Destroy them likewise—yea, with red fire and spear
And burning sword-blade. Go! My will is God’s,
For I am Herod—Herod, lord of the world!
(Raising his sword, the Captain makes sign to the Host, who lift high their spears. As the Chorus breaks into song, they depart, marching, while Herod reënters his palace.)
Sixth Chorus: B,3. Song of the Persecuting Host
CHORUS
Go forth, ye host of power!
Lay waste, lay waste the lowly!
For Herod’s might is a blazing tower,
And Herod’s wrath is holy.