Chapter 20: Salome’s Examination

1And the midwife went in and said, “Mary, position yourself, because there is no small test coming concerning you.”

2And Salome examined her. And Salome cried out and said, “Woe to me because of my lawlessness and unbelief! I have tested the living God, and look! My hand is on fire and falling away from me!”

3And she dropped to her knees before the Lord, saying, “God of my ancestors, remember me, for I have descended from Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Do not make an example of me before the people of Israel, but give me back to the poor, because you know, Lord, that in your name I have healed people, and I have received my wages from you.”

4And look! An angel of the Lord appeared and said to her, “Salome, Salome, the Lord of All has heard your prayer. Bring your hand to the child and lift him up, and you will receive salvation and joy.”

5And Salome joyfully went to the child and lifted him up, saying, “I worship him, because a great king has been born to Israel.” And immediately Salome was healed, and she left the cave justified.

6And look! A voice said, “Salome, Salome, do not report the wonderful things you have seen until the child comes into Jerusalem.”