Page:Hebrew tales; selected and translated from the writings of the ancient Hebrew sages (1917).djvu/56

52 applies," answered Hillel, "to any one who is not a descendant of Aaron. Even David, the king of Israel, if he had presumed to administer this sacred function, would have been punishable with death." The man then reasoned with himself—"If thus the greatest of Israel is not thought worthy to fill this office, how should I, a poor, miserable stranger?" He gave up the desire of becoming a high-priest; but, by continuing to study the law, became an adopted member of that nation to whom God said, "Ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests," etc. (Exodus xix. 6.)

In the course of time, they all three happened to meet together, when the grateful proselyte thus expressed himself:—"Shammai's harshness almost drove me from the world; but Hillel's humility saved me. May all the blessings rest upon thy head, thou worthy instructor of Israel! for it is thou who hast brought me under the wings of the Divine presence."

Shabbat, 31a.

The Conquest of Meekness; or, the Wager

example will still further prove the great meekness and patient forbearance of this truly great man.

A man laid once a wager with another, that he