your way to abyssini1 final revision

8/14/2019 Your Way to Abyssini1 FINAL REVISION

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Your way to Abyssinia

A play in two parts

By

Nasseer Al-Nasser

2007

An Interpretative Translation

By

Sameer Al-Nasser

Part 1

Judah

Three Actions

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The place of events is Jerusalem

Time of events is thirty three years after Jesus the Nazarene's birth

Characters of the play:

1.Jesus the Nazarene (Son of Mary) Isso2.Judah (Yaho / a clerk and an accountant in the Temple) (a disciple / apostle.(

3.Brro (a baker.(4.Jabro (a goat hair spinner.(

5.Petro (stonemason.(

6.Yasso (a weaver.(

7.Matto (a shepherd.(

8.Marco (a young stonemason.(

9.Masho (a carpenter.(10.Georgeo (an ironsmith.(

11.Dano (an architect.(12.Lazarus (Lazzo / a stonemason.(

13.Martha (Lazarus' sister.(

14.Miriam=

15.Magdalene (a hairdresser.(

16.Shawl (a Roman Guard Chef / Paul.(

17.Abo (The head of barterers in the Temple.( 18.Bilatus Pintos (Roman Ruler of Jerusalem.(

19.Four Guards.

20.Group of women.

21.Group of men.

22.Nicolas: (Bilatus' gate attendant.(

23.A clerk.

24.A servant.

25.Four Bodyguards.26.Tuma (body guard.(

Action 1

The curtains are drawn to show a background of a rocky small hill with a curve in, a

road comes from the front right side of the stage to continue in front of the slide rocky hill

then turns around to the left to end at the other side of the stage from behind, there is asmall spring pool at a lower level of the stage front on the right side of the road, the light

is strong showing the approaching of noon time, stage entrances are from front right sideand left back side.In the rocky curve sits a shepherd in a goat leather clothes with a stick

laid on his shoulder, having shade in the curve and there is a clay pot full of water beside

him, the bleat of sheep is heard.

Scene 1

)Three men are interring from the front right side in a uniform of stonemason. They are

Jesus, (Jabro) and (Brro) the last one is holding up a bundle behind his shoulder. Mattothe shepherd looking at them heedlessly.(

Jesus: Thanks God, that is a water spring, we've had a long walk in the sun, let's have a

short break.

Jabro and Brrro: Thank God(Going down to the spring, start drinking, Jesus raising his

hand greeting the shepherd (Matto), the last raising his hand lazily and indifferently.(

Jesus: (addressing Jabro) Go and call that shepherd to have food with us.Jabro: At your service, Sir (going up while Jesus taking his place and starts washing his

hands, addressing Brro.(

Jesus: I think; we still have six loaves, isn't it?

Brro: That's right, Sir.

Jabro: (shouting) come on shepherd, you are invited to share lunch with us (the shepherd

coming down while Jesus and Brro coming up.(

The shepherd: (greeting) be saved men, my name's Matto.

Jesus: you are saved too, Matto (pointing to Jabro then to Brro) this is Jabro, this is Brroand my name is Jesus. (Brro is taking off his head scarf, stretching it on the ground,

taking a loaf out of the bundle, putting it on the scarf.(

Brro: (questioning) is the one of these sufficient?!

Jesus: (smiling because the implied meaning of the question has been appealed to him)

always sufficient.)Jesus and Matto are sitting facing attendants while Jabro and Brro sitting opposing.

Jesus is taking a loaf and dividing it into four quarters.(

Jesus: by Your Name, You the Sufficient (giving Matto at first, then his two companions.Matto is looking at the piece of the bread astonished while Jabro and Brro start eating

calmly. Jesus is looking at Matto and knows what the man is thinking of.(

Jesus: wouldn't you eat, arent you hungry?

Matto: (impatiently after he has clammed his anger) do you think that your mouthful this;

might satisfy the hunger of a long day?

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Jesus: (smiling) how often do your ewes eat daily?

Matto: (surprised by the question) they eat all along the day.

Jesus: do they stuff?

Matto: I don't think so!

Jesus: do you want to do like them?

Matto: for sure not!Jesus: take this too (giving him his piece.(

Matto: (reluctantly) butJesus: take it, I think what you have in your hand is not sufficient for you (turning to

Brro) give this man what you have.

)Without the slightest hesitation Brro gives Matto the bundle of the loaves and the rest of

his bread piece.(

Brro: here you are.

)Matto is shocked by the fast developing of the situation, taking the bundle, as if he werein a dream, untying it, putting the bread pieces in, and then retying it again.(

Matto: thank you Sir, you are really generous, thanks a lot.Jesus: sufficed by God you are; who thanks is not ungrateful.

Matto: how sweet your words are!

Jesus: have you forgotten your hunger?

Matto: (astonished because the question reminded him of the fact) oh! Actually,

I feel hungry not! You really have the actual nobility which raises you up to the prophets'

rank!Brro: he is a real prophet.

Jabro: that's right, this is Mary's Son, haven't you heard of him?

Matto: Son of Mary! No, I haven't heard of him, I'm abandoned here on this wilderness

and see no one.

Jesus: (changing the talk) these sheep were yours once, but you are shepherding them

now for six silver coins per a year.

Matto: (astound) yes, they were mine but how did you know that?

Jesus: you have pawned them in that rainless year in order to by provender for them.Matto: (more surprised) yes, that's what I have done exactly.

Jesus: you were not able to payback the pawn value on its due date; so the sheep were

owned by somebody else.

Matto: truth is what you have just said, as if you were an eye-witness who had watched

what happened.Jesus: how much was the pawn value?Matto: it was twenty four silver coins.

Jesus: that was two years ago, and the number of sheep was forty.Matto: that's really true, prophet. (Remembering the paw regrettingly and then saying) tell

me please was that my fault?

Jesus: no fault except what Man thinks of as a law, you have followed the sons of Israel's

law. If you had followed the law of God you wouldn't have fallen in this.

Matto: (surprised) Law of God! ...what is that? Could you tell me about God's Law,

Prophet?

Jesus: ( keeping silent for a while, rising up his head, looking at Matto ) listen to me, you

good man, those sheep were yours never, you were just a shepherd looking after them;

and when you tried to keep them for yourself, believing that you own them, they became

for somebody else; to own is God only! We are just custodians for what God's own; thisis the law of God; (bitterly) the sheep are controlled by the law of Israel's sons now.

Matto: (thinking and then asking) how can I turn them back to God's law?Jesus: do you really want that?

Matto: (eagerly) indeed! I'll give from them to any needed person, and I do swear to

follow God's Law as long as I live.

Jesus: (banteringly) even the wolf!

Matto: (seriously) even the wolf, Sir.

Jesus: (addresses Jabro) how many silver coins do you have?Jabro: (smiling) what is always enough, Sir.

)voices and noise are heard, Matto standing, taking the parcel, going to his first placelooking at the leading road to Jerusalem, putting the bundle in the rocky curve and then

coming back, the voices becoming louder, crying a wailing are heard, too.(

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2nd Scene

)Same place(

)A group of people is appearing, four persons in front of the group carrying a bier

followed by two lamenting and wailing young women. Jesus standing up with his

companions, stopping on the mid of the way, the approaching procession stopping, one ofthe bier carriers is Marco; wearing a stonemason uniform.(

Marco: keep away menwho are you?Jesus: I am the son of Mary and these are my companions (turning to his companions)

come on my brothers to ask God retribution. (The two women are running to Jesus as

they hear his name, clinging to his clothes, while he is taking one of the carriers place,

detaining him when they both genuflecting and supplicating.(

Martha: Son of Mary, You , the Blessedwhere have you beenplease look at us to see

what did happen what we suffer of this is our only brother our only bread runnerwe have no supplier except him, your blessings are well known every where, if you have

been with us we wouldn't be bereft of him.Miriam: You the Blessed, the Pious of his mother, this is our brother lonely and the only

custodian, Lazarus, was taken from us today, you are asked to help us for God's sake, we

have none but God.

)Jesus unable to move because of the two women, looking to horizon hopefully and

patiently(

Jesus: put down the bier, men (putting the bier down, Martha standing up, pointing at herbrother's corps(

Martha: (bitterly) he returned from the stone mine exhausted, helped by Marco all the

way (pointing at Marco) when they entered, he fell down dead (crying.(

Jesus: (looking at the faces of the surrounding people; who are prevailed by silence,

looking at the face of the dead, kneeling then putting his hand on the dead chest, coming

nearer to the deed's ear, whispering, then coming up standing suddenly depending on his

hand laid on the dead, keeping looking at the face of the dead, confidently and calmly

with a commanding voice) get up Lazarus get up (Lazarus getting up, noise is heardfrom the group then silence prevails, Jesus turning to Matto.(

Jesus: may I have some milk?

Matto: at your service, Sir (going up to the curve.(

Jesus: be saved, Lazarus.

Lazarus: (laboriously) you too, Sir. Who are you?Jesus: Son of Mary.

Lazarus: I have heard a lot about you, the blessed, do I see you indeed or it's a mere

dream?Jesus: (smiling) no differencelife is a dream and death is waking.

)Matto coming back with a clay ewer, giving it to Jesus who knelling, bringing the ewer

to Lazarus' mouth saying: drink, in the name of the God, drink Lazarus, the last drinking,

Jesus giving the ewer back to Matto and standing up but his eyes are still looking fixedly

at Lazarus, Jesus saying: get up Lazarus, get up, Lazarus standing difficultly, staggering,

Martha and Marco hurry to help him, the three walking to the road side, their backs

towards the attendance, Lazarus vomiting the milk he has just drunk, Jesus picking up the

head cover; laid on the ground, hurrying to the water, wetting it, coming back quickly

while Lazarus coming back, too, helped by his sister and Marco, their faces towards the

attendance, Jesus wiping Lazarus face, covering his head with the wetted cloth, ordering

his sister to help him, asking her about her name.(Martha: Martha, Sir.

Jesus: well, Martha. Take him home slowly, and give him some sweets; he is in need ofwhat helps him to get stronger.

The two sisters: be blessed, Son of Mary, thank God.

)The group returning, singing happily while Jesus staying with his companion and

Matto.(

Jesus: (addressing Matto) tomorrow we'll go to Jerusalem early, to settle the

hypothecation problem, Matto.Matto: you, the blessed, would you accept my invitation to spend this night in a calm

place I know.Jesus: With pleasure but it's still too early, it's just the noon, I'm expecting more in the

rest of the day.

Brro: I think the people will come back again and we'll have no rest today.

Jesus: how is it going, Jabro?

Jabro: I think it is a blessed day, and the people return is a proof.

)Voices, noise, shouts, swear and filthy words are heard.(

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3RD Scene

)Same place(

)A bunch of people come from the same side of the funeral, pulling, pushing and cursing

a tied woman, drawn by one of them, behind him are his companions, Jesus blocking thebunch's way and stopping them.(

Jesus: who are you and where are you going?

)The man who is pulling the tied woman answers.(

The man: we are going to stone this adulteress hairdresser.

Jesus: but where is her partner man?

The man: he is a roman soldier Romans have their own law and we have ours.Jesus: (addressing the bunch) do you want to stone her actually?

The bunch: certainly! She is guilty, she deserves stoning.Jesus: (talking to the man who is pulling the woman) come here nearer (the man coming

nearer pulling the woman behind him; Jesus asking him) is she guilty?

The man: yes, she is, I swear.

Jesus: (speaking with a low voice) and you; have you committed a sin not?

The man: what are you talking about?

Jesus: in fact, you are without a sin today because your neighbour is sick in bed, he didn'tleave homeisn't that true?

The man: (perplexedly) what does that matter?

Jesus: you weren't able to enjoy with his wife today, so you decided to enjoy by stoning

this woman, forgetting your deed, do you like that to be heard by all?

The man: (fully frightened) tell me who are you, for God's sake?

Jesus: haven't you ever heard of the Son of Mary? That is he, the one who is standing in

front of you and you see him.

The man: (knelling) forgive me, Siruncover my sins neveryour mercy is begged, Sonof the Virgin.

Jesus: release her and turn back on the same way you have come from.

The man: I'll do that at once, Sir (leaving the robe and then setting back, the girl running

and knelling behind Jesus' companions, a woman from the bunch shouting.(

The woman: what a chameleon is she! Don't let it run away.Jesus: (turning to the place which the voice coming from) come here you, too.

The woman: (advancing and speaking with a coward voice which has a moment of

courage) what do you want, stranger?Jesus: (confidently) how are the hens of your neighbour?

The woman: (looking worried because of that sudden question) what is the relation

between this and that?

Jesus: what is the penalty of the thief according to your law?

The woman: (anxiously) the punishment is according to the crime.

Jesus: today, you haven't a sin; your hand didn't touch any of your neighbour's eggs

because no hen of her laid one.

The woman: (perplexedly) who are you, tell me please.

Jesus: (calmly) Son of Mary.

The woman: (knelling) Son of the Maiden, I ask for mercy, please reveal secrets not.

Jesus: do you have an intention for stoning her now?The woman: keep secrets please.

Jesus: (pointing to the road) that is the way go back, poor cow.)The woman getting up and running back shouting(

The woman: That's Son of Mary, that's the prophet (quitting away.(

)A young guy is coming out of the bunch, advancing towards Jesus, shouting rudely and

arrogantly.(

The guy: if you were a real prophet apply the law to this whore.

Jesus: wellthat's what I'll do (bowing, picking up a stone continuing looking at the guy,addressing the bunch) are you ready men? (The guy and the other men of the bunch are

bowing and picking up as many stones as they can, the woman running and throwing byherself at Jesus' feet supplicating.(

The woman: please Sir, have pity on me.

)Jesus is paying no attention to her and addressing the bunch.(

Jesus: are you ready men?

The girl: (persisting) for Heaven's sake have compassion for me, Sir.

Jesus: (addressing the bunch) you should know well that this stone which is in my fistnow was held once by David so it never misses the sinner of you when it is thrown,

remember well, it never runs wrong, let that one who is with no sin throws a stone at her

now.

The guy: (angrily) as if you were preventing them of stoning her!

Jesus: tell these people who has torn your shirt back?

The guy: (stuttering) IIitit's

)Jesus strongly catching the collar of the guy's shirt by his left hand pulling him nearer

threatening by his right hand with the stone.(Jesus: tell them who has torn your shirt?

)The guy is frightened of Jesus' action, letting the stones falling down(

The guy: Iit's a dog in that orchard.

Jesus: tell them what were you doing there?

)The guy is giving no answer. Jesus' hand is still raised with the stone.(Jesus: today, you are without sin, come and stone her (pointing at the woman) butremember what I have within my fist.

)The guy is regressing brokenly, turning back, going silently while Jesus is springing upand down the stone on his palm, and then addressing the bunch.(

Jesus: come on pure gentlemen; let the sinless man of you starts stoning her (each man of

the bunch is letting the stones falling down on the ground and retreating silently, Jesus

addressing Jabro.(

Jesus: untie the robe and set her free, Jabro.

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Jabro: at your service, Sir. (Jabro is untying the robe, the woman standing up brokenly.(

Jesus: (consolingly) what's your name?

The woman: my name is Magdalene. I'm Magdalena the hairdresser.

Jesus: how have you done that?

Magda: really, I dont know why or how it happened. It was something like the air we

breathe; similar to the water we drink, does any one think of the air when he breathes; orwith the water when he drinks! I don't know what to say...perhaps that man was very kind

or very generous, he gave me a very expensive oily perfume as a present though he wasn'trich, no one has treated me as a human being like himyes, that's.

Jesus: you work for many women and men, why did you choose that poor?

Majda: believe me, I do swear it wasn't a choice, it was a fate, a dreamhe gave me the

most precious thing that he had, it was a perfume which each princess dreams of and

wishes to have, while the rich; I worked for, used to give me the remains of their

banquets and rudely ask me to make love with them, I did refuse doing that and the resultwas always kicking, cursing and dropping me out but he was utterly different, he was

very friendly and more than generous.Jesus: where is he now?

Magda: (sadly) he was exiled to Alexandria.

Jesus: do you want to be with him?

Majda: (completely astound) oh, no! This is not the way for showing my gratitude, I have

been ordained to be at the service of these two feet (she is throwing by herself on Jesus'

feet trying to kiss while, Jesus moving back ward, Magda raising her face which showsmisgivings) will my sin be forgiven? Tell me, prophet, is my sin forgivable?

Jesus: stand up Magda, God forgives more than that especially when one repents and

never repeats such it, stand up Magda (Magda standing up, her face now shows serenity.(

Magda: I'll be at your service, Sir, and at your companions' service, too.

Jesus: go back home, good girl, your home needs your service, take this stone and remind

every one who tries to abuse you that this stone was in my hand as it was in David's hand

before.

Magda: (taking the stone) thank you Sir, I'll keep it as long as I live, see you, Sir (goingout.(

Jesus: farewell, may God save you!

Matto: (showing astonishment) you have frightened them indeed, they have thoroughly

trembled.

Jabro: that isn't very odd, guilty is always miscreant coward and ill-mannered.Jesus: that's all right.Brro: how can I remove fright out of my heart, Sir?

Jesus: you can't do that; instead; fill your heart with God-fearfulness and piety then youwill never be afraid of people, and your heart will have no room except for God, have

ever seen a sheath; keeping two swords in simultaneously? So the heart is.

Jabro: could you have a rest in the shade of that curve please, Sir? (Pointing at the

place where Matto was sitting) we are still in the sun since the early morning.

Matto: (interrupting) that place is too small to hold us, let's go to a cave in the other side

of this hill, it's a shelter for me and for the herd when it's hot or cold, no one knows it but

I, it may the best place to avoid those travelers on this road.

Jesus: (pitifully) I think we need a siesta.

Matto: come on Sir, let's go, I'll escort you to that cave then I'll back here again to watch

both road and herd (going up the rocky hill then going down to disappear behind it.(

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4th Scene

)Same place(

)The same day afternoon, Matto is in a squatting posture, his stick is laid on his shoulder,

an increasing noise is heard so Mattois standing up to have a look, but he is surprised(

Matto: oh my God! What do I see! (Running up the hill and returning back quickly withJabro and Brro they stand on the hill top and watch the road.(

Matto: Good Heaven! Look, I have never seen such these crowds at all, as if all people of

Jerusalem have come outwhat happens!

Brro: oh Goodness! What do I see! They are crowds followed by crowds! (The crowds'

vanguard appears on the stage, they are guided by the woman who wanted to stone the

hairdresser.(The woman: Where is the Prophet? Where is Son of Mary?

Jabro: (waving his hand asking people to keep quiet) he is alone contemplating or asleep,wait for him here and never leave your places please (the crowded floating people block

the road they try to busy themselves by sitting, washingetc while Jabro runs to call

for Jesus.(

Matto: who can sustain all these crowds!!

Brro: He is the One who sustained you and me.

Matto: God, You are the Most Holly and the most Sainted (Jabro coming back shouting atthe crowds.(

Jabro: Son of Mary is coming soon, stay where you are (the eager people looking to the

way where Jabro came from, Jesus appearing the crowds becoming calm and keeping

silent.(

5th Scene

)Same place(

)Light is lowing down on the stage to show sunset, Jesus and his companions standing in

front of the stage, the busy crowds are on the road behind them.(Jesus: I think we have passed by each one of these crowds and we didn't forget any one of

them.

Jabro: and we didn't forget the One, too.

Jesus: (glimpsing and smiling) thanks God.

Brro: I think these crowds won't go back to Jerusalem today.

Jabro: they won't go back without you Sir.Jesus: (thinking for a while) we should invite them to have food, how many are they?

Brro: they are around five thousand, I think!Jesus: do we have enough food?

Matto: (abruptly) it is always enough Sir. I'll bring it at once (running up and bringing

back the bundle which he has taken before) here you are Sir; we have a lot still could I

have Jabro and Brro with me please? I need them to help me just for a while Sir.

Jesus: Yes, you can Matto.

Matto: Thank you Sir. (The three men set off while Jesus starts walking through thecrowds distributing bread loaves, Brro coming back astonished and dead-beat.(

Brro: he has slain the pack wholly, Sir!!

Jesus: (not stopping bread distribution) he has done it (turning to Brro) truly he was as he

was faithful; too, he has violated their sacred cow.

)Curtain(

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2nd Action

The curtains are drawn to show ruins of an inside part of an old Greek temple in a bad

state of destruction, dirtiness and negligence.

A number of brokers in their traditional uniform; a sleeveless black shirt and a small

black hat; their head master has a twirled black dome like hat and a big white scarf on oneof his shoulders. One of the brokers; his hair is braided; is similar to Jesus to such an

extent that one can't tell the difference, he is Judah. There are merchants and clients asthere are big stones and parts of columns, showing that the temple had an earthquake and

it had not been renewed.

1st Scene

)It's forenoon, everybody is indulged in his job, a rattle of brass tool is heard, makingpeople pay attention, Shawl a roman guard leader dressed in official uniform coming in

followed by the tool knocker and two soldiers dressed in less cost uniform, Shawlstepping up on a big stone but he is not facing the attendants, unrolling a papyrus scroll

and starts reading loudly.(

Shawl: in the name of the Great Caesar; Emperor of Roman countries

His Vice Billatus has issued the following command that sentenced crucifying both

Azzaro the carouser; killing robber of the old curator Sala; and Manno the thief ofCaesar's effects. That is to apply Rome's justice and to be a lesson for every one thinks of

violating Caesar's authority. Long live Caesar, long live Rome, (turning to the principal of

brokers) and this is a notification for you, sent from the ruler and issued by Caesar,

(Judah taking the notification and giving it to his uncle Abo, Shawl getting down and

walking slowly, the two soldiers and the knocker walking before him(

Abo: (giving the notification back to Judah) read it to tell me about its content (Judah

starts reading while Shawl is looking at Abo obsequiously.(

Judah: (reading loudly) it became ten silver coins per year.Abo: (smiling affectedly) well, Shawl, when does it be deserved?

Shawl: that's up to you, you know well how to behave, and you are the head of brokers.

Abo: (nodding and getting what Shawl's referring to) Judah.

Judah: at your service uncle.

Abo: escort the chief of guards to the gate, he is worthy of respect.Judah: that will be uncle (Shawl and Judah walking to the entrance, Judah putting hishand in his pocket hastily and taking off a coin and speaking to Shawl's hand with quickly

before the last leaving, as he turning to come back a voice is heard shouting at him.(The voice: Judah. Judah (Judah is turning back, Matto interring hurriedly, looking tired

and worried.(

Motto: (trying to regain breath) Judah.

Judah: oh! This is you Matto, what did bring you here? What's the matter?

Matto: a wolf killed the sheep herd utterly.

Judah: what are you saying?

Matto: tell your uncle about that?

Judah: you should tell him by yourself, that's he over there (pointing at the place where

his uncle is sitting down, Matto rushing forward followed by Judah.(

Matto: may God save you Mr. Abo.

Abo: (looking at Matto's face, recognizing that Matto has bad news won't please him)may God never save you, why are you here, what happened?

Matto: (trying to calm down) wolves killed the whole herd.Abo: (angrily) be damned scoundrel, would your mother were bereft of you early, what

were you doing stupid?Matto: what a blessing it was that I wasn't hurt, the dog wasn't able to repel them; they

were a pack of hungry wolves.

Abo: it were better for the wolves to tear your body, devour your flesh and lick your

blood, bastard, you will pay for that double and double, if you don't pay I'll makeBillatus; the ruler, send you after the other two thieves to die of thirst and hunger on a

cross and blue-bottles snap your eye balls, (the brokers surrounding Matto and Abo.(Judah: uncleuncle, look over there, (pointing, while Matto turning to see Jesus coming

in(

Matto: (shouting) Son of Mary, Prophet. May you help me please, you see, they have

gathered to be against me, (the brokers turning to see Jesus looking at them, Judah

advancing and going round Jesus surprised.(

Judah: as if I were looking at my self in a mirror, it's an incredible thing! (All lookingastound, forgetting the real matter) look, as if I were he and he were I! There is no

difference but the clothes (smiling in a way showing that an idea is occurring to his

mind.(

Jesus: that's true; there is no difference but the clothes and that small scar on your cheek.

Abo: (calm after that rage) are you really a prophet! I have heard a lot about your wise

actsif you were so judge this shark then (pointing at Matto.(

Jesus: it's really odd! You are living in the shade of Rome and Rome has its law.

Abo: who knows! How often they have changed it! It's a law; formed of their wishes,they do whatever they want with, but our law; we the sons of Israel, is heavenly.

Jesus: this means you want to apply God's law.

Abo: certainly.

Jesus: are you going to abide the verdict even if it were against your wish?

Abo: yes, I'll, I do swear to comply with your verdict in this case of this shepherd. Jesus: tell me what have you agreed upon with him?Abo: it was a pawn of forty pregnant ewes against twenty four silver coins; the money

should be paid back and doubled after a year, if not, the ewes with their born lambswould be mine, my nephew Judah bears witness to that (pointing at Judah.(

Jesus: (turning to Judah) do you bear witness to that?

Judah: yes, I do.

Jesus: (addressing Abo) were the coins a right price of the ewes?

Abo: no, they were not; actually they were less than the real price.

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Jesus: what happens to the ewes in each season?

Abo: (astonished) they bear lambs.

Jesus: and what happens to the coins each season?

Abo: (amazed) ah! (Judah's laughing as he getting what Jesus referring to, his uncle

turning to him) why are you laughing?

Judah: I'm sorry, uncle.Jesus: do coins give birth to coins in each season?

Abo: what a question is this! How do coins bear!Jesus: how do you ask him to pay back doubled coins after a year?

Abo: the ewes will bear and this is what I just know well.Jesus: you should know too, that money never bears at all and what you have lent him

was money only and not ewes.

Abo: what do you want to say?

Jesus: you have asked me to give a verdict not a saying, so what do you want exactly averdict or a saying?

Abo: (completely shocked) a verdict.Jesus: well, the verdict is to be paying back just twenty four coins only.

)Abo's unable to speak, starts coughing, Judah coming nearer to him and trying to choke

back Abo's anger.(

Judah: it needn't to be angry, uncle (whispering) it would be better to have your capital

because there is no a survived sheep of the herd (Abo coughing again.(

Abo: (in a choked voice) I accept your verdict, where is the money?Jesus: (addressing Matto) bring him the money Matto (Matto going out to bring the

money.(

Abo: (addressing Judah in a low voice) they have deceived us but I'll mislead this guy, I

mean Son of Mary (Judah looking once at his uncle and another at Jesus, Abo raising his

voice addressing Jesus). Could you adjudicate on the tax that Caesar has compelled us to

pay?

The brokers: (getting what Abbot wants) yes, yesadjudicate on that.

Jesus: (patiently) not before finishing the first matter (Matto coming back, giving Judah asmall bag, and Judah counting the money, giving them to his uncle.(

Judah: they are twenty four silver coins (Abbot taking the money, putting them in his

pocket heedlessly.(

Jesus: well, now you can talk about the Caesar's tax.

Judah: you know that Caesar has compelled every citizen to pay one silver coin a year butevery one of the brokers should pay nine extra ones.Jesus: what's the matter! All talks are going about money here, as if every thing were

money! Don't you know Judah that I've never looked at any of these coins which you allare talking about!

Judah: it's really strange! You have quickly kept my name by heart; and you say that you

have never looked at money.

Jesus: I really say what I do really mean.

Judah: what a strange! (Judah taking a coin out of his pocket, speaking to Jesus): take this

piece of coin and then have a look at! (Jesus is taking the coin and looking at it, turning it

to look at its other side.(

Jesus: whose picture is this on the coin?

Abo: (interfering) that's Caesar's.

Jesus: why did he engrave his picture here?Abo: because he is the lord of Rome and for him the coins are beaten.

Jesus: does it mean the coins are his?Abo: of course! And no one can deny that.

Jesus: is he the one who divides and distributes the money among his soldiers, subjects,followers and citizens?

Abo: this is what he often does.

Jesus: and if he ordered them to pay it back would they disobey his order? (Abo feeling

embarrassed while Judah going crazy with the idea, adopting it.(Judah: (addressing his uncle) as if he were revealing my own thoughts!

Abo: (restraining him) Judah, have you forgotten yourself!Judah: I'm very sorry, uncle.

Jesus: do you still want my verdict on your matter?

The brokers: yesyes.

Jesus: (backing the coin to Judah) give Caesar what Caesar has.

)Brokers showing disapproval and Abo turning his face aside) do you want me to judge in

a different way?Judah: (showing his admiration of the judgment and the results) yesyes (to the brokers)

don't you agree?

Abo: (impatiently) didn't you hear him? He gave his verdict in favour of Caesar.

Jesus: do you want me to give my verdict in favour of God?

Abo: this is what I wanted exactly.

Jesus: well, I'll give my verdict in God's favour; do you see this temple which we are

standing among its ruins now, does it belong to Caesar?

Abo: Caesar has nothing to do with it at all! It's a temple for worshiping God, for prayersto be performed in, and sacrifices to be offered to God.

Jesus: do you really mean it is utterly for God.

Abo: It's entirely for God only.

Jesus: but you have exploited it to serve Caesar in! You are selling, buying and approving

usury with Caesar's money in the God's temple, I don't see any prayers or sacrifices to God!(Abo looking at the brokers, as if he werelooking for some one who might have an answer, and then looking again at Jesus, in

order to get rid of that critical situation, he nervously addressing Jesus.(Abo: let's have your verdict then.

Jesus: give God what God has and give Caesar what Caesar has.

Abo: what does such verdict mean? What do you definitely want?

Jesus: I want this place to be entirely for God as you have just said. Get out of it right

now. It is a sacred temple for worshiping God; not a bazaar for cereals trade.

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Abo: (angrily) do you drive us out of our fathers' and grandfathers' temple!

Jesus: if you don't go out of it, I'll inflict it on your heads.

)Abo winking at the brokers, who move to surround Jesus, Jesus turning back shouting)

who are my adherents to God? (Jesus companions (the apostles) coming in holding their

long thick heavy sticks, Judah joining them and they all standing in one line behind

Jesus.(The apostles: (in one strong voice) we are God's adherents (the brokers drawing back

with fear while Abo looking at them trying to be calm.(Abo: (addressing the brokers and then his nephew) never mind men, let's go out, but I

have another talk with you later on Judah. (Abo making his way out; followed by thebrokers, disapproval shouting is heard from the crowded people who came with Jesus

before, making a mockery of Abo and the brokers.(

Jesus: (addressing his companions) let people come in; the temple has become clean,

we all thank God.

2nd Scene)Same place(

)The temple is void except of Jesus and his intimate companions: Jabro, Brro, Matto,Petro, Lazarus, Marco, Macho, Dano, Georgeo, Yasso and Judah. Jesus is sitting on a big

stone surrounded by his companions, they are all dressed in stonemason uniform exceptMatto, who is dressed in shepherd gown and Judah is dressed in barterer fashion.(

Matto: what a great day it is! They got out of the temple like rats, frightened by a sudden

flood.

Jesus: (smiling and then going in deep cogitation, then rising up his head addressingJabro) how is it with you, Jabro?

Jabro: hostility isn't hidden any more, they will plan to harm us and this is an expectedbehavior of discourage miscreants.

Jesus: truth is what you tell.

Judah: you mustn't stay in the temple, this is what I suggest, Sir.

Jesus: are you worried about me?

Judah: I'm ready to sacrifice my life for you, Sir.

Jesus: (staring at Judah's face as if he knows his destiny) you're right.)Judah feels very happy, rushing to hug Jesus and kiss him)

Jabro: it would be better for us to disappear for a while; waiting for the expected results

and reactions which we must take care of.

Jesus: (walking and looking at walls and pillars of the temple) I wish I wouldn't go out of

this temple before I rebuild it; three days are enough to do that.

The apostles: we are ready to do what ever you wish, Sir.

Jesus: I'll decide tomorrow, God willing (cogitating for a while then continuing) listen to

me, my brothers, I'm going to meet you tonight so come to my date separately, Matto willbe waiting for you at that spring; one of you should stay to look after the temple, this is to

delude them and never give them a chance to know our place; let's go then, Jabro (Jesus

going out accompanied by Jbro, Brro and Matto.(

Judah: I'll stay here, brothers; you will come to take my place tomorrow, Petro.

Petro: that's a good idea!The apostles: see you tomorrow, Judah, bye.Judah: Good-bye.

)The apostles going out leaving Judah alone(

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3rd Scene

Same place

Judah: (walking and thinking loudly) this is the first step for rebuilding this templeI

have thought of that a lot! My wish will come trueit will be a great buildingit will be

a sacred place for all peopleis that credible (Abo coming in, but Judah not noticinghim) to rebuild it within three days!

Any how the work has startedit will be an emblem of glory and power as Solomon hadthought of it beforeyes a great glory and immortal power

Abo: what is that power you are thinking of?Judah: (surprised) my uncle, Abo!

Abo: (giving an admonitory look at his nephew) what does that Syrian prophet promise

you? Does he promise to appoint you a minister?

Judah: what are you talking about, uncle?Abo: I have just heard you mentioning glory and power (mockingly) did he announce that

he is the sons of Israel's king? Did he appoint you the finance minister? If he had donethat you would have gained the core of power.

Judah: a king, a minister! What do you say?

Abo: (seriously) listen well to me, you know that I postponed my marriage in order to

look after you and now you are going to be responsible for my little sons and my heritage

until my sons get older, so you are warned not to follow that real fox, didn't you see him

fluctuating and giving verdicts at random, once for Caesar the other for God, and youhave just said, he will rebuild this temple in three days! (Laughing) he is a mere maniac,

let him not deceive you with vain hopes or conjurers' and magicians' tricks, look at those

people who were gathered with him, beggars, paupers, idiots and powerless distorted

persons such as Matto, Lazarus, and that rotten Georgeo who smells like a wounded pig,

it's a wonder to be one of them, I think your friend, Petro, is responsible for your

delusion, any how, what is your ambition? Do you want to possess power?

Judah: it may be so, who doesn't like to have power over?

Abo: (interrupting him) the real power is what we, the sons of Israel, have; it's money,silver, gold, diamond and jewels, look, what do you actually see?? It's just a king goes

and another comes, a leader's star falls down another's shines bright, a prince inherits a

crown and a Caesar goes broke, but they all need money, need gold, power sometimes

looks better than money, but can you show me a ruler who doesn't need money? Caesar

himself is a living example for such need; you know well the last tax which he ordered usto pay; it proves that money is the master of the world (laughing) does Caesar think thathe is the one who gives or deprives, permits or prevents?? Who is he to think of himself

that?? In fact we; I mean the ones who have money, are the people who give orders andplace laws, but that is via Caesar himself.

Judah: I meant something else, something nobler, an ideal thing such as generosity and

magnanimity.

Abo: (wisely) what is that ideal thing you are talking about? Do you mean those idealists

and their deeds?? I can tell you a lot about many of them, would you like me to talk about

Socrates and his misleading way to understand existence, or about Plato who went

building his utopia in his daydreams after he had gone broke of power, or about his

lecherous student Alexander! They had built illusion and destroyed cities that was in

order to build a new orient, but what they built indeed was just a mirage, and these ruins

which we are standing among are the best witnesses, the world is too wide to be circled

by the ideas of narrow minded people.Judah: (smiling surprisingly) oh! What an eloquent philosopher you are, uncle!

Abo: (looking at him reproachfully then hugging him passionately) you are my hope(putting his hand on Judah's shoulder, walking with him to the entrance) listen to me, I

want you to go and meet the head of guards, Shawl (Judah jumping away as hearingShawl's name and feeling unhappy.(

Judah: I really hate that person; I wish I saw him not, neither here or in the other world.

Abo: does that mean; you don't want to go?

Judah: not at all, butAbo: (interrupting) force yourself to do that, you know where to find him, he is always

there; at the prison, with the security brigade, go and tell him that I'm waiting for himhere for an urgent and very important matter, and come back with him in order to go to

the baths altogether (Judah feeling sadder.(

Judah: well, uncle, but I'll never go with you to the baths, I can't bear to be with him.

Abo: well, you can do whatever you want, set out now (going out.(

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3rd Scene

Same place

)Abo is going to and backing in the temple, thinking and waiting for Judah to come back.

Judah comes in followed by Shawl, but he stops at the entrance while Shawal goes in.(

Abo: hello Shawl.

Shawl: hello, Abo, what's the matter?Abo: yes, it's about the new tax, I'll pay it right now because all brokers paid it as soon as

I told them about.Shawl: What did actually happen? You have changed your mind very quickly, you asked

me to postpone the tax just today morning, and you want to pay it now! I don't see theother brokers! Where are they?

Abo: (smiling affectedly) I've ordered them to go in order to talk calmly.

Sawl: and here I'm listening to you.

Abo: I want you to arrange a very early meeting with Billatus; it would be bettertomorrow morning.

Shawl: what is the matter exactly? You know well that he doesn't meet any body beforenoon.

Abo: I depend on your aptitude for persuading him; especially when you tell him that I'm

going to pay two year taxes in advance, isn't that a good reason?

Shawl: aren't you going to clarify the whole matter for me once for all?

Abo: you will know about each thing at its time, don't be in a hurry.

Shawl: well, I'll try to do my best.Abo: let's go now to the baths in order to have a rest of a long work day; I'm sure that you

are tired after walking the whole day in Jerusalem lanes announcing the punishment of

the two criminals.

Abo: thank you, Abo, you know well my tiresome job.

Abo: though your father is a roman but you are one of us and the blood that is running in

your arteries and veins is ours.

Shawl: I wish he were not my father because he inherited me this military job, the job of

misery, else I were a broker.Abo: take it easy (speaking to Judah when they are going out) would you like to be with

us?

Judah: I'm afraid I can't; enjoy your time (Abo and Shawl are going out, but Judah

staying(

4th Scene

Same place

)Next day, late in the morning, there are few worshipers in the temple; Judah is standing

at the gate listening to voices out of the temple, Abo coming in(Judah: hello uncle, have you come in order to pray or to do something else?

Abo: (trying to be calm) no one of those, I've come to tell you that we have our bazaar atthe outer wall of the temple so your prophet; I mean Jesus, has nothing against us now.

Judah: It's good to do that performing one of God's deserved duties.

Abo: you are talking like him; there are no oddities of that since you both are alike, are

you going to stay here for a long time?? Listen to me, well; to seclude yourself withinthese walls is not a way for living, I need your help in my job.

Judah: never mind, uncle. I never forget that I work with you for twenty four silverounces per a year; your money is always stinging me! I'm waiting for Petro, he is late, I

can't leave this place until he comes, and there must be someone here to look after the

temple.

Abo: When that oh! What's his name?

Judah: Petro.

Abo: Yes, Petro, when Petro comes, follow me to that place, bazaar never forgives theabsent (going out, sound of a brass tool rising up, Shawl coming in and Judah stopping

him(

Judah: where are you going? This is not a bazaar yet; to tell your Master's orders in.

Shawl: what happens! What is the matter with you? (Looking round) What an odd!

Where are the brokers, the sellers, the vendors, the slavers and the costumers? What a

prevailing quietness is this!

Judah: If you mean the bazaar, it is out; it's over there in front of the wall.

Shawl: what's new? Do you prevent me of coming in?Judah: unless you want to offer a sacrifice or to pray and ask for God's forgiveness you

are not welcomed here.

Shawl: (gets the implied meaning) do you remind me of the secret you keep? (Judah

looking at him angrily) don't be angry, there will be a day when we settle down this

matter, that is exactly as your uncle does with his clients.Judah: If you really want to settle down that matter go before me to the plaza and let thatbe in front of all.

Shawl: This is not the way (trying to change the talk) don't you want to listen to thisannouncement?

Judah: utterly not! Go and recite it (pointing) over there where you can find listeners.

Shawl: you have become a fierce leopard, you pet bunny! (Smiling affectedly) see you

later! (Shawl is going out followed by the vanishing sound of the brass tool.(

Judah: (aside) see you never! I swear that a pigsty is cleaner than you.

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14


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5th Scene

)Same place(

)Petro's coming in hurriedly, looking worried(

Judah: welcome Petro, what's the matter? Why are you late? You know well that I should

look after my uncle's job.Petro: didn't you hear the ruler's announcement?

Judah: though I didn't hear it, but I know there is a new one, what has that romanannounced?

Petro: he pronounced a sentence of crusification till death on Son of Mary.Judah: (astounded to hear the news, putting his hands on his forehead, and murmuring) I

sacrifice my life for you Master (asking Petro). Did he know or hear of that?

Petro: we can't tell him before night fall, spies are spread everywhere, the prize is thirty

three silver ounces for the person who leads them to his place, imagine thirty three silverounces!

Judah: (astonished) thirty three silver ounces!Petro: yes, that is it.

Judah: Good Heaven! It's a well studied prize!

Petro: what do you mean? What is well studied in that? It is an

appetizing sum.

Judah: (murmuring) I'm not mistaken in what I'm thinking of, it is his way of making

accounts.Petro: who is he that you mean?

Judah: (taking notice of himself) Oh! Nothingnothing at all, my mind has gone far

astrayWhen will this day finish? I can't control myself!

Petro: (trying to remind him) arent you going to your work?

Judah: that piece of news is making me forgetting even myself; anyhow, I'm leaving, see

you very soon, Petro.

Petro: see you ( rising his hands to supplicate for God.(

Curtains

3rd Action

Curtain is drawn to show a very natural cave; lightened with small clay lamps

distributed here and there on the cave walls at the back of the stage. There is a large

pottery vessel full of water at the right side of the cave entrance. In front of the cave; inthe middle of the stage, there is a twined ditch reed mat.

1st Scene

)The light in the cave is weak. Jesus is sitting on the mat with Jabro and Brro(Brro: an hour or more than that has passed since the sunset, and none of our friends

comes yet!

Jesus: don't be in a hurry; they have their reasons, that may be a way of precautionthey

will come one by one as I told them; anyhow Matto is waiting for them near the spring.Gabro: you were silent all the day, Sir, how can I dispel some of your worries?

Jesus: this is what you do, but I'm always thinking of my mother, and this is the reason ofmy silence if you want to know.

Gabro: God bless you, I haven't seen one venerates his mother more than you!

Jesus: how could I be not so! Isn't she the prime and main cause of my existence?? Isn't

she my leading way to have God's mercy and forgiveness?? I say: venerate your parents;

your children venerate you.

Brro: that is good advice, could I ask for more?)Jesus smiling and going in deep cogitation then picking up a twig and doodling on the

earth and then asking Brro without looking at him(

Jesus: If some one slapped you on one of your cheek what would you do? (Rising his

head and looking at Brro's face(

Brro: (asking politely) what should I do, Sir?

Jesus: (thinking for a while, smiling) show him the other one.

Brro: (controlling himself, as if he were really slapped by some one) but...how that could

be!Jesus: (looking at Burro's face) if your house were on fire how would you extinguish it;

by water or by fire?

Brro: (finding the question strange) by water, Sir!

Jesus: (throwing the twig) evil is exactly the same; it can't be defied by evil.

Brro: upon my soul you have made me feel happy (Voices are heard outside(Gabro: our companions are coming.Jesus: Thank God.

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2nd Scene

)Same place(

)All disciples are attending except Lazarus(

Jesus: take it easy; nothing might come to be unless it was predestined by God

(addressing Matto)you were right, Matto; they have plotted cowardly and meanly (talking

to the disciples) anyhow don't despair but have full trust in God's mercy.Judah: we won't get ruffled as long as you are among us.

Jesus: Be glorified God; who removed both agony and agitation out of our hearts,(addressing Marco) did you see Lazarus today, Marco?

Marco: no, Sir. May you excuse him for being absent, Sir?Jesus: never mind, Marco, you are a good man.

Judah: (addressing Jesus) Sir, I think who plotted against you is Jesus:

(interrupting him) I wish you'd keep silent Judah; I know well who plotted for Billatus'

verdict, but I'm ordered to reveal secrets not, I do swear that I know what every one haskept at his home.

Matto: (teasingly) you know as they know too (pointing at the disciples) what I have atmy home. (Jesus is smiling at the teasing as the disciples laughing.(

Jesus: but you have kept one thing.

Matto: (perplexed) what is that thing which I have kept!

Jesus: you have kept the news of the herd slaughter to yourself.

)Matto nodding and laughing, the disciple laughing too and humor prevailing(

Gabro: you didn't tell us about what you have intended to do.Jesus: (teasingly) do you want them to leave quickly! (Gabro smiling) I do appreciate

your real feelings of their suffering today.

Gabro: they have got tired of waiting for along time before meeting you, Sir.

Judah: I think none of us had a drink or food all the day; we all were very eager to meet

you, Sir.

Petro: you are right, Judah. I don't remember that I had food or drink all the day.

Georjo: so did I really!

Jesus: and you too, Masho.Masho: you are right, Sir.

Jesus: (addressing Dano and Yasso) I'm sure that you both have done the same.

Dano and Yasso: that is right, Sir.

Jesus: God be glorified! Your friends here didn't eat or drink any thing too.

Judah: it is a blessed day!Masho: I ask you Sir to consider it a ceremony date for us and we are the first who fastedand celebrated of it and it will be a festival day for our coming generations.

Jesus: (teasingly) how it would be fasting without a breakfast or a celebration without abanquet?!

Matto: no problem of that; couldn't your God bring down a banquet for us?!

Jesus: (embarrassed shyly) be cautious of God if you are good real believers.

Matto: (pointing to his mouth) we want to eat thereof.

Marco: (pointing to his chest) our hearts feel safe.

Judah: (pointing to his head) to be sure that you are really truthful with us.

Gabro: (pointing to his eyes) and to be witnesses for. (Jesus is thinking for a while,

silence is prevailing, Jesus turning to them.(

Jesus: my God says that He is bringing it down to you but any of you who disbelieves

after that will have a torment that none of people inflicted such as. (Disciples feel glad

and thank God loudly) thank God, thank God.Jesus: (pointing to his mouth) know well men that the feast of the mouth is God

thankfulness (pointing to his chest) as the heart feast is God rememberance (pointing tohis head) so the feast of the mind is the knowledge of God's law (pointing to his eyes) and

the feast of entity is the man witnessing of God righteousness (looking at the discipleswho look astonished then he smiles) but the feast of stomach; let every one of you wish a

food or a drink.

Georgeo: Could I wish wine?!

Jesus: your wish comes true, but beware of wine because a little amount of cause joy, buta great deal might destroy (disciples laughing, Jesus turning to Matto) you can go to the

water spring, Matto, the foods and the drinks you wished were brought there (thedisciples are astonished while Matto stands fixed like a statue; Jesus shakes him)

Matto...Matto.

Matto: aah.

Jesus: (smiling) go there to the water spring the banquet was brought. (Matto goes

astonished.(.

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3rd Scene

Same place

)The disciples surrounding Jesus, Matto coming in carrying a basket followed by Martha,

Magda and Mary am carrying on their heads platters of food, Lazarus following them

carrying drink vessels(

Lazarus: be saved, men.Disciples: be saved you, too.

Lazarus: I'm sorry; my sisters with Magda insisted to bring you food and this is the causefor being late.

Jesus: never mind, I knew that well. (The women put down the platters on the mat asLazarus put downs the vessels, too. The disciple circling the feast, Jesus raising his hands

and the disciples doing the same) we are asking You God to bestow us as You are the

most prodigious giver; to have mercy upon us as you are the most gracious merciful; to

bless your people for ever; You God of all.Disciples: Amen.

Jesus: rejoice and enjoy God's blessings and praise Him. (Judah stands, approaches andkisses Jesus forehead(

Judah: I witness that you are rightfully God's messenger. (Taking his place again(

Jesus: say thank God again and again.

Disciples: thank God.

4th Scene

Same place

)Disciples finished eating; sitting comfortably, the women finished taking the empty

platters and pots away; putting them in the corner of the entrance, Magda coming nearer

to Jesus(Magda: am I permitted to comb your hair, Sir.

Jesus: (smiling) yes, you are permitted.Magda: (starting her work) what is the style that you want it to be, Sir?

Jesus: you are the one who sees it so you can choose what ever you like to see.Magda: (looking at Judah) I'll make it like Judah's.

Jesus: (teasingly) it's enough for me that he look likes me to such extent of similarity!

(Disciples laugh as Jesus smiles while Magda takes a pot of an oily essence out of her

pocket and pour it on Jesus' head rubbing his hair with it without noticing her(Judah: (noticing her) what are you doing!

Jesus: (raising his hand) let her does what ever she wants.Magda: thus the matter won't confuse one; he will have a nice scent that none of you has.

(Disciples laugh while Judah shakes his head surrendered to her will(

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5th Scene

Same place

)It's dawn; Jesus has the same appearance of Judah with the new hair style that Magda

made(

Lazarus: I'm really embarrassed but could I ask you about something, Sir?

Jesus: (gets what Lazarus refers to) with pleasure; I want you to know that the wholematter is as it has been and as you have seen, that is all, anyhow it's late now and you

have to pass the way to Jerusalem; I think you have spent a hard day, isn't that?Lazarus: You are right, Sir.

Jesus: well, you can leave now. (Lazarus carries the vessels and the women carry theplatters) farewell, brothers (Judah turns to Jesus astonished by the last clause(

Lazarus: farewell, Sir.

Martha: farewell, Son of Mary.

Magda: farewell, Prophet of God.Miriam: farewell, Sir.

Marco: farewell, Sir. (The group moves toward the cave entrance and they go out one byone Lazarus and Marco at first(

Jesus: (addressing Gabro) don't you know that I have decided what to do?

Gabro: I've known as well Judah. (Judah turns to Gabro astonished(

Judah: How can you know, what is your proof?

Gabro: your sudden quick turning has revealed your secret.

Judah: (smiling) you are right, Gabro.Jesus: listen to me, my brothers; the worst one of the countries is that has no safety in.

Judah: could you find a remedy solution for this problem?

Jesus: to know the reasons is the first step towards correct treatment of any disease and

this treatment is a base with four rules the first is the effective drug, the second is the

supplication to God, the third is the fair charity and the fourth is the real confidence in

God's capability of removing any hardshipthe cause of the horrible terrible evil that

people endure is the bribe.

Judah: and what is its remedy?Jesus: self-restraint and patience.

Georgeo: how can we bring these two virtues into the mind of such people?

Jesus: when you have a difficult matter; make it easy by leaving it, but let it remains

under your sight and think of it by your clairvoyance until you discover a solution for it,

because every thing has its own time to come on. Eschew usury because it does demolishblesses and inherits minds and hearts both malice and venom.Judah: we are hard put to it to leave us as well we can't ask where your destination will be

to; but let us have good tidings that make us feel glad.Jesus: distance has no existence since you are always remembered by me as long as I live

and the news that will make you feel happy is that I want you to know about the

approaching of the prophet Ahmmad who will call for the welfare of all people; so tell

well about him and never estrange but support him when he comes as you have supported

me; at last now, witness that I have apprised you of God's message. (Disciple get that it is

the valediction time so they come one by one to shake hand and say farewell(

Georgeo: Could you advise me on life ways, Sir?

Jesus: do your job well.

Georgeo: farewell. (Exit(

Dano: I need your advice too, God's prophet.Jesus: don't tell lie.

Dano: Farewell. (Exit(Masho: and me too, Son of the Virgin.

Jesus: don't steal.Masho: farewell. (Exit(

Judah: please advise me, you who came of God's soul?

Jesus: don't betray.

Judah: farewell. (Exit(Yasso: yes, Sir. Advise me please?

Jesus: obey your parents.Yasso: farewell. (Exit(

Petro: advise me, Sir?

Jesus: don't kill.

Petro: could I ask you to stay until departure time?

Jesus: you have that.

Petro: thanks. (Jesus sits and Matto comes nearer(Matto: you have honored each with good advice so could I have a piece?

Jesus: (teasingly) are you in hurry to leave?

Matto: I' haven't meant that, Sir.

Jesus: don't fornicate or commit adultery.

Matto: bless be your words, God's prophet. (Jesus turns to Brro, teasingly(

Jesus: do you shy away from asking me, Brro?

Brro: you're asked, Sir.

Jesus: be generous and hospitable to your neighbor then.Brro: be honored by God and supported by His Holy Spirit.

Gabro: you have said right, Brro.

Jesus: (teasingly) are you aiming to have advice too?

Gabro: (smiling) you are the best to receive advice from.

Jesus: be sincere to God. Gabro: I'm as sincere to God as you are. (They have a reciprocal smile(Jesus: let's have a short nap before the dawn because I see to set out next night.

Gabro: that's right, Sir. (Every one has his own place to lie(

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6th Scene

Same place

)It's to hours after the sun rise; Jesus is sitting thoughtfully while other men still lying,

Matto is not among them, Petro is moving and rising his head to see Jesus, he gets up

quickly(

Petro: Good morrow, Sir.Jesus: good morrow how was your sleep?

Petro: thank God, it was deep sleep it was slumber. (The other men get up and greetJesus(

Gabro: are we permitted to go to the water spring, Sir?Jesus: yes, you are permitted. (The men go out while Jesus remains alone) My God there

is no aiding might or helping power except yoursmy God let it be your right will word

the uppermost and the disbelievers' false wickedness plot the most inferior, God You are

the All-Hearing and Respondent, Amen? (He goes in deep thinking while Gabro comesback smiling) Gabro: Petro was about to fall into the water. Thank God that Brro was

near him and held him before falling.Jesus Thank God.

Gabro: I think Matto is watching the road before the first twinkle of the dawn.

Jesus: Yes, that's.

Gabro: It is really a wonder that Matto is always alert!

Jesus: it's the pure innateness that the false civic society didn't corrupt.

Gabro: Should one abandon his urban life?Jesus: these cities all are just frames, but the well civilized person is the one, who

deserted corrupting effects and inequity, but who adopts these effects is more aberrant

than a swine in a swamp; even if he were in a palace of gold (Petro and Brro come back(

Petro: Blessed Heaven, cold water is very refreshing!

Jesus: Thank God. (He thinks for a while; the others keep silent, then he rises up his

head) it seems there is something very new.

Gabro: what is the matter, Sir?

Jesus: Matto is coming on the road bringing news. (Matto comes in frightened(Matto: I've just seen a group of roman soldiers led by their chief and guided by a man in

barterer clothes.

Jesus: did any of them notice you?

Matto: not at all, Sir

Jesus: you should go and hide and let no one notice you. Matto: (amazed) Sir.Jesus: hurry up, go, disappear and don't come back here at all. (Matto goes while Petro

takes a knife out of his pocket and stand hidden at the entrance(Jesus: Petro. What are you doing?

Petro: they will never be able to take you unless they kill me at first.

Jesus: who told you that they will be able to take me?

Petro: what are you saying, Mary's Son? They are about to reach here. Let me tear them

all.

Jesus: (catching Petro, shaking him violently, and blaming him) haven't I advised you to

kill not, put your knife in your pocket, come with me, sit down here beside me and dont

move or talk at all. (To Gabro and Brro) and you both can sit too, they don't want any one

of you, I'm the only targeted one so any one of you is not requested to do anything unless

I order him.

Petro: (bitterly) Judah has betrayed us! What have I done!Jesus: it's the second time you obey me not, take care Petro, who told you that Judah has

betrayed us? Don't say that again and keep silent. (Betro hides his face with his handsshyly) haven't you heard my sdvice to him, or you have forgot it too, as you have forgot

yours, every thing will be clear very soon, so dont be in hurry, asking for an earlyoccurrence of God's predestined fates, and remember well that Judah is not the one who

might betray. (Judah's voice is heard at the entrance: let the soldiers stay out as we have

agreed, Shawal. Shawal's voice is heard ordering his soldiers to stay out. Judah comes in

followed by Shawal(Judah: Be saved men.

Jesus, Gabro and Brro: be saved you too. (Shawal looks at them astonished(Shawal: Which one of you is Mary's Son?

Jesus: (stands and comes forward) I'm Mary's Son.

)Shawal is amazed and not able to speak, looking at Jesus then looking at Judah then

looking at Jesus again(

Shawal: Which one of you is Mary's Son and which one of you is Judah?!

Judah: that is very good shawl! You have started to get so we can negotiate.Shawal: (still astonished) yesyes.

Judah: we can settle down an old matter then (the last words make Shawal wake up(

Shawal: it's not the time and we didn't come for that!

Judah: (taking Shawals hand firmly and leading him aside) this is the best and most

suitable time (whispering) it's your lucky break, Shawal.

Shawal: what are you saying?

Judah: do you remember what happened that night?

Shawal: pleaseJudah: (interrupting) do you know that my uncle knows all about that.

Shawal: damn! What are you saying!

Judah: yes, that's, he knows that in very meticulous details, how you muzzled that girl

how you took off her clotheshow you raped herhow you choked her and then you

throw her into the well how you stole her pail and hid it.Shawal: be silent, they may hear you, but your uncle didn't drop a hint or show anythingrelated to that.

Judah: and he will never show it if you don't mention what is going to be here, but if youtell him he will be very angry and reveal your secret.

Shawal: I did get what do you mean, I didn't get

Judah: you will understand now, tell me didn't you think of getting rid of me?

Shawal: (embarrassed) what are you saying Judah?

Judah: A waited golden chance has just come, so don't let it run away from you now.

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Shawal: I don't get what you say! I don't understand you!

Judah: it's very easy matter, you will understand now, come with me

)Taking Shawal with the hand, they come to Jesus and stop in front of him, Judah leaves

Shawal's hand(

Could I ask for something, Sir?

Jesus: ask for what ever you want.Judah: could I have your shirt, Sir?

Jesus: it's yours. (Taking off his shirt and giving it to Judah(Judah: thanks a lot, Sir. (Taking the shirt and giving it to Shawal) hold this for a while

(taking off his sleeveless small shirt then his shirt too and gives them to Jesus) pleaseaccept my present, Sir (giving the shirts to Jesus(

Jesus: I've accepted it. (Judah helping Jesus to wear the shirts then he takes off his own

hat and put it on Jesus head kissing Jesus' forehead and returning to Shawal taking Jesus'

shirt from him and wear it then he unties his braids, spitting on his fingers dipping themin the ground and staining his cheek on the scar then turns to Shawal(

Judah: have you got, Shawal?Shawal: (astonished but getting the aim) Judah you the freak geniusyou are the devil

and the devil himself has to learn from you! (Laughing and looking once at Judah and

once at Jesus) but

Judah; (interrupting) but these (pointing to Gabro and Brro) no one has seen them, and

they will travel and you will never see their faces at all, for Petro; he is a truthful friend

and he never betrays, and don't forget what's in my pocket too; thirty three sterling silverounces.

Shawal: (happily) will they be completely mine?

Judah: certainly and be sure that you will have them as soon as you imprison me.

Shawal: (looking happily once at Jesus and once at Judah then laughing loudly) that make

no odds it makes no difference since all roads lead to Rome (point at his own chest

putting his hand on Judah's shoulder) your way is to prison now, Mary's Son (turning to

Jesus) and you, Judah; let your way be to Abyssinia! (Taking with Judah's shirt collar

from behind pushing him for ward to go out(Judah: (turning before going out) they won't have what they want, Sir.

)They go out while Jesus thinks deeply then rising up his head and looking at Petro(

Petro: forgive me Sir.

Jesus: never mind but beware of Shawal.

Gabro: isn't the time to leave, Sir?

Jesus: yes, the way is open now.Petro: (sadly) where to, Sir, and all roads lead to Rome?

Jesus: (smiling) except one.Petro: which one, Sir?

Jesus: (smiling again) that one Shawal mentioned.

)Curtain(

Second Part

)Shawal(

Three Actions

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1st action

)the curtain is drawn to show an out wall of Jerusalem, it's actually an outer part of the

temple, in the middle of the stage to the back appears the gate of the city, the wall goes

along the back of the stage until it ends at the right side, in front of the wall salesmen,

merchants with their goods, customers and barterers, near the gate there is a vanishingway leading to Bethlehem, in the front of the stage there is a canvas fixed on two

wooden columns at the front and it is fixed on the wall at the back, under it the head ofbarterers Abo is standing(

"1st scene"

)Place: Jerusalem wall(

)Shawal is coming out of the gate to the front of the stage to tell Abo the good news,followed by Petro while Jesus disguised in Judah's shirt and hat goes out of the gate to the

way leading to Bethlehem followed by Gabro and Brro, the three disappear away(Shawal: The good tidings that will please you, Abo, are the arresting of your new king.

Shawal: you have done well, Shawal (noticing Petro) who has brought this looming devil

here now. (Petro coming nearer(

Petro: Be saved, head of barterers.

Shawal: (mockingly) look. How sad is he for his companion!

Abo: what do you want Petro?

Petro: I've just come to tell you that Judah saw you standing with Shawal and asked me totell you that he was going to Bethlehem to tell Jesus' mother about her son.

Shawal: yes, that's right I saw them before I came out of the gate.

Shawa: well, well, you can go (Petro running quickly to follow his friend and he

disappear too(

Shawal: you can make all the barterers glad now by telling them the happy news, and

don't forget please that I was the first one who told you that.

Abo: (laughing) how greedy you are! (Taking a coin out of his pocket and putting it inShawals' hand(

Shawal: don't I deserve your kind favor?

Abo: you deserve more than that especially if I hear that you have raised him to the

crown.

Shawal: (laughing) early in tomorrow morning we are going to (Abo laughing(

Abo: I'll see him tomorrow when he passes the gate; then I'll be sure that you have takenvengeance on him for Israel sons' dignity; Shawal this is our blood that runs in your

veins.Shawal: don't forget, Abo that Rome eyes are every where.

Abo: (laughing) we are the eyes of Rome and its blood too.

Shawal: that's right. Do you know who did guide us to him?

Abo: definitely, one of us.

Shawal; yes, but you won't believe if I mention his name for you.

Abo: tell me who is that person who guided you to his place?

Shawal: you will never believe that!

Abo: tell me for the sake of Isaac and Jacob please?

Shawal: that's Judah; your nephew.

Abo: what are you saying? (Laughing loudly) Judah; a real genius! (Going on laughing)

he guided you then he traveled to Bethlehem to console Jesus' mother; I can't believe that!Oh my nephew how clever you are!

Shawal: and he had the prize too; that was thirty three sterling silver ounces.Abo: Oh my god! How much I love you my nephew! This universe is too small to have

my happinessgo Shawal and let me tell these glad tidings to the sons of my nation(laughing(

Shawal: enjoy your happiness. Bye Abo.

Abo: good-bye Shawaaaaal.

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2nd Scene

)Same place(

)Next day afternoon; Abo and a group of barterers are standing beside the wall. Shawal is

coming in from the side of the way which leads to Bethlehem, addressing Abo(

Shawal: Good afternoon, Israel's sons.

Abo: good afternoon, Shawal. I'm sure; you have good news.Shawal: your chirping sparrow has ceased to be on his bough.

Abo: (laughing) I haven't recognized that you are a poet, Shawal, tell me how everythingwas?

Shawal: he was firmly consistent at the beginning (laughing) a real king.Whenever I asked him: are you the king of Israel's sons? He smiled and answered: you

say that!

Abo: (amazed) it's a strange matter! Do you know; while you were drawing him through

this gate in the morning my eyes met his; I was actually frightened because I thought thatI had seen my nephew?

Abo: your imagination has gone astray; let me tell you about what happened too.Abo: wellwell, go on.

Shawal: at the beginning he was firmly consistent, but after a while; he started to collapse

very quickly; and he started to shout too: I'm not he I'm not he, whenever I asked him:

are you the king of Israel's sons?

Abo: then what?

Shawal: he went on shouting and repeating: I'm not heI'm not he until I got bored of

his shouts; then I took one soldier's spear and pierced it there between the ribs and thehips through the waist directly into the heart to be silent for ever.

Shawal: you have done well since you made him silent for ever! This is yours (taking a

coin, putting it in Shawal's hand(

Shawal: thanks a lot; you know how to appreciate my effort.

Abo: I think; I saw Petro among the crowds today!

Shawal: really! I didn't notice him.

Abo: he said he would follow Judah to Bethlehem! Remember.Shawal: (mockingly) perhaps he preferred to stay and watch what would have been

happened to his companion.

Abo: that's a convincing reason (mockingly) he was beloved by them; as long as he was

able to charm them by his deeds and speeches.

Shawal: are you sad for him!

Abo: (Laughing) yes, I'm as sad as you, Shawal. (The last laughing too(Shawal: you will laugh too much if you know who brought the ropes and chains for him!

Abo: who did?Shawal: that was his companion, Georgeo, the smith! And do you know who brought the

wood too?

Abo: don't say that was his companion, Masho, the carpenter!

Shawal: yes, that was he (laughing loudly(

Abo; I think, his stone men companions chiseling a sarcophagus now (going on laughter)

you deserve an invitation to the public bath, let's go, Shawal (they go.(

3rd Scene

)Same place but after two days, its noon. The market is very crowded and all people there

are very busy,Abo is standing under the canvas, Shawal entering through the gate coming to Abo(

Shawal: Hello, Abo. How is it with you?Abo: welcome, Shawal.

Shawal: oh! You are alone! Didn't Judah come yet?Abo: (worried) not yet!

Shawal: at last, they took him in the morning to Bethlehem.

Abo: (thinking) Bethlehem!

Shawal: (trying to amuse him) believe or not, that no one of his companions was daringto ask the ruler to bring down his body in order to bury.

Abo: they are coward like mice, but who asked for the body?Shawal: that was old Joseph the Archer; he'd gone to Bilatus and asked him that, the ruler

allowed him to do!

Abo: it might that Billatus had pity on the old man (drowning in thoughts(

Shawal: what's the matter Abo, what are you thinking of?

Abo: they are thirty three sterling silver ounces, carried by Judah, they are what I'm

thinking of, I'm actually afraid of a robber that may attack him or a thief that may steal

them while he is asleep, and it's really an enticing sum.Shawal: don't worry, I think Judah is going to come tomorrow; because they will burry

him today, and your nephew won't stay beside his sepulcher.

Abo: I'm not worried about Judah, he can manage every thing.

Shawal: (trying to avoid him thinking) didn't Judah tell you something about me one day?

Abo: I have all the news about you, there is no need to hear anything about you from

anybody since I know you as I know myself, but your question is strange! Don't you think

that?Shawal: Sorry, I mean your nephew is not on friendly terms with me.

Abo: and he is not on unfriendly term with you simultaneously as you know well, or do

you want me to oblige him to be your intimate friend? Is not enough for you to have my

friendliness and companionship!

Shawal: (laughing flatteringly) I give up, and confess that you have defeated me utterly.

Abo: as you know tomorrow is a holiday so let me see you after tomorrow to tell about allrecent news.

Shawal: well, see you later.Abo: good bye. (Shawal goes(

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4th Scene

)After two days, same place, it is an afternoon, the people in the market started to leave,

Abo is sitting under the canvas. Shawal entering through the gate, coming to Abo(

Shawal: Good afternoon, Abo.

Abo: good afternoon, what's going on?Shawal: ridiculous news carried by Petro from Bethlehem reporting that Mary's son has

risen from his sarcophagus and left the sepulcher to unknown place.Abo: who might believe such nonsense! But didn't Judah come back with Petro?

Shawal: didn't Judah come yet!!Abo: not yet! (Thinking) I'm actually worried about his absence!

Abo: listen well and get what I say; Petro came here to say that Judah was traveling to

Bethlehem with Jesus' friends, whom we know nothing about them, then Petro returned

and never traveled with them, and after that he escorted the corpus to burry Jesus' body inBethlehem, now he is here with all others who went there, except Judah! Where did

Judah go with those strangers? There is no doubt that they knew who told on Jesus' placeand had revenge on him, certainly they had killed him and took his money.

Shawal: (Thinking) is that reasonable! What can we do? I don't find a piece of

evidence in your suspesions; they are just recurring illusive ideas, Abo.

Abo: my ideas are more realistic than the news about the resurrection of a dead after three

days of his death.

Shawal: I didn't say anything except what that fool had mentioned.

Abo: and that fool, Petro is the main clue, because he knows all persons who were withJudah on the way to Bethlehem.

Shawal: you are right, Abo. I don't know how such an idea didn't occur in my mind! It's

certain, he knows more than that.

Abo: but how can we know that from him? What's the way that helps us to know from

him whatever we want of the hidden secrets he keeps?

Shawal: listen to me Abo. Petro is broadcasting incredible news and such thing causes

trouble among people and makes Billatus get angry.Abo: what do you mean?

Shawal: tomorrow won't come without the order of arresting Petro, and then you can

know every thing from him.

Abo: you are smart, Shawal.

Shawal: (laughing triumphantly and pointing to himself) all ways lead to Rome.

Abo; (taking a coin and putting it in Shawal's hand) best wishes of success (Shawallaughing loudly as he quits(

)Curtain(

2nd Action

The curtains are drawn to show a roman style hall with roman style furniture where the

governor meets people. At the middle back of the hall there is a chair where Billatus sits

on, the desk and the chair of the clerk are on the right, the hall has two entrances fromboth sides, there are some chairs on the left and the right, there is a table with glasses and

jars next to the left entrance, all things there show power and authority.

1st Scene)It's a noon, the clerk sitting at his desk. At the right door sanding a man who leads the

visitors to there chairs, a servant comes in announcing(

The servant: his Excellency the governor Billatus. (The clerk stands whileBillatus comes in stepping towards his chair. The servant shuts the door and stands at it(

Billatus: good day, Nicolas. What's up? Tell me.

Nicolas: good day, Sir. Shawal and the head of barterers, Abo, are waiting for you, Sir.

(Billatus shows a boring gesture by his hand(

Billatus: as if we have no other problem all over the roman countries but those two

wicked. Have the guards imprisoned that idiot, Petro?

Nicolas: Yes, they have, Sir.

Billatus: and what's the matter with these two?Nicolas: Abo proclaims that Petro and his friends have some relation with Judah's

disappearance with the money which the last was carrying with him.

Billatus: how was that while we have Petro here in the prison?

Nicolas: Judah with the money had disappeared before that. Actually he disappeared on

the day he had the prize, and Jesus was arrested.

Billatus: how that happened?

Nicolas: he traveled with Jesus' companions to Bethlehem on that day and he didn't returnsince.

Billatus: no newsno clues?

Nicolas: at all, Sir.

Billatus: (thinking) don't you think that Abo had tried to be late until Petro was arrested

before he started this legal proceeding!?

Nicolas: perhaps there is something prepared.Billatus: Well, let them come in (Nicolas goes out from the right door and comes back

with Shawal and Abo; he shuts the door after they come(Shawal: good afternoon, Sir (bowing(

Abo: good afternoon, Sir (bowing(

Billatus: have your seats (pointing to the seats, they sit while Nicolas keeps standing) I'm

going to set that idiot free, Petro. (Abo and Shawal looking at each other astonishingly)

he is an idiot, and the prison is not an asylum.

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Shawal: Your wish is an order, Sir, but he won't stop broadcasting rumors about Mary's

Son.

Billatus: every nation has its own legends, and it needs them, so when we don't know the

reasons of any matter, we hurry to create justifications for it, in fact it's difficult for us to

confess of our ignorance.

Shawal: yes, Sir, you are right, but Abo has a legal proceeding against Petro, and heaccuses him and two other persons of killing and stealth.

Billatus: is that right, Abo?Abo: yes, Sir, my nephew with his money had disappeared and didn't return back from

Bethlehem, no body knows about him except Petro who sat out with him on the road butretuned here alone, Shawal had seen them all when they went out of the gate.

Billatus: did you witness that, Shawal?

Shawal: yes, Sir and I'm sure, they were four persons, Judah, Petro and two strangers.

Billatus: (addressing Nicolas) bring that prisoner here.Nicolas: yes, Sir. (He goes out(

Billatus: listen well Abo, yesterday, the accused was Jesus and Petro is the accused today,and I don't know who will be tomorrow, don't you see that you have gone too far! Billatus

is not a means to you ends.

Abo: sorry, Sir.

Billatus: (interrupting him by a gesture) I had sentenced Jesus upon your wish ignoring

Rome justice, though his affair wasn't that serious one, the whole matter was his request

to you to go out of the temple which you have no right indeed to be in, but you have

made of that a very serious universal matter effecting Rome security and its existence asif all that was depending on this ruined temple, though I can not forget the frightened

looks of Jesus when I shouted asking him: what is the truth? I was not lenient at all and I

ordered to crucify him, and now you bring me an idiot and you ask me to sentence him

too! (Nicolas comes in looking at Billatus who stop talking(

Nicolas: excuse me, Sir; shall I bring the prisoner in?

Billatus: yes, it is the right time. (Petro coming with shackles and scuffs in a miserable

state. Billatus looking at him then at Shawal) he won't sustain for a long time with you,Shawal, (to the servant) drink him some water.

The servant: Yes, Sir. (Taking a glass pouring some water in, making Petro drinks, then

turning back to his place(

Billatus: (calmly and gently) tell me, Petro, about what happened there in Bethlehem.

Petro: yes, Sir, I'll do. We, his companions, brought the corpus down to the burial cave,

laid that body in the sarcophagus and put the heavy stone lid on; we all put that lidbecause it was very heavy.

Billatus: you have done well! And what was after?Petro: we decided to watch over the sarcophagus, one of us every night, and I asked my

friends to be the first, they agreed, and I stayed there alone, but when the oil lamp light

died it became too dark, I fell asleep because I was very tired the day before, I dont

know how I awoke up suddenly to see the cave enlightened as if the full moon were in, I

looked at the cave entrance to see a shadow of a man that reminded me of Mary's Son, I

got up and looked at the sarcophagus to see a drawn away lid, and to find nothing in the

stone coffin box, I ran to the entrance, where the shadow was, thinking that some one has

stolen the body, I ran here and there looking everywhere but to see no one, no trace, and

when I turned back I saw the light coming out of the cave going up in the sky while the

cave was darkening again. I was astound utterly and remained there at my place out of the

cave until dawn, and that is exactly what happened, Sir.Billatus: where had the corpus gone!?

Petro: that got up and went; I saw his shadow at the entrance of the cave.Billatus: but you have said you didn't see any trace o

your way to abyssini1 final revision

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