Letter of Aristeas

1917 printed page 79 / §§278–282

Printed page 79 Original marginal section labels beginning on this page: §278, §279, §280, §281, §282. The opening continues §277 from the preceding page. comes injustice and a sea of covetousness. But the virtuous state checks those who are drifting into a life of self-indulgence and bids them prefer temperance and righteousness. But all this is under the direction of God." (64) The king said that he had answered well, and asked the next one, "Whose guidance should kings follow ? " And he said, " The guidance of the laws, that so by righteous dealings they may repair the lives of men, even as thou by such action hast laid the foundation of an everlasting memorial for thyself, through following the divine commandment." (65) He said that he also had spoken well, and asked the next, "Whom should we appoint chief magistrates?"{1} And he said, " Those who have a hatred of wrong and do what is just, imitating their ruler's conduct, to the intent that they may ever be in good repute; even as thou dost," he added, " most mighty king, God having given thee a crown of righteousness."{2} (66) He loudly signified his approval and, turning to the next one, said, "Whom should we appoint as officers over the forces?" And he replied, "Those who are distinguished for bravery and justice and are more anxious for the safety of their men than to gain a victory while risking their lives in rash enterprises. For as God does good to all, so dost thou, making Him thy example, do good to thy subjects." (67) He said that his answer was good, and asked another, "What man is worthy of admiration?" And he said, " He that is endowed with glory and riches and power and yet inwardly regards himself as on an equality TRANSLATOR’S NOTES (1917) — printed page 79 {1} The reply and the succeeding question show that _στρατηγός_ is here used of a civilian official (the governor of a district of Egypt). {2} Cf. 2 Tim. iv. 8.