The Childhood and Youth of Jesus · Part 1 · Chapter 109

The priests' misgivings. Cyrenius takes over the responsibility. A poor testimonial of Rome and its greed. Cyrenius' marriage to Tullia. 5 January 1844

01] The three priests immediately came, and one said: "Only an order of the governor would induce us to speak today;

02] for we took a vow this morning that we would remain silent and not eat a single bite throughout the day!

03] However, as mentioned earlier, we are breaking this vow this evening, as we are compelled to do so on the governor's order! – May he one day bear the responsibility for us!"

04] Cyrenius responded: "Really, I have not compelled you; but as you have scruples about this, I will gladly accept the responsibility!

05] For I am in the house of Him who is ultimately concerned with such accountabilities, and so I believe that in this reckoning, things will not weigh as heavily against me as you imagine in your foolishness!"

06] And Joseph spoke: "O brother! The accounting is already completed, so just tell the three priests what you require of them!"

07] One of the priests, however, anticipated Cyrenius and asked him what they were supposed to do for him.

08] And Cyrenius briefly presented his request to them.

09] The three spoke: "The law is right, and so is the deed; however, we are merely lesser priests and our testimony will not be considered as lawful!"

10] And Cyrenius explained to them, that in the absence of a high priest, every lesser priest could and indeed, was obliged, to hold the office and exercise the powers of a high priest.

11] The priests spoke: "That is correct; but look, you condemned us when we wanted to pontificate two days ago!

12] If we should again pontificate before you, would you not condemn us once again?!"

13] Cyrenius spoke excitedly: "I condemned you at that time, because you wanted to pontificate entirely illegally.

14] Now, however, you have the legal authority before you; so if you act accordingly, you need not fear my condemnation!

15] Instead I will give you an offering that will ensure your livelihood! And an offering for Rome will be taken care of as well!"

16] And the priests spoke: "Good; but we three do not give allegiance to the gods anymore and want nothing more to do with Rome's paganism!

17] Will our testimony be considered as lawful, once Rome comes to hear of our conversion to Israel's faith?"

18] And Cyrenius spoke: "You know as well as I do that in Rome money can legitimize any testimony!

19] Therefore do what I demand of you, and do not concern yourselves with anything else; for I will take care of it!"

20] The priests first weighed this assurance before issuing, and thereby sanctifying, the testimony demanded by Cyrenius.

21] When Cyrenius got the official document, he first stretched out his hand to Tullia and then raised her up as his now lawful wife,

22] and gave her a ring and immediately arranged for royal robes to be fetched for her from the city.