Make my speech and deceit to be their wound and bruise, who intend hard things against your covenant, your holy house, the top of Zion, and the house of the possession of your children.
ExplanationCommentary
Verse 13. Lips, or with my endearing speeches. Menochius.—She meant innocently to engage the affections of Holofernes, ( Bible.) and prays that he may receive her in that manner, as he might have done without sin. But when he abused his free-will, God turned his sin to the good of others. See Exodus 7. Saint Augustine ser. 288. Worthington.—Greek “Give that power which I have devised to the hand of me, a widow. Strike the slave by the lips of my delusion, (or by my ensnaring words) with the prince; and the chief, with his minister, break their haughtiness by the hand of a female, verse 15. Bible.—This prayer seems contrary to sound morality, as well as the indiscreet conduct of Judith, in exposing herself to danger, though her intention was good. Calmet.—But are not stratagems lawful in war? See 2 Kennicott. 15. Is it sinful for a woman to endeavour to captivate the heart? The situation might be dangerous, but it was not criminal; and Judith was certainly determined to yield to no dishonest proposals. God therefore approved of her designs, and enhanced her beauty. Calmet. 10:4. Bible.