When the heathen conquered the Temple Josef Meshita was asked to go in first. He was told that whatever he brought out should be his. He carried out a golden candlestick, which was taken from him as not fit for a private person. Sent in a second time he refused to go. They offered him many bribes, but he still refused and he was then sawn in two by these people.
24. Yakim-Ish-Serodot the nephew of Jose Ben. Yoezer was riding on his horse when the latter was led to execution and he said to him, "Behold my horse and behold thine.” Yoezer replied: "If this is a reward for those who anger the Lord, how much greater will be the reward for those who fear Him?” Yakim answered: "Has there ever been anyone more God-fearing than thou, and look at thy reward (crucifixion).” Jose replied "If this is a punishment for those who fear Him, how much greater will be the punishment for those who anger Him.” Yakim was deeply
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moved and submitted himself to a four-fold death, stoning, burning, beheading and strangling, and he thus obtained forgiveness.