Simon, the high priest, the son of Onias, who in his life repaired the house, and in his days fortified the temple.

And by him was built the double wall, the fortification of the temple.

In his days the cisterns of water were digged, and as the sea they were filled abundantly.

He took care of his people, lest it should perish, and fortified the city, so that it might not be opened.

How glorious was he when he went out from the sanctuary, from among the people, and from behind the veil of the house!

As the morning star among the clouds, or as the moon in the days of her fullness.

Or as the sun shining upon the temple of the Most High.

Or as the rainbow gleaming in the bright clouds, or as the flower of roses in the days of spring, or as the lilies by the rivers of water, or as the plants of Lebanon in the days of summer.

Or as the fire, or the frankincense upon the censer.

Or as a vessel of beaten gold, garnished with all manner of precious stones.

Or as an olive tree laden with fruit, or a cypress tree which shooteth up to the clouds, when he received the robe of glory and put on the perfection of his adornment.

And went up to the holy altar as he increased the garment of glory.

And when he received the portions of the sacrifice from the hands of the priests, standing by the hearth of the altar, he was encircled by a crown of brethren, as the branches of Lebanon surround.

And the shoots by the palms, and all the sons of Aaron in their glory.

And the offering of the Lord in their hands before all the congregation of Israel, and he at the completion of his service at the altar for the adornment of the offering of the Almighty Most High.

He stretched out his hand over the libation, and poured out of the blood of the grape.

He poured it upon the foundations of the altar, a pleasing odour before the Most High, the King of all.

Then the sons of Aaron shouted with the beaten trumpets, and made a great sound to be heard, as a memorial before the Most High.

And thereupon all the people together hastened and fell on their faces to the earth, worshipping their Almighty Lord God.

And the singers praised with their voices, and caused their sweet melodies to be heard in the revered house.

And the people prayed to the Lord Most High with their prayers before the Merciful, until he had finished honouring the Lord and his service was completed.

Then he came down and lifted up his hands over all the congregation of the children of Israel, blessing the Lord with his lips, and glorying in His name.

And he repeated his prostration to show that the blessing was from the Most High.

Now therefore, all ye people, bless God, who doeth great things in all places, and maketh our days to increase from the womb, and dealeth with us according to His mercy.

May He grant us joy of heart and peace in Israel in our days, and for evermore.

Establishing His mercy upon us and redeeming us in His days.

Two nations my soul hateth, and the third is not a nation.