The Testament of Abraham

Abraham lived the measure of his life, nine hundred ninety-five years. And having lived all the years of his life in quietness and meekness and righteousness, the righteous man was very hospitable.

For he pitched his tent at the crossroads of the Oak of Mamre, and he received everyone, rich and poor, kings and rulers, crippled and infirm, friends and strangers, neighbors and passers-by. The devout, most holy, righteous, and hospitable Abraham received them equally.

But the common and unavoidable bitter cup of death also reached him, as well as the uncertain end of life.

Therefore, the Lord God called his archangel Michael and said to him, “Go down, Archistrategos Michael, to Abraham, and speak to him about death, so that he may make arrangements concerning his affairs.

For I have blessed him like the stars of the heaven, and like the sand by the seashore. And he is in great abundance of life and many possessions, and he is very rich. Moreover, he is righteous before everyone in all goodness, hospitable and loving until the end of his life.

So you, Archangel Michael, go to Abraham, my beloved friend, and announce to him about his death, and assure him that

‘You are about to depart at this time from this vain world, and you are about to migrate from the body and will come to your own Lord in good things.’”