Judith

Nebuchadnezzar, the king of the Assyrians, sent his military leader Holofernes to conquer the kingdoms of the west that had defied his authority. Holofernes assembled a massive army and set out on a campaign of conquest, defeating and pillaging various cities and regions. The Israelites, upon hearing of the enemy's conquests, were filled with fear and took defensive measures, but Holofernes eventually arrived in the land of Gibeah, taking the cities and regrouping his troops. A pious widow named Judith learned that the city of Bethulia was about to be surrendered to the Assyrians and decided to take action. She prayed to God for help, then disguised herself as a Hebrew who had fled to reveal secrets to Holofernes, and was met with admiration by the Assyrian leader. Judith gained Holofernes' trust and eventually beheaded him while he was drunk and asleep, then escaped the Assyrian camp and returned to Bethulia. The Assyrian army fled in fear after learning of Holofernes' beheading, and the Israelites pursued them, striking down those they could find. Judith was celebrated as a hero for her bravery and chastity, and the Israelites commemorated her victory with feasts and offerings.