The Parable of the Ten Virgins

[“] 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] wise, and five were foolish.[fn] 3 Those who were foolish[fn] 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, vvv they all became drowsy and fell asleep.

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At midnight the cry rang out:‘Behold, the bridegroom is coming![fn] Come out to meet him!’

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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.’

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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.

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

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

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Therefore keep watch, because vvv you do not know the day [or] the hour vvv when the Son of Man comes.[fn]

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