Judith 4:7-9

New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition

⁷ ordering them to seize the mountain passes, since by them Judea could be invaded, and it would be easy to stop any who tried to enter, for the approach was narrow, wide enough for only two at a time to pass.^(A)

Prayer and Penance

⁸ So the Israelites did as they had been ordered by the high priest Joakim and the council of the whole people of Israel, in session at Jerusalem.^{(B) 9} And every man of Israel cried out to God with great fervor, and they humbled themselves with much fasting.