Page:Traditions of Palestine (microform) (IA traditionsofpale00martrich).pdf/61

 moment, while the voice of the priest declared, “With joy we draw water from the wells of salvation,” and while the multitude echoed his words with a shout of rejoicing. Another burst of music succeeded, which almost drowned the chaunting of the Levites. When it had once more sunk into silence, the High Priest appeared on the summit of the ascent, clothed in the pontifical garments, and spread forth his hands to bless the people, while they bowed their faces to the ground.

The service of the temple was now over; but ere the hum of voices and the trampling of feet was heard, as the multitude departed to their tabernacles, a single voice arose, inviting such as thirsted to drink of living waters, purer than ever gushed from the spring of Siloah.

Until now, one spirit had pervaded the place and stirred up all hearts. The multitude had been as one man in the pride of having Abraham for their common father, in the hope that a son of David would arise as their Messiah, and in the glory of worshiping according to the law of Moses. But when this voice was uplifted, the spirit of peace fled