Judith 4:7-9

Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

⁷ ordering them to seize the passes up into the hills, since by them Judea could be invaded, and it was easy to stop any who tried to enter, for the approach was narrow, only wide enough for two men at the most.

Prayer and Penance

⁸ So the Israelites did as Jo′akim the high priest and the senate of the whole people of Israel, in session at Jerusalem, had given order. ⁹ And every man of Israel cried out to God with great fervor, and they humbled themselves with much fasting.