The Parable of the Ten Virgins

25 [ “] At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps [and] went out to meet the bridegroom. 2 Five of them were foolish, and five [were] wise. 3 The foolish [ones] took their lamps [but did not] take along [any extra] oil. 4 But the wise [ones] took oil in flasks along with their lamps. 5 [When] the bridegroom was delayed, they all became drowsy and fell asleep.

6 At midnight the cry rang out: ‘Here is the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!’

7 Then all the virgins woke up and trimmed their lamps. 8 The foolish ones said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.’

9 ‘No,’ said the wise [ones] ‘or there may not be enough for [both] us and you. Instead, go to those who sell [oil] and buy [some] for yourselves.’

10 But [while] they were on their way to buy [it], the bridegroom arrived. Those who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet, and the door was shut.

11 Later the other virgins arrived and said, ‘Lord, lord, open [the door] for us!’

12 But he replied ‘Truly I tell you, I do not know you.’

13 Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day [or] the hour.[fn]