The Conversion of Saul

9 Now ^[a]Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord [and relentless in his search for believers], went to the ^[b]high priest, ² and he asked for letters [of authority] from him to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any men or women there belonging to ^[c]the Way [believers, followers of Jesus the Messiah], men and women alike, he could arrest them and bring them bound [with chains] to Jerusalem. ³ As he traveled he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him [displaying the glory and majesty of Christ]; ⁴ and he fell to the ground and heard a voice [from heaven] saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting and oppressing Me?” ⁵ And Saul said, “Who are You, Lord?” And He answered, “I am Jesus whom you are persecuting, ⁶ now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” ⁷ The men who were traveling with him [were terrified and] stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one. ⁸ Saul got up from the ground, but though his eyes were open, he could see nothing; so they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. ⁹ And he was unable to see for three days, and he neither ate nor drank.