Jerusalem Bound!

The incessant thump of footsteps caused Seth to turn toward the door of the library. Deborah, the former housekeeper of Daniel and now his, was ascending the stairs at an unusually rapid pace. ears confirmed that The door banged open.

Forgive me, my lord Seth, but I have an urgent message to deliver from Samas. The housekeeper bobbed her head. You remember the bodyguard Daniel had when he was an administrator under King Cyrus, don’t you?

Seth and his friend Gimillu jumped to their feet, and Seth said, The Persian soldier that became a close friend to Grandfather has sent me a message? The overgrown eyebrows of Seth knitted together in a dark line. We have not heard from him in years.

Deborah’s chest heaved with the exertion of her hasty climb. Her dark hair was streaked with gray and her hips broader, but the concern on her round face was as real as when Seth had been just a boy visiting the home of his adopted grandfather Daniel.

The black, haired Gimillu had a high forehead, golden-brown eyes, and slight build pointed at the chair nearest to him at the table. My lady, please sit and tell us your news.

Deborah remained standing. The messenger sent by Samas said that the general had heard rumors about a man living in the village at Dubala, which is somewhere south of us. He plans to declare himself king here in Babylon, and is even now mustering forces with every intention to advance this way and occupy the city.

Gimillu got up and stepped forward. Who is this man bent on treason?

He calls himself Nebuchadnezzar. He wants everyone to believe that he is the son of the dead king Nabonidus.

The housekeeper inhaled deeply.

Seth could not stop himself from asking, What else did the Persian soldier say?

He said if you plan to return to Jerusalem and the land of your people, now would be a good time to make your departure. King Darius is well experienced at quelling rebellions. But he will not be pleased to return here from his new capital city located in Persepolis, after putting down the previous uprising.

The eyes of Seth and Gimillu grew wide at hearing the news.

The housekeeper knotted a corner of her apron. General Samas also sent a warning that the Persian king will not hesitate to retake the city. ‘Regardless of the cost to the inhabitants should they choose to support the dissident

The twenty-year-old friends, who were now grown men, frowned at each other.

Seth licked his chapped lips. So Samas is now a general and took the time to inform us of this most unsettling development. I think we had better pay heed to his warning.

Deborah sat down carefully on the spindle-legged chair across from the two scribes, and scrutinized the paneled cedar ceiling. She cleared her throat. And I want you to know that I am going with you when you depart for Judah.

The three sat in silence for several moments. Seth and Gimillu glanced at each other and nodded.

Seth stood to his feet. He trod past the library shelves piled high with parchment and papyrus scrolls along with clay tablets stored in reed baskets. These were precariously stacked almost to the ceiling. He stopped and turned toward Deborah. I have indeed been thinking it is time to go up to Jerusalem, the city of our God.

Gimillu wagged a finger. We, Seth and I, earlier today came to the same conclusion that it is time to leave for Judah. We are in firm agreement that we should make the journey that the wise man Daniel and the prophet Ezekiel made when they were young men. We know that they would have surely made the journey back home to the land of Israel, if only they could have.

Deborah leveraged herself up from the chair and plunked her hands on her ample hips. And not just me, but all the household servants except for the porter, who regrets being too old to make the arduous journey, are going with us. So along with myself, it will be three menservants and two maidservants joining us. We have no other family but each other, and I refuse to leave them behind.

She glared straight ahead. When King Cyrus issued his decree to let the Jews go up to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple of Yahweh eight years ago, we made a sacred pact that we would all go together if the opportunity ever arose. The housekeeper held her hands out in front of her. So, do not think of trying to change our minds. Where you go, we go.

Seth took hold of Deborah’s rough hands and gave them a squeeze It is only right that you should accompany us. Grandfather Daniel left enough silver for all of us to make the journey, and the timing is fortuitous.

Deborah cocked her head forward. How so my lord, with all the talk of unrest in the land?

My employer is providing credit for a caravan of Jewish traders leaving next week for Abar Nahara. They asked me this very morning if I would consider accompanying the caravan to make sure their monies were looked after. But as yet I have not given them my reply to their offer.

Gimillu’s smile lit up his face. His eyes sparkled in the sunlight streaming through the open window across from them. :Now you know the answer you must give your employers about going to the Beyond the River province. You need to make haste to tell them that you and a few friends will be coming along. The temple scribe waved a hand at the housekeeper. And we had better get packing."

The middle-aged woman started for the door. She turned and shook her head. What am I thinking? With all the excitement I forgot to tell you lunch is ready. My lord scribes, after you have fortified yourselves, you will feel even more empowered to make the needed preparations for our hasty departure, as will I.

Seth pondered the words of General Samas, as he shoveled down fragrant lentil stew with torn off hunks of flatbread. When finished he wiped his mouth on the sleeve of his robe and thanked Deborah. He gathered up his papers and hurried back to work at the banking house of Egbi and Sons located above the quay on the east bank of the river Euphrates that divided the city in half.

Just north of the temple ziggurat of the Babylonian god Marduk. From their dockside widows, the two sons of the founder of Egbi and Sons could count their profits while they watched the boats laden with untold riches arrive and depart from every corner of the Persian Empire.

When Seth reached the front office, he found it deserted. He sat at his desk in the also empty hall, where the scribe kept track of the daily banking transactions. He closed his eyes and began to formulate the best way to present the petition to his prickly employers.

Good you are back.

Seth recognized the voice of the banking house founder’s youngest son, Nabunasir. He opened his eyes and began to get up.

Nabunasir motioned for him to stay seated, and pulled up a chair across the desk from Seth. Have you reached your decision on whether or not to accompany the caravan next week? We wish we could have given you more notice, but as the other scribe fell off a roof and broke his leg, we had no other option. Of course, you will be given a bonus along with your regular salary.

Seth bowed his head. That is most generous of you, my lord. I have considered your offer and would be more than willing to represent Egbi and Sons banking house on a caravan traveling to the Beyond the River province.

Nabunasir stood. I will have the papers drawn up authorizing you to conduct all of our financial transactions, as needed along the way.

Seth pressed his hands together. There is just one more thing, my lord, that I would like to discuss with you.

The banker squinted his eyes, gathered his finely woven robe about him, and sat back down. Yes?

I have learned that another claimant to the Babylonian throne has arisen. He says that he is the son of King Nabonidus, and calls himself Nebuchadnezzar. King Darius knows of his plan to come to Babylon and declare himself king. We know that he will not rest until the rebel is destroyed. My informant, a high-ranking Persian soldier, has advised me to go up to Jerusalem now if I have any desire to do so, before Darius returns with his army.

Both men turned their heads to the left when they heard voices coming their way. Let us retire to my office where we can continue our discussion.

Seth followed his employer into the inner sanctum of the bank that housed the administrative offices of Egbi and Sons. He admired the understated cedar paneling on the walls and ceiling, with only a touch of engraved gold and silver ornamentation. Instead of going into the office of the younger brother, he was led to the office next to it.

Nergalsharusur will return soon, and I think he should hear what you have to say. The sound of swishing silk and heavy footsteps could be heard in the hall. Both men stood at attention.

A short, barrel-chested man, dressed entirely in black filled the doorway, a scowl on his broad face.

Nabunasir gave a wide sweep of his arm toward the purple upholstered chair.

Welcome, brother. Scribe Seth and I were just discussing the upcoming caravan, when he related information about a new rebel headed our way.

The older brother trod across the room to his desk and sat down with a flourish. He motioned to the chairs with a wave of his plump hand. What is this news you have scribe; and how did you come to learn it?

Nabunasir seated himself in a chair across from his brother.

Seth followed suit. My lord, I have heard that a man living in the south is planning to declare himself king here in Babylon. I learned of this from one of the Persian soldiers. He previously guarded my adopted grandfather, the wise man Daniel, when he was head administrator of the city under King Cyrus. The soldier is now a general, and I believe his information is as reliable as can be in these precarious times.

The older brother rested his hands, with their manicured nails, on the polished desktop. ‘Yes, with King Cambyses dying suddenly, and all those contenders for the Persian throne have made trade difficult. However, since Darius has been able to ward off the most serious contenders and been crowned king, things have been better.

Nevertheless, this is the same information our scouts related to me, which is my impetus for getting the trade caravan off first thing next week. Before Darius and his army block the caravan routes and bring retribution to our city once more.

Nabunasir looked past his brother toward the windows behind him facing the river. I do not know what the last Babylonian contender, also named Nebuchadnezzar, was thinking when he proclaimed himself king here in Babylon last fall. He made himself ruler over all the Babylonian cities that his father King Nabonidus lost to Cyrus almost twenty years before."

The older brother nodded. ‘I imagine the prince thought he would never have such an opportunity again, as when the son of Cyrus was found dead."

Seth leaned forward. I am sure he did not believe Darius, former spear bearer to the King Cambyses, would be able to hold the Persian Empire together. But what the prince did not consider was the noble Persian birth of Darius and the resources available to him through his father. Hystaspes, satrap of Parthia.

Nabunasir frowned while he scrutinized the room, as though for eavesdroppers. And I also know for a fact that the son of Nabonidus did not believe Darius would live long enough to interfere with Babylon gaining its independence from the Persians. I know this because I overheard him say so while I was at the temple of Marduk waiting to speak with Marduknasirapal.

Nergalsharusur thrust out his lower lip. Confiding his plans to the high priest of Marduk in a public place was not the wisest thing he could have done. We know how that worked out for all involved. After soundly defeating the Babylonian army, Darius entered the city of Babylon. Less than a week later he had the traitor Nebuchadnezzar executed, along with the high priest and those other leading citizen. We were lucky he did not suspect us of anything. Perhaps it is because we are Jews, but who can know for sure.

Nabunasir glanced toward Seth. Thanks be to Yahweh. Now to business. Seth has agreed to accompany the caravan leaving for Phoenicia next week.

The older brother grinned. Excellent. You told him about the bonus?

Seth nodded. "He did, my lord. But there is something else I need to discuss with you before we go further.’

Nergalsharusur sported a quizzical look.

Seth prayed silently to the God of Israel to give him favor, and the right words. I feel it is time to go up to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple. My friend, Gimillu and my household staff, will be accompanying me.

The younger brother sighed. How many people are we talking about?

Eight including myself. I will take care of whatever expenses they might incur.

You should know that part of the reason we asked you to join the caravan is because you are single, and have no children. We cannot guarantee your safe conduct or that of anyone else in your party. There will be no wagons. All must be able to ride and take only what can be loaded on the animals. Plus additional guards will be needed to protect against robbers.

Seth said, The two menservants will be armed and can help as guards, along with myself and Gimillu.

Nergalsharusur scowled. The eldest son of the deceased high priest of Marduk wants to accompany you on this journey? Even though he is not a believer?

Seth bowed his head. Yes, my lord. Ever since Daniel escaped from the den of lions unharmed, he has repeatedly stated his desire to visit the holy city of our God that could do such a thing.

Hmm. I will need to speak with the caravan chief to see whether he can accommodate the extra people, at such a late date He will need to acquire additional provisions, lodging, transport animals, and consider the route being taken with the addition of women.

The younger brother placed his elbows on the desk. He bent over and rested his chin on his hands before turning to Seth. It might be possible. We do have a man living in Jerusalem, who could accompany the caravan back. He can also take care of the banking business on the return journey. If Yahweh should give us favor, and grant the caravan safe passage to the land of our forefathers.

Seth had no recollection of walking back to his desk. But there he was, standing in front of it. He noted the scribes on either side covertly watching him, with inquisitive looks on their faces. He knew their first thought had been that it would not bode well for him, or anyone else who worked there, to arrive late from the noon break.

He sat down and began to transcribe the waiting monthly interest loan receipts onto clay tables. Then Seth came to a bank client, who was fortunate enough to pay off the full amount owed. He quickly inscribed the debtor’s final receipt. He then placed the receipt in a separate basket to notify the records department that the original tablet of indebtedness was to be destroyed, so no further claim might be made.

The thought of paying off such a loan reminded him of the urgency of securing the future of the words of Daniel, and the other writings that the wise man had accrued over a lifetime.

That’s it! he said aloud in a stalwart voice. The scribe glanced around, but there did not appear to be anyone who had overheard him. He whispered to himself,

I will write a will leaving the house and all the furnishings to the chief priest of the line of Aaron, here in Babylon. That is what I will do.

Seth smiled at the hope that such a plan might actually be able to preserve the sacred writings of his people forever, from generation to generation, until the day of Yahweh."

Chapter 2

Seth could have shown more decorum as he sprinted down the hall and out the front door of Egbi and Sons at the close of the business day. He trotted along the quay and turned right, begrudging the time it took to circumvent the narrow lanes through the inner city.

He crossed the Processional Way, and rushed past the temple of Ishtar. He slowed to a fast walk to catch his breath and avoid ending up in the foul water while he traversed the congested Libiehegal Canal Bridge. Reaching the other side he sped up. His heart was pounding wildly as he reached his destination, more from the anticipation of his arrival than exertion.

The marketplace area in the eastern corner of the city of Babylon in the Merkes District by the Zababa Gate lay before him. Startled pedestrians forced off the path mattered not to the jubilant scribe as he lunged ahead. Fluttering robe, flopping scribal pouch, and flailing sandals beat out a rhythm of praise that reverberated in his head and heart to the invincible God of Israel.

He knew everyone at home would be ready to hear his news later that day, as he had sent a messenger to have Deborah assemble the household servants and to ask Gimillu to join them. They would not like to wait for his news, but he knew they would forgive him as soon as they learned of his meeting with the caravan chief.

Seth turned his head when he reached the souk. A withered man of the desert madly waving his arms in front of the open-air marketplace caught the attention of the scribe. Seth pointed to his chest and the man nodded. Seth veered to his left and halted in front of the man whose regal bearing and piercing eyes assured Seth he had found the caravan chief.

The statuesque man turned and led him through a maze of passageways until they reached one of the more prosperous looking spice stalls.

Seth inhaled deeply. He relished the pungent smell of faraway places. The open-mouthed burlap bag of ground coriander closest to him permeated his very being.

The older man shrugged his narrow shoulders, I am waiting for the proprietor to finish the inventory of my latest shipment. Usually my son would take care of such things, but I had sent him home to spent time with his wife and children. For the short amount of time left before our departure

Seth surveyed the stall trying not to show his impatience at having to wait any longer to learn his fate.

The older man squinted his black eyes at Seth. You are no doubt Seth the scribe representing Egbi and Sons The one joining us on our journey to the province of Beyond the River, are you not?

Seth bowed his head in assent. He wondered how the man examining him with his seamed cheeks, bulbous nose, short upper lip, and mostly white jutting beard had been able to discern such a thing. But then he realized if this was the man he thought he was, he needed to have such expertise to successfully transport goods from Babylon to Egypt and everywhere in between.

The man said, I am Hadad the Edomite, caravan chief, and head of this expedition sponsored by your employers. I understand you also want transport, food, and lodging for seven additional people.

That is correct, three men and three maidservants, including one married couple Abigail and Adin, and a fellow scribe. The whole bunch are a sturdy lot, and my men are seasoned warriors. Seth spread his arms wide. I am not asking for any charity. I will pay for everything needed for them to travel with me.

This scribe, he is the son of the executed priest of Marduk?

Seth hung his head. He felt a sense of shame at the disgraceful death of his friend’s father. Gimillu was the oldest son of High Priest Marduknasirapal, but he never had any desire to be a priest. His younger brother has taken over their father’s position. What my friend has always wanted is for us to go up to Jerusalem together to rebuild the temple of Yahweh, if ever given the chance.

Seth shook his head. I regret the short notice, but I only learned of such a possibility this morning.

The caravan chief motioned toward a miniscule table. Let us sit. It should not take much longer for the spice merchant to finish.

As though on command, a serving boy emerged from the dark interior of the stall carrying a tea tray of hammered bronze high on his head. Balancing the tray with his left arm, he placed two steaming glasses of greenish liquid on the rickety table, before disappearing into the crowded alley.

Seth sipped the sage tea, tapping his fingernails to a rhythm only he knew. While he waited to hear what the decision of the man would be about his presumptuous proposal.

Caravan Chief Hadad set down the empty glass and wiped his lips with the back of an age-spotted hand. We will travel by camel. Everyone must be able to ride. There will be no wagons for people or luggage. The journey will be long and arduous, the pace swift. We will cut across the Syrian Desert at Mari to avoid as much trouble as we can.

He fingered his scraggly beard. The rumored uprising of another contender to the Persian throne can mean but one thing. Darius and his army will arrive sooner than later to squelch this rebellion like the lone last fall, when the father of your friend was killed. My intent is to be long-gone from Babylon before his arrival.

Seth nodded. The brothers at Egbi and Sons are quite concerned.

As they should be. Hadad rubbed his rough hands together. But back to business. The women will wear trousers like the men. All will need wool or leather garment to protect them from the sun, wind, rain, or cold. I presume that you plan to take your household furnishings and sustenance to Jerusalem. That may work well, as you will need food, kitchenware, towels, bedding, and the likes once we leave the main roadway. When that happens there will be longer be a caravansary each night to provide food, lodging, and protection for the camels or anyone else for that matter. Make sure everything of value is kept out of sight including the women’s jewelry and any silver you bring.

Forgive me for interrupting, my lord, but does this mean you will allow Gimillu and my household servants to join the caravan?

Hadad nodded. Although I am an Edomite, I am not unsympathetic to your desire to return to the city of your god to help rebuild his house. Our lands have often been at odds, but we are both descendants of Abraham and should help each other out whenever possible.

Seth leaned forward. My lord, you will not regret your kindness to us. Yahweh will surely bless you for your generosity.

The caravan chief waved a finger. It is nothing. He stood and gave Seth a lopsided grin that deepened the creases around his eyes. I see the owner of the spice stall has arrived, and I must conclude my business with him. Be ready to leave in three das time, or be assured I will leave you, and your household, and the son of the high priest behind.

Seth took every shortcut possible back to the house of Daniel, and would never forget the boisterous welcome he received that evening. The ancient porter opened the outer door in his usual aloof manner, but could not hide the sparkle in his eyes and upturned corners of his mouth. Inside the meticulously swept courtyard, the household members were lined up with Gimillu standing to the side.

Seth walked back and forth in front of them. What is all this? Has someone died? The servants looked at each other worriedly, but did not utter a word. Seth began to chuckle. You should all be packing, for we have a long journey before us with little time to prepare.

Adin grabbed his wife, swung her around, and gave her a long kiss. The others clapped.

Then the porter patted Seth on the back. Well done, my lord. I truly regret that I cannot join you, but such a journey is not for the likes of me. Your home is in Zion. Do not concern yourself about leaving me behind. Our God will take care of me, as he has done all these many years in exile.

The porter turned toward the housekeeper, who was dabbing her eyes. Deborah’s banquet is waiting.

She lowered her head, as he gave her a fond smile.

The porter then focused his faded eyes on Seth in the growing dusk. After a good night’s sleep you will accomplish all that needs to be done. With the strength of your youth and help of our Lord, according to the purposes and plans he has for you and your traveling companions.

Chapter 3

Deborah had no idea so much could be accomplished in such a short length of time, which included Daniel’s house being left spotless for the next caretaker. She looked away from the kneeling camel and spotted Seth. The swarthy scribe sported a hooked nose, pronounced cheekbones, heavy mustache, and square chine. But the neatly trimmed beard could not conceal the look of trepidation on his face. The housekeeper felt encouraged and took a deep breath.

Caravan Chief Hadad strode toward their small group waiting outside the caravansary on the outskirts of Babylon. He raised a hand for silence. We will leave in a few moments, but first I would like you to meet my son.

He pointed toward a younger version of himself standing at attention. This is Kedar. He is second in command, and is in charge of the camels and their care. I must insist that you do whatever he says without hesitation for your life might very well depend on it.

The caravan chief made eye contact with each of the Jewish travelers. I say this only for your own safety. There is much unrest in the land, and we will soon be on our way to the city of your God.

Kedar bowed his head toward his father’s receding back. Good, I see everyone is wearing trousers. They will protect your legs and make getting on and off the camels easier. When you mount you will back up to the camel’s saddle, sit down, turn frontwards, and swing your legs apart straddling the animal. Do this in one strong action to keep from falling off before you have even begun. Once mounted lean back with your hands and arms braced against the front pommel, in case the camel should suddenly get up from its kneeling position.

The housemaid Abigail turned toward her husband Adin for reassurance. Deborah watched him squeeze her hand and give her a wink.

I must also warn you that the width of the camel’s body, the precarious seat on its back, and its waddling gate may cause you some apprehension. However, good posture and keeping the tenseness out of your body should made the ride easier. It will also make the camel feel more relaxed instead of wanting to go off on a rampage.

The women glanced at each other shaking their heads.

Gimillu stepped forward. But I hear that the view from the back of a camel is grand.

The creases around Kedar’s eyes deepened, as the corners of his mouth turned up. He gave a hearty laugh. That it is, my lord scribe, that it is.

Deborah put her arms around the two maids and leaned in. I just had a thought while the son of Hadad was talking. There is no reason for us to be afraid. If Jacob’s wives, Rachel and Leah, and their children rode camels all the way from Padam Aram to the land of Canaan with their father Laban chasing after them, what have we to fear?"

Leah’s chin jutted out. Well Rachal did steal the idols of the household gods, and hid them in her saddlebag.

Abigail giggled. "When her father searched their belongings, she sat on the saddle and told him that she could