WHAT judge in Israel had a father’s claim
To thirty daughters, and of sons the same?
Whose son was hid to shun the king’s decree,
Whom Pharaoh’s daughter afterward set free?
What cave did Abraham of Ephron buy,
Where after death his family did lie?
From whence did Joab a wise woman bring
To plead for Absolom before the king?
What minor prophet wept o’er Israel’s crimes,
And lived in Jeroboam wicked times?
Where were two armies in battle arrayed
When David drew nigh to the field?
What virtuous queen would not her lord obey,
Though he the Assyrian’s scepter long did sway?
Who went to Mizpeh with deceit and art,
And plunged his dagger in the ruler’s heart?
Who sat beneath a tree in thought profound,
Of whom Christ said, “In him no guile was found?”
Who in their youth did not his sons restrain,
And in his hoary hairs found grief and pain?
From the above initials you’ll discern
A metaphor, from which we clearly learn
Which is the only source of life divine,
And from whence must all Christian graces shine.