9:1
When the sun’s company withdrew, night fell. The chariot of the moon came with the stars.
9:2
I asked, “My master, show me how it goes out, where it travels, and the form in which it moves.”
9:3
The messenger said, “Wait, and you will see.” On the next cycle I saw it in the appearance of a woman seated upon a wheeled chariot.
9:4
Oxen and lambs moved before the chariot, with a multitude of messengers.
9:5
I asked about the oxen and lambs. He answered, “They too are messengers.”
9:6
I asked, “Why does the moon sometimes increase and sometimes decrease?”
9:7
He answered, “It was formed beautiful beyond others. At Adam’s transgression it remained near Sama’el when he clothed himself with the serpent; it did not hide. Elohim became angry and shortened its days.” 10
9:8
I asked why it shines only at night. He answered, “As servants do not speak freely before a king, so the moon and stars do not shine before the sun. They remain suspended, but its brilliance covers them.” 11