Wisdom of Solomon 4:7-15 (Vespers, 3rd reading)
- 7
- But the righteous man, though he die early, will be at rest.
- 8
- For old age is not honored for length of time, nor measured by number of years;
- 9
- but understanding is gray hair for men, and a blameless life is ripe old age.
- 10
- There was one who pleased God and was loved by him,
- 11
- He was caught up lest evil change his understanding or guile deceive his soul.
- 12
- For the fascination of wickedness obscures what is good, and roving desire perverts the innocent mind.
- 13
- Being perfected in a short time, he fulfilled long years;
- 14
- for his soul was pleasing to the Lord, therefore he took him quickly from the midst of wickedness.
- 15
- Yet the peoples saw and did not understand, nor take such a thing to heart, that God’s grace and mercy are with his elect, and he watches over his holy ones.