27 By dying bravely I can prove that I was worthy of the long life that God has given me.
28 And my death will set a good example for our young people—it will show them that we should not be afraid to die for our sacred laws.When Eleazar had finished speaking, he walked straight to the place of torture.
29 But the same men who had earlier been kind to him now sneered, because they thought he was talking nonsense.
30 When Eleazar had been beaten almost to the point of death, he groaned and shouted, “The Lord God knows everything! He knows I could have escaped this terrible torture and death, but I have gladly suffered for him, because I honor him with all my heart and soul.”
31 Eleazar's brave and honorable death set an example for our whole nation, and especially for our young people.