download PDF version - Global Grey

GRAND ELECT MASON. 173
became proud and idolatrous, neglecting the true worship
of God for that of idols.
As an adequate piuiislirnent for this defection,
God inspired the heart of Nebuchadnezzar, King of
Babylon, to take vengeance on the kingdom of
Israel. This prince sent an army, with Nebuzar-
adan, captain of the guards, who entered Judah with
fire and sword, took and sacked the city of Jerusa-
lem, razed its walls, and destroyed that superb
model of excellence, the Temple. The people were
carried away captive to Babylon, and the conquerors
carried away with them all the vessels of gold and
silver.
This happened four hundred and seventy years,
six months, and ten days after the dedication. After
the city was taken, and the king's palace and the
Temple demolished, some of the Grand Elect Masons
bethought themselves of the Sacred Yault and the
inestimable treasure it contained. Repairing to the
ruins of the Temple at night, they found that the
way which led down to the vault had not been dis-
covered, nor the slab of marble which covered it dis-
turbed ; but upon it they found the dead body of
Galaad, an eminent brother, and Chief of the Levites.
lie had been intrusted with the custody of the Sa-
cred Yault and the care of the lamps that burned
continually.
Finally, when the time arrived that the Christian