"'There is no man without sin,' said he, 'and I am rejoiced that this one has expiated his during his life.'
"Another time it was a wise man who was tortured with frightful pains. Three old savants, his friends, came to console him, and spoke in praise of his wisdom.
"'Science,' said the first, 'is more useful to Israel than the dew to the earth. The dew gives the earth temporary life, wisdom prepares the soul for eternal life.'
"'Wisdom,' continued the second, 'is more necessary than the light of the sun. The one guides us here below, the other conducts us to heaven.'
"Then the third spoke thus:--
"'You have been to Israel more than a father and a mother. Our parents give us earthly life; you, the life celestial.'
"When Akiba's turn came to speak, he said simply:--
"'It is sweet to suffer here below.'
"'Raise me up,' cried the dying man; 'I wish to hear the second time these words, for they comfort me.'
"Akiba deemed suffering salutary for individuals and for nations. He compared Israel, stained with blood by Vespasian and his successors, to a white horse adorned with purple reins. He was not over-scrupulous in religious observances. His prayers were short. He wore his usual simple garments on holy days, notwithstanding the biblical command to array one's self with particular care.