saph,
desirous to be instructed by him in godliness. And all idolatrous
images were utterly demolished, and all their wealth and temple
treasure was taken from them, and in their stead holy courts were built
for God. For these King Ioasaph dedicated the riches and costly
vestments and treasures of the idolatrous temples, thereby making this
worthless and superfluous material fit for service, and profitable.
And the foul fiends that dwelt in their altars and temples were
rigorously chased away and put to flight; and these, in the hearing of
many, loudly lamented the misfortune that had overtaken them. And all
the region round about was freed from their dark deceit, and
illuminated with the light of the blameless Christian faith.

And, soothly, the king was a good example to all; and he inflamed and
kindled the hearts of many to be of the same mind with himself. For
such is the nature of authority. Its subjects alway conform to its
likeness, and are wont to love the same objects, and to practise the
pursuits which they perceive to be pleasing to their governor. Hence,
God helping, religion grew and increased amongst them. The king was
wholly dependent on the commandments of Christ and on his love, being a
steward of the word of grace, and pilot to the souls of many, bringing
them to safe anchorage in the haven of God. For he knew that this,
afore all things, is the work of a king, to teach men to fear God and
keep righteousness. Thus did he, training himself to be king over his
own passions, and, like a good pilot, keeping a firm hold of the helm
of good government for his subjects. For this is the end of good
kingship, to be king and lord over pleasure--which end also he
achieved. Of the nobility of his ancestors, or the royal splendour
around him, he was in no wise proud, knowing that we all have one
common forefather, made of clay, and that, whether rich or poor, we are
all of the same moulding. He ever abased his soul in deepest humility,
and thought on the blessedness of the world to come, and considered
himself a stranger and pilgrim in this world, but realised that that
was his real treasure which he should win after his departure hence.
Now, since all went well with him, and since he had delivered all the
people from their ancient and ancestral error, and made them servants
of him who redeemed us from evil servitude by his own precious blood,
he turned his thoughts to his next task, the virtue of almsg