, with the rest of his forces, while he, with the rest of his forces, returned to Emmaus. returned to Emmaus. returned to Emmaus. Whence he came down through the country Whence he came down through the country Whence he came down through the country of Samaria and hard by the city by of Samaria and hard by the city by of Samaria and hard by the city by others called Neapolis or Sychem, others called Neapolis or Sychem, others called Neapolis or Sychem, but by the people of that country but by the people of that country but by the people of that country Marbota to Corea, Marbota to Corea, Marbota to Corea, where he pitched his camp on the second where he pitched his camp on the second where he pitched his camp on the second day of the month Daesius, Sivan, day of the month Daesius, Sivan, day of the month Daesius, Sivan, and on the day following he came to and on the day following he came to and on the day following he came to Jericho, Jericho, Jericho, on which day Trajan, one of his on which day Trajan, one of his on which day Trajan, one of his commanders, joined him with the forces commanders, joined him with the forces commanders, joined him with the forces he brought out of Perea, all the places he brought out of Perea, all the places he brought out of Perea, all the places beyond Jordan being subdued already.

Hereupon a great multitude prevented Hereupon a great multitude prevented their approach and came out of Jericho their approach and came out of Jericho their approach and came out of Jericho and fled to those mountainous parts that and fled to those mountainous parts that and fled to those mountainous parts that lay over against Jerusalem, lay over against Jerusalem, lay over against Jerusalem, while that part which was left behind while that part which was left behind while that part which was left behind was in a great measure destroyed. was in a great measure destroyed. was in a great measure destroyed. They also found the city desolate. They also found the city desolate. They also found the city desolate. It is situated in a plain, but a naked It is situated in a plain, but a naked It is situated in a plain, but a naked and barren mountain of a very great and barren mountain of a very great and barren mountain of a very great length hangs over it, length hangs over it, length hangs over it, which extends itself to the land about which extends itself to the land about which extends itself to the land about Scythopolis northward, but as far as the Scythopolis northward, but as far as the Scythopolis northward, but as far as the country of Sodom and the utmost limits country of Sodom and the utmost limits country of Sodom and the utmost limits of the lake Asphaltitis southward. of the lake Asphaltitis southward. of the lake Asphaltitis southward. This mountain is all of it very uneven This mountain is all of it very uneven This mountain is all of it very uneven and uninhabited by reason of its and uninhabited by reason of its and uninhabited by reason of its barrenness. barrenness. barrenness. There is an opposite mountain that is There is an opposite mountain that is There is an opposite mountain that is situated over against it on the other situated over against it on the other situated over against it on the other side of Jordan. side of Jordan. side of Jordan. This last begins at Julius and the This last begins at Julius and the This last begins at Julius and the northern quarters and extends itself northern quarters and extends itself northern quarters and extends itself southward as far as Somorhon, which is southward as far as Somorhon, which is southward as far as Somorhon, which is the bounds of Petra in Arabia. the bounds of Petra in Arabia. the bounds of Petra in Arabia. Footnote: Footnote: Footnote: Whether this Somorhon or Somorra ought Whether this Somorhon or Somorra ought Whether this Somorhon or Somorra ought not to be here written Gomorrah, as some not to be here written Gomorrah, as some not to be here written Gomorrah, as some manuscripts in a manner have it, manuscripts in a manner have it, manuscripts in a manner have it, for the place meant by Josephus seems to for the place meant by Josephus seems to for the place meant by Josephus seems to be near Segor or Zoar at the very south be near Segor or Zoar at the very south be near Segor or Zoar at the very south of the Dead Sea, hard by which stood of the Dead Sea, hard by which stood of the Dead Sea, hard by which stood Sodom and Gomorrah, Sodom and Gomorrah, Sodom and Gomorrah, cannot now be certainly determined, but cannot now be certainly determined, but cannot now be certainly determined, but seems by no means improbable. End of the seems by no means improbable. End of the seems by no means improbable. End of the footnote.

footnote. footnote. In this ridge of mountains, there is one In this ridge of mountains, there is one In this ridge of mountains, there is one called the Iron Mountain that runs in called the Iron Mountain that runs in called the Iron Mountain that runs in length as far as Moab. length as far as Moab. length as far as Moab. Now, the region that lies in the middle Now, the region that lies in the middle Now, the region that lies in the middle between these ridges of mountains is between these ridges of mountains is between these ridges of mountains is called the Great Plain. called the Great Plain. called the Great Plain. It reaches from the village Genabris as It reaches from the village Genabris as It reaches from the village Genabris as far as the lake Asphaltitis. far as the lake Asphaltitis. far as the lake Asphaltitis. Its length is 234 longs and its breadth Its length is 234 longs and its breadth Its length is 234 longs and its breadth 120. 120. 120. And it is divided in the midst by And it is divided in the midst by And it is divided in the midst by Jordan. Jordan. Jordan. It has two lakes in it, that of It has two lakes in it, that of It has two lakes in it, that of Asphaltitis and that of Tiberias, Asphaltitis and that of Tiberias, Asphaltitis and that of Tiberias, whose natures are opposite to each whose natures are opposite to each whose natures are opposite to each other. other. other. For the former is salt and unfruitful, For the former is salt and unfruitful, For the former is salt and unfruitful, but that of Tiberias is sweet and but that of Tiberias is sweet and but that of Tiberias is sweet and fruitful. fruitful. fruitful. This plain is much burned up in summer This plain is much burned up in summer This plain is much burned up in summer time, and by reason of the extraordinary time, and by reason of the extraordinary time, and by reason of the extraordinary heat contains a very unwholesome air. heat contains a very unwholesome air. heat contains a very unwholesome air. It is all destitute of water, excepting It is all destitute of water, excepting It is all destitute of water, excepting the river Jordan, the river Jordan, the river Jordan, which water of Jordan is the occasion which water of Jordan is the occasion which water of Jordan is the occasion why those plantations of palm trees that why those plantations of palm trees that why those plantations of palm trees that are near its banks are more flourishing are near its banks are more flourishing are near its banks are more flourishing and much more fruitful than are those and much more fruitful than are those and much more fruitful than are those that are remote from it, not so that are remote from it, not so that are remote from it, not so flourishing or fruitful.

Notwithstanding which, there is a Notwithstanding which, there is a fountain by Jericho that runs fountain by Jericho that runs fountain by Jericho that runs plentifully plentifully plentifully and is very fit for watering the ground. and is very fit for watering the ground. and is very fit for watering the ground. It arises near the old city, which It arises near the old city, which It arises near the old city, which Joshua, the son of Naue, the general of Joshua, the son of Naue, the general of Joshua, the son of Naue, the general of the Hebrews, the Hebrews, the Hebrews, took the first of all the cities of the took the first of all the cities of the took the first of all the cities of the land of Canaan by right of war. land of Canaan by right of war. land of Canaan by right of war. The report is that this fountain at the The report is that this fountain at the The report is that this fountain at the beginning beginning beginning caused not only the blasting of the caused not only the blasting of the caused not only the blasting of the earth and the trees, but of the children earth and the trees, but of the children earth and the trees, but of the children born of woman, born of woman, born of woman, and that it was entirely of a sickly and and that it was entirely of a sickly and and that it was entirely of a sickly and corruptive nature to all things corruptive nature to all things corruptive nature to all things whatsoever. whatsoever. whatsoever. But that it was made gentle and very But that it was made gentle and very But that it was made gentle and very wholesome and fruitful by the prophet wholesome and fruitful by the prophet wholesome and fruitful by the prophet Elisha. Elisha. Elisha. This prophet was familiar with Eliya and This prophet was familiar with Eliya and This prophet was familiar with Eliya and was his successor, was his successor, was his successor, who, when he once was a guest of the who, when he once was a guest of the who, when he once was a guest of the people of Jericho people of Jericho people of Jericho and the men of the place had treated him and the men of the place had treated him and the men of the place had treated him very kindly, very kindly, very kindly, he both made them amends, as well as the he both made them amends, as well as the he both made them amends, as well as the country, by a lasting favor. country, by a lasting favor. country, by a lasting favor. For he went out of the city to this For he went out of the city to this For he went out of the city to this fountain and threw into the current an fountain and threw into the current an fountain and threw into the current an earthen vessel full of salt, earthen vessel full of salt, earthen vessel full of salt, after which he stretched out his after which he stretched out his after which he stretched out his righteous hand unto heaven righteous hand unto heaven righteous hand unto heaven and pouring out a mild drink offering, and pouring out a mild drink offering, and pouring out a mild drink offering, he made this supplication he made this supplication he made this supplication that the current might be mollified and that the current might be mollified and that the current might be mollified and that the veins of fresh water might be that the veins of fresh water might be that the veins of fresh water might be opened, that God also would bring into opened, that God also would bring into opened, that God also would bring into the place a more temperate and fertile the place a more temperate and fertile the place a more temperate and fertile air for the current air for the current air for the current and would bestow upon the people of that and would bestow upon the people of that and would bestow upon the people of that country plenty of the fruits of the country plenty of the fruits of the country plenty of the fruits of the earth and the succession of children

earth and the succession of children earth and the succession of children and that this prolific water might never and that this prolific water might never and that this prolific water might never fail them fail them fail them while they continued to be righteous. while they continued to be righteous. while they continued to be righteous. To these prayers Elisha joined proper To these prayers Elisha joined proper To these prayers Elisha joined proper operations of his hands after skillful operations of his hands after skillful operations of his hands after skillful manner manner manner and changed the fountain and changed the fountain and changed the fountain and that water which had been the and that water which had been the and that water which had been the occasion of barrenness and famine before occasion of barrenness and famine before occasion of barrenness and famine before from that time did supply a numerous from that time did supply a numerous from that time did supply a numerous posterity posterity posterity and afforded great abundance to the and afforded great abundance to the and afforded great abundance to the country. country. country. Footnote. Footnote. Footnote. This excellent prayer of Elisha is This excellent prayer of Elisha is This excellent prayer of Elisha is wanting in our copies. wanting in our copies. wanting in our copies. Second Kings 2:21-22. Second Kings 2:21-22. Second Kings 2:21-22. Though it be referred also in the Though it be referred also in the Though it be referred also in the Apostolical Constitutions Apostolical Constitutions Apostolical Constitutions and the success of it is mentioned in and the success of it is mentioned in and the success of it is mentioned in them all. End footnote. them all. End footnote. them all. End footnote. Accordingly the power of it is so great Accordingly the power of it is so great Accordingly the power of it is so great in watering the ground in watering the ground in watering the ground that if it do but touch a country it that if it do but touch a country it that if it do but touch a country it affords a sweeter nourishment than other affords a sweeter nourishment than other affords a sweeter nourishment than other waters do waters do waters do when they lie so long upon them when they lie so long upon them when they lie so long upon them till they are satiated with them.

till they are satiated with them. till they are satiated with them. For which reason the advantage gained For which reason the advantage gained For which reason the advantage gained from other waters when they flow in from other waters when they flow in from other waters when they flow in great plenty is but small great plenty is but small great plenty is but small while that of this water is great when while that of this water is great when while that of this water is great when it flows even in little quantities. it flows even in little quantities. it flows even in little quantities. Accordingly it waters a larger space of Accordingly it waters a larger space of Accordingly it waters a larger space of ground than any other waters do and ground than any other waters do and ground than any other waters do and passes along a plane of 70 furlongs long passes along a plane of 70 furlongs long passes along a plane of 70 furlongs long and 20 broad and 20 broad and 20 broad wherein it affords nourishment to those wherein it affords nourishment to those wherein it affords nourishment to those most excellent gardens that are thick most excellent gardens that are thick most excellent gardens that are thick set with trees. set with trees. set with trees. There are in it many sorts of palm trees There are in it many sorts of palm trees There are in it many sorts of palm trees that are watered by it that are watered by it that are watered by it different from each other in taste and different from each other in taste and different from each other in taste and name name name the better sort of them when they are the better sort of them when they are the better sort of them when they are pressed yield an excellent kind of honey pressed yield an excellent kind of honey pressed yield an excellent kind of honey not much inferior in sweetness to other not much inferior in sweetness to other not much inferior in sweetness to other honey. honey. honey. The scandix with aloe produces honey The scandix with aloe produces honey The scandix with aloe produces honey from bees. It also bears that balsam, from bees. It also bears that balsam, from bees. It also bears that balsam, which is the most precious of all the which is the most precious of all the which is the most precious of all the fruits in that place. fruits in that place. fruits in that place. Cypress trees also, and those that bear Cypress trees also, and those that bear Cypress trees also, and those that bear myrobalanum.

myrobalanum. myrobalanum. So that he who should pronounce this So that he who should pronounce this So that he who should pronounce this place to be divine would not be place to be divine would not be place to be divine would not be mistaken. mistaken. mistaken. Wherein is such plenty of trees produced Wherein is such plenty of trees produced Wherein is such plenty of trees produced as are very rare and of the most as are very rare and of the most as are very rare and of the most excellent sort. excellent sort. excellent sort. And indeed, if we speak of those other And indeed, if we speak of those other And indeed, if we speak of those other fruits, it will not be easy to light on fruits, it will not be easy to light on fruits, it will not be easy to light on any climate in the habitable earth that any climate in the habitable earth that any climate in the habitable earth that can be well compared to it. can be well compared to it. can be well compared to it. What is here sown comes up in such What is here sown comes up in such What is here sown comes up in such clusters clusters clusters that cause of which seems me to be the that cause of which seems me to be the that cause of which seems me to be the warmth of the air and the fertility of warmth of the air and the fertility of warmth of the air and the fertility of the waters. the waters. the waters. The warmth calling forth the sprouts and The warmth calling forth the sprouts and The warmth calling forth the sprouts and making them spread. making them spread. making them spread. And the moisture making every one of And the moisture making every one of And the moisture making every one of them take root firmly. And supplying them take root firmly. And supplying them take root firmly. And supplying that virtue which it stands in need of that virtue which it stands in need of that virtue which it stands in need of in summer time. in summer time. in summer time. Now this country is then so sadly burned Now this country is then so sadly burned Now this country is then so sadly burned up that nobody cares to camp at it. up that nobody cares to camp at it. up that nobody cares to camp at it. And if the water be drawn up before sun And if the water be drawn up before sun And if the water be drawn up before sun rising and after that exposed to the rising and after that exposed to the rising and after that exposed to the air, air, air, it becomes exceedingly cold. it becomes exceedingly cold. it becomes exceedingly cold. And becomes of a nature quite contrary And becomes of a nature quite contrary And becomes of a nature quite contrary to the ambient air.

to the ambient air. to the ambient air. As in winter again it becomes warm. As in winter again it becomes warm. As in winter again it becomes warm. And if you go into it, it appears very And if you go into it, it appears very And if you go into it, it appears very gentle. gentle. gentle. The ambient air is here also so good a The ambient air is here also so good a The ambient air is here also so good a temperature that the people of the temperature that the people of the temperature that the people of the country are clothed in linen only country are clothed in linen only country are clothed in linen only even when snow covers the rest of Judea. even when snow covers the rest of Judea. even when snow covers the rest of Judea. This place is 150 furlongs from This place is 150 furlongs from This place is 150 furlongs from Jerusalem and 60 from Jordan. Jerusalem and 60 from Jordan. Jerusalem and 60 from Jordan. The country as far as Jerusalem is The country as far as Jerusalem is The country as far as Jerusalem is desert and stony. desert and stony. desert and stony. But that as far as Jordan and the lake But that as far as Jordan and the lake But that as far as Jordan and the lake Asphaltites lies lower indeed Asphaltites lies lower indeed Asphaltites lies lower indeed though it be equally desert and barren. though it be equally desert and barren. though it be equally desert and barren. But so much shall suffice to have said But so much shall suffice to have said But so much shall suffice to have said about Jericho and of the great happiness about Jericho and of the great happiness about Jericho and of the great happiness of its situation. of its situation. of its situation. The nature of the lake Asphaltitis is The nature of the lake Asphaltitis is The nature of the lake Asphaltitis is also worth describing. also worth describing. also worth describing. It is, as I have said already, bitter It is, as I have said already, bitter It is, as I have said already, bitter and unfruitful. and unfruitful. and unfruitful. It is so light or thick that it bears up It is so light or thick that it bears up It is so light or thick that it bears up the heaviest things that are thrown into the heaviest things that are thrown into the heaviest things that are thrown into it. it. it. Nor is it easy for anyone to make things Nor is it easy for anyone to make things Nor is it easy for anyone to make things sink there into the bottom if he had a sink there into the bottom if he had a sink there into the bottom if he had a mind so to do.

mind so to do. mind so to do. Accordingly, when Vespasian went to see Accordingly, when Vespasian went to see Accordingly, when Vespasian went to see it, he commanded that some who could not it, he commanded that some who could not it, he commanded that some who could not swim should have their hands tied behind swim should have their hands tied behind swim should have their hands tied behind them and be thrown into the deep. them and be thrown into the deep. them and be thrown into the deep. When it so happened that they all swam When it so happened that they all swam When it so happened that they all swam as if a wind had forced them upwards. as if a wind had forced them upwards. as if a wind had forced them upwards. Moreover, the change of the color of Moreover, the change of the color of Moreover, the change of the color of this lake is wonderful. For it changes this lake is wonderful. For it changes this lake is wonderful. For it changes its appearance thrice every day. its appearance thrice every day. its appearance thrice every day. And as the rays of the sun fall And as the rays of the sun fall And as the rays of the sun fall differently upon it, differently upon it, differently upon it, the light is variously reflected. the light is variously reflected. the light is variously reflected. However, it casts up black clouds of However, it casts up black clouds of However, it casts up black clouds of bitumen in many parts of it. bitumen in many parts of it. bitumen in many parts of it. These swim at the top of the water and These swim at the top of the water and These swim at the top of the water and resemble both in shape and by bigness resemble both in shape and by bigness resemble both in shape and by bigness headless bulls. headless bulls. headless bulls. And when the laborers that belong to the And when the laborers that belong to the And when the laborers that belong to the lake come to it and catch hold of it as lake come to it and catch hold of it as lake come to it and catch hold of it as it hangs together, it hangs together, it hangs together, they draw it into their ships. And when they draw it into their ships. And when they draw it into their ships. And when the ship is full, it is not easy to cut the ship is full, it is not easy to cut the ship is full, it is not easy to cut off the rest. off the rest. off the rest. For it is so tenacious as to make the For it is so tenacious as to make the For it is so tenacious as to make the ship hang upon its clouds till they set ship hang upon its clouds till they set ship hang upon its clouds till they set it loose with the menstrual blood of it loose with the menstrual blood of it loose with the menstrual blood of women and with urine to which alone it women and with urine to which alone it women and with urine to which alone it yields.

yields. yields. This bitumen is not only useful for the This bitumen is not only useful for the This bitumen is not only useful for the caulking of ships, but for the cure of caulking of ships, but for the cure of caulking of ships, but for the cure of men's bodies. men's bodies. men's bodies. It is mixed in a great many medicines. It is mixed in a great many medicines. It is mixed in a great many medicines. The length of this lake is 580 furlongs The length of this lake is 580 furlongs The length of this lake is 580 furlongs where it is extended as far as Zoar in where it is extended as far as Zoar in where it is extended as far as Zoar in Arabia Arabia Arabia and its breadth is 150. and its breadth is 150. and its breadth is 150. The country of Sodom borders upon it. The country of Sodom borders upon it. The country of Sodom borders upon it. It was of old a most happy land, both It was of old a most happy land, both It was of old a most happy land, both for the fruits it bore and the riches of for the fruits it bore and the riches of for the fruits it bore and the riches of its cities, its cities, its cities, although it be now all burnt up. although it be now all burnt up. although it be now all burnt up. It is related how, for the impiety of It is related how, for the impiety of It is related how, for the impiety of its inhabitants, it was burnt by its inhabitants, it was burnt by its inhabitants, it was burnt by lightning, lightning, lightning, in consequence of which there are still in consequence of which there are still in consequence of which there are still the remainders of that divine fire, the remainders of that divine fire, the remainders of that divine fire, and the traces or shadows of the five and the traces or shadows of the five and the traces or shadows of the five cities are still to be seen, cities are still to be seen, cities are still to be seen, as well as the ashes growing in their as well as the ashes growing in their as well as the ashes growing in their fruits, which fruits have a color as if fruits, which fruits have a color as if fruits, which fruits have a color as if they were fit to be eaten. they were fit to be eaten. they were fit to be eaten. But if you pluck them with your hands, But if you pluck them with your hands, But if you pluck them with your hands, they dissolve into smoke and ashes. they dissolve into smoke and ashes. they dissolve into smoke and ashes. And thus what is related of this land of And thus what is related of this land of And thus what is related of this land of Sodom has these marks of credibility, Sodom has these marks of credibility, Sodom has these marks of credibility, which our very sight affords us.

which our very sight affords us. which our very sight affords us. End of Book 4, Chapter 8. Book 4, Chapter 9, of The Wars of the Book 4, Chapter 9, of The Wars of the Jews. This is a LibriVox recording. All Jews. This is a LibriVox recording. All Jews. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public LibriVox recordings are in the public LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to domain. For more information or to domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit librivox.org. volunteer, please visit librivox.org. volunteer, please visit librivox.org. Recording by Anne Boulay. Recording by Anne Boulay. Recording by Anne Boulay. The Wars of the Jews by Josephus, The Wars of the Jews by Josephus, The Wars of the Jews by Josephus, translated by William Whiston. translated by William Whiston. translated by William Whiston. Chapter 9. That Vespasian, after he had Chapter 9. That Vespasian, after he had Chapter 9. That Vespasian, after he had taken Gadara, made preparation for the taken Gadara, made preparation for the taken Gadara, made preparation for the siege of Jerusalem, but that upon his siege of Jerusalem, but that upon his siege of Jerusalem, but that upon his hearing of the death of Nero, he changed hearing of the death of Nero, he changed hearing of the death of Nero, he changed his intentions, as also concerning Simon his intentions, as also concerning Simon his intentions, as also concerning Simon of Gerasa. of Gerasa. of Gerasa. One. And now Vespasian had fortified all One. And now Vespasian had fortified all One. And now Vespasian had fortified all the places round about Jerusalem, and the places round about Jerusalem, and the places round about Jerusalem, and erected citadels at Jericho and Adida, erected citadels at Jericho and Adida, erected citadels at Jericho and Adida, and placed garrisons in them both, and placed garrisons in them both, and placed garrisons in them both, partly out of his own Romans and partly partly out of his own Romans and partly partly out of his own Romans and partly out of the body of his auxiliaries.

out of the body of his auxiliaries. out of the body of his auxiliaries. He also sent Lucius Annius to Gerasa, He also sent Lucius Annius to Gerasa, He also sent Lucius Annius to Gerasa, and delivered to him a body of horsemen and delivered to him a body of horsemen and delivered to him a body of horsemen and a considerable number of footmen. and a considerable number of footmen. and a considerable number of footmen. So, when he had taken the city, which he So, when he had taken the city, which he So, when he had taken the city, which he did at the first onset, he slew a did at the first onset, he slew a did at the first onset, he slew a thousand of those young men who had not thousand of those young men who had not thousand of those young men who had not prevented him by flying away, but he prevented him by flying away, but he prevented him by flying away, but he took their families captive and took their families captive and took their families captive and permitted his soldiers to plunder them permitted his soldiers to plunder them permitted his soldiers to plunder them of their effects. After he had set fire of their effects. After he had set fire of their effects. After he had set fire to their houses and went away to the to their houses and went away to the to their houses and went away to the adjoining villages while the men of adjoining villages while the men of adjoining villages while the men of power fled away and the weaker part were power fled away and the weaker part were power fled away and the weaker part were destroyed. And what was remaining was destroyed. And what was remaining was destroyed. And what was remaining was all burnt down. And now the war having all burnt down. And now the war having all burnt down. And now the war having gone through all the mountainous country gone through all the mountainous country gone through all the mountainous country and all the plain country also, those and all the plain country also, those and all the plain country also, those that were at Jerusalem were deprived of that were at Jerusalem were deprived of that were at Jerusalem were deprived of the liberty of going out of the city. the liberty of going out of the city. the liberty of going out of the city. For as to such as had a mind to desert, For as to such as had a mind to desert, For as to such as had a mind to desert, they were watched by the Zealots. And as they were watched by the Zealots. And as they were watched by the Zealots. And as to such as were not yet on the side of to such as were not yet on the side of to such as were not yet on the side of the Romans, their army kept them in by the Romans, their army kept them in by the Romans, their army kept them in by encompassing the city round about on all encompassing the city round about on all encompassing the city round about on all sides. sides. sides. Two. Now, as Vespasian was returned to Two. Now, as Vespasian was returned to Two. Now, as Vespasian was returned to Caesarea and was getting ready with all Caesarea and was getting ready with all Caesarea and was getting ready with all his army to march directly to Jerusalem, his army to march directly to Jerusalem, his army to march directly to Jerusalem, he was informed that Nero was dead after he was informed that Nero was dead after he was informed that Nero was dead after he had reigned 13 years and eight days.

he had reigned 13 years and eight days. he had reigned 13 years and eight days. But as to any narration after what But as to any narration after what But as to any narration after what manner he abused his power in the manner he abused his power in the manner he abused his power in the government and committed the management government and committed the management government and committed the management of affairs to those vile wretches, of affairs to those vile wretches, of affairs to those vile wretches, Nymphidius and Tigellinus, his unworthy Nymphidius and Tigellinus, his unworthy Nymphidius and Tigellinus, his unworthy freedmen, and how he had a plot laid freedmen, and how he had a plot laid freedmen, and how he had a plot laid against him by them and was deserted by against him by them and was deserted by against him by them and was deserted by all his guards and ran away with four of all his guards and ran away with four of all his guards and ran away with four of his most trusty freedmen, and slew his most trusty freedmen, and slew his most trusty freedmen, and slew himself in the suburbs of Rome, and how himself in the suburbs of Rome, and how himself in the suburbs of Rome, and how those that occasioned his death were in those that occasioned his death were in those that occasioned his death were in no long time brought themselves to no long time brought themselves to no long time brought themselves to punishment, how also the war in Gaul punishment, how also the war in Gaul punishment, how also the war in Gaul ended, and how Galba was made emperor ended, and how Galba was made emperor ended, and how Galba was made emperor and returned out of Spain to Rome, and and returned out of Spain to Rome, and and returned out of Spain to Rome, and how he was accused by the soldiers as a how he was accused by the soldiers as a how he was accused by the soldiers as a pusillanimous person and slain by pusillanimous person and slain by pusillanimous person and slain by treachery in the middle of the treachery in the middle of the treachery in the middle of the marketplace at Rome, and Otho was made marketplace at Rome, and Otho was made marketplace at Rome, and Otho was made emperor with his expedition against the emperor with his expedition against the emperor with his expedition against the commanders of Vitellius and his commanders of Vitellius and his commanders of Vitellius and his destruction thereupon and besides what destruction thereupon and besides what destruction thereupon and besides what troubles there were under Vitellius and troubles there were under Vitellius and troubles there were under Vitellius and the fight that was about the capital as the fight that was about the capital as the fight that was about the capital as also how Antonius Primus and Mucianus also how Antonius Primus and Mucianus also how Antonius Primus and Mucianus slew Vitellius and his German legions slew Vitellius and his German legions slew Vitellius and his German legions and thereby put an end to that civil and thereby put an end to that civil and thereby put an end to that civil war. I have omitted to give an exact war. I have omitted to give an exact war. I have omitted to give an exact account of them because they are well account of them because they are well account of them because they are well known by all and they are described by a known by all and they are described by a known by all and they are described by a great number of Greek and Roman authors.

great number of Greek and Roman authors. great number of Greek and Roman authors. Yet for the sake of the connection of Yet for the sake of the connection of Yet for the sake of the connection of matters and that my history may not be matters and that my history may not be matters and that my history may not be incoherent, I have just touched upon incoherent, I have just touched upon incoherent, I have just touched upon everything briefly. everything briefly. everything briefly. Footnote. Of these Roman affairs and Footnote. Of these Roman affairs and Footnote. Of these Roman affairs and tumults under Galba, Otho and Vitellius tumults under Galba, Otho and Vitellius tumults under Galba, Otho and Vitellius here only touched upon by Josephus, see here only touched upon by Josephus, see here only touched upon by Josephus, see Tacitus, Suetonius and Dio more largely. Tacitus, Suetonius and Dio more largely. Tacitus, Suetonius and Dio more largely. However, we may observe with Otius that However, we may observe with Otius that However, we may observe with Otius that Josephus writes the name of the second Josephus writes the name of the second Josephus writes the name of the second of them not Otto with many others but of them not Otto with many others but of them not Otto with many others but Otho with the coins. End footnote. Otho with the coins. End footnote. Otho with the coins. End footnote. Wherefore Vespasian put off at first his Wherefore Vespasian put off at first his Wherefore Vespasian put off at first his against Jerusalem and stood waiting against Jerusalem and stood waiting against Jerusalem and stood waiting whether the empire would be transferred whether the empire would be transferred whether the empire would be transferred after the death of Nero. Moreover, when after the death of Nero. Moreover, when after the death of Nero. Moreover, when he heard that Galba was made emperor, he he heard that Galba was made emperor, he he heard that Galba was made emperor, he attempted nothing till he also should attempted nothing till he also should attempted nothing till he also should send him some directions about the war. send him some directions about the war. send him some directions about the war. However, he sent his son Titus to him to However, he sent his son Titus to him to However, he sent his son Titus to him to salute him and to receive his commands salute him and to receive his commands salute him and to receive his commands about the Jews. Upon the very same about the Jews. Upon the very same about the Jews. Upon the very same errand did King Agrippa sail along with errand did King Agrippa sail along with errand did King Agrippa sail along with Titus to Galba.

Titus to Galba. Titus to Galba. But as they were sailing in their long But as they were sailing in their long But as they were sailing in their long ships by the coast of Achaia for it was ships by the coast of Achaia for it was ships by the coast of Achaia for it was winter time, they heard that Galba was winter time, they heard that Galba was winter time, they heard that Galba was slain before they could get to him after slain before they could get to him after slain before they could get to him after he had reigned seven months and as many he had reigned seven months and as many he had reigned seven months and as many days. After whom Otho took the days. After whom Otho took the days. After whom Otho took the government and undertook the management government and undertook the management government and undertook the management of public affairs. So Agrippa resolved of public affairs. So Agrippa resolved of public affairs. So Agrippa resolved to go on to Rome without any terror on to go on to Rome without any terror on to go on to Rome without any terror on account of the change in the government account of the change in the government account of the change in the government but Titus by a divine impulse sailed but Titus by a divine impulse sailed but Titus by a divine impulse sailed back from Greece to Syria and came in back from Greece to Syria and came in back from Greece to Syria and came in great haste to Caesarea to his father. great haste to Caesarea to his father. great haste to Caesarea to his father. And now they were both in suspense about And now they were both in suspense about And now they were both in suspense about the public affairs, the Roman Empire the public affairs, the Roman Empire the public affairs, the Roman Empire being then in a fluctuating condition being then in a fluctuating condition being then in a fluctuating condition and did not go on with their expedition and did not go on with their expedition and did not go on with their expedition against the Jews, but thought that to against the Jews, but thought that to against the Jews, but thought that to make any attack upon foreigners was now make any attack upon foreigners was now make any attack upon foreigners was now unseasonable on account of the unseasonable on account of the unseasonable on account of the solicitude they were in for their own solicitude they were in for their own solicitude they were in for their own country. country. country. Three. Three. Three. And now there arose another war at And now there arose another war at And now there arose another war at Jerusalem. There was a son of Giora, one Jerusalem. There was a son of Giora, one Jerusalem. There was a son of Giora, one Simon, by birth of Gerasa, a young man Simon, by birth of Gerasa, a young man Simon, by birth of Gerasa, a young man not so cunning indeed as John of not so cunning indeed as John of not so cunning indeed as John of Gischala, who had already seized upon Gischala, who had already seized upon Gischala, who had already seized upon the city, but superior in strength of the city, but superior in strength of the city, but superior in strength of body and courage. On which account, when body and courage. On which account, when body and courage. On which account, when he had been driven away from the he had been driven away from the he had been driven away from the Acrabattene toparchy, which he once had Acrabattene toparchy, which he once had Acrabattene toparchy, which he once had by Annanus the high priest, he came to by Annanus the high priest, he came to by Annanus the high priest, he came to those robbers who had seized upon those robbers who had seized upon those robbers who had seized upon Masada. At the first they suspected him Masada. At the first they suspected him Masada. At the first they suspected him and only permitted him to come with the and only permitted him to come with the and only permitted him to come with the women he brought with him into the lower women he brought with him into the lower women he brought with him into the lower part of the fortress, while they dwelt part of the fortress, while they dwelt part of the fortress, while they dwelt in the upper part of it themselves.

in the upper part of it themselves. in the upper part of it themselves. However, his manners so well agreed with However, his manners so well agreed with However, his manners so well agreed with theirs and he seemed so trusty a man theirs and he seemed so trusty a man theirs and he seemed so trusty a man that he went out with them and ravaged that he went out with them and ravaged that he went out with them and ravaged and destroyed the country with them and destroyed the country with them and destroyed the country with them about Masada. Yet, when he persuaded about Masada. Yet, when he persuaded about Masada. Yet, when he persuaded them to undertake greater things, he them to undertake greater things, he them to undertake greater things, he could not prevail with them so to do. could not prevail with them so to do. could not prevail with them so to do. For as they were accustomed to dwell in For as they were accustomed to dwell in For as they were accustomed to dwell in that citadel, they were afraid of going that citadel, they were afraid of going that citadel, they were afraid of going far from that which was their hiding far from that which was their hiding far from that which was their hiding place. But he, affecting to tyrannize place. But he, affecting to tyrannize place. But he, affecting to tyrannize and being fond of greatness, when he had and being fond of greatness, when he had and being fond of greatness, when he had heard of the death of Annanus, he left heard of the death of Annanus, he left heard of the death of Annanus, he left them and went into the mountainous part them and went into the mountainous part them and went into the mountainous part of the country. So, he proclaimed of the country. So, he proclaimed of the country. So, he proclaimed liberty to those in slavery and a reward liberty to those in slavery and a reward liberty to those in slavery and a reward to those already free and got together a to those already free and got together a to those already free and got together a set of wicked men from all quarters. set of wicked men from all quarters. set of wicked men from all quarters. Four. And as he had now a strong body of Four. And as he had now a strong body of Four. And as he had now a strong body of men about him, he overran the villages men about him, he overran the villages men about him, he overran the villages that lay in the mountainous country. And that lay in the mountainous country. And that lay in the mountainous country. And when there were still more and more that when there were still more and more that when there were still more and more that came to him, he ventured to go down into came to him, he ventured to go down into came to him, he ventured to go down into the lower parts of the country. And the lower parts of the country. And the lower parts of the country. And since he was now become formidable to since he was now become formidable to since he was now become formidable to the cities, many of the men of power the cities, many of the men of power the cities, many of the men of power were corrupted by him, so that his army were corrupted by him, so that his army were corrupted by him, so that his army was no longer composed of slaves and was no longer composed of slaves and was no longer composed of slaves and robbers, but a great many of the robbers, but a great many of the robbers, but a great many of the populace were obedient to him as to populace were obedient to him as to populace were obedient to him as to their king.

their king. their king. He then overran the Acrabattene toparchy He then overran the Acrabattene toparchy He then overran the Acrabattene toparchy and the places that reached as far as and the places that reached as far as and the places that reached as far as the great Idumea, for he built a wall at the great Idumea, for he built a wall at the great Idumea, for he built a wall at a certain village called Nain and made a certain village called Nain and made a certain village called Nain and made use of that as a fortress for his own use of that as a fortress for his own use of that as a fortress for his own party's security. And at the valley party's security. And at the valley party's security. And at the valley called Paron, he enlarged many of the called Paron, he enlarged many of the called Paron, he enlarged many of the caves and many others he found ready for caves and many others he found ready for caves and many others he found ready for his purpose. These he made use of as his purpose. These he made use of as his purpose. These he made use of as repositories for his treasures and repositories for his treasures and repositories for his treasures and receptacles for his prey. And therein he receptacles for his prey. And therein he receptacles for his prey. And therein he laid up the fruits that he had got by laid up the fruits that he had got by laid up the fruits that he had got by rapine. And many of his partisans had rapine. And many of his partisans had rapine. And many of his partisans had their dwelling in them and he made no their dwelling in them and he made no their dwelling in them and he made no secret of it that he was exercising his secret of it that he was exercising his secret of it that he was exercising his men beforehand and making preparations men beforehand and making preparations men beforehand and making preparations for the assault of Jerusalem. for the assault of Jerusalem. for the assault of Jerusalem. Five. Whereupon the Zealots, out of the Five. Whereupon the Zealots, out of the Five. Whereupon the Zealots, out of the dread they were in of his attacking them dread they were in of his attacking them dread they were in of his attacking them and being willing to prevent one that and being willing to prevent one that and being willing to prevent one that was growing up to oppose them, went out was growing up to oppose them, went out was growing up to oppose them, went out against him with their weapons. against him with their weapons. against him with their weapons. Simon met them and joining battle with Simon met them and joining battle with Simon met them and joining battle with them, slew a considerable number of them them, slew a considerable number of them them, slew a considerable number of them and drove the rest before him into the and drove the rest before him into the and drove the rest before him into the city, but durst not trust so much upon city, but durst not trust so much upon city, but durst not trust so much upon his forces as to make an assault upon his forces as to make an assault upon his forces as to make an assault upon the walls. But he resolved first to the walls. But he resolved first to the walls. But he resolved first to subdue Idumea. And as he had now 20,000 subdue Idumea. And as he had now 20,000 subdue Idumea. And as he had now 20,000 armed men, he marched to the borders of armed men, he marched to the borders of armed men, he marched to the borders of their country.

their country. their country. Hereupon the rulers of the Idumeans got Hereupon the rulers of the Idumeans got Hereupon the rulers of the Idumeans got together on the sudden the most warlike together on the sudden the most warlike together on the sudden the most warlike part of their people, about 25,000 in part of their people, about 25,000 in part of their people, about 25,000 in number, and permitted the rest to be a number, and permitted the rest to be a number, and permitted the rest to be a guard to their own country by reason of guard to their own country by reason of guard to their own country by reason of the incursions that were made by the the incursions that were made by the the incursions that were made by the Sicari that were at Masada. Sicari that were at Masada. Sicari that were at Masada. Thus they received Simon at their Thus they received Simon at their Thus they received Simon at their borders, where they fought him and borders, where they fought him and borders, where they fought him and continued the battle all that day. And continued the battle all that day. And continued the battle all that day. And the dispute lay whether they had the dispute lay whether they had the dispute lay whether they had conquered him or been conquered by him. conquered him or been conquered by him. conquered him or been conquered by him. So he went back to Nain, as did the So he went back to Nain, as did the So he went back to Nain, as did the Idumeans return home. Nor was it long Idumeans return home. Nor was it long Idumeans return home. Nor was it long ere Simon came violently again upon ere Simon came violently again upon ere Simon came violently again upon their country, when he pitched his camp their country, when he pitched his camp their country, when he pitched his camp at a certain village called Tekoa, and at a certain village called Tekoa, and at a certain village called Tekoa, and sent Eleazar, one of his companions, to sent Eleazar, one of his companions, to sent Eleazar, one of his companions, to those that kept garrison at Herodium, those that kept garrison at Herodium, those that kept garrison at Herodium, and in order to persuade them to and in order to persuade them to and in order to persuade them to surrender that fortress to him. The surrender that fortress to him. The surrender that fortress to him. The garrison received this man readily, garrison received this man readily, garrison received this man readily, while they knew nothing of what he came while they knew nothing of what he came while they knew nothing of what he came about. But, as soon as he talked of the about. But, as soon as he talked of the about. But, as soon as he talked of the surrender of the place, they fell upon surrender of the place, they fell upon surrender of the place, they fell upon him with their drawn swords, till he him with their drawn swords, till he him with their drawn swords, till he found that he had no place for flight, found that he had no place for flight, found that he had no place for flight, when he threw himself down from the wall when he threw himself down from the wall when he threw himself down from the wall into the valley below. So, he died into the valley below. So, he died into the valley below. So, he died immediately. But, the Idumeans, who were immediately. But, the Idumeans, who were immediately. But, the Idumeans, who were already much afraid of Simon's power, already much afraid of Simon's power, already much afraid of Simon's power, thought fit to take a view of the thought fit to take a view of the thought fit to take a view of the enemy's army before they hazard a battle enemy's army before they hazard a battle enemy's army before they hazard a battle with them.

with them. with them. Six. Six. Six. Now, there was one of their commanders Now, there was one of their commanders Now, there was one of their commanders named Jacob, who offered to serve them named Jacob, who offered to serve them named Jacob, who offered to serve them readily upon that occasion, but had it readily upon that occasion, but had it readily upon that occasion, but had it in his mind to betray them. He went, in his mind to betray them. He went, in his mind to betray them. He went, therefore, from the village Alurus, therefore, from the village Alurus, therefore, from the village Alurus, wherein the army of the Idumeans were wherein the army of the Idumeans were wherein the army of the Idumeans were gotten together, and came to Simon. And gotten together, and came to Simon. And gotten together, and came to Simon. And at the very first, he agreed to betray at the very first, he agreed to betray at the very first, he agreed to betray his country to him, and took assurances his country to him, and took assurances his country to him, and took assurances upon oath from him that he should always upon oath from him that he should always upon oath from him that he should always have him in esteem, and then promised have him in esteem, and then promised have him in esteem, and then promised him that he would assist him in subduing him that he would assist him in subduing him that he would assist him in subduing all Idumea under him. Upon which all Idumea under him. Upon which all Idumea under him. Upon which account, he was feasted after an account, he was feasted after an account, he was feasted after an obliging manner by Simon, and elevated obliging manner by Simon, and elevated obliging manner by Simon, and elevated by his mighty promises. And when he was by his mighty promises. And when he was by his mighty promises. And when he was returned to his own men, he at first returned to his own men, he at first returned to his own men, he at first belied the army of Simon, and said it belied the army of Simon, and said it belied the army of Simon, and said it was manifold more in number than what it was manifold more in number than what it was manifold more in number than what it was. After which, he dexterously was. After which, he dexterously was. After which, he dexterously persuaded the commanders, and by degrees persuaded the commanders, and by degrees persuaded the commanders, and by degrees the whole multitude, to receive Simon, the whole multitude, to receive Simon, the whole multitude, to receive Simon, and to surrender the whole government up and to surrender the whole government up and to surrender the whole government up to him without fighting. And as he was to him without fighting. And as he was to him without fighting. And as he was doing this, he invited Simon by his doing this, he invited Simon by his doing this, he invited Simon by his messengers, and promised him to disperse messengers, and promised him to disperse messengers, and promised him to disperse the Idumeans, which he performed also.

the Idumeans, which he performed also. the Idumeans, which he performed also. For as soon as the army was nigh them, For as soon as the army was nigh them, For as soon as the army was nigh them, he first of all got upon his horse and he first of all got upon his horse and he first of all got upon his horse and fled together with those whom he had fled together with those whom he had fled together with those whom he had corrupted. Hereupon a terror fell upon corrupted. Hereupon a terror fell upon corrupted. Hereupon a terror fell upon the whole multitude, and before it came the whole multitude, and before it came the whole multitude, and before it came to a close fight, they broke their to a close fight, they broke their to a close fight, they broke their ranks, and everyone retired to his own ranks, and everyone retired to his own ranks, and everyone retired to his own home. home. home. Seven. Thus did Simon unexpectedly march Seven. Thus did Simon unexpectedly march Seven. Thus did Simon unexpectedly march into Idumea without bloodshed, and made into Idumea without bloodshed, and made into Idumea without bloodshed, and made a sudden attack upon the city Hebron, a sudden attack upon the city Hebron, a sudden attack upon the city Hebron, and took it. Wherein he got possession and took it. Wherein he got possession and took it. Wherein he got possession of a great deal of prey, and plundered of a great deal of prey, and plundered of a great deal of prey, and plundered it of a vast quantity of fruit. Now, the it of a vast quantity of fruit. Now, the it of a vast quantity of fruit. Now, the people of the country say that it is an people of the country say that it is an people of the country say that it is an ancienter city, not only than any in ancienter city, not only than any in ancienter city, not only than any in that country, but than Memphis in Egypt, that country, but than Memphis in Egypt, that country, but than Memphis in Egypt, and accordingly its age is reckoned at and accordingly its age is reckoned at and accordingly its age is reckoned at 2,300 years. They also relate that it 2,300 years. They also relate that it 2,300 years. They also relate that it had been the habitation of Abram, the had been the habitation of Abram, the had been the habitation of Abram, the progenitor of the Jews, after he had progenitor of the Jews, after he had progenitor of the Jews, after he had removed out of Mesopotamia. And they say removed out of Mesopotamia. And they say removed out of Mesopotamia. And they say that his posterity descended from thence that his posterity descended from thence that his posterity descended from thence into Egypt, whose monuments are to this into Egypt, whose monuments are to this into Egypt, whose monuments are to this very time showed in that small city. The very time showed in that small city. The very time showed in that small city. The fabric of which monuments are the most fabric of which monuments are the most fabric of which monuments are the most excellent marble, and wrought after the excellent marble, and wrought after the excellent marble, and wrought after the most elegant manner. There is also there most elegant manner. There is also there most elegant manner. There is also there showed, at the distance of six furlongs showed, at the distance of six furlongs showed, at the distance of six furlongs from the city, a very large turpentine from the city, a very large turpentine from the city, a very large turpentine tree, and the report goes that this tree tree, and the report goes that this tree tree, and the report goes that this tree has continued ever since the creation of has continued ever since the creation of has continued ever since the creation of the world. Footnote. Some of the the world. Footnote. Some of the the world. Footnote. Some of the ancients call this famous tree, or ancients call this famous tree, or ancients call this famous tree, or grove, an oak, others a turpentine tree, grove, an oak, others a turpentine tree, grove, an oak, others a turpentine tree, or grove. It has been very famous in all or grove. It has been very famous in all or grove. It has been very famous in all the past ages, and is so, I suppose, at

the past ages, and is so, I suppose, at the past ages, and is so, I suppose, at this day, and that particularly for an this day, and that particularly for an this day, and that particularly for an eminent mart or meeting of merchants eminent mart or meeting of merchants eminent mart or meeting of merchants there every year, as travelers inform there every year, as travelers inform there every year, as travelers inform us. End footnote. us. End footnote. us. End footnote. Thence did Simon make his progress over Thence did Simon make his progress over Thence did Simon make his progress over all Idumea, and did not only ravage the all Idumea, and did not only ravage the all Idumea, and did not only ravage the cities and villages, but lay waste to cities and villages, but lay waste to cities and villages, but lay waste to the whole country. For besides those the whole country. For besides those the whole country. For besides those that were completely armed, he had that were completely armed, he had that were completely armed, he had 40,000 men that followed him, insomuch 40,000 men that followed him, insomuch 40,000 men that followed him, insomuch that he had not provisions enough to that he had not provisions enough to that he had not provisions enough to suffice such a multitude. Now, besides suffice such a multitude. Now, besides suffice such a multitude. Now, besides this want of provisions that he was in, this want of provisions that he was in, this want of provisions that he was in, he was of a barbarous disposition and he was of a barbarous disposition and he was of a barbarous disposition and bore great anger at this nation, by bore great anger at this nation, by bore great anger at this nation, by which means it came to pass that Idumea which means it came to pass that Idumea which means it came to pass that Idumea was greatly depopulated. And as one may was greatly depopulated. And as one may was greatly depopulated. And as one may see all the woods behind despoiled of see all the woods behind despoiled of see all the woods behind despoiled of their leaves by locusts. After they had their leaves by locusts. After they had their leaves by locusts. After they had been there, so was there nothing left been there, so was there nothing left been there, so was there nothing left behind Simon's army but a desert. Some behind Simon's army but a desert. Some behind Simon's army but a desert. Some places they burnt down, some they places they burnt down, some they places they burnt down, some they utterly demolished, and whatsoever grew utterly demolished, and whatsoever grew utterly demolished, and whatsoever grew in the country, they either trod it down in the country, they either trod it down in the country, they either trod it down or fed upon it. And by their marches, or fed upon it. And by their marches, or fed upon it. And by their marches, they made the ground that was cultivated they made the ground that was cultivated they made the ground that was cultivated harder and more intractable than that harder and more intractable than that harder and more intractable than that which was barren. In short, there was no which was barren. In short, there was no which was barren. In short, there was no sign remaining of those places that had sign remaining of those places that had sign remaining of those places that had been laid waste that ever they had had a been laid waste that ever they had had a been laid waste that ever they had had a being.

being. being. Eight. This success of Simon excited the Eight. This success of Simon excited the Eight. This success of Simon excited the Zealots afresh, and though they were Zealots afresh, and though they were Zealots afresh, and though they were afraid to fight him openly in a fair afraid to fight him openly in a fair afraid to fight him openly in a fair battle, yet did they lay ambushes in the battle, yet did they lay ambushes in the battle, yet did they lay ambushes in the passes and seize upon his wife with a passes and seize upon his wife with a passes and seize upon his wife with a considerable number of her attendants. considerable number of her attendants. considerable number of her attendants. Whereupon they came back to the city Whereupon they came back to the city Whereupon they came back to the city rejoicing as if they had taken Simon rejoicing as if they had taken Simon rejoicing as if they had taken Simon himself captive and were in present himself captive and were in present himself captive and were in present expectation that he would lay down his expectation that he would lay down his expectation that he would lay down his arms and make supplication to them for arms and make supplication to them for arms and make supplication to them for his wife. But instead of indulging any his wife. But instead of indulging any his wife. But instead of indulging any merciful affection, he grew very angry merciful affection, he grew very angry merciful affection, he grew very angry at them for seizing his beloved wife. at them for seizing his beloved wife. at them for seizing his beloved wife. So, he came to the wall of Jerusalem and So, he came to the wall of Jerusalem and So, he came to the wall of Jerusalem and like wild beasts when they are wounded like wild beasts when they are wounded like wild beasts when they are wounded and cannot overtake those that wounded and cannot overtake those that wounded and cannot overtake those that wounded them, he vented his spleen upon all them, he vented his spleen upon all them, he vented his spleen upon all persons that he met with. Accordingly, persons that he met with. Accordingly, persons that he met with. Accordingly, he caught all those that were come out he caught all those that were come out he caught all those that were come out of the city gates either to gather herbs of the city gates either to gather herbs of the city gates either to gather herbs or sticks who were unarmed and in years. or sticks who were unarmed and in years. or sticks who were unarmed and in years. He then tormented them and destroyed He then tormented them and destroyed He then tormented them and destroyed them out of the immense rage he was in them out of the immense rage he was in them out of the immense rage he was in and was almost ready to taste the very and was almost ready to taste the very and was almost ready to taste the very flesh of their dead bodies.

flesh of their dead bodies. flesh of their dead bodies. He also cut off the hands of a great He also cut off the hands of a great He also cut off the hands of a great many and sent them into the city to many and sent them into the city to many and sent them into the city to astonish his enemies. And in order to astonish his enemies. And in order to astonish his enemies. And in order to make the people fall into to sedition make the people fall into to sedition make the people fall into to sedition and desert those that had been the and desert those that had been the and desert those that had been the authors of his wife's seizure. He also authors of his wife's seizure. He also authors of his wife's seizure. He also enjoined them to tell the people that enjoined them to tell the people that enjoined them to tell the people that Simon swore by the God of the universe, Simon swore by the God of the universe, Simon swore by the God of the universe, who sees all things, that unless they who sees all things, that unless they who sees all things, that unless they will restore him his wife, he will break will restore him his wife, he will break will restore him his wife, he will break down their wall, and inflict the like down their wall, and inflict the like down their wall, and inflict the like punishment upon all the citizens, punishment upon all the citizens, punishment upon all the citizens, without sparing any age, and without without sparing any age, and without without sparing any age, and without making any distinction between the making any distinction between the making any distinction between the guilty and the innocent. These guilty and the innocent. These guilty and the innocent. These threatenings so greatly affrighted, not threatenings so greatly affrighted, not threatenings so greatly affrighted, not the people only, but the Zealots the people only, but the Zealots the people only, but the Zealots themselves also, that they sent his wife themselves also, that they sent his wife themselves also, that they sent his wife back to him. When he became a little back to him. When he became a little back to him. When he became a little milder, and left off his perpetual milder, and left off his perpetual milder, and left off his perpetual bloodshedding. bloodshedding. bloodshedding. Nine. But now sedition and civil war Nine. But now sedition and civil war Nine. But now sedition and civil war prevailed, not only over Judea, but in prevailed, not only over Judea, but in prevailed, not only over Judea, but in Italy also. For now Galba was slain in Italy also. For now Galba was slain in Italy also. For now Galba was slain in the midst of the Roman marketplace. Then the midst of the Roman marketplace. Then the midst of the Roman marketplace. Then was Otho made emperor, and fought was Otho made emperor, and fought was Otho made emperor, and fought against Vitellius, who set up for against Vitellius, who set up for against Vitellius, who set up for emperor also. For the legions in Germany emperor also. For the legions in Germany emperor also. For the legions in Germany had chosen him. But when he gave battle had chosen him. But when he gave battle had chosen him. But when he gave battle to Valens and Caecina, who were to Valens and Caecina, who were to Valens and Caecina, who were Vitellius's generals, at Betriacum in Vitellius's generals, at Betriacum in Vitellius's generals, at Betriacum in Gaul, Otho gained the advantage of the Gaul, Otho gained the advantage of the Gaul, Otho gained the advantage of the first day, but on the second day first day, but on the second day first day, but on the second day Vitellius's soldiers had the victory, Vitellius's soldiers had the victory, Vitellius's soldiers had the victory, and after much slaughter, Otho slew and after much slaughter, Otho slew and after much slaughter, Otho slew himself, when he had heard of this himself, when he had heard of this himself, when he had heard of this defeat at Brixia, after he had managed defeat at Brixia, after he had managed defeat at Brixia, after he had managed the public affairs three months and two the public affairs three months and two the public affairs three months and two days.

days. days. Footnote. Suetonius differs hardly three Footnote. Suetonius differs hardly three Footnote. Suetonius differs hardly three days from Josephus, and says Otho days from Josephus, and says Otho days from Josephus, and says Otho perished on the 95th day of his reign. perished on the 95th day of his reign. perished on the 95th day of his reign. End footnote. Otho's army also came over End footnote. Otho's army also came over End footnote. Otho's army also came over to Vitellius's to Vitellius's to Vitellius's and he came himself down to Rome with and he came himself down to Rome with and he came himself down to Rome with his army. But in the meantime, Vespasian his army. But in the meantime, Vespasian his army. But in the meantime, Vespasian removed from Caesarea, on the fifth day removed from Caesarea, on the fifth day removed from Caesarea, on the fifth day of the month Daesius, Sivan, and marched of the month Daesius, Sivan, and marched of the month Daesius, Sivan, and marched against those places of Judea which were against those places of Judea which were against those places of Judea which were not yet overthrown. So he went up to the not yet overthrown. So he went up to the not yet overthrown. So he went up to the mountainous country, and took those two mountainous country, and took those two mountainous country, and took those two toparchies that were called the toparchies that were called the toparchies that were called the Gophnitic and Acrabattene toparchies, Gophnitic and Acrabattene toparchies, Gophnitic and Acrabattene toparchies, after he took Bethel and Ephraim, two after he took Bethel and Ephraim, two after he took Bethel and Ephraim, two small cities. And when he had put small cities. And when he had put small cities. And when he had put garrisons into them, he wrote as far as garrisons into them, he wrote as far as garrisons into them, he wrote as far as Jerusalem, in which march he took many Jerusalem, in which march he took many Jerusalem, in which march he took many prisoners and many captives. prisoners and many captives. prisoners and many captives. But Cerealius, one of his commanders, But Cerealius, one of his commanders, But Cerealius, one of his commanders, took a body of horsemen and footmen and took a body of horsemen and footmen and took a body of horsemen and footmen and laid waste to that part of Idumea which laid waste to that part of Idumea which laid waste to that part of Idumea which was called the upper Idumea and attacked was called the upper Idumea and attacked was called the upper Idumea and attacked Caphethra, which pretended to be a small Caphethra, which pretended to be a small Caphethra, which pretended to be a small city, and took it at the first onset and city, and took it at the first onset and city, and took it at the first onset and burnt it down. He also attacked burnt it down. He also attacked burnt it down. He also attacked Caphathabira and laid siege to it, for Caphathabira and laid siege to it, for Caphathabira and laid siege to it, for it had a very strong wall. And when he it had a very strong wall. And when he it had a very strong wall. And when he expected to spend a long time in that expected to spend a long time in that expected to spend a long time in that siege, those that were within opened siege, those that were within opened siege, those that were within opened their gates on the sudden and came to their gates on the sudden and came to their gates on the sudden and came to beg pardon and surrendered themselves up beg pardon and surrendered themselves up beg pardon and surrendered themselves up to him. When Cerealius had conquered to him. When Cerealius had conquered to him. When Cerealius had conquered them, he went to Hebron, another very them, he went to Hebron, another very them, he went to Hebron, another very ancient city. I have told you already ancient city. I have told you already ancient city. I have told you already that this city is situated in the that this city is situated in the that this city is situated in the mountainous country not far off mountainous country not far off mountainous country not far off Jerusalem. And when he had broken into Jerusalem. And when he had broken into Jerusalem. And when he had broken into the city by force, what multitude and

the city by force, what multitude and the city by force, what multitude and young men were left therein he slew and young men were left therein he slew and young men were left therein he slew and burnt down the city, so that as now all burnt down the city, so that as now all burnt down the city, so that as now all the other places were taken excepting the other places were taken excepting the other places were taken excepting Herodium and Masada and Machaerus, which Herodium and Masada and Machaerus, which Herodium and Masada and Machaerus, which were in the possession of the robbers. were in the possession of the robbers. were in the possession of the robbers. So Jerusalem was what the Romans at So Jerusalem was what the Romans at So Jerusalem was what the Romans at present aimed at. present aimed at. present aimed at. 10. And now, as soon as Simon had set 10. And now, as soon as Simon had set 10. And now, as soon as Simon had set his wife free and recovered her from the his wife free and recovered her from the his wife free and recovered her from the Zealots, he returned back to the Zealots, he returned back to the Zealots, he returned back to the remainders of Idumea and driving the remainders of Idumea and driving the remainders of Idumea and driving the nation all before him from all quarters, nation all before him from all quarters, nation all before him from all quarters, he compelled a large number of them to he compelled a large number of them to he compelled a large number of them to retire to Jerusalem. retire to Jerusalem. retire to Jerusalem. He followed them himself also to the He followed them himself also to the He followed them himself also to the city and encompassed the wall all round city and encompassed the wall all round city and encompassed the wall all round again. And when he lighted upon any again. And when he lighted upon any again. And when he lighted upon any laborers that were coming thither out of laborers that were coming thither out of laborers that were coming thither out of the country, he slew them. Now this the country, he slew them. Now this the country, he slew them. Now this Simon, who was without the wall, was a Simon, who was without the wall, was a Simon, who was without the wall, was a greater terror to the people than the greater terror to the people than the greater terror to the people than the Romans themselves, as were the Zealots, Romans themselves, as were the Zealots, Romans themselves, as were the Zealots, who were within it, more heavy upon them who were within it, more heavy upon them who were within it, more heavy upon them than both of the other. And during this than both of the other. And during this than both of the other. And during this time did the mischievous contrivances time did the mischievous contrivances time did the mischievous contrivances and courage of John corrupt the body of and courage of John corrupt the body of and courage of John corrupt the body of the Galileans. For these Galileans had the Galileans. For these Galileans had the Galileans. For these Galileans had advanced this John and made him very advanced this John and made him very advanced this John and made him very potent, who made them suitable requital potent, who made them suitable requital potent, who made them suitable requital from the authority he had obtained by from the authority he had obtained by from the authority he had obtained by their means, for he permitted them to do their means, for he permitted them to do their means, for he permitted them to do all things that any of them desired to all things that any of them desired to all things that any of them desired to do, while their inclination to plunder do, while their inclination to plunder do, while their inclination to plunder was insatiable, as was their zeal in was insatiable, as was their zeal in was insatiable, as was their zeal in searching the houses of the rich, and searching the houses of the rich, and searching the houses of the rich, and for the murdering of the men and abusing for the murdering of the men and abusing for the murdering of the men and abusing of the women, it was sport to them. They of the women, it was sport to them. They of the women, it was sport to them. They also devoured what spoils they had taken also devoured what spoils they had taken also devoured what spoils they had taken together with their blood and indulged together with their blood and indulged together with their blood and indulged themselves in feminine wantonness

themselves in feminine wantonness themselves in feminine wantonness without any disturbance till they were without any disturbance till they were without any disturbance till they were satiated therein, while they decked satiated therein, while they decked satiated therein, while they decked their hair and put on women's garments their hair and put on women's garments their hair and put on women's garments and were besmeared over with ointments, and were besmeared over with ointments, and were besmeared over with ointments, and that they might appear very comely, and that they might appear very comely, and that they might appear very comely, they had paints under their eyes and they had paints under their eyes and they had paints under their eyes and imitated not only the ornaments, but imitated not only the ornaments, but imitated not only the ornaments, but also the lusts of women and were guilty also the lusts of women and were guilty also the lusts of women and were guilty of such intolerable uncleanness that of such intolerable uncleanness that of such intolerable uncleanness that they invented unlawful pleasures of that they invented unlawful pleasures of that they invented unlawful pleasures of that sort. sort. sort. And thus did they roll themselves up and And thus did they roll themselves up and And thus did they roll themselves up and down the city as in a brothel house and down the city as in a brothel house and down the city as in a brothel house and defiled it entirely with their impure defiled it entirely with their impure defiled it entirely with their impure actions. Nay, while their faces look actions. Nay, while their faces look actions. Nay, while their faces look like the faces of women, they killed like the faces of women, they killed like the faces of women, they killed with their right hands, and when their with their right hands, and when their with their right hands, and when their gait was effeminate, they presently gait was effeminate, they presently gait was effeminate, they presently attacked men and became warriors and attacked men and became warriors and attacked men and became warriors and drew their swords from under their drew their swords from under their drew their swords from under their finely dyed cloaks and ran everybody finely dyed cloaks and ran everybody finely dyed cloaks and ran everybody through whom they alighted upon. through whom they alighted upon. through whom they alighted upon. However, Simon waited for such as ran However, Simon waited for such as ran However, Simon waited for such as ran away from John and was the more bloody away from John and was the more bloody away from John and was the more bloody of the two. And he who had escaped the of the two. And he who had escaped the of the two. And he who had escaped the tyrant within the wall was destroyed by tyrant within the wall was destroyed by tyrant within the wall was destroyed by the other that lay before the gates, so the other that lay before the gates, so the other that lay before the gates, so that all attempts of flying and that all attempts of flying and that all attempts of flying and deserting to the Romans were cut off as deserting to the Romans were cut off as deserting to the Romans were cut off as to those that had a mind so to do.

to those that had a mind so to do. to those that had a mind so to do. 11. 11. 11. Yet did the army that was under John Yet did the army that was under John Yet did the army that was under John raise a sedition against him, and all raise a sedition against him, and all raise a sedition against him, and all the Idumeans separated themselves from the Idumeans separated themselves from the Idumeans separated themselves from the tyrant and attempted to destroy him, the tyrant and attempted to destroy him, the tyrant and attempted to destroy him, and this out of their envy at his power and this out of their envy at his power and this out of their envy at his power and hatred of his cruelty. So they got and hatred of his cruelty. So they got and hatred of his cruelty. So they got together and slew many of the Zealots together and slew many of the Zealots together and slew many of the Zealots and drove the rest before them into that and drove the rest before them into that and drove the rest before them into that royal palace that was built by Graptae, royal palace that was built by Graptae, royal palace that was built by Graptae, who was a relation of Zates, the king of who was a relation of Zates, the king of who was a relation of Zates, the king of Adiabene. The Idumeans fell in with them Adiabene. The Idumeans fell in with them Adiabene. The Idumeans fell in with them and drove the Zealots out thence into and drove the Zealots out thence into and drove the Zealots out thence into the temple and betook themselves to the temple and betook themselves to the temple and betook themselves to plunder John's effects, for both he plunder John's effects, for both he plunder John's effects, for both he himself was in that palace and therein himself was in that palace and therein himself was in that palace and therein had he laid up the spoils he had had he laid up the spoils he had had he laid up the spoils he had acquired by his tyranny. In the acquired by his tyranny. In the acquired by his tyranny. In the meantime, the multitude of those Zealots meantime, the multitude of those Zealots meantime, the multitude of those Zealots that were dispersed over the city ran that were dispersed over the city ran that were dispersed over the city ran together to the temple unto those that together to the temple unto those that together to the temple unto those that fled thither, and John prepared to bring fled thither, and John prepared to bring fled thither, and John prepared to bring them down against the people and the them down against the people and the them down against the people and the Idumeans, who were not so much afraid of Idumeans, who were not so much afraid of Idumeans, who were not so much afraid of being attacked by them because they were being attacked by them because they were being attacked by them because they were themselves better soldiers than they, as themselves better soldiers than they, as themselves better soldiers than they, as at their madness, lest they should at their madness, lest they should at their madness, lest they should privately sally out of the temple and privately sally out of the temple and privately sally out of the temple and get among them and not only destroy get among them and not only destroy get among them and not only destroy them, but set the city on fire also. So, them, but set the city on fire also. So, them, but set the city on fire also. So, they assembled themselves together, and they assembled themselves together, and they assembled themselves together, and the high priests with them, and took the high priests with them, and took the high priests with them, and took counsel after what manner they should counsel after what manner they should counsel after what manner they should avoid their assault. Now, it was God who avoid their assault. Now, it was God who avoid their assault. Now, it was God who turned their opinions to the worst turned their opinions to the worst turned their opinions to the worst advice, and thence they devised such a advice, and thence they devised such a advice, and thence they devised such a manner to get themselves free as was manner to get themselves free as was manner to get themselves free as was worse than the disease itself.

worse than the disease itself. worse than the disease itself. Accordingly, in order to overthrow John, Accordingly, in order to overthrow John, Accordingly, in order to overthrow John, they determined to admit Simon and they determined to admit Simon and they determined to admit Simon and earnestly to desire the introduction of earnestly to desire the introduction of earnestly to desire the introduction of a second tyrant into the city, which a second tyrant into the city, which a second tyrant into the city, which resolution they brought to perfection resolution they brought to perfection resolution they brought to perfection and sent Matthias, the high priest, to and sent Matthias, the high priest, to and sent Matthias, the high priest, to beseech this Simon to come ill to them, beseech this Simon to come ill to them, beseech this Simon to come ill to them, of whom they had so often been afraid. of whom they had so often been afraid. of whom they had so often been afraid. Those also that had fled from the Those also that had fled from the Those also that had fled from the Zealots in Jerusalem joined in this Zealots in Jerusalem joined in this Zealots in Jerusalem joined in this request to him out of the desire they request to him out of the desire they request to him out of the desire they had of preserving their houses and their had of preserving their houses and their had of preserving their houses and their effects. Accordingly, he, in an arrogant effects. Accordingly, he, in an arrogant effects. Accordingly, he, in an arrogant manner, granted them his lordly manner, granted them his lordly manner, granted them his lordly protection and came into the city in protection and came into the city in protection and came into the city in order to deliver it from the Zealots. order to deliver it from the Zealots. order to deliver it from the Zealots. The people also made joyful acclamations The people also made joyful acclamations The people also made joyful acclamations to him as their savior and their to him as their savior and their to him as their savior and their preserver, but when he was come in with preserver, but when he was come in with preserver, but when he was come in with his army, he took care to secure his own his army, he took care to secure his own his army, he took care to secure his own authority and looked upon those that had authority and looked upon those that had authority and looked upon those that had invited him in to be no less his enemies invited him in to be no less his enemies invited him in to be no less his enemies than those against whom the invitation than those against whom the invitation than those against whom the invitation was intended. was intended. was intended. 12. And thus did Simon get possession of 12. And thus did Simon get possession of 12. And thus did Simon get possession of Jerusalem in the third year of the war Jerusalem in the third year of the war Jerusalem in the third year of the war in the month Xanthicus, Nisan. Whereupon in the month Xanthicus, Nisan. Whereupon in the month Xanthicus, Nisan. Whereupon John with his multitude of Zealots, as John with his multitude of Zealots, as John with his multitude of Zealots, as being both prohibited from coming out of being both prohibited from coming out of being both prohibited from coming out of the temple and having lost their power the temple and having lost their power the temple and having lost their power in the city, for Simon and his party had in the city, for Simon and his party had in the city, for Simon and his party had plundered them of what they had, were in plundered them of what they had, were in plundered them of what they had, were in despair of deliverance. Simon also made despair of deliverance. Simon also made despair of deliverance. Simon also made an assault upon the temple with the an assault upon the temple with the an assault upon the temple with the assistance of the people other stood assistance of the people other stood assistance of the people other stood upon the cloisters and the battlements upon the cloisters and the battlements upon the cloisters and the battlements and defended themselves from their and defended themselves from their and defended themselves from their assaults. However, a considerable number

assaults. However, a considerable number assaults. However, a considerable number of Simon's party fell and many were of Simon's party fell and many were of Simon's party fell and many were carried off wounded for the Zealots carried off wounded for the Zealots carried off wounded for the Zealots threw their darts easily from a superior threw their darts easily from a superior threw their darts easily from a superior place and seldom failed of hitting their place and seldom failed of hitting their place and seldom failed of hitting their enemies. But having the advantage of enemies. But having the advantage of enemies. But having the advantage of situation and having withal erected four situation and having withal erected four situation and having withal erected four very large towers beforehand that their very large towers beforehand that their very large towers beforehand that their darts might come from higher places, one darts might come from higher places, one darts might come from higher places, one at the northeast corner of the court, at the northeast corner of the court, at the northeast corner of the court, one above the Xystus, the third at one above the Xystus, the third at one above the Xystus, the third at another corner over against the lower another corner over against the lower another corner over against the lower city, and the last was erected above the city, and the last was erected above the city, and the last was erected above the top of the Pastophoria, where one of the top of the Pastophoria, where one of the top of the Pastophoria, where one of the priests stood of course and gave a priests stood of course and gave a priests stood of course and gave a signal beforehand with a trumpet at the signal beforehand with a trumpet at the signal beforehand with a trumpet at the beginning of every seventh day in the beginning of every seventh day in the beginning of every seventh day in the evening twilight as also at the evening evening twilight as also at the evening evening twilight as also at the evening when that day was finished as giving when that day was finished as giving when that day was finished as giving notice to the people when they were to notice to the people when they were to notice to the people when they were to leave off work and when they were to go leave off work and when they were to go leave off work and when they were to go to work again. Footnote: This beginning to work again. Footnote: This beginning to work again. Footnote: This beginning and ending of the observation of the and ending of the observation of the and ending of the observation of the Jewish seventh day or Sabbath with a Jewish seventh day or Sabbath with a Jewish seventh day or Sabbath with a priest blowing of a trumpet is priest blowing of a trumpet is priest blowing of a trumpet is remarkable and nowhere else mentioned remarkable and nowhere else mentioned remarkable and nowhere else mentioned that I know of. Nor is Reland's that I know of. Nor is Reland's that I know of. Nor is Reland's conjecture here improbable that this was conjecture here improbable that this was conjecture here improbable that this was the very place that has puzzled our the very place that has puzzled our the very place that has puzzled our commentators so long, called Musac commentators so long, called Musac commentators so long, called Musac Sabbati, the covert of the Sabbath, if Sabbati, the covert of the Sabbath, if Sabbati, the covert of the Sabbath, if that be the true reading, 2 Kings 16:18, that be the true reading, 2 Kings 16:18, that be the true reading, 2 Kings 16:18, because here the proper priest stood dry because here the proper priest stood dry because here the proper priest stood dry under a covering to proclaim the under a covering to proclaim the under a covering to proclaim the beginning and ending of every Jewish beginning and ending of every Jewish beginning and ending of every Jewish Sabbath. End footnote. These men also Sabbath. End footnote. These men also Sabbath. End footnote. These men also set their engines to cast darts and set their engines to cast darts and set their engines to cast darts and stones withal upon those towers with stones withal upon those towers with stones withal upon those towers with their archers and slingers. And now their archers and slingers. And now their archers and slingers. And now Simon made his assault upon the temple Simon made his assault upon the temple Simon made his assault upon the temple more faintly by reason that the greatest

more faintly by reason that the greatest more faintly by reason that the greatest part of his men grew weary of that work. part of his men grew weary of that work. part of his men grew weary of that work. Yet did he not leave off his opposition Yet did he not leave off his opposition Yet did he not leave off his opposition because his army was superior to the because his army was superior to the because his army was superior to the others, although the darts which were others, although the darts which were others, although the darts which were thrown by the engines were carried a thrown by the engines were carried a thrown by the engines were carried a great way and slew many of those that great way and slew many of those that great way and slew many of those that fought for him. fought for him. fought for him. End of Book 4, Chapter 9. Book 4, Chapter 10 of The Wars of the Book 4, Chapter 10 of The Wars of the Jews. Jews. Jews. This is a LibriVox recording. All This is a LibriVox recording. All This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public LibriVox recordings are in the public LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to domain. For more information or to domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit librivox.org. volunteer, please visit librivox.org. volunteer, please visit librivox.org. Recording by Hollis Hanover. Recording by Hollis Hanover. Recording by Hollis Hanover. The Wars of the Jews by Josephus, The Wars of the Jews by Josephus, The Wars of the Jews by Josephus, translated by William Whiston. translated by William Whiston. translated by William Whiston. Chapter 10. Chapter 10. Chapter 10. How the soldiers both in Judea and in How the soldiers both in Judea and in How the soldiers both in Judea and in Egypt proclaimed Vespasian emperor and Egypt proclaimed Vespasian emperor and Egypt proclaimed Vespasian emperor and how Vespasian released Josephus from his how Vespasian released Josephus from his how Vespasian released Josephus from his bonds. bonds. bonds. One. One. One. Now about this very time it was that Now about this very time it was that Now about this very time it was that heavy calamities came about Rome on all heavy calamities came about Rome on all heavy calamities came about Rome on all sides.

sides. sides. For Vitellius was come from Germany with For Vitellius was come from Germany with For Vitellius was come from Germany with his soldiery and drew along with him a his soldiery and drew along with him a his soldiery and drew along with him a great multitude of other men besides. great multitude of other men besides. great multitude of other men besides. And when the spaces allotted for And when the spaces allotted for And when the spaces allotted for soldiers could not contain them, he made soldiers could not contain them, he made soldiers could not contain them, he made all Rome itself his camp and filled all all Rome itself his camp and filled all all Rome itself his camp and filled all the houses with his armed men. the houses with his armed men. the houses with his armed men. Which men, when they saw the riches of Which men, when they saw the riches of Which men, when they saw the riches of Rome with those eyes which had never Rome with those eyes which had never Rome with those eyes which had never seen such riches before, and found seen such riches before, and found seen such riches before, and found themselves shown round about on all themselves shown round about on all themselves shown round about on all sides with silver and gold, they had sides with silver and gold, they had sides with silver and gold, they had much to do to contain their covetous much to do to contain their covetous much to do to contain their covetous desires and were ready to betake desires and were ready to betake desires and were ready to betake themselves to plunder and to the themselves to plunder and to the themselves to plunder and to the slaughter of such as should stand in slaughter of such as should stand in slaughter of such as should stand in their way. And this was the state of their way. And this was the state of their way. And this was the state of affairs in Italy at that time. affairs in Italy at that time. affairs in Italy at that time. Two. Two. Two. But when Vespasian had overthrown all But when Vespasian had overthrown all But when Vespasian had overthrown all the places that were near to Jerusalem, the places that were near to Jerusalem, the places that were near to Jerusalem, he returned to Caesarea and heard of the he returned to Caesarea and heard of the he returned to Caesarea and heard of the troubles that were at Rome and that troubles that were at Rome and that troubles that were at Rome and that Vitellius was emperor. Vitellius was emperor. Vitellius was emperor. This produced indignation in him, This produced indignation in him, This produced indignation in him, although he well knew how to be governed although he well knew how to be governed although he well knew how to be governed as well as to govern, and could not with as well as to govern, and could not with as well as to govern, and could not with any satisfaction own him for his lord any satisfaction own him for his lord any satisfaction own him for his lord who acted so madly and seized upon the who acted so madly and seized upon the who acted so madly and seized upon the government as if it were absolutely government as if it were absolutely government as if it were absolutely destitute of a governor.

destitute of a governor. destitute of a governor. And as this sorrow of his was violent, And as this sorrow of his was violent, And as this sorrow of his was violent, he was not able to support the torments he was not able to support the torments he was not able to support the torments he was under, nor to apply himself he was under, nor to apply himself he was under, nor to apply himself further in other wars when his native further in other wars when his native further in other wars when his native country was laid waste. But then, as country was laid waste. But then, as country was laid waste. But then, as much as his passion excited him to much as his passion excited him to much as his passion excited him to avenge his country, so much was he avenge his country, so much was he avenge his country, so much was he restrained by the consideration of his restrained by the consideration of his restrained by the consideration of his distance therefrom, because fortune distance therefrom, because fortune distance therefrom, because fortune might prevent him and do a world of might prevent him and do a world of might prevent him and do a world of mischief before he could himself sail mischief before he could himself sail mischief before he could himself sail over the sea to Italy, especially as it over the sea to Italy, especially as it over the sea to Italy, especially as it was still the winter season. So, he was still the winter season. So, he was still the winter season. So, he restrained his anger, how vehement restrained his anger, how vehement restrained his anger, how vehement soever it was at the time. soever it was at the time. soever it was at the time. But now his commanders and soldiers met But now his commanders and soldiers met But now his commanders and soldiers met in several companies and consulted in several companies and consulted in several companies and consulted openly about changing the public openly about changing the public openly about changing the public affairs, and out of their indignation affairs, and out of their indignation affairs, and out of their indignation cried out how at Rome there are soldiers cried out how at Rome there are soldiers cried out how at Rome there are soldiers that live delicately, and when they have that live delicately, and when they have that live delicately, and when they have not ventured so much as to hear the fame not ventured so much as to hear the fame not ventured so much as to hear the fame of war, they ordain whom they please for of war, they ordain whom they please for of war, they ordain whom they please for our governors. And in hopes of gain make our governors. And in hopes of gain make our governors. And in hopes of gain make them emperors, while you, who have gone them emperors, while you, who have gone them emperors, while you, who have gone through so many labors and are grown through so many labors and are grown through so many labors and are grown into years under your helmets, give into years under your helmets, give into years under your helmets, give leave to others to use such a power.

leave to others to use such a power. leave to others to use such a power. When yet you have among yourselves one When yet you have among yourselves one When yet you have among yourselves one more worthy to rule than any whom they more worthy to rule than any whom they more worthy to rule than any whom they have set up. Now, what juster have set up. Now, what juster have set up. Now, what juster opportunity shall they ever have of opportunity shall they ever have of opportunity shall they ever have of requiting their generals if they do not requiting their generals if they do not requiting their generals if they do not make use of this that is now before make use of this that is now before make use of this that is now before them, while there is so much juster them, while there is so much juster them, while there is so much juster reasons for Vespasian's being emperor reasons for Vespasian's being emperor reasons for Vespasian's being emperor than for Vitellius, as they are than for Vitellius, as they are than for Vitellius, as they are themselves more deserving than those themselves more deserving than those themselves more deserving than those that made the other emperors? For that that made the other emperors? For that that made the other emperors? For that they have undergone as great wars as they have undergone as great wars as they have undergone as great wars as have the troops that came from Germany, have the troops that came from Germany, have the troops that came from Germany, nor are they inferior in war to those nor are they inferior in war to those nor are they inferior in war to those that have brought that tyrant to Rome, that have brought that tyrant to Rome, that have brought that tyrant to Rome, nor have they undergone smaller labors nor have they undergone smaller labors nor have they undergone smaller labors than they. than they. than they. For that neither will the Roman Senate For that neither will the Roman Senate For that neither will the Roman Senate nor people bear such a lascivious nor people bear such a lascivious nor people bear such a lascivious emperor as Vitellius if he be compared emperor as Vitellius if he be compared emperor as Vitellius if he be compared with their chaste Vespasian. Nor will with their chaste Vespasian. Nor will with their chaste Vespasian. Nor will they endure a most barbarous tyrant they endure a most barbarous tyrant they endure a most barbarous tyrant instead of a good governor. instead of a good governor. instead of a good governor. Nor choose one that hath no child to Nor choose one that hath no child to Nor choose one that hath no child to preside over them instead of him that is preside over them instead of him that is preside over them instead of him that is a father.

a father. a father. Because the advancement of men's own Because the advancement of men's own Because the advancement of men's own children to dignities is certainly the children to dignities is certainly the children to dignities is certainly the greatest security kings can have for greatest security kings can have for greatest security kings can have for themselves. themselves. themselves. Footnote. Footnote. Footnote. The Roman authors that now remain say The Roman authors that now remain say The Roman authors that now remain say Vitellius had children, whereas Josephus Vitellius had children, whereas Josephus Vitellius had children, whereas Josephus introduces here the Roman soldiers in introduces here the Roman soldiers in introduces here the Roman soldiers in Judea saying he had none. Judea saying he had none. Judea saying he had none. Which of these assertions was the truth Which of these assertions was the truth Which of these assertions was the truth I know not. Spanheim thinks he hath I know not. Spanheim thinks he hath I know not. Spanheim thinks he hath given a peculiar reason for calling given a peculiar reason for calling given a peculiar reason for calling Vitellius childless, Vitellius childless, Vitellius childless, though he really had children. To which though he really had children. To which though he really had children. To which it appears very difficult to give our it appears very difficult to give our it appears very difficult to give our assent. assent. assent. End footnote. End footnote. End footnote. Whether therefore we estimate the Whether therefore we estimate the Whether therefore we estimate the capacity of governing from the skill of capacity of governing from the skill of capacity of governing from the skill of a person in years, we ought to have a person in years, we ought to have a person in years, we ought to have Vespasian, or whether from the strength Vespasian, or whether from the strength Vespasian, or whether from the strength of a young man, we ought to have Titus. of a young man, we ought to have Titus. of a young man, we ought to have Titus. For by this means we shall have the For by this means we shall have the For by this means we shall have the advantage of both their ages, for that advantage of both their ages, for that advantage of both their ages, for that they will afford strength to those that they will afford strength to those that they will afford strength to those that shall be made emperors, they having shall be made emperors, they having shall be made emperors, they having already three legions besides other already three legions besides other already three legions besides other auxiliaries from neighboring kings, and auxiliaries from neighboring kings, and auxiliaries from neighboring kings, and will have further all the armies in the will have further all the armies in the will have further all the armies in the East to support them, as also those in East to support them, as also those in East to support them, as also those in Europe. So, they are as they are out of Europe. So, they are as they are out of Europe. So, they are as they are out of the distance and dread of Vitellius, the distance and dread of Vitellius, the distance and dread of Vitellius, besides such auxiliaries as they may besides such auxiliaries as they may besides such auxiliaries as they may have in Italy itself. That is, have in Italy itself. That is, have in Italy itself. That is, Vespasian's brother, Vespasian's brother, Vespasian's brother, footnote, footnote, footnote, This brother of Vespasian was Flavius This brother of Vespasian was Flavius This brother of Vespasian was Flavius Sabinus, as Suetonius informs us. He is Sabinus, as Suetonius informs us. He is Sabinus, as Suetonius informs us. He is also named by Josephus presently, also named by Josephus presently, also named by Josephus presently, chapter 11, section 4. End footnote.

chapter 11, section 4. End footnote. chapter 11, section 4. End footnote. and his other son, Domitian. and his other son, Domitian. and his other son, Domitian. The one of whom will bring in a great The one of whom will bring in a great The one of whom will bring in a great many of those young men that are of many of those young men that are of many of those young men that are of dignity, while the other is entrusted dignity, while the other is entrusted dignity, while the other is entrusted with the government of the city, which with the government of the city, which with the government of the city, which office of his will be no small means of office of his will be no small means of office of his will be no small means of Vespasian's obtaining the government. Vespasian's obtaining the government. Vespasian's obtaining the government. Upon the whole, the case may be such Upon the whole, the case may be such Upon the whole, the case may be such that if we ourselves make further that if we ourselves make further that if we ourselves make further delays, the senate may choose an emperor delays, the senate may choose an emperor delays, the senate may choose an emperor whom the soldiers, who are the saviors whom the soldiers, who are the saviors whom the soldiers, who are the saviors of the empire, will have in contempt. of the empire, will have in contempt. of the empire, will have in contempt. Four. Four. Four. These were the discourses the soldiers These were the discourses the soldiers These were the discourses the soldiers had in their several companies, after had in their several companies, after had in their several companies, after which they got together in a great body, which they got together in a great body, which they got together in a great body, and encouraging one another, they and encouraging one another, they and encouraging one another, they declared Vespasian emperor, and exhorted declared Vespasian emperor, and exhorted declared Vespasian emperor, and exhorted him to save the government, which was him to save the government, which was him to save the government, which was now in danger. now in danger. now in danger. Footnote. Footnote. Footnote. It is plain by the nature of the thing, It is plain by the nature of the thing, It is plain by the nature of the thing, as well as by Josephus and Eutropius, as well as by Josephus and Eutropius, as well as by Josephus and Eutropius, that Vespasian was first of all saluted that Vespasian was first of all saluted that Vespasian was first of all saluted emperor in Judea, and not till some time emperor in Judea, and not till some time emperor in Judea, and not till some time afterward in Egypt. Whence Tacitus's and afterward in Egypt. Whence Tacitus's and afterward in Egypt. Whence Tacitus's and Suetonius's present copies must be Suetonius's present copies must be Suetonius's present copies must be correct texts, when they both say that correct texts, when they both say that correct texts, when they both say that he was first proclaimed in Egypt, and he was first proclaimed in Egypt, and he was first proclaimed in Egypt, and that on the calends of July, while they that on the calends of July, while they that on the calends of July, while they still say it was the fifth of the nones still say it was the fifth of the nones still say it was the fifth of the nones or ides of the same July before he was or ides of the same July before he was or ides of the same July before he was proclaimed in Judea. I suppose the month proclaimed in Judea. I suppose the month proclaimed in Judea. I suppose the month they there intended was June and not they there intended was June and not they there intended was June and not July as the copies now have it.

July as the copies now have it. July as the copies now have it. Nor does Tacitus' coherence imply less. Nor does Tacitus' coherence imply less. Nor does Tacitus' coherence imply less. End footnote. Now, Vespasian's concern End footnote. Now, Vespasian's concern End footnote. Now, Vespasian's concern had been for a considerable time about had been for a considerable time about had been for a considerable time about the public. the public. the public. Yet did he not intend to set up for Yet did he not intend to set up for Yet did he not intend to set up for governor himself, though his actions governor himself, though his actions governor himself, though his actions showed him to deserve it, while he showed him to deserve it, while he showed him to deserve it, while he preferred that safety which is in a preferred that safety which is in a preferred that safety which is in a private life before the dangers in a private life before the dangers in a private life before the dangers in a state of such dignity. state of such dignity. state of such dignity. But when he refused the empire, the But when he refused the empire, the But when he refused the empire, the commanders insisted the more earnestly commanders insisted the more earnestly commanders insisted the more earnestly upon his acceptance, and the soldiers upon his acceptance, and the soldiers upon his acceptance, and the soldiers came about him with their drawn swords came about him with their drawn swords came about him with their drawn swords in their hands and threatened to kill in their hands and threatened to kill in their hands and threatened to kill him unless he would now live according him unless he would now live according him unless he would now live according to his dignity. And when he had shown to his dignity. And when he had shown to his dignity. And when he had shown his reluctance a great while and had his reluctance a great while and had his reluctance a great while and had endeavored to thrust away this dominion endeavored to thrust away this dominion endeavored to thrust away this dominion from him, he at length, being not able from him, he at length, being not able from him, he at length, being not able to persuade them, yielded to their to persuade them, yielded to their to persuade them, yielded to their solicitations that would salute him solicitations that would salute him solicitations that would salute him emperor. emperor. emperor. Five. Five. Five. So, upon the exhortations of Mucianus So, upon the exhortations of Mucianus So, upon the exhortations of Mucianus and the other commanders that he would and the other commanders that he would and the other commanders that he would accept of the empire, and upon that of accept of the empire, and upon that of accept of the empire, and upon that of the rest of the army who cried out that the rest of the army who cried out that the rest of the army who cried out that they were willing to be led against all they were willing to be led against all they were willing to be led against all his opposers, he was in the first place his opposers, he was in the first place his opposers, he was in the first place intent upon gaining the dominion over intent upon gaining the dominion over intent upon gaining the dominion over Alexandria, as knowing that Egypt was of Alexandria, as knowing that Egypt was of Alexandria, as knowing that Egypt was of the greatest consequence in order to the greatest consequence in order to the greatest consequence in order to obtain the entire government because of obtain the entire government because of obtain the entire government because of its supplying of corn to Rome, which its supplying of corn to Rome, which its supplying of corn to Rome, which corn, if he could be master of, he hoped corn, if he could be master of, he hoped corn, if he could be master of, he hoped to dethrone Vitellius, supposing he to dethrone Vitellius, supposing he to dethrone Vitellius, supposing he should aim to keep the empire by force, should aim to keep the empire by force, should aim to keep the empire by force, for he would not be able to support

for he would not be able to support for he would not be able to support himself if the multitude at Rome should himself if the multitude at Rome should himself if the multitude at Rome should once be in want of food. And because he once be in want of food. And because he once be in want of food. And because he was desirous to join the two legions was desirous to join the two legions was desirous to join the two legions that were at Alexandria to the other that were at Alexandria to the other that were at Alexandria to the other legions that were with him, he also legions that were with him, he also legions that were with him, he also considered with himself that he should considered with himself that he should considered with himself that he should then have that country for a defense to then have that country for a defense to then have that country for a defense to himself against the uncertainty of himself against the uncertainty of himself against the uncertainty of fortune. fortune. fortune. For Egypt is hard to be entered by land For Egypt is hard to be entered by land For Egypt is hard to be entered by land and hath no good havens by sea. and hath no good havens by sea. and hath no good havens by sea. Footnote. Footnote. Footnote. Here we have an authentic description of Here we have an authentic description of Here we have an authentic description of the bounds and circumstances of Egypt in the bounds and circumstances of Egypt in the bounds and circumstances of Egypt in the days of Vespasian and Titus. the days of Vespasian and Titus. the days of Vespasian and Titus. End footnote. It hath on the west the End footnote. It hath on the west the End footnote. It hath on the west the dry deserts of Libya and on the south dry deserts of Libya and on the south dry deserts of Libya and on the south same that divides it from Ethiopia as same that divides it from Ethiopia as same that divides it from Ethiopia as well as the cataracts of the Nile that well as the cataracts of the Nile that well as the cataracts of the Nile that cannot be sailed over. cannot be sailed over. cannot be sailed over. And on the east the Red Sea extended as And on the east the Red Sea extended as And on the east the Red Sea extended as far as Coptus and it is fortified on the far as Coptus and it is fortified on the far as Coptus and it is fortified on the north by the land that reaches to Syria north by the land that reaches to Syria north by the land that reaches to Syria together with that called the Egyptian together with that called the Egyptian together with that called the Egyptian Sea having no havens in it for ships. Sea having no havens in it for ships. Sea having no havens in it for ships. And thus is Egypt walled about on every And thus is Egypt walled about on every And thus is Egypt walled about on every side. Its length between Pelusium and side. Its length between Pelusium and side. Its length between Pelusium and Syene is 2,000 furlongs and the passage Syene is 2,000 furlongs and the passage Syene is 2,000 furlongs and the passage by sea from Plinthine to Pelusium is by sea from Plinthine to Pelusium is by sea from Plinthine to Pelusium is 3,600 furlongs. Its river Nile is 3,600 furlongs. Its river Nile is 3,600 furlongs. Its river Nile is navigable as far as the city called navigable as far as the city called navigable as far as the city called Elephantine, the four named cataracts Elephantine, the four named cataracts Elephantine, the four named cataracts hindering ships from going any farther.

hindering ships from going any farther. hindering ships from going any farther. The haven also of Alexandria is not The haven also of Alexandria is not The haven also of Alexandria is not entered by the mariners without entered by the mariners without entered by the mariners without difficulty even in times of peace. difficulty even in times of peace. difficulty even in times of peace. For the passage inward is narrow and For the passage inward is narrow and For the passage inward is narrow and full of rocks that lie under the water full of rocks that lie under the water full of rocks that lie under the water which oblige the mariners to turn from a which oblige the mariners to turn from a which oblige the mariners to turn from a straight direction. straight direction. straight direction. Its left side is blocked up by works Its left side is blocked up by works Its left side is blocked up by works made by men's hands on both sides. On made by men's hands on both sides. On made by men's hands on both sides. On its right side lies the island called its right side lies the island called its right side lies the island called Pharos which is situated just before the Pharos which is situated just before the Pharos which is situated just before the entrance and supports a very great tower entrance and supports a very great tower entrance and supports a very great tower that affords the sight of a fire to such that affords the sight of a fire to such that affords the sight of a fire to such as sail within 300 furlongs of it that as sail within 300 furlongs of it that as sail within 300 furlongs of it that ships may cast anchor a great way off in ships may cast anchor a great way off in ships may cast anchor a great way off in the night time by reason of the the night time by reason of the the night time by reason of the difficulty of sailing nearer. difficulty of sailing nearer. difficulty of sailing nearer. About this island are built very great About this island are built very great About this island are built very great piers, the handiwork of men, against piers, the handiwork of men, against piers, the handiwork of men, against which when the sea dashes itself and its which when the sea dashes itself and its which when the sea dashes itself and its waves are broken against these waves are broken against these waves are broken against these boundaries, the navigation becomes very boundaries, the navigation becomes very boundaries, the navigation becomes very troublesome and the entrance through so troublesome and the entrance through so troublesome and the entrance through so narrow a passage is rendered dangerous. narrow a passage is rendered dangerous. narrow a passage is rendered dangerous. Yet it is the haven itself, when you are Yet it is the haven itself, when you are Yet it is the haven itself, when you are got into it, a very safe one, and of 30 got into it, a very safe one, and of 30 got into it, a very safe one, and of 30 furlongs in largeness, into which is furlongs in largeness, into which is furlongs in largeness, into which is brought what the country wants in order brought what the country wants in order brought what the country wants in order to its happiness, and also what to its happiness, and also what to its happiness, and also what abundance the country affords more than abundance the country affords more than abundance the country affords more than it wants itself is hence distributed it wants itself is hence distributed it wants itself is hence distributed into all the habitable earth.

into all the habitable earth. into all the habitable earth. Six. Six. Six. Justly, therefore, did Vespasian desire Justly, therefore, did Vespasian desire Justly, therefore, did Vespasian desire to obtain that government in order to to obtain that government in order to to obtain that government in order to corroborate his attempts upon the whole corroborate his attempts upon the whole corroborate his attempts upon the whole empire. empire. empire. So, he immediately sent to Tiberius So, he immediately sent to Tiberius So, he immediately sent to Tiberius Alexander, who was then governor of Alexander, who was then governor of Alexander, who was then governor of Egypt and of Alexandria, and informed Egypt and of Alexandria, and informed Egypt and of Alexandria, and informed him what the army had put upon him, and him what the army had put upon him, and him what the army had put upon him, and how he, being forced to accept the how he, being forced to accept the how he, being forced to accept the burden of the government, was desirous burden of the government, was desirous burden of the government, was desirous to have him for his confederate and to have him for his confederate and to have him for his confederate and supporter. supporter. supporter. Now, as soon as ever Alexander had read Now, as soon as ever Alexander had read Now, as soon as ever Alexander had read this letter, he readily obliged the this letter, he readily obliged the this letter, he readily obliged the legions and the multitude to take the legions and the multitude to take the legions and the multitude to take the oath of fidelity to Vespasian, oath of fidelity to Vespasian, oath of fidelity to Vespasian, both which willingly complied with him, both which willingly complied with him, both which willingly complied with him, as already acquainted with the courage as already acquainted with the courage as already acquainted with the courage of the man from that his conduct in of the man from that his conduct in of the man from that his conduct in their neighborhood. Accordingly, their neighborhood. Accordingly, their neighborhood. Accordingly, Vespasian, looking upon himself as Vespasian, looking upon himself as Vespasian, looking upon himself as already entrusted with the government, already entrusted with the government, already entrusted with the government, got all things ready for his journey to got all things ready for his journey to got all things ready for his journey to Rome. Rome. Rome. Now, fame carried this news abroad more Now, fame carried this news abroad more Now, fame carried this news abroad more suddenly than one could have thought suddenly than one could have thought suddenly than one could have thought that he was emperor over the east, upon that he was emperor over the east, upon that he was emperor over the east, upon which every city kept festivals and which every city kept festivals and which every city kept festivals and celebrated sacrifices and oblations for celebrated sacrifices and oblations for celebrated sacrifices and oblations for such good news.

such good news. such good news. The legions also that were in Moesia and The legions also that were in Moesia and The legions also that were in Moesia and Pannonia, who had been in commotion a Pannonia, who had been in commotion a Pannonia, who had been in commotion a little before on account of this little before on account of this little before on account of this insolent attempt of Vitellius, were very insolent attempt of Vitellius, were very insolent attempt of Vitellius, were very glad to take the oath of fidelity to glad to take the oath of fidelity to glad to take the oath of fidelity to Vespasian upon his coming to the empire. Vespasian upon his coming to the empire. Vespasian upon his coming to the empire. Vespasian then removed from Caesarea to Vespasian then removed from Caesarea to Vespasian then removed from Caesarea to Berytus, where many embassies came to Berytus, where many embassies came to Berytus, where many embassies came to him from Syria and many from other him from Syria and many from other him from Syria and many from other provinces bringing with them from every provinces bringing with them from every provinces bringing with them from every city crowns and the congratulations of city crowns and the congratulations of city crowns and the congratulations of the people. the people. the people. Mucianus came also, who was the Mucianus came also, who was the Mucianus came also, who was the president of the province, and told him president of the province, and told him president of the province, and told him with what alacrity the people received with what alacrity the people received with what alacrity the people received the news of his advancement and how the the news of his advancement and how the the news of his advancement and how the people of every city had taken the oath people of every city had taken the oath people of every city had taken the oath of fidelity to him. of fidelity to him. of fidelity to him. Seven. Seven. Seven. So, Vespasian's good fortune succeeded So, Vespasian's good fortune succeeded So, Vespasian's good fortune succeeded to his wishes everywhere to his wishes everywhere to his wishes everywhere and the public affairs were for the and the public affairs were for the and the public affairs were for the greatest part already in his hands, upon greatest part already in his hands, upon greatest part already in his hands, upon which he considered that he had not which he considered that he had not which he considered that he had not arrived at the government without divine arrived at the government without divine arrived at the government without divine providence, but that a righteous kind of providence, but that a righteous kind of providence, but that a righteous kind of fate had brought the empire under his fate had brought the empire under his fate had brought the empire under his power. For as he called to mind the power. For as he called to mind the power. For as he called to mind the other signals which had been a great other signals which had been a great other signals which had been a great many everywhere that foretold he should many everywhere that foretold he should many everywhere that foretold he should obtain the government, so did he obtain the government, so did he obtain the government, so did he remember what Josephus had said to him remember what Josephus had said to him remember what Josephus had said to him when he ventured to foretell his coming when he ventured to foretell his coming when he ventured to foretell his coming to the empire while Nero was alive.

to the empire while Nero was alive. to the empire while Nero was alive. So, he was much concerned that this man So, he was much concerned that this man So, he was much concerned that this man was still in bonds with him. was still in bonds with him. was still in bonds with him. He then called for Mucianus together He then called for Mucianus together He then called for Mucianus together with his other commanders and friends with his other commanders and friends with his other commanders and friends and in the first place he informed them and in the first place he informed them and in the first place he informed them what a valiant man Josephus had been and what a valiant man Josephus had been and what a valiant man Josephus had been and what great hardships he had made him what great hardships he had made him what great hardships he had made him undergo in the siege of Jotapata. After undergo in the siege of Jotapata. After undergo in the siege of Jotapata. After that, he related those predictions of that, he related those predictions of that, he related those predictions of his which he had then suspected as his which he had then suspected as his which he had then suspected as fictions suggested out of the fear that fictions suggested out of the fear that fictions suggested out of the fear that he was in, but which had by time been he was in, but which had by time been he was in, but which had by time been demonstrated to be divine. demonstrated to be divine. demonstrated to be divine. Footnote. Footnote. Footnote. As Daniel was preferred by Darius and As Daniel was preferred by Darius and As Daniel was preferred by Darius and Cyrus on account of his having foretold Cyrus on account of his having foretold Cyrus on account of his having foretold the destruction of the Babylonian the destruction of the Babylonian the destruction of the Babylonian monarchy by their means and the monarchy by their means and the monarchy by their means and the consequent exaltation of the Medes and consequent exaltation of the Medes and consequent exaltation of the Medes and Persians, Daniel 5:6, Persians, Daniel 5:6, Persians, Daniel 5:6, or rather as Jeremiah, when he was a or rather as Jeremiah, when he was a or rather as Jeremiah, when he was a prisoner, was set at liberty and prisoner, was set at liberty and prisoner, was set at liberty and honorably treated by Nebuzaradan at the honorably treated by Nebuzaradan at the honorably treated by Nebuzaradan at the command of Nebuchadnezzar on account of command of Nebuchadnezzar on account of command of Nebuchadnezzar on account of his having foretold the destruction of his having foretold the destruction of his having foretold the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians, Jeremiah Jerusalem by the Babylonians, Jeremiah Jerusalem by the Babylonians, Jeremiah 40:1-7, 40:1-7, 40:1-7, so was our Josephus set at liberty and so was our Josephus set at liberty and so was our Josephus set at liberty and honorably treated on account of his honorably treated on account of his honorably treated on account of his having foretold the advancement of having foretold the advancement of having foretold the advancement of Vespasian and Titus to the Roman Empire.

Vespasian and Titus to the Roman Empire. Vespasian and Titus to the Roman Empire. All these are most eminent instances of All these are most eminent instances of All these are most eminent instances of the interposition of divine providence the interposition of divine providence the interposition of divine providence and of the certainty of divine and of the certainty of divine and of the certainty of divine predictions in the great revolutions of predictions in the great revolutions of predictions in the great revolutions of the four monarchies. the four monarchies. the four monarchies. Several such like examples there are, Several such like examples there are, Several such like examples there are, both in the sacred and other histories, both in the sacred and other histories, both in the sacred and other histories, as in the case of Joseph in Egypt and of as in the case of Joseph in Egypt and of as in the case of Joseph in Egypt and of Jaddua the high priest in the days of Jaddua the high priest in the days of Jaddua the high priest in the days of Alexander the Great, etc. Alexander the Great, etc. Alexander the Great, etc. End of footnote. End of footnote. End of footnote. "It is a shameful thing," said he, "that "It is a shameful thing," said he, "that "It is a shameful thing," said he, "that this man who hath foretold my coming to this man who hath foretold my coming to this man who hath foretold my coming to the Empire beforehand and been the the Empire beforehand and been the the Empire beforehand and been the minister of a divine message to me minister of a divine message to me minister of a divine message to me should still be retained in the should still be retained in the should still be retained in the condition of a captive or prisoner." condition of a captive or prisoner." condition of a captive or prisoner." So he called for Josephus and commanded So he called for Josephus and commanded So he called for Josephus and commanded that he should be set at liberty. that he should be set at liberty. that he should be set at liberty. Whereupon the commanders promised Whereupon the commanders promised Whereupon the commanders promised themselves glorious things from off this themselves glorious things from off this themselves glorious things from off this acquittal Vespasian made to a stranger. acquittal Vespasian made to a stranger. acquittal Vespasian made to a stranger. Titus was then present with his father Titus was then present with his father Titus was then present with his father and said, "O father, it is but just that and said, "O father, it is but just that and said, "O father, it is but just that the scandal of a prisoner should be the scandal of a prisoner should be the scandal of a prisoner should be taken off Josephus together with his taken off Josephus together with his taken off Josephus together with his iron chain. For if we do not barely lose iron chain. For if we do not barely lose iron chain. For if we do not barely lose his bonds but cut them to pieces, he his bonds but cut them to pieces, he his bonds but cut them to pieces, he will be like a man that had never been will be like a man that had never been will be like a man that had never been bound at all. For that is the usual bound at all. For that is the usual bound at all. For that is the usual method as to such as have been bound method as to such as have been bound method as to such as have been bound without a cause."

without a cause." without a cause." This advice was agreed to by Vespasian This advice was agreed to by Vespasian This advice was agreed to by Vespasian also. So there came a man in and cut the also. So there came a man in and cut the also. So there came a man in and cut the chain to pieces while Josephus received chain to pieces while Josephus received chain to pieces while Josephus received this testimony of his integrity for a this testimony of his integrity for a this testimony of his integrity for a reward and was moreover esteemed a reward and was moreover esteemed a reward and was moreover esteemed a person of credit as to futurities also. person of credit as to futurities also. person of credit as to futurities also. End of Book 4, End of Book 4, End of Book 4, Chapter 10. Chapter 10. Chapter 10. Recording by Hollis Hanover. Book four, chapter 11 of The Wars of the Book four, chapter 11 of The Wars of the Jews. This is a LibriVox recording. All Jews. This is a LibriVox recording. All Jews. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public LibriVox recordings are in the public LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to domain. For more information or to domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit librivox.org. volunteer, please visit librivox.org. volunteer, please visit librivox.org. Recording by Anne Boulay. Recording by Anne Boulay. Recording by Anne Boulay. The Wars of the Jews by Josephus, The Wars of the Jews by Josephus, The Wars of the Jews by Josephus, translated by William Whiston. Chapter translated by William Whiston. Chapter translated by William Whiston. Chapter 11. 11. 11. That upon the conquest and slaughter of That upon the conquest and slaughter of That upon the conquest and slaughter of Vitellius, Vespasian hastened his Vitellius, Vespasian hastened his Vitellius, Vespasian hastened his journey to Rome, but Titus, his son, journey to Rome, but Titus, his son, journey to Rome, but Titus, his son, returned to Jerusalem.

returned to Jerusalem. returned to Jerusalem. One. And now, when Vespasian had given One. And now, when Vespasian had given One. And now, when Vespasian had given answers to the ambassages and had answers to the ambassages and had answers to the ambassages and had disposed of the places of power justly disposed of the places of power justly disposed of the places of power justly and according to everyone's deserts, he and according to everyone's deserts, he and according to everyone's deserts, he came to Antioch. And consulting which came to Antioch. And consulting which came to Antioch. And consulting which way he had best take, he preferred to go way he had best take, he preferred to go way he had best take, he preferred to go for Rome rather than to march to for Rome rather than to march to for Rome rather than to march to Alexandria because he saw that Alexandria because he saw that Alexandria because he saw that Alexandria was sure to him already, but Alexandria was sure to him already, but Alexandria was sure to him already, but that the affairs at Rome were put into that the affairs at Rome were put into that the affairs at Rome were put into disorder by Vitellius. So, he sent disorder by Vitellius. So, he sent disorder by Vitellius. So, he sent Mucianus to Italy and committed a Mucianus to Italy and committed a Mucianus to Italy and committed a considerable army both of horsemen and considerable army both of horsemen and considerable army both of horsemen and footmen to him. Yet was Mucianus afraid footmen to him. Yet was Mucianus afraid footmen to him. Yet was Mucianus afraid of going by sea because it was the of going by sea because it was the of going by sea because it was the middle of winter, middle of winter, middle of winter, and so he led his army on foot through and so he led his army on foot through and so he led his army on foot through Cappadocia and Phrygia. Cappadocia and Phrygia. Cappadocia and Phrygia. Footnote. This is well observed by Footnote. This is well observed by Footnote. This is well observed by Josephus that Vespasian, in order to Josephus that Vespasian, in order to Josephus that Vespasian, in order to secure his success and establish his secure his success and establish his secure his success and establish his government at first, distributed his government at first, distributed his government at first, distributed his offices and places upon the foot of offices and places upon the foot of offices and places upon the foot of justice and bestowed them on such as justice and bestowed them on such as justice and bestowed them on such as best deserved them and were best fit for best deserved them and were best fit for best deserved them and were best fit for them. Which wise conduct in a mere them. Which wise conduct in a mere them. Which wise conduct in a mere heathen ought to put those rulers and heathen ought to put those rulers and heathen ought to put those rulers and ministers of states to shame who, ministers of states to shame who, ministers of states to shame who, professing Christianity, act otherwise professing Christianity, act otherwise professing Christianity, act otherwise and thereby expose themselves and their and thereby expose themselves and their and thereby expose themselves and their kingdoms to vice and destruction. End kingdoms to vice and destruction. End kingdoms to vice and destruction. End footnote. Two. In the meantime, Antonius footnote. Two. In the meantime, Antonius footnote. Two. In the meantime, Antonius Primus took the third of the legions Primus took the third of the legions Primus took the third of the legions that were in Moesia, for he was that were in Moesia, for he was that were in Moesia, for he was president of that province, and made president of that province, and made president of that province, and made haste in order to fight Vitellius.

haste in order to fight Vitellius. haste in order to fight Vitellius. Whereupon, Vitellius sent away Caecina Whereupon, Vitellius sent away Caecina Whereupon, Vitellius sent away Caecina with a great army, having a mighty with a great army, having a mighty with a great army, having a mighty confidence in him because of his having confidence in him because of his having confidence in him because of his having beaten Otho. This Caecina marched out of beaten Otho. This Caecina marched out of beaten Otho. This Caecina marched out of Rome in great haste, and found Antonius Rome in great haste, and found Antonius Rome in great haste, and found Antonius about Cremona in Gaul, which city is in about Cremona in Gaul, which city is in about Cremona in Gaul, which city is in the borders of Italy. But, when he saw the borders of Italy. But, when he saw the borders of Italy. But, when he saw there that the enemy were numerous and there that the enemy were numerous and there that the enemy were numerous and in good order, he durst not fight them, in good order, he durst not fight them, in good order, he durst not fight them, and as he thought of retreat dangerous, and as he thought of retreat dangerous, and as he thought of retreat dangerous, so he began to think of betraying his so he began to think of betraying his so he began to think of betraying his army to Antonius. Accordingly, he army to Antonius. Accordingly, he army to Antonius. Accordingly, he assembled the centurions and tribunes assembled the centurions and tribunes assembled the centurions and tribunes that were under his command, and that were under his command, and that were under his command, and persuaded them to go over to Antonius, persuaded them to go over to Antonius, persuaded them to go over to Antonius, and this by diminishing the reputation and this by diminishing the reputation and this by diminishing the reputation of Vitellius and by exaggerating the of Vitellius and by exaggerating the of Vitellius and by exaggerating the power of Vespasian. He also told them power of Vespasian. He also told them power of Vespasian. He also told them that with the one there was no more than that with the one there was no more than that with the one there was no more than the bare name of dominion, but with the the bare name of dominion, but with the the bare name of dominion, but with the other was the power of it, and that it other was the power of it, and that it other was the power of it, and that it was better for them to prevent necessity was better for them to prevent necessity was better for them to prevent necessity and gain favor, and while they were and gain favor, and while they were and gain favor, and while they were likely to be overcome in battle, to likely to be overcome in battle, to likely to be overcome in battle, to avoid the danger beforehand and go over avoid the danger beforehand and go over avoid the danger beforehand and go over to Antonius willingly. That Vespasian to Antonius willingly. That Vespasian to Antonius willingly. That Vespasian was able of himself to subdue what had was able of himself to subdue what had was able of himself to subdue what had not yet submitted under their not yet submitted under their not yet submitted under their assistance, while Vitellius could not assistance, while Vitellius could not assistance, while Vitellius could not preserve what he had already with it.

preserve what he had already with it. preserve what he had already with it. Three, Caecina said this and much more Three, Caecina said this and much more Three, Caecina said this and much more to the same purpose, and persuaded them to the same purpose, and persuaded them to the same purpose, and persuaded them to comply with him, and both he and his to comply with him, and both he and his to comply with him, and both he and his army deserted. But, still the very same army deserted. But, still the very same army deserted. But, still the very same night the soldiers repented of what they night the soldiers repented of what they night the soldiers repented of what they had done, and a fear seized on them lest had done, and a fear seized on them lest had done, and a fear seized on them lest perhaps Vitellius, who sent them, should perhaps Vitellius, who sent them, should perhaps Vitellius, who sent them, should get the better, and drawing their get the better, and drawing their get the better, and drawing their swords, they assaulted Caecina in order swords, they assaulted Caecina in order swords, they assaulted Caecina in order to kill him, and the thing had been done to kill him, and the thing had been done to kill him, and the thing had been done by them if the tribunes had not fallen by them if the tribunes had not fallen by them if the tribunes had not fallen upon their knees and besought them not upon their knees and besought them not upon their knees and besought them not to do it. So, the soldiers did not kill to do it. So, the soldiers did not kill to do it. So, the soldiers did not kill him, but put him in bonds as a traitor, him, but put him in bonds as a traitor, him, but put him in bonds as a traitor, and were about to send him to Vitellius. and were about to send him to Vitellius. and were about to send him to Vitellius. When Antonius Primus heard of this, he When Antonius Primus heard of this, he When Antonius Primus heard of this, he raised up his men immediately and made raised up his men immediately and made raised up his men immediately and made them put on their armor, and led them them put on their armor, and led them them put on their armor, and led them against those that had revolted. against those that had revolted. against those that had revolted. Hereupon, they put themselves in order Hereupon, they put themselves in order Hereupon, they put themselves in order of battle and made a resistance for a of battle and made a resistance for a of battle and made a resistance for a while, but were soon beaten and fled to while, but were soon beaten and fled to while, but were soon beaten and fled to Cremona. Then did Primus take his Cremona. Then did Primus take his Cremona. Then did Primus take his horsemen and cut off their entrance into horsemen and cut off their entrance into horsemen and cut off their entrance into the city, and encompassed and destroyed the city, and encompassed and destroyed the city, and encompassed and destroyed a great multitude of them before the a great multitude of them before the a great multitude of them before the city, and fell into the city together city, and fell into the city together city, and fell into the city together with the rest, and gave leave to his with the rest, and gave leave to his with the rest, and gave leave to his soldiers to plunder it. And here it was soldiers to plunder it. And here it was soldiers to plunder it. And here it was that many strangers, who were merchants, that many strangers, who were merchants, that many strangers, who were merchants, as well as many of the people of that as well as many of the people of that as well as many of the people of that country, perished. And among them country, perished. And among them country, perished. And among them Vitellius's whole army, being 30,200.

Vitellius's whole army, being 30,200. Vitellius's whole army, being 30,200. While Antonius lost no more of those While Antonius lost no more of those While Antonius lost no more of those that came with him from Moesia than that came with him from Moesia than that came with him from Moesia than 4,500. 4,500. 4,500. He then loose Caecina and sent him to He then loose Caecina and sent him to He then loose Caecina and sent him to Vespasian to tell him the good news. So, Vespasian to tell him the good news. So, Vespasian to tell him the good news. So, he came and was received by him, and he came and was received by him, and he came and was received by him, and covered the scandal of his treachery by covered the scandal of his treachery by covered the scandal of his treachery by the unexpected honors he received from the unexpected honors he received from the unexpected honors he received from Vespasian. Vespasian. Vespasian. Four. And now, upon the news that Four. And now, upon the news that Four. And now, upon the news that Antonius was approaching, Sabinus took Antonius was approaching, Sabinus took Antonius was approaching, Sabinus took courage at Rome and assembled those courage at Rome and assembled those courage at Rome and assembled those cohorts of soldiers that kept watch by cohorts of soldiers that kept watch by cohorts of soldiers that kept watch by night, and in the night time seized upon night, and in the night time seized upon night, and in the night time seized upon the Capitol. And as the day came on, the Capitol. And as the day came on, the Capitol. And as the day came on, many men of character came over to him many men of character came over to him many men of character came over to him with Domitian, his brother's son, whose with Domitian, his brother's son, whose with Domitian, his brother's son, whose encouragement was of very great weight encouragement was of very great weight encouragement was of very great weight for the encompassing the government. for the encompassing the government. for the encompassing the government. Now, Vitellius was not much concerned at Now, Vitellius was not much concerned at Now, Vitellius was not much concerned at this Primus, but was very angry with this Primus, but was very angry with this Primus, but was very angry with those that had revolted with Sabinus, those that had revolted with Sabinus, those that had revolted with Sabinus, and thirsting, out of his own natural and thirsting, out of his own natural and thirsting, out of his own natural barbarity, after noble blood, he sent barbarity, after noble blood, he sent barbarity, after noble blood, he sent out that part of the army which came out that part of the army which came out that part of the army which came along with him to fight against the along with him to fight against the along with him to fight against the Capitol. Capitol. Capitol. And many bold actions were done on this And many bold actions were done on this And many bold actions were done on this side, and on the side of those that held side, and on the side of those that held side, and on the side of those that held the temple. But at last, the soldiers the temple. But at last, the soldiers the temple. But at last, the soldiers that came from Germany, being too that came from Germany, being too that came from Germany, being too numerous for the others, got the hill numerous for the others, got the hill numerous for the others, got the hill into their possession, where Domitian, into their possession, where Domitian, into their possession, where Domitian, with many other of the principal Romans, with many other of the principal Romans, with many other of the principal Romans, providentially escaped, while the rest providentially escaped, while the rest providentially escaped, while the rest of the multitude were entirely cut to of the multitude were entirely cut to of the multitude were entirely cut to pieces, and Sabinus himself was brought pieces, and Sabinus himself was brought pieces, and Sabinus himself was brought to Vitellius and then slain. The to Vitellius and then slain. The to Vitellius and then slain. The soldiers also plundered the temple of soldiers also plundered the temple of soldiers also plundered the temple of its ornaments and set it on fire. But its ornaments and set it on fire. But its ornaments and set it on fire. But now, within a day's time, came Antonius

now, within a day's time, came Antonius now, within a day's time, came Antonius with his army and were met by Vitellius with his army and were met by Vitellius with his army and were met by Vitellius and his army, and having had a battle in and his army, and having had a battle in and his army, and having had a battle in three several places, the last were all three several places, the last were all three several places, the last were all destroyed. destroyed. destroyed. Then did Vitellius come out of the Then did Vitellius come out of the Then did Vitellius come out of the palace in his cups, and satiated with an palace in his cups, and satiated with an palace in his cups, and satiated with an extravagant and luxurious meal, as in extravagant and luxurious meal, as in extravagant and luxurious meal, as in the last extremity, and being drawn the last extremity, and being drawn the last extremity, and being drawn along through the multitude and abused along through the multitude and abused along through the multitude and abused with all sorts of torments, had his head with all sorts of torments, had his head with all sorts of torments, had his head cut off in the midst of Rome, having cut off in the midst of Rome, having cut off in the midst of Rome, having retained the government 8 months and 5 retained the government 8 months and 5 retained the government 8 months and 5 days. And had he lived much longer, I days. And had he lived much longer, I days. And had he lived much longer, I cannot but think the empire would not cannot but think the empire would not cannot but think the empire would not have been sufficient for his lust. have been sufficient for his lust. have been sufficient for his lust. Footnote. The numbers in Josephus for Footnote. The numbers in Josephus for Footnote. The numbers in Josephus for Galba, 7 months 7 days, for Otho, 3 Galba, 7 months 7 days, for Otho, 3 Galba, 7 months 7 days, for Otho, 3 months 2 days, and here for Vitellius, 8 months 2 days, and here for Vitellius, 8 months 2 days, and here for Vitellius, 8 months 5 days, do not agree with any months 5 days, do not agree with any months 5 days, do not agree with any Roman historians, who also disagree Roman historians, who also disagree Roman historians, who also disagree among themselves. And indeed, C. Liger among themselves. And indeed, C. Liger among themselves. And indeed, C. Liger justly complains, as Dr. Hudson justly complains, as Dr. Hudson justly complains, as Dr. Hudson observes, that this period is very observes, that this period is very observes, that this period is very confused and uncertain in the ancient confused and uncertain in the ancient confused and uncertain in the ancient authors. They were probably some of them authors. They were probably some of them authors. They were probably some of them contemporary together for some time. One contemporary together for some time. One contemporary together for some time. One of the best evidences we have, I mean, of the best evidences we have, I mean, of the best evidences we have, I mean, Ptolemy's Canon, omits them all, as if Ptolemy's Canon, omits them all, as if Ptolemy's Canon, omits them all, as if they did not altogether reign one whole they did not altogether reign one whole they did not altogether reign one whole year, nor had a single Thoth or New year, nor had a single Thoth or New year, nor had a single Thoth or New Year's Day, which then fell upon August Year's Day, which then fell upon August Year's Day, which then fell upon August 6th, in their entire reigns. Dio also, 6th, in their entire reigns. Dio also, 6th, in their entire reigns. Dio also, who says that Vitellius reigned a year who says that Vitellius reigned a year who says that Vitellius reigned a year within 10 days, does yet estimate all within 10 days, does yet estimate all within 10 days, does yet estimate all their reigns together at no more than 1 their reigns together at no more than 1 their reigns together at no more than 1 year, 1 month, and 2 days. End footnote.

year, 1 month, and 2 days. End footnote. year, 1 month, and 2 days. End footnote. Of the others that were slain were Of the others that were slain were Of the others that were slain were numbered above 50,000. This battle was numbered above 50,000. This battle was numbered above 50,000. This battle was fought on the third day of the month fought on the third day of the month fought on the third day of the month Apellaeus, Casleu. On the next day, Apellaeus, Casleu. On the next day, Apellaeus, Casleu. On the next day, Mucianus came into the city with his Mucianus came into the city with his Mucianus came into the city with his army and ordered Antonius and his men to army and ordered Antonius and his men to army and ordered Antonius and his men to leave off killing, for they were still leave off killing, for they were still leave off killing, for they were still searching the houses and killed many of searching the houses and killed many of searching the houses and killed many of Vitellius' soldiers and many of the Vitellius' soldiers and many of the Vitellius' soldiers and many of the populace as supposing them to be of his populace as supposing them to be of his populace as supposing them to be of his party, preventing by their rage any party, preventing by their rage any party, preventing by their rage any accurate distinction between them and accurate distinction between them and accurate distinction between them and others. He then produced Domitian and others. He then produced Domitian and others. He then produced Domitian and recommended him to the multitude until recommended him to the multitude until recommended him to the multitude until his father should come himself. So, the his father should come himself. So, the his father should come himself. So, the people being now freed from their fears people being now freed from their fears people being now freed from their fears made acclamations of joy for Vespasian made acclamations of joy for Vespasian made acclamations of joy for Vespasian as for their emperor and kept festival as for their emperor and kept festival as for their emperor and kept festival days for his confirmation and for the days for his confirmation and for the days for his confirmation and for the destruction of Vitellius. destruction of Vitellius. destruction of Vitellius. Five. And now, as Vespasian came to Five. And now, as Vespasian came to Five. And now, as Vespasian came to Alexandria, this good news came from Alexandria, this good news came from Alexandria, this good news came from Rome and at the same time came embassies Rome and at the same time came embassies Rome and at the same time came embassies from all his own habitable earth to from all his own habitable earth to from all his own habitable earth to congratulate him upon his advancement. congratulate him upon his advancement. congratulate him upon his advancement. And though this Alexandria was the And though this Alexandria was the And though this Alexandria was the greatest of all cities next to Rome, it greatest of all cities next to Rome, it greatest of all cities next to Rome, it proved too narrow to contain the proved too narrow to contain the proved too narrow to contain the multitude that then came into it. So, multitude that then came into it. So, multitude that then came into it. So, upon this confirmation of Vespasian's upon this confirmation of Vespasian's upon this confirmation of Vespasian's entire government, which was now entire government, which was now entire government, which was now settled, and upon the unexpected settled, and upon the unexpected settled, and upon the unexpected deliverance of the public affairs of the deliverance of the public affairs of the deliverance of the public affairs of the Romans from ruin, Vespasian turned his Romans from ruin, Vespasian turned his Romans from ruin, Vespasian turned his thoughts to what remained unsubdued in thoughts to what remained unsubdued in thoughts to what remained unsubdued in Judea. However, he himself made haste to Judea. However, he himself made haste to Judea. However, he himself made haste to go to Rome as the winter was now almost go to Rome as the winter was now almost go to Rome as the winter was now almost over and soon set the affairs of over and soon set the affairs of over and soon set the affairs of Alexandria in order, but sent his son

Alexandria in order, but sent his son Alexandria in order, but sent his son Titus with a select part of his army to Titus with a select part of his army to Titus with a select part of his army to destroy Jerusalem. destroy Jerusalem. destroy Jerusalem. So, Titus marched on foot as far as So, Titus marched on foot as far as So, Titus marched on foot as far as Necropolis, which is distant 20 furlongs Necropolis, which is distant 20 furlongs Necropolis, which is distant 20 furlongs from Alexandria. There he put his army from Alexandria. There he put his army from Alexandria. There he put his army on board some long ships and sailed upon on board some long ships and sailed upon on board some long ships and sailed upon the river along the Mendesian Nomus as the river along the Mendesian Nomus as the river along the Mendesian Nomus as far as the city Tummuis. There he got far as the city Tummuis. There he got far as the city Tummuis. There he got out of the ships and walked on foot and out of the ships and walked on foot and out of the ships and walked on foot and lodged all night at a small city called lodged all night at a small city called lodged all night at a small city called Tanis. His second station was Tanis. His second station was Tanis. His second station was Heracleopolis, Heracleopolis, Heracleopolis, and his third, Pelusium. He then and his third, Pelusium. He then and his third, Pelusium. He then refreshed his army at that place for 2 refreshed his army at that place for 2 refreshed his army at that place for 2 days, and on the third passed over the days, and on the third passed over the days, and on the third passed over the mouths of the Nile at Pelusium. He then mouths of the Nile at Pelusium. He then mouths of the Nile at Pelusium. He then proceeded one station over the desert, proceeded one station over the desert, proceeded one station over the desert, and pitched his camp at the temple of and pitched his camp at the temple of and pitched his camp at the temple of Casion Jupiter. Footnote: There are Casion Jupiter. Footnote: There are Casion Jupiter. Footnote: There are coins of this Casion Jupiter still coins of this Casion Jupiter still coins of this Casion Jupiter still extant. End footnote. And on the next extant. End footnote. And on the next extant. End footnote. And on the next day, at Ostracine. This station had no day, at Ostracine. This station had no day, at Ostracine. This station had no water, but the people of the country water, but the people of the country water, but the people of the country made use of water brought from other made use of water brought from other made use of water brought from other places. After this, he rested at places. After this, he rested at places. After this, he rested at Rhinocolura, and from thence he went to Rhinocolura, and from thence he went to Rhinocolura, and from thence he went to Raphia, which was his fourth station.

Raphia, which was his fourth station. Raphia, which was his fourth station. This city is the beginning of Syria. For This city is the beginning of Syria. For This city is the beginning of Syria. For his fifth station, he pitched his camp his fifth station, he pitched his camp his fifth station, he pitched his camp at Gaza, after which he came to Ascalon, at Gaza, after which he came to Ascalon, at Gaza, after which he came to Ascalon, and thence to Jamnia, and after that to and thence to Jamnia, and after that to and thence to Jamnia, and after that to Joppa, and from Joppa to Caesarea. Joppa, and from Joppa to Caesarea. Joppa, and from Joppa to Caesarea. Having taken a resolution to gather all Having taken a resolution to gather all Having taken a resolution to gather all his other forces together at that place. his other forces together at that place. his other forces together at that place. End of Book 4, Chapter 11. End of Book 4, Chapter 11. End of Book 4, Chapter 11. End of Book 4.