“Eternal Father in heaven, bless King Ptolemy and may everything that he undertakes meet with success. Bless also his wife, his children and his friends.”
“Amen,” answered all the other sages. Then the musicians began playing and everyone had an enjoyable evening.
The Questions
At the conclusion of the festivities, the king turned to the sages and said, “I have heard that you possess wisdom and knowledge, therefore I would like to ask you many questions and by your answers I will confirm whether you are as clever as people claim.
Inasmuch as you are 72 Sages, I will therefore address a question to each of you, during the next seven days – a total of 72 questions.” “Ask, your majesty, and we will answer you to the best of our ability,” they replied.
(To be continued)