Judith 10:8 - “May the God of our fathers give you favor, and accomplish your purposes to the glory of the children of Israel, and to the exaltation of Jerusalem.” Then she worshipped God,

Generated Verse: Judith 10:8

What does "Judith 10:8" mean?


This verse from Judith 10:8 encapsulates a powerful prayer and statement of purpose from Judith as she embarks on her dangerous mission. Let's break it down:

"May the God of our fathers give you favor..." This invokes the God of the Israelites, the God who has been faithful to their ancestors. She is asking for divine assistance and blessing on her endeavor. "Favor" implies that God will look upon her with kindness and grant her success.

"...and accomplish your purposes..." This suggests that Judith has a plan or mission, something she believes God wants her to do. She's praying that God will help her to fulfill this specific purpose.

"...to the glory of the children of Israel..." This is the core motive of her prayer. Her goal isn't for personal gain, but for the honor and reputation of the entire nation of Israel. Any success she has will reflect positively on her people, demonstrating God's power and protection of them.

"...and to the exaltation of Jerusalem." Jerusalem is the holy city, the center of Jewish worship and identity. "Exaltation" means to elevate or raise it in status and importance. Judith prays for the city to be protected, honored, and strengthened.

"Then she worshipped God." This shows Judith's piety and faith. After making her prayer, she prostrates herself before God in worship, acknowledging His power and entrusting herself to Him. This action underscores the seriousness of her commitment and her reliance on divine intervention.

In essence, the verse reveals Judith's plan is driven by faith and patriotism. She believes God can grant her success and her primary motivation is to bring honor to Israel and Jerusalem. Her prayer is an appeal for divine assistance to achieve a national and religious goal.