Part One, Chapters XVI - XIX Summary

The four friends, Elisha, Akiba and the two Simeons, meet, and Elisha presents his idea. Without telling them of his doubts of their religion, he tells them they should begin a study of relevant Greek literature in order to counter any questions that may come up when devout Jews ask the sages for an opinion regarding the validity of the work. Akiba expands on Elisha's ideas and assists him in convincing the two Simeons that the work is important. When he leaves them, he visits Meir and Beruriah, then goes to the pagan part of Caeserea to find a bookseller. To his delight, he is directed to the shop owned by his old tutor, Nicholaus, and the two men renew their friendship. Nicholaus chooses several books and scrolls that will assist Elisha in...