In a short time we shall pass through terrible and fearful places, and there is no one here who can avoid walking this path. There will be no one there to accompany and assist us: neither parents, nor brethren, nor friends, nor relatives, nor wealth, nor any other such thing.

If at that very hour we find ourselves stripped of God’s protection, the princes of darkness shall certainly hold us back. They are unyielding and merciless; they fear not kings, nor do they respect masters; they honor neither the small nor the great. Only from those who live in piety do they withdraw in fear, allowing them free passage.

I imagine what this hour will be like and fall down before Thy goodness, O Lord; give me not up to those who offend me, that Thine enemies might not boast that they have taken Thy servant, O good Lord. May they not gnash their teeth and terrify my sinful soul, saying: thou hast fallen into our hands, thou hast been handed over to us. This is the day for which we have waited.

No, O Lord, deal with me not according to mine iniquities and turn not Thy face away from me. Say not to me: Amen, I say to thee, I know thee not. Punish me, O Lord, according to Thy compassion, and may mine enemy not rejoice over me. Extinguish his fury, nullify all his actions, provide for me a path to Thee free from attacks and revilement.

Incline Thine ear to my prayer, O good Lord, not because of my righteousness, but because of Thy compassion and Thy great mercy. Save my sorrowful soul from death. Thou art the Lord of all and Thou hast power over all creatures.

Thou hast said, O Lord: ask, and it shall be given to you; knock, and it shall be opened to you. Lo, I ask and I knock. Before mine end comes, O Lord, cleanse me of all sin.