CHAPTER 37
The Gospel According to St Barabbas
22
As Mary grew strong in Galilee, ill tidings came from Jerusalem. When Her father Zacharias had discovered his colleagues were loyal to the tyrant, he railed at them, O worthless priests, corrupt thou art and corrupt is your work. The sacrifices ye offer up to the Lord in this Temple are an abomination.
23
But the priests laughed and turned away, saying, Who is this fool?
24
And Zacharias waxed angry and crept into the tunnels beneath the Temple. He knew the secret sign that would release the demon that Solomon had there imprisoned. No sooner had Zacharias made the mark than a great wind sprang up. In fear he fell back, and when he opened his eyes, a Jinni looked down upon him.
25
Man, it said unto him, I will not kill thee. As you have done me service so I am bound to do thee service. What dost thou wish? Women?
26
No, said Zacharias, I am a priest of the Temple and must preserve my purity.
27
A thousand pardons, the Jinni said. Gold then? Fame?
28
Demon, I told thee I serve the Lord. There is no greater treasure.
29
Truly, Man, temptation is wasted on thee.
30
Demon, I am old and want for nothing. What I ask, I ask on my daughter’s behalf.
31
Sore exasperated the Jinni asked, And what is that?
32
And Zacharias answered, Revenge.