Judith certainly knew the feeling. We’ve been following her story, this brave and beautiful widow who's about to face down Holofernes, the fearsome general of the Assyrian army. She's infiltrated his camp, posing as someone who can help him conquer her people. And it’s working.
In fact, it's working a little too well. The men in the camp are in awe. The Book of Judith tells us, "and each one said to his neighbor, 'Who could despise this people, who have such women among them?'" Can you imagine the whispers? The envious glances? They see her not just as a woman, but as a symbol of the strength and resilience of the entire Jewish people.
There's a hint of fear in their admiration too. "Surely it is not good for one man among them to be left, who, being set free, might deceive the whole earth." It's like they sense a danger they can't quite articulate. They know that if even one of these people survives, they could pose a threat. Maybe they recognize Judith’s cunning. Or perhaps they just feel uneasy about her presence.
Then comes the moment. Those nearest to Holofernes rushed out to inform him of Judith's arrival. Accompanied by his servants, they brought her into his tent. We can almost feel the anticipation building.
The scene is set. Holofernes is reclining on his bed, beneath a lavish canopy. The Book of Judith describes it as "woven with purple and gold and emeralds and precious stones." Talk about making an entrance! Word is sent to Holofernes about Judith, and he emerges, eager to meet this woman who has caused such a stir. "He came out in front of his tent with silver lamps going before him."
What’s going to happen next? What does Holofernes think of Judith? Is he really falling for her deception? And how will Judith carry out her daring plan? The stage is set for a truly dramatic encounter. These small details – the whispers of the soldiers, the opulent tent, the silver lamps – all add to the tension, making us wonder what Judith will do next. It's a testament to the power of storytelling, isn't it, how a few carefully chosen words can paint such a vivid picture and leave us hanging on the edge of our seats?