This verse from Judith 12:15 describes Judith preparing for a meeting with Holofernes, the Assyrian general, in his tent. Let's break it down:
"She arose, and decked herself with her apparel and all her woman’s attire;" This indicates Judith is dressing up carefully and intentionally. The phrase "all her woman's attire" suggests she's putting on her finest clothing and adornments, likely to appear attractive and appealing to Holofernes. The purpose here is to use her appearance strategically.
"and her servant went and laid fleeces on the ground for her next to Holofernes..." Judith's servant, following her instructions, prepares a comfortable space for her to sit near Holofernes. The fleeces would have provided soft seating.
"...which she had received from Bagoas for her daily use, that she might sit and eat upon them." The fleeces were given to Judith by Bagoas, Holofernes' eunuch and attendant, ostensibly for her comfort during meals. This detail highlights Judith's apparent favor and the comfortable environment she has managed to create for herself in Holofernes' camp. It subtly suggests that Judith is being treated as a guest of honor, or at least with consideration.
In essence, this verse portrays Judith's careful planning and execution. She is using her attractiveness and the courtesies extended to her to gain Holofernes' trust and confidence. The fleeces given by Bagoas symbolize her growing acceptance within the enemy camp, while her intentional dressing up indicates her calculated approach to manipulate Holofernes. This verse is part of the setup for Judith's bold act of heroism, where she will ultimately deceive and kill Holofernes to save her people.
This verse from Judith 12:15 describes Judith preparing for a meeting with Holofernes, the Assyrian general, in his tent. Let's break it down:
"She arose, and decked herself with her apparel and all her woman’s attire;" This indicates Judith is dressing up carefully and intentionally. The phrase "all her woman's attire" suggests she's putting on her finest clothing and adornments, likely to appear attractive and appealing to Holofernes. The purpose here is to use her appearance strategically.
"and her servant went and laid fleeces on the ground for her next to Holofernes..." Judith's servant, following her instructions, prepares a comfortable space for her to sit near Holofernes. The fleeces would have provided soft seating.
"...which she had received from Bagoas for her daily use, that she might sit and eat upon them." The fleeces were given to Judith by Bagoas, Holofernes' eunuch and attendant, ostensibly for her comfort during meals. This detail highlights Judith's apparent favor and the comfortable environment she has managed to create for herself in Holofernes' camp. It subtly suggests that Judith is being treated as a guest of honor, or at least with consideration.
In essence, this verse portrays Judith's careful planning and execution. She is using her attractiveness and the courtesies extended to her to gain Holofernes' trust and confidence. The fleeces given by Bagoas symbolize her growing acceptance within the enemy camp, while her intentional dressing up indicates her calculated approach to manipulate Holofernes. This verse is part of the setup for Judith's bold act of heroism, where she will ultimately deceive and kill Holofernes to save her people.
