1 "At that time, the kingdom of heaven will be compared to ten bridesmaidswho took their oil lamps and went out to meet the groom.
2 Now five of them were foolish, and five were wise.
3 For when the foolish ones took their lamps, they didn't take any oil with them.
4 But the wise ones took flasks of oil with their lamps.
5 Since the groom was late, all of them became sleepy and lay down.
6 "But at midnight there came a shout: ‘The groom is here! Come out to meet him!’
7 Then all the bridesmaidswoke up and got their lamps ready.
8 But the foolish ones said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out!’
9 But the wise ones replied, ‘No! There will never be enough for us and for you. Better go to the dealers and buy some for yourselves.’
10 "While they were away buying it, the groom arrived. Those who were ready went with him into the wedding banquet, and the door was closed.
11 Later the other bridesmaidsarrived and said, ‘Lord, lord, open up for us!’
12 But he replied, ‘Truly I tell you, I don't know you!’
13 So keep on watching, because you don't know the day or the hour."