First bright to the eye, and near to the ear,
then touched with the hand, and looked on with fear.

Beheld as the Ones, before whom they played,
while yet there was one who fasted and prayed.

Though some were fed many years' worth in length,
I was the food that brought them no strength.

Within the Good Book you can read about me,
Guess, if you like, who or what I might be.