GetPassageurn:cts:pbc:bible.parallel.eng.kingjames:78urn:cts:pbc:bible.parallel.eng.kingjames:78The brethren , the Jews that be at Jerusalem and in the land of Judea , wish unto the brethren , the Jews that are throughout Egypt health and peace : God be gracious unto you , and remember his covenant that he made with Abraham , Isaac , and Jacob , his faithful servants ; And give you all an heart to serve him , and to do his will , with a good courage and a willing mind ; And open your hearts in his law and commandments , and send you peace , And hear your prayers , and be at one with you , and never forsake you in time of trouble . And now we be here praying for you . What time as Demetrius reigned , in the hundred threescore and ninth year , we the Jews wrote unto you in the extremity of trouble that came upon us in those years , from the time that Jason and his company revolted from the holy land and kingdom , And burned the porch , and shed innocent blood : then we prayed unto the Lord , and were heard ; we offered also sacrifices and fine flour , and lighted the lamps , and set forth the loaves . And now see that ye keep the feast of tabernacles in the month Casleu . In the hundred fourscore and eighth year , the people that were at Jerusalem and in Judea , and the council , and Judas , sent greeting and health unto Aristobulus , king Ptolemeus' master , who was of the stock of the anointed priests , and to the Jews that were in Egypt : Insomuch as God hath delivered us from great perils , we thank him highly , as having been in battle against a king . For he cast them out that fought within the holy city . For when the leader was come into Persia , and the army with him that seemed invincible , they were slain in the temple of Nanea by the deceit of Nanea's priests . For Antiochus , as though he would marry her , came into the place , and his friends that were with him , to receive money in name of a dowry . Which when the priests of Nanea had set forth , and he was entered with a small company into the compass of the temple , they shut the temple as soon as Antiochus was come in : And opening a privy door of the roof , they threw stones like thunderbolts , and struck down the captain , hewed them in pieces , smote off their heads and cast them to those that were without . Blessed be our God in all things , who hath delivered up the ungodly . Therefore whereas we are now purposed to keep the purification of the temple upon the five and twentieth day of the month Casleu , we thought it necessary to certify you thereof , that ye also might keep it , as the feast of the tabernacles , and of the fire , which was given us when Neemias offered sacrifice , after that he had builded the temple and the altar . For when our fathers were led into Persia , the priests that were then devout took the fire of the altar privily , and hid it in an hollow place of a pit without water , where they kept it sure , so that the place was unknown to all men . Now after many years , when it pleased God , Neemias , being sent from the king of Persia , did send of the posterity of those priests that had hid it to the fire : but when they told us they found no fire , but thick water ; Then commanded he them to draw it up , and to bring it ; and when the sacrifices were laid on , Neemias commanded the priests to sprinkle the wood and the things laid thereupon with the water . When this was done , and the time came that the sun shone , which afore was hid in the cloud , there was a great fire kindled , so that every man marvelled . And the priests made a prayer whilst the sacrifice was consuming , I say , both the priests , and all the rest , Jonathan beginning , and the rest answering thereunto , as Neemias did . And the prayer was after this manner ; O Lord , Lord God , Creator of all things , who art fearful and strong , and righteous , and merciful , and the only and gracious King , The only giver of all things , the only just , almighty , and everlasting , thou that deliverest Israel from all trouble , and didst choose the fathers , and sanctify them : Receive the sacrifice for thy whole people Israel , and preserve thine own portion , and sanctify it . Gather those together that are scattered from us , deliver them that serve among the heathen , look upon them that are despised and abhorred , and let the heathen know that thou art our God . Punish them that oppress us , and with pride do us wrong . Plant thy people again in thy holy place , as Moses hath spoken . And the priests sung psalms of thanksgiving . Now when the sacrifice was consumed , Neemias commanded the water that was left to be poured on the great stones . When this was done , there was kindled a flame : but it was consumed by the light that shined from the altar . So when this matter was known , it was told the king of Persia , that in the place , where the priests that were led away had hid the fire , there appeared water , and that Neemias had purified the sacrifices therewith . Then the king , inclosing the place , made it holy , after he had tried the matter . And the king took many gifts , and bestowed thereof on those whom he would gratify . And Neemias called this thing Naphthar , which is as much as to say , a cleansing : but many men call it Nephi . It is also found in the records , that Jeremy the prophet commanded them that were carried away to take of the fire , as it hath been signified : And how that the prophet , having given them the law , charged them not to forget the commandments of the Lord , and that they should not err in their minds , when they see images of silver and gold , with their ornaments . And with other such speeches exhorted he them , that the law should not depart from their hearts . It was also contained in the same writing , that the prophet , being warned of God , commanded the tabernacle and the ark to go with him , as he went forth into the mountain , where Moses climbed up , and saw the heritage of God . And when Jeremy came thither , he found an hollow cave , wherein he laid the tabernacle , and the ark , and the altar of incense , and so stopped the door . And some of those that followed him came to mark the way , but they could not find it . Which when Jeremy perceived , he blamed them , saying , As for that place , it shall be unknown until the time that God gather his people again together , and receive them unto mercy . Then shall the Lord shew them these things , and the glory of the Lord shall appear , and the cloud also , as it was shewed under Moses , and as when Solomon desired that the place might be honourably sanctified . It was also declared , that he being wise offered the sacrifice of dedication , and of the finishing of the temple . And as when Moses prayed unto the Lord , the fire came down from heaven , and consumed the sacrifices : even so prayed Solomon also , and the fire came down from heaven , and consumed the burnt offerings . And Moses said , Because the sin offering was not to be eaten , it was consumed . So Solomon kept those eight days . The same things also were reported in the writings and commentaries of Neemias ; and how he founding a library gathered together the acts of the kings , and the prophets , and of David , and the epistles of the kings concerning the holy gifts . In like manner also Judas gathered together all those things that were lost by reason of the war we had , and they remain with us , Wherefore if ye have need thereof , send some to fetch them unto you . Whereas we then are about to celebrate the purification , we have written unto you , and ye shall do well , if ye keep the same days . We hope also , that the God , that delivered all his people , and gave them all an heritage , and the kingdom , and the priesthood , and the sanctuary , As he promised in the law , will shortly have mercy upon us , and gather us together out of every land under heaven into the holy place : for he hath delivered us out of great troubles , and hath purified the place . Now as concerning Judas Maccabeus , and his brethren , and the purification of the great temple , and the dedication of the altar , And the wars against Antiochus Epiphanes , and Eupator his son , And the manifest signs that came from heaven unto those that behaved themselves manfully to their honour for Judaism : so that , being but a few , they overcame the whole country , and chased barbarous multitudes , And recovered again the temple renowned all the world over , and freed the city , and upheld the laws which were going down , the Lord being gracious unto them with all favour : All these things , I say , being declared by Jason of Cyrene in five books , we will assay to abridge in one volume . For considering the infinite number , and the difficulty which they find that desire to look into the narrations of the story , for the variety of the matter , We have been careful , that they that will read may have delight , and that they that are desirous to commit to memory might have ease , and that all into whose hands it comes might have profit . Therefore to us , that have taken upon us this painful labour of abridging , it was not easy , but a matter of sweat and watching ; Even as it is no ease unto him that prepareth a banquet , and seeketh the benefit of others : yet for the pleasuring of many we will undertake gladly this great pains ; Leaving to the author the exact handling of every particular , and labouring to follow the rules of an abridgement . For as the master builder of a new house must care for the whole building ; but he that undertaketh to set it out , and paint it , must seek out fit things for the adorning thereof : even so I think it is with us . To stand upon every point , and go over things at large , and to be curious in particulars , belongeth to the first author of the story : But to use brevity , and avoid much labouring of the work , is to be granted to him that will make an abridgment . Here then will we begin the story : only adding thus much to that which hath been said , that it is a foolish thing to make a long prologue , and to be short in the story itself . Now when the holy city was inhabited with all peace , and the laws were kept very well , because of the godliness of Onias the high priest , and his hatred of wickedness , It came to pass that even the kings themselves did honour the place , and magnify the temple with their best gifts ; Insomuch that Seleucus of Asia of his own revenues bare all the costs belonging to the service of the sacrifices . But one Simon of the tribe of Benjamin , who was made governor of the temple , fell out with the high priest about disorder in the city . And when he could not overcome Onias , he gat him to Apollonius the son of Thraseas , who then was governor of Celosyria and Phenice , And told him that the treasury in Jerusalem was full of infinite sums of money , so that the multitude of their riches , which did not pertain to the account of the sacrifices , was innumerable , and that it was possible to bring all into the king's hand . Now when Apollonius came to the king , and had shewed him of the money whereof he was told , the king chose out Heliodorus his treasurer , and sent him with a commandment to bring him the foresaid money . So forthwith Heliodorus took his journey ; under a colour of visiting the cities of Celosyria and Phenice , but indeed to fulfil the king's purpose . And when he was come to Jerusalem , and had been courteously received of the high priest of the city , he told him what intelligence was given of the money , and declared wherefore he came , and asked if these things were so indeed . Then the high priest told him that there was such money laid up for the relief of widows and fatherless children : And that some of it belonged to Hircanus son of Tobias , a man of great dignity , and not as that wicked Simon had misinformed : the sum whereof in all was four hundred talents of silver , and two hundred of gold : And that it was altogether impossible that such wrongs should be done unto them , that had committed it to the holiness of the place , and to the majesty and inviolable sanctity of the temple , honoured over all the world . But Heliodorus , because of the king's commandment given him , said , That in any wise it must be brought into the king's treasury . So at the day which he appointed he entered in to order this matter : wherefore there was no small agony throughout the whole city . But the priests , prostrating themselves before the altar in their priests' vestments , called unto heaven upon him that made a law concerning things given to he kept , that they should safely be preserved for such as had committed them to be kept . Then whoso had looked the high priest in the face , it would have wounded his heart : for his countenance and the changing of his colour declared the inward agony of his mind . For the man was so compassed with fear and horror of the body , that it was manifest to them that looked upon him , what sorrow he had now in his heart . Others ran flocking out of their houses to the general supplication , because the place was like to come into contempt . And the women , girt with sackcloth under their breasts , abounded in the streets , and the virgins that were kept in ran , some to the gates , and some to the walls , and others looked out of the windows . And all , holding their hands toward heaven , made supplication . Then it would have pitied a man to see the falling down of the multitude of all sorts , and the fear of the high priest being in such an agony . They then called upon the Almighty Lord to keep the things committed of trust safe and sure for those that had committed them . Nevertheless Heliodorus executed that which was decreed . Now as he was there present himself with his guard about the treasury , the Lord of spirits , and the Prince of all power , caused a great apparition , so that all that presumed to come in with him were astonished at the power of God , and fainted , and were sore afraid . For there appeared unto them an horse with a terrible rider upon him , and adorned with a very fair covering , and he ran fiercely , and smote at Heliodorus with his forefeet , and it seemed that he that sat upon the horse had complete harness of gold . Moreover two other young men appeared before him , notable in strength , excellent in beauty , and comely in apparel , who stood by him on either side ; and scourged him continually , and gave him many sore stripes . And Heliodorus fell suddenly unto the ground , and was compassed with great darkness : but they that were with him took him up , and put him into a litter . Thus him , that lately came with a great train and with all his guard into the said treasury , they carried out , being unable to help himself with his weapons : and manifestly they acknowledged the power of God . For he by the hand of God was cast down , and lay speechless without all hope of life . But they praised the Lord , that had miraculously honoured his own place : for the temple ; which a little afore was full of fear and trouble , when the Almighty Lord appeared , was filled with joy and gladness . Then straightways certain of Heliodorus' friends prayed Onias , that he would call upon the most High to grant him his life , who lay ready to give up the ghost . So the high priest , suspecting lest the king should misconceive that some treachery had been done to Heliodorus by the Jews , offered a sacrifice for the health of the man . Now as the high priest was making an atonement , the same young men in the same clothing appeared and stood beside Heliodorus , saying , Give Onias the high priest great thanks , insomuch as for his sake the Lord hath granted thee life : And seeing that thou hast been scourged from heaven , declare unto all men the mighty power of God . And when they had spoken these words , they appeared no more . So Heliodorus , after he had offered sacrifice unto the Lord , and made great vows unto him that had saved his life , and saluted Onias , returned with his host to the king . Then testified he to all men the works of the great God , which he had seen with his eyes . And when the king Heliodorus , who might be a fit man to be sent yet once again to Jerusalem , he said , If thou hast any enemy or traitor , send him thither , and thou shalt receive him well scourged , if he escape with his life : for in that place , no doubt ; there is an especial power of God . For he that dwelleth in heaven hath his eye on that place , and defendeth it ; and he beateth and destroyeth them that come to hurt it . And the things concerning Heliodorus , and the keeping of the treasury , fell out on this sort . This Simon now , of whom we spake afore , having been a betrayer of the money , and of his country , slandered Onias , as if he ha terrified Heliodorus , and been the worker of these evils . Thus was he bold to call him a traitor , that had deserved well of the city , and tendered his own nation , and was so zealous of the laws . But when their hatred went so far , that by one of Simon's faction murders were committed , Onias seeing the danger of this contention , and that Apollonius , as being the governor of Celosyria and Phenice , did rage , and increase Simon's malice , He went to the king , not to be an accuser of his countrymen , but seeking the good of all , both publick and private : For he saw that it was impossible that the state should continue quiet , and Simon leave his folly , unless the king did look thereunto . But after the death of Seleucus , when Antiochus , called Epiphanes , took the kingdom , Jason the brother of Onias laboured underhand to be high priest , Promising unto the king by intercession three hundred and threescore talents of silver , and of another revenue eighty talents : Beside this , he promised to assign an hundred and fifty more , if he might have licence to set him up a place for exercise , and for the training up of youth in the fashions of the heathen , and to write them of Jerusalem by the name of Antiochians . Which when the king had granted , and he had gotten into his hand the rule he forthwith brought his own nation to Greekish fashion . And the royal privileges granted of special favour to the Jews by the means of John the father of Eupolemus , who went ambassador to Rome for amity and aid , he took away ; and putting down the governments which were according to the law , he brought up new customs against the law : For he built gladly a place of exercise under the tower itself , and brought the chief young men under his subjection , and made them wear a hat . Now such was the height of Greek fashions , and increase of heathenish manners , through the exceeding profaneness of Jason , that ungodly wretch , and no high priest ; That the priests had no courage to serve any more at the altar , but despising the temple , and neglecting the sacrifices , hastened to be partakers of the unlawful allowance in the place of exercise , after the game of Discus called them forth ; Not setting by the honours of their fathers , but liking the glory of the Grecians best of all . By reason whereof sore calamity came upon them : for they had them to be their enemies and avengers , whose custom they followed so earnestly , and unto whom they desired to be like in all things . For it is not a light thing to do wickedly against the laws of God : but the time following shall declare these things . Now when the game that was used every faith year was kept at Tyrus , the king being present , This ungracious Jason sent special messengers from Jerusalem , who were Antiochians , to carry three hundred drachms of silver to the sacrifice of Hercules , which even the bearers thereof thought fit not to bestow upon the sacrifice , because it was not convenient , but to be reserved for other charges . This money then , in regard of the sender , was appointed to Hercules' sacrifice ; but because of the bearers thereof , it was employed to the making of gallies . Now when Apollonius the son of Menestheus was sent into Egypt for the coronation of king Ptolemeus Philometor , Antiochus , understanding him not to be well affected to his affairs , provided for his own safety : whereupon he came to Joppa , and from thence to Jerusalem : Where he was honourably received of Jason , and of the city , and was brought in with torch alight , and with great shoutings : and so afterward went with his host unto Phenice . Three years afterward Jason sent Menelaus , the aforesaid Simon's brother , to bear the money unto the king , and to put him in mind of certain necessary matters . But he being brought to the presence of the king , when he had magnified him for the glorious appearance of his power , got the priesthood to himself , offering more than Jason by three hundred talents of silver . So he came with the king's mandate , bringing nothing worthy the high priesthood , but having the fury of a cruel tyrant , and the rage of a savage beast . Then Jason , who had undermined his own brother , being undermined by another , was compelled to flee into the country of the Ammonites . So Menelaus got the principality : but as for the money that he had promised unto the king , he took no good order for it , albeit Sostratis the ruler of the castle required it : For unto him appertained the gathering of the customs . Wherefore they were both called before the king . Now Menelaus left his brother Lysimachus in his stead in the priesthood ; and Sostratus left Crates , who was governor of the Cyprians . While those things were in doing , they of Tarsus and Mallos made insurrection , because they were given to the king's concubine , called Antiochus . Then came the king in all haste to appease matters , leaving Andronicus , a man in authority , for his deputy . Now Menelaus , supposing that he had gotten a convenient time , stole certain vessels of gold out of the temple , and gave some of them to Andronicus , and some he sold into Tyrus and the cities round about . Which when Onias knew of a surety , he reproved him , and withdrew himself into a sanctuary at Daphne , that lieth by Antiochia . Wherefore Menelaus , taking Andronicus apart , prayed , him to get Onias into his hands ; who being persuaded thereunto , and coming to Onias in deceit , gave him his right hand with oaths ; and though he were suspected by him , yet persuaded he him to come forth of the sanctuary : whom forthwith he shut up without regard of justice . For the which cause not only the Jews , but many also of other nations , took great indignation , and were much grieved for the unjust murder of the man . And when the king was come again from the places about Cilicia , the Jews that were in the city , and certain of the Greeks that abhorred the fact also , complained because Onias was slain without cause . Therefore Antiochus was heartily sorry , and moved to pity , and wept , because of the sober and modest behaviour of him that was dead . And being kindled with anger , forthwith he took away Andronicus his purple , and rent off his clothes , and leading him through the whole city unto that very place , where he had committed impiety against Onias , there slew he the cursed murderer . Thus the Lord rewarded him his punishment , as he had deserved . Now when many sacrileges had been committed in the city by Lysimachus with the consent of Menelaus , and the fruit thereof was spread abroad , the multitude gathered themselves together against Lysimachus , many vessels of gold being already carried away . Whereupon the common people rising , and being filled with rage , Lysimachus armed about three thousand men , and began first to offer violence ; one Auranus being the leader , a man far gone in years , and no less in folly . They then seeing the attempt of Lysimachus , some of them caught stones , some clubs , others taking handfuls of dust , that was next at hand , cast them all together upon Lysimachus , and those that set upon them . Thus many of them they wounded , and some they struck to the ground , and all of them they forced to flee : but as for the churchrobber himself , him they killed beside the treasury . Of these matters therefore there was an accusation laid against Menelaus . Now when the king came to Tyrus , three men that were sent from the senate pleaded the cause before him : But Menelaus , being now convicted , promised Ptolemee the son of Dorymenes to give him much money , if he would pacify the king toward him . Whereupon Ptolemee taking the king aside into a certain gallery , as it were to take the air , brought him to be of another mind : Insomuch that he discharged Menelaus from the accusations , who notwithstanding was cause of all the mischief : and those poor men , who , if they had told their cause , yea , before the Scythians , should have been judged innocent , them he condemned to death . Thus they that followed the matter for the city , and for the people , and for the holy vessels , did soon suffer unjust punishment . Wherefore even they of Tyrus , moved with hatred of that wicked deed , caused them to be honourably buried . And so through the covetousness of them that were of power Menelaus remained still in authority , increasing in malice , and being a great traitor to the citizens . About the same time Antiochus prepared his second voyage into Egypt : And then it happened , that through all the city , for the space almost of forty days , there were seen horsemen running in the air , in cloth of gold , and armed with lances , like a band of soldiers , And troops of horsemen in array , encountering and running one against another , with shaking of shields , and multitude of pikes , and drawing of swords , and casting of darts , and glittering of golden ornaments , and harness of all sorts . Wherefore every man prayed that that apparition might turn to good . Now when there was gone forth a false rumour , as though Antiochus had been dead , Jason took at the least a thousand men , and suddenly made an assault upon the city ; and they that were upon the walls being put back , and the city at length taken , Menelaus fled into the castle : But Jason slew his own citizens without mercy , not considering that to get the day of them of his own nation would be a most unhappy day for him ; but thinking they had been his enemies , and not his countrymen , whom he conquered . Howbeit for all this he obtained not the principality , but at the last received shame for the reward of his treason , and fled again into the country of the Ammonites . In the end therefore he had an unhappy return , being accused before Aretas the king of the Arabians , fleeing from city to city , pursued of all men , hated as a forsaker of the laws , and being had in abomination as an open enemy of his country and countrymen , he was cast out into Egypt . Thus he that had driven many out of their country perished in a strange land , retiring to the Lacedemonians , and thinking there to find succour by reason of his kindred : And he that had cast out many unburied had none to mourn for him , nor any solemn funerals at all , nor sepulchre with his fathers . Now when this that was done came to the king's car , he thought that Judea had revolted : whereupon removing out of Egypt in a furious mind , he took the city by force of arms , And commanded his men of war not to spare such as they met , and to slay such as went up upon the houses . Thus there was killing of young and old , making away of men , women , and children , slaying of virgins and infants . And there were destroyed within the space of three whole days fourscore thousand , whereof forty thousand were slain in the conflict ; and no fewer sold than slain . Yet was he not content with this , but presumed to go into the most holy temple of all the world ; Menelaus , that traitor to the laws , and to his own country , being his guide : And taking the holy vessels with polluted hands , and with profane hands pulling down the things that were dedicated by other kings to the augmentation and glory and honour of the place , he gave them away . And so haughty was Antiochus in mind , that he considered not that the Lord was angry for a while for the sins of them that dwelt in the city , and therefore his eye was not upon the place . For had they not been formerly wrapped in many sins , this man , as soon as he had come , had forthwith been scourged , and put back from his presumption , as Heliodorus was , whom Seleucus the king sent to view the treasury . Nevertheless God did not choose the people for the place's sake , but the place far the people's sake . And therefore the place itself , that was partaker with them of the adversity that happened to the nation , did afterward communicate in the benefits sent from the Lord : and as it was forsaken in the wrath of the Almighty , so again , the great Lord being reconciled , it was set up with all glory . So when Antiochus had carried out of the temple a thousand and eight hundred talents , he departed in all haste unto Antiochia , weening in his pride to make the land navigable , and the sea passable by foot : such was the haughtiness of his mind . And he left governors to vex the nation : at Jerusalem , Philip , for his country a Phrygian , and for manners more barbarous than he that set him there ; And at Garizim , Andronicus ; and besides , Menelaus , who worse than all the rest bare an heavy hand over the citizens , having a malicious mind against his countrymen the Jews . He sent also that detestable ringleader Apollonius with an army of two and twenty thousand , commanding him to slay all those that were in their best age , and to sell the women and the younger sort : Who coming to Jerusalem , and pretending peace , did forbear till the holy day of the sabbath , when taking the Jews keeping holy day , he commanded his men to arm themselves . And so he slew all them that were gone to the celebrating of the sabbath , and running through the city with weapons slew great multitudes . But Judas Maccabeus with nine others , or thereabout , withdrew himself into the wilderness , and lived in the mountains after the manner of beasts , with his company , who fed on herbs continually , lest they should be partakers of the pollution . Not long after this the king sent an old man of Athens to compel the Jews to depart from the laws of their fathers , and not to live after the laws of God : And to pollute also the temple in Jerusalem , and to call it the temple of Jupiter Olympius ; and that in Garizim , of Jupiter the Defender of strangers , as they did desire that dwelt in the place . The coming in of this mischief was sore and grievous to the people : For the temple was filled with riot and revelling by the Gentiles , who dallied with harlots , and had to do with women within the circuit of the holy places , and besides that brought in things that were not lawful . The altar also was filled with profane things , which the law forbiddeth . Neither was it lawful for a man to keep sabbath days or ancient fasts , or to profess himself at all to be a Jew . And in the day of the king's birth every month they were brought by bitter constraint to eat of the sacrifices ; and when the fast of Bacchus was kept , the Jews were compelled to go in procession to Bacchus , carrying ivy . Moreover there went out a decree to the neighbour cities of the heathen , by the suggestion of Ptolemee , against the Jews , that they should observe the same fashions , and be partakers of their sacrifices : And whoso would not conform themselves to the manners of the Gentiles should be put to death . Then might a man have seen the present misery . For there were two women brought , who had circumcised their children ; whom when they had openly led round about the city , the babes handing at their breasts , they cast them down headlong from the wall . And others , that had run together into caves near by , to keep the sabbath day secretly , being discovered by Philip , were all burnt together , because they made a conscience to help themselves for the honour of the most sacred day . Now I beseech those that read this book , that they be not discouraged for these calamities , but that they judge those punishments not to be for destruction , but for a chastening of our nation . For it is a token of his great goodness , when wicked doers are not suffered any long time , but forthwith punished . For not as with other nations , whom the Lord patiently forbeareth to punish , till they be come to the fulness of their sins , so dealeth he with us , Lest that , being come to the height of sin , afterwards he should take vengeance of us . And therefore he never withdraweth his mercy from us : and though he punish with adversity , yet doth he never forsake his people . But let this that we at spoken be for a warning unto us . And now will we come to the declaring of the matter in a few words . Eleazar , one of the principal scribes , an aged man , and of a well favoured countenance , was constrained to open his mouth , and to eat swine's flesh . But he , choosing rather to die gloriously , than to live stained with such an abomination , spit it forth , and came of his own accord to the torment , As it behoved them to come , that are resolute to stand out against such things , as are not lawful for love of life to be tasted . But they that had the charge of that wicked feast , for the old acquaintance they had with the man , taking him aside , besought him to bring flesh of his own provision , such as was lawful for him to use , and make as if he did eat of the flesh taken from the sacrifice commanded by the king ; That in so doing he might be delivered from death , and for the old friendship with them find favour . But he began to consider discreetly , and as became his age , and the excellency of his ancient years , and the honour of his gray head , whereon was come , and his most honest education from a child , or rather the holy law made and given by God : therefore he answered accordingly , and willed them straightways to send him to the grave . For it becometh not our age , said he , in any wise to dissemble , whereby many young persons might think that Eleazar , being fourscore years old and ten , were now gone to a strange religion ; And so they through mine hypocrisy , and desire to live a little time and a moment longer , should be deceived by me , and I get a stain to mine old age , and make it abominable . For though for the present time I should be delivered from the punishment of men : yet should I not escape the hand of the Almighty , neither alive , nor dead . Wherefore now , manfully changing this life , I will shew myself such an one as mine age requireth , And leave a notable example to such as be young to die willingly and courageously for the honourable and holy laws . And when he had said these words , immediately he went to the torment : They that led him changing the good will they bare him a little before into hatred , because the foresaid speeches proceeded , as they thought , from a desperate mind . But when he was ready to die with stripes , he groaned , and said , It is manifest unto the Lord , that hath the holy knowledge , that whereas I might have been delivered from death , I now endure sore pains in body by being beaten : but in soul am well content to suffer these things , because I fear him . And thus this man died , leaving his death for an example of a noble courage , and a memorial of virtue , not only unto young men , but unto all his nation . It came to pass also , that seven brethren with their mother were taken , and compelled by the king against the law to taste swine's flesh , and were tormented with scourges and whips . But one of them that spake first said thus , What wouldest thou ask or learn of us ? we are ready to die , rather than to transgress the laws of our fathers . Then the king , being in a rage , commanded pans and caldrons to be made hot : Which forthwith being heated , he commanded to cut out the tongue of him that spake first , and to cut off the utmost parts of his body , the rest of his brethren and his mother looking on . Now when he was thus maimed in all his members , he commanded him being yet alive to be brought to the fire , and to be fried in the pan : and as the vapour of the pan was for a good space dispersed , they exhorted one another with the mother to die manfully , saying thus , The Lord God looketh upon us , and in truth hath comfort in us , as Moses in his song , which witnessed to their faces , declared , saying , And he shall be comforted in his servants . So when the first was dead after this number , they brought the second to make him a mocking stock : and when they had pulled off the skin of his head with the hair , they asked him , Wilt thou eat , before thou be punished throughout every member of thy body ? But he answered in his own language , and said , No . Wherefore he also received the next torment in order , as the former did . And when he was at the last gasp , he said , Thou like a fury takest us out of this present life , but the King of the world shall raise us up , who have died for his laws , unto everlasting life . After him was the third made a mocking stock : and when he was required , he put out his tongue , and that right soon , holding forth his hands manfully . And said courageously , These I had from heaven ; and for his laws I despise them ; and from him I hope to receive them again . Insomuch that the king , and they that were with him , marvelled at the young man's courage , for that he nothing regarded the pains . Now when this man was dead also , they tormented and mangled the fourth in like manner . So when he was ready to die he said thus , It is good , being put to death by men , to look for hope from God to be raised up again by him : as for thee , thou shalt have no resurrection to life . Afterward they brought the fifth also , and mangled him . Then looked he unto the king , and said , Thou hast power over men , thou art corruptible , thou doest what thou wilt ; yet think not that our nation is forsaken of God ; But abide a while , and behold his great power , how he will torment thee and thy seed . After him also they brought the sixth , who being ready to die said , Be not deceived without cause : for we suffer these things for ourselves , having sinned against our God : therefore marvellous things are done unto us . But think not thou , that takest in hand to strive against God , that thou shalt escape unpunished . But the mother was marvellous above all , and worthy of honourable memory : for when she saw her seven sons slain within the space of one day , she bare it with a good courage , because of the hope that she had in the Lord . Yea , she exhorted every one of them in her own language , filled with courageous spirits ; and stirring up her womanish thoughts with a manly stomach , she said unto them , I cannot tell how ye came into my womb : for I neither gave you breath nor life , neither was it I that formed the members of every one of you ; But doubtless the Creator of the world , who formed the generation of man , and found out the beginning of all things , will also of his own mercy give you breath and life again , as ye now regard not your own selves for his laws' sake . Now Antiochus , thinking himself despised , and suspecting it to be a reproachful speech , whilst the youngest was yet alive , did not only exhort him by words , but also assured him with oaths , that he would make him both a rich and a happy man , if he would turn from the laws of his fathers ; and that also he would take him for his friend , and trust him with affairs . But when the young man would in no case hearken unto him , the king called his mother , and exhorted her that she would counsel the young man to save his life . And when he had exhorted her with many words , she promised him that she would counsel her son . But she bowing herself toward him , laughing the cruel tyrant to scorn , spake in her country language on this manner ; O my son , have pity upon me that bare thee nine months in my womb , and gave thee such three years , and nourished thee , and brought thee up unto this age , and endured the troubles of education . I beseech thee , my son , look upon the heaven and the earth , and all that is therein , and consider that God made them of things that were not ; and so was mankind made likewise . Fear not this tormentor , but , being worthy of thy brethren , take thy death that I may receive thee again in mercy with thy brethren . Whiles she was yet speaking these words , the young man said , Whom wait ye for ? I will not obey the king's commandment : but I will obey the commandment of the law that was given unto our fathers by Moses . And thou , that hast been the author of all mischief against the Hebrews , shalt not escape the hands of God . For we suffer because of our sins . And though the living Lord be angry with us a little while for our chastening and correction , yet shall he be at one again with his servants . But thou , O godless man , and of all other most wicked , be not lifted up without a cause , nor puffed up with uncertain hopes , lifting up thy hand against the servants of God : For thou hast not yet escaped the judgment of Almighty God , who seeth all things . For our brethren , who now have suffered a short pain , are dead under God's covenant of everlasting life : but thou , through the judgment of God , shalt receive just punishment for thy pride . But I , as my brethren , offer up my body and life for the laws of our fathers , beseeching God that he would speedily be merciful unto our nation ; and that thou by torments and plagues mayest confess , that he alone is God ; And that in me and my brethren the wrath of the Almighty , which is justly brought upon our nation , may cease . Than the king' being in a rage , handed him worse than all the rest , and took it grievously that he was mocked . So this man died undefiled , and put his whole trust in the Lord . Last of all after the sons the mother died . Let this be enough now to have spoken concerning the idolatrous feasts , and the extreme tortures . Then Judas Maccabeus , and they that were with him , went privily into the towns , and called their kinsfolks together , and took unto them all such as continued in the Jews' religion , and assembled about six thousand men . And they called upon the Lord , that he would look upon the people that was trodden down of all ; and also pity the temple profaned of ungodly men ; And that he would have compassion upon the city , sore defaced , and ready to be made even with the ground ; and hear the blood that cried unto him , And remember the wicked slaughter of harmless infants , and the blasphemies committed against his name ; and that he would shew his hatred against the wicked . Now when Maccabeus had his company about him , he could not be withstood by the heathen : for the wrath of the Lord was turned into mercy . Therefore he came at unawares , and burnt up towns and cities , and got into his hands the most commodious places , and overcame and put to flight no small number of his enemies . But specially took he advantage of the night for such privy attempts , insomuch that the fruit of his holiness was spread every where . So when Philip saw that this man increased by little and little , and that things prospered with him still more and more , he wrote unto Ptolemeus , the governor of Celosyria and Phenice , to yield more aid to the king's affairs . Then forthwith choosing Nicanor the son of Patroclus , one of his special friends , he sent him with no fewer than twenty thousand of all nations under him , to root out the whole generation of the Jews ; and with him he joined also Gorgias a captain , who in matters of war had great experience . So Nicanor undertook to make so much money of the captive Jews , as should defray the tribute of two thousand talents , which the king was to pay to the Romans . Wherefore immediately he sent to the cities upon the sea coast , proclaiming a sale of the captive Jews , and promising that they should have fourscore and ten bodies for one talent , not expecting the vengeance that was to follow upon him from the Almighty God . Now when word was brought unto Judas of Nicanor's coming , and he had imparted unto those that were with him that the army was at hand , They that were fearful , and distrusted the justice of God , fled , and conveyed themselves away . Others sold all that they had left , and withal besought the Lord to deliver them , sold by the wicked Nicanor before they met together : And if not for their own sakes , yet for the covenants he had made with their fathers , and for his holy and glorious name's sake , by which they were called . So Maccabeus called his men together unto the number of six thousand , and exhorted them not to be stricken with terror of the enemy , nor to fear the great multitude of the heathen , who came wrongly against them ; but to fight manfully , And to set before their eyes the injury that they had unjustly done to the holy place , and the cruel handling of the city , whereof they made a mockery , and also the taking away of the government of their forefathers : For they , said he , trust in their weapons and boldness ; but our confidence is in the Almighty who at a beck can cast down both them that come against us , and also all the world . Moreover , he recounted unto them what helps their forefathers had found , and how they were delivered , when under Sennacherib an hundred fourscore and five thousand perished . And he told them of the battle that they had in Babylon with the Galatians , how they came but eight thousand in all to the business , with four thousand Macedonians , and that the Macedonians being perplexed , the eight thousand destroyed an hundred and twenty thousand because of the help that they had from heaven , and so received a great booty . Thus when he had made them bold with these words , and ready to die for the law and the country , he divided his army into four parts ; And joined with himself his own brethren , leaders of each band , to wit Simon , and Joseph , and Jonathan , giving each one fifteen hundred men . Also he appointed Eleazar to read the holy book : and when he had given them this watchword , The help of God ; himself leading the first band , And by the help of the Almighty they slew above nine thousand of their enemies , and wounded and maimed the most part of Nicanor's host , and so put all to flight ; And took their money that came to buy them , and pursued them far : but lacking time they returned : For it was the day before the sabbath , and therefore they would no longer pursue them . So when they had gathered their armour together , and spoiled their enemies , they occupied themselves about the sabbath , yielding exceeding praise and thanks to the Lord , who had preserved them unto that day , which was the beginning of mercy distilling upon them . And after the sabbath , when they had given part of the spoils to the maimed , and the widows , and orphans , the residue they divided among themselves and their servants . When this was done , and they had made a common supplication , they besought the merciful Lord to be reconciled with his servants for ever . Moreover of those that were with Timotheus and Bacchides , who fought against them , they slew above twenty thousand , and very easily got high and strong holds , and divided among themselves many spoils more , and made the maimed , orphans , widows , yea , and the aged also , equal in spoils with themselves . And when they had gathered their armour together , they laid them up all carefully in convenient places , and the remnant of the spoils they brought to Jerusalem . They slew also Philarches , that wicked person , who was with Timotheus , and had annoyed the Jews many ways . Furthermore at such time as they kept the feast for the victory in their country they burnt Callisthenes , that had set fire upon the holy gates , who had fled into a little house ; and so he received a reward meet for his wickedness . As for that most ungracious Nicanor , who had brought a thousand merchants to buy the Jews , He was through the help of the Lord brought down by them , of whom he made least account ; and putting off his glorious apparel , and discharging his company , he came like a fugitive servant through the midland unto Antioch having very great dishonour , for that his host was destroyed . Thus he , that took upon him to make good to the Romans their tribute by means of captives in Jerusalem , told abroad , that the Jews had God to fight for them , and therefore they could not be hurt , because they followed the laws that he gave them . About that time came Antiochus with dishonour out of the country of Persia For he had entered the city called Persepolis , and went about to rob the temple , and to hold the city ; whereupon the multitude running to defend themselves with their weapons put them to flight ; and so it happened , that Antiochus being put to flight of the inhabitants returned with shame . Now when he came to Ecbatane , news was brought him what had happened unto Nicanor and Timotheus . Then swelling with anger . he thought to avenge upon the Jews the disgrace done unto him by those that made him flee . Therefore commanded he his chariotman to drive without ceasing , and to dispatch the journey , the judgment of GOd now following him . For he had spoken proudly in this sort , That he would come to Jerusalem and make it a common burying place of the Jew s . But the Lord Almighty , the God of Isreal , smote him with an incurable and invisible plague : or as soon as he had spoken these words , a pain of the bowels that was remediless came upon him , and sore torments of the inner parts ; And that most justly : for he had tormented other men's bowels with many and strange torments . Howbeit he nothing at all ceased from his bragging , but still was filled with pride , breathing out fire in his rage against the Jews , and commanding to haste the journey : but it came to pass that he fell down from his chariot , carried violently ; so that having a sore fall , all the members of his body were much pained . And thus he that a little afore thought he might command the waves of the sea , ( so proud was he beyond the condition of man ) and weigh the high mountains in a balance , was now cast on the ground , and carried in an horselitter , shewing forth unto all the manifest power of God . So that the worms rose up out of the body of this wicked man , and whiles he lived in sorrow and pain , his flesh fell away , and the filthiness of his smell was noisome to all his army . And the man , that thought a little afore he could reach to the stars of heaven , no man could endure to carry for his intolerable stink . Here therefore , being plagued , he began to leave off his great pride , and to come to the knowledge of himself by the scourge of God , his pain increasing every moment . And when he himself could not abide his own smell , he said these words , It is meet to be subject unto God , and that a man that is mortal should not proudly think of himself if he were God . This wicked person vowed also unto the Lord , who now no more would have mercy upon him , saying thus , That the holy city ( to the which he was going in haste to lay it even with the ground , and to make it a common buryingplace , ) he would set at liberty : And as touching the Jews , whom he had judged not worthy so much as to be buried , but to be cast out with their children to be devoured of the fowls and wild beasts , he would make them all equals to the citizens of Athens : And the holy temple , which before he had spoiled , he would garnish with goodly gifts , and restore all the holy vessels with many more , and out of his own revenue defray the charges belonging to the sacrifices : Yea , and that also he would become a Jew himself , and go through all the world that was inhabited , and declare the power of God . But for all this his pains would not cease : for the just judgment of God was come upon him : therefore despairing of his health , he wrote unto the Jews the letter underwritten , containing the form of a supplication , after this manner : Antiochus , king and governor , to the good Jews his citizens wisheth much joy , health , and prosperity : If ye and your children fare well , and your affairs be to your contentment , I give very great thanks to God , having my hope in heaven . As for me , I was weak , or else I would have remembered kindly your honour and good will returning out of Persia , and being taken with a grievous disease , I thought it necessary to care for the common safety of all : Not distrusting mine health , but having great hope to escape this sickness . But considering that even my father , at what time he led an army into the high countries . appointed a successor , To the end that , if any thing fell out contrary to expectation , or if any tidings were brought that were grievous , they of the land , knowing to whom the state was left , might not be troubled : Again , considering how that the princes that are borderers and neighbours unto my kingdom wait for opportunities , and expect what shall be the event . I have appointed my son Antiochus king , whom I often committed and commended unto many of you , when I went up into the high provinces ; to whom I have written as followeth : Therefore I pray and request you to remember the benefits that I have done unto you generally , and in special , and that every man will be still faithful to me and my son . For I am persuaded that he understanding my mind will favourably and graciously yield to your desires . Thus the murderer and blasphemer having suffered most grievously , as he entreated other men , so died he a miserable death in a strange country in the mountains . And Philip , that was brought up with him , carried away his body , who also fearing the son of Antiochus went into Egypt to Ptolemeus Philometor . Now Maccabeus and his company , the Lord guiding them , recovered the temple and the city : But the altars which the heathen had built in the open street , and also the chapels , they pulled down . And having cleansed the temple they made another altar , and striking stones they took fire out of them , and offered a sacrifice after two years , and set forth incense , and lights , and shewbread . When that was done , they fell flat down , and besought the Lord that they might come no more into such troubles ; but if they sinned any more against him , that he himself would chasten them with mercy , and that they might not be delivered unto the blasphemous and barbarous nations . Now upon the same day that the strangers profaned the temple , on the very same day it was cleansed again , even the five and twentieth day of the same month , which is Casleu . And they kept the eight days with gladness , as in the feast of the tabernacles , remembering that not long afore they had held the feast of the tabernacles , when as they wandered in the mountains and dens like beasts . Therefore they bare branches , and fair boughs , and palms also , and sang psalms unto him that had given them good success in cleansing his place . They ordained also by a common statute and decree , That every year those days should be kept of the whole nation of the Jews . And this was the end of Antiochus , called Epiphanes . Now will we declare the acts of Antiochus Eupator , who was the son of this wicked man , gathering briefly the calamities of the wars . So when he was come to the crown , he set one Lysias over the affairs of his realm , and appointed him his chief governor of Celosyria and Phenice . For Ptolemeus , that was called Macron , choosing rather to do justice unto the Jews for the wrong that had been done unto them , endeavoured to continue peace with them . Whereupon being accused of the king's friends before Eupator , and called traitor at every word because he had left Cyprus , that Philometor had committed unto him , and departed to Antiochus Epiphanes , and seeing that he was in no honourable place , he was so discouraged , that he poisoned himself and died . But when Gorgias was governor of the holds , he hired soldiers , and nourished war continually with the Jews : And therewithall the Idumeans , having gotten into their hands the most commodious holds , kept the Jews occupied , and receiving those that were banished from Jerusalem , they went about to nourish war . Then they that were with Maccabeus made supplication , and besought God that he would be their helper ; and so they ran with violence upon the strong holds of the Idumeans , And assaulting them strongly , they won the holds , and kept off all that fought upon the wall , and slew all that fell into their hands , and killed no fewer than twenty thousand . And because certain , who were no less than nine thousand , were fled together into two very strong castles , having all manner of things convenient to sustain the siege , Maccabeus left Simon and Joseph , and Zaccheus also , and them that were with him , who were enough to besiege them , and departed himself unto those places which more needed his help . Now they that were with Simon , being led with covetousness , were persuaded for money through certain of those that were in the castle , and took seventy thousand drachms , and let some of them escape . But when it was told Maccabeus what was done , he called the governors of the people together , and accused those men , that they had sold their brethren for money , and set their enemies free to fight against them . So he slew those that were found traitors , and immediately took the two castles . And having good success with his weapons in all things he took in hand , he slew in the two holds more than twenty thousand . Now Timotheus , whom the Jews had overcome before , when he had gathered a great multitude of foreign forces , and horses out of Asia not a few , came as though he would take Jewry by force of arms . But when he drew near , they that were with Maccabeus turned themselves to pray unto God , and sprinkled earth upon their heads , and girded their loins with sackcloth , And fell down at the foot of the altar , and besought him to be merciful to them , and to be an enemy to their enemies , and an adversary to their adversaries , as the law declareth . So after the prayer they took their weapons , and went on further from the city : and when they drew near to their enemies , they kept by themselves . Now the sun being newly risen , they joined both together ; the one part having together with their virtue their refuge also unto the Lord for a pledge of their success and victory : the other side making their rage leader of their battle But when the battle waxed strong , there appeared unto the enemies from heaven five comely men upon horses , with bridles of gold , and two of them led the Jews , And took Maccabeus betwixt them , and covered him on every side weapons , and kept him safe , but shot arrows and lightnings against the enemies : so that being confounded with blindness , and full of trouble , they were killed . And there were slain of footmen twenty thousand and five hundred , and six hundred horsemen . As for Timotheus himself , he fled into a very strong hold , called Gawra , where Chereas was governor . But they that were with Maccabeus laid siege against the fortress courageously four days . And they that were within , trusting to the strength of the place , blasphemed exceedingly , and uttered wicked words . Nevertheless upon the fifth day early twenty young men of Maccabeus' company , inflamed with anger because of the blasphemies , assaulted the wall manly , and with a fierce courage killed all that they met withal . Others likewise ascending after them , whiles they were busied with them that were within , burnt the towers , and kindling fires burnt the blasphemers alive ; and others broke open the gates , and , having received in the rest of the army , took the city , And killed Timotheus , that was hid in a certain pit , and Chereas his brother , with Apollophanes . When this was done , they praised the Lord with psalms and thanksgiving , who had done so great things for Israel , and given them the victory . Not long after the , Lysias the king's protector and cousin , who also managed the affairs , took sore displeasure for the things that were done . And when he had gathered about fourscore thousand with all the horsemen , he came against the Jews , thinking to make the city an habitation of the Gentiles , And to make a gain of the temple , as of the other chapels of the heathen , and to set the high priesthood to sale every year : Not at all considering the power of God but puffed up with his ten thousands of footmen , and his thousands of horsemen , and his fourscore elephants . So he came to Judea , and drew near to Bethsura , which was a strong town , but distant from Jerusalem about five furlongs , and he laid sore siege unto it . Now when they that were with Maccabeus heard that he besieged the holds , they and all the people with lamentation and tears besought the Lord that he would send a good angel to deliver Israel . Then Maccabeus himself first of all took weapons , exhorting the other that they would jeopard themselves together with him to help their brethren : so they went forth together with a willing mind . And as they were at Jerusalem , there appeared before them on horseback one in white clothing , shaking his armour of gold . Then they praised the merciful God all together , and took heart , insomuch that they were ready not only to fight with men , but with most cruel beasts , and to pierce through walls of iron . Thus they marched forward in their armour , having an helper from heaven : for the Lord was merciful unto them And giving a charge upon their enemies like lions , they slew eleven thousand footmen , and sixteen hundred horsemen , and put all the other to flight . Many of them also being wounded escaped naked ; and Lysias himself fled away shamefully , and so escaped . Who , as he was a man of understanding , casting with himself what loss he had had , and considering that the Hebrews could not be overcome , because the Almighty God helped them , he sent unto them , And persuaded them to agree to all reasonable conditions , and promised that he would persuade the king that he must needs be a friend unto them . Then Maccabeus consented to all that Lysias desired , being careful of the common good ; and whatsoever Maccabeus wrote unto Lysias concerning the Jews , the king granted it . For there were letters written unto the Jews from Lysias to this effect : Lysias unto the people of the Jews sendeth greeting : John and Absolom , who were sent from you , delivered me the petition subscribed , and made request for the performance of the contents thereof . Therefore what things soever were meet to be reported to the king , I have declared them , and he hath granted as much as might be . And if then ye will keep yourselves loyal to the state , hereafter also will I endeavour to be a means of your good . But of the particulars I have given order both to these and the other that came from me , to commune with you . Fare ye well . The hundred and eight and fortieth year , the four and twentieth day of the month Dioscorinthius . Now the king's letter contained these words : King Antiochus unto his brother Lysias sendeth greeting : Since our father is translated unto the gods , our will is , that they that are in our realm live quietly , that every one may attend upon his own affairs . We understand also that the Jews would not consent to our father , for to be brought unto the custom of the Gentiles , but had rather keep their own manner of living : for the which cause they require of us , that we should suffer them to live after their own laws . Wherefore our mind is , that this nation shall be in rest , and we have determined to restore them their temple , that they may live according to the customs of their forefathers . Thou shalt do well therefore to send unto them , and grant them peace , that when they are certified of our mind , they may be of good comfort , and ever go cheerfully about their own affairs . And the letter of the king unto the nation of the Jews was after this manner : King Antiochus sendeth greeting unto the council , and the rest of the Jews : If ye fare well , we have our desire ; we are also in good health . Menelaus declared unto us , that your desire was to return home , and to follow your own business : Wherefore they that will depart shall have safe conduct till the thirtieth day of Xanthicus with security . And the Jews shall use their own kind of meats and laws , as before ; and none of them any manner of ways shall be molested for things ignorantly done . I have sent also Menelaus , that he may comfort you . Fare ye well . In the hundred forty and eighth year , and the fifteenth day of the month Xanthicus . The Romans also sent unto them a letter containing these words : Quintus Memmius and Titus Manlius , ambassadors of the Romans , send greeting unto the people of the Jews . Whatsoever Lysias the king's cousin hath granted , therewith we also are well pleased . But touching such things as he judged to be referred to the king , after ye have advised thereof , send one forthwith , that we may declare as it is convenient for you : for we are now going to Antioch . Therefore send some with speed , that we may know what is your mind . Farewell . This hundred and eight and fortieth year , the fifteenth day of the month Xanthicus . When these covenants were made , Lysias went unto the king , and the Jews were about their husbandry . But of the governours of several places , Timotheus , and Apollonius the son of Genneus , also Hieronymus , and Demophon , and beside them Nicanor the governor of Cyprus , would not suffer them to be quiet and live in peace . The men of Joppa also did such an ungodly deed : they prayed the Jews that dwelt among them to go with their wives and children into the boats which they had prepared , as though they had meant them no hurt . Who accepted of it according to the common decree of the city , as being desirous to live in peace , and suspecting nothing : but when they were gone forth into the deep , they drowned no less than two hundred of them . When Judas heard of this cruelty done unto his countrymen , he commanded those that were with him to make them ready . And calling upon God the righteous Judge , he came against those murderers of his brethren , and burnt the haven by night , and set the boats on fire , and those that fled thither he slew . And when the town was shut up , he went backward , as if he would return to root out all them of the city of Joppa . But when he heard that the Jamnites were minded to do in like manner unto the Jews that dwelt among them , He came upon the Jamnites also by night , and set fire on the haven and the navy , so that the light of the fire was seen at Jerusalem two hundred and forty furlongs off . Now when they were gone from thence nine furlongs in their journey toward Timotheus , no fewer than five thousand men on foot and five hundred horsemen of the Arabians set upon him . Whereupon there was a very sore battle ; but Judas' side by the help of God got the victory ; so that the Nomades of Arabia , being overcome , besought Judas for peace , promising both to give him cattle , and to pleasure him otherwise . Then Judas , thinking indeed that they would be profitable in many things , granted them peace : whereupon they shook hands , and so they departed to their tents . He went also about to make a bridge to a certain strong city , which was fenced about with walls , and inhabited by people of divers countries ; and the name of it was Caspis . But they that were within it put such trust in the strength of the walls and provision of victuals , that they behaved themselves rudely toward them that were with Judas , railing and blaspheming , and uttering such words as were not to be spoken . Wherefore Judas with his company , calling upon the great Lord of the world , who without rams or engines of war did cast down Jericho in the time of Joshua , gave a fierce assault against the walls , And took the city by the will of God , and made unspeakable slaughters , insomuch that a lake two furlongs broad near adjoining thereunto , being filled full , was seen running with blood . Then departed they from thence seven hundred and fifty furlongs , and came to Characa unto the Jews that are called Tubieni . But as for Timotheus , they found him not in the places : for before he had dispatched any thing , he departed from thence , having left a very strong garrison in a certain hold . Howbeit Dositheus and Sosipater , who were of Maccabeus' captains , went forth , and slew those that Timotheus had left in the fortress , above ten thousand men . And Maccabeus ranged his army by bands , and set them over the bands , and went against Timotheus , who had about him an hundred and twenty thousand men of foot , and two thousand and five hundred horsemen . Now when Timotheus had knowledge of Judas' coming , he sent the women and children and the other baggage unto a fortress called Carnion : for the town was hard to besiege , and uneasy to come unto , by reason of the straitness of all the places . But when Judas his first band came in sight , the enemies , being smitten with fear and terror through the appearing of him who seeth all things , fled amain , one running into this way , another that way , so as that they were often hurt of their own men , and wounded with the points of their own swords . Judas also was very earnest in pursuing them , killing those wicked wretches , of whom he slew about thirty thousand men . Moreover Timotheus himself fell into the hands of Dositheus and Sosipater , whom he besought with much craft to let him go with his life , because he had many of the Jews' parents , and the brethren of some of them , who , if they put him to death , should not be regarded . So when he had assured them with many words that he would restore them without hurt , according to the agreement , they let him go for the saving of their brethren . Then Maccabeus marched forth to Carnion , and to the temple of Atargatis , and there he slew five and twenty thousand persons . And after he had put to flight and destroyed them , Judas removed the host toward Ephron , a strong city , wherein Lysias abode , and a great multitude of divers nations , and the strong young men kept the walls , and defended them mightily : wherein also was great provision of engines and darts . But when Judas and his company had called upon Almighty God , who with his power breaketh the strength of his enemies , they won the city , and slew twenty and five thousand of them that were within , From thence they departed to Scythopolis , which lieth six hundred furlongs from Jerusalem , But when the Jews that dwelt there had testified that the Scythopolitans dealt lovingly with them , and entreated them kindly in the time of their adversity ; They gave them thanks , desiring them to be friendly still unto them : and so they came to Jerusalem , the feast of the weeks approaching . And after the feast , called Pentecost , they went forth against Gorgias the governor of Idumea , Who came out with three thousand men of foot and four hundred horsemen . And it happened that in their fighting together a few of the Jews were slain . At which time Dositheus , one of Bacenor's company , who was on horseback , and a strong man , was still upon Gorgias , and taking hold of his coat drew him by force ; and when he would have taken that cursed man alive , a horseman of Thracia coming upon him smote off his shoulder , so that Gorgias fled unto Marisa . Now when they that were with Gorgias had fought long , and were weary , Judas called upon the Lord , that he would shew himself to be their helper and leader of the battle . And with that he began in his own language , and sung psalms with a loud voice , and rushing unawares upon Gorgias' men , he put them to flight . So Judas gathered his host , and came into the city of Odollam , And when the seventh day came , they purified themselves , as the custom was , and kept the sabbath in the same place . And upon the day following , as the use had been , Judas and his company came to take up the bodies of them that were slain , and to bury them with their kinsmen in their fathers' graves . Now under the coats of every one that was slain they found things consecrated to the idols of the Jamnites , which is forbidden the Jews by the law . Then every man saw that this was the cause wherefore they were slain . All men therefore praising the Lord , the righteous Judge , who had opened the things that were hid , Betook themselves unto prayer , and besought him that the sin committed might wholly be put out of remembrance . Besides , that noble Judas exhorted the people to keep themselves from sin , forsomuch as they saw before their eyes the things that came to pass for the sins of those that were slain . And when he had made a gathering throughout the company to the sum of two thousand drachms of silver , he sent it to Jerusalem to offer a sin offering , doing therein very well and honestly , in that he was mindful of the resurrection : For if he had not hoped that they that were slain should have risen again , it had been superfluous and vain to pray for the dead . And also in that he perceived that there was great favour laid up for those that died godly , it was an holy and good thought . Whereupon he made a reconciliation for the dead , that they might be delivered from sin . In the hundred forty and ninth year it was told Judas , that Antiochus Eupator was coming with a great power into Judea , And with him Lysias his protector , and ruler of his affairs , having either of them a Grecian power of footmen , an hundred and ten thousand , and horsemen five thousand and three hundred , and elephants two and twenty , and three hundred chariots armed with hooks . Menelaus also joined himself with them , and with great dissimulation encouraged Antiochus , not for the safeguard of the country , but because he thought to have been made governor . But the King of kings moved Antiochus' mind against this wicked wretch , and Lysias informed the king that this man was the cause of all mischief , so that the king commanded to bring him unto Berea , and to put him to death , as the manner is in that place . Now there was in that place a tower of fifty cubits high , full of ashes , and it had a round instrument which on every side hanged down into the ashes . And whosoever was condemned of sacrilege , or had committed any other grievous crime , there did all men thrust him unto death . Such a death it happened that wicked man to die , not having so much as burial in the earth ; and that most justly : For inasmuch as he had committed many sins about the altar , whose fire and ashes were holy , he received his death in ashes . Now the king came with a barbarous and haughty mind to do far worse to the Jews , than had been done in his father's time . Which things when Judas perceived , he commanded the multitude to call upon the Lord night and day , that if ever at any other time , he would now also help them , being at the point to be put from their law , from their country , and from the holy temple : And that he would not suffer the people , that had even now been but a little refreshed , to be in subjection to the blasphemous nations . So when they had all done this together , and besought the merciful Lord with weeping and fasting , and lying flat upon the ground three days long , Judas , having exhorted them , commanded they should be in a readiness . And Judas , being apart with the elders , determined , before the king's host should enter into Judea , and get the city , to go forth and try the matter in fight by the help of the Lord . So when he had committed all to the Creator of the world , and exhorted his soldiers to fight manfully , even unto death , for the laws , the temple , the city , the country , and the commonwealth , he camped by Modin : And having given the watchword to them that were about him , Victory is of God ; with the most valiant and choice young men he went in into the king's tent by night , and slew in the camp about four thousand men , and the chiefest of the elephants , with all that were upon him . And at last they filled the camp with fear and tumult , and departed with good success . This was done in the break of the day , because the protection of the Lord did help him . Now when the king had taken a taste of the manliness of the Jews , he went about to take the holds by policy , And marched toward Bethsura , which was a strong hold of the Jews : but he was put to flight , failed , and lost of his men : For Judas had conveyed unto them that were in it such things as were necessary . But Rhodocus , who was in the Jews' host , disclosed the secrets to the enemies ; therefore he was sought out , and when they had gotten him , they put him in prison . The king treated with them in Bethsum the second time , gave his hand , took their's , departed , fought with Judas , was overcome ; Heard that Philip , who was left over the affairs in Antioch , was desperately bent , confounded , intreated the Jews , submitted himself , and sware to all equal conditions , agreed with them , and offered sacrifice , honoured the temple , and dealt kindly with the place , And accepted well of Maccabeus , made him principal governor from Ptolemais unto the Gerrhenians ; Came to Ptolemais : the people there were grieved for the covenants ; for they stormed , because they would make their covenants void : Lysias went up to the judgment seat , said as much as could be in defence of the cause , persuaded , pacified , made them well affected , returned to Antioch . Thus it went touching the king's coming and departing . After three years was Judas informed , that Demetrius the son of Seleucus , having entered by the haven of Tripolis with a great power and navy , Had taken the country , and killed Antiochus , and Lysias his protector . Now one Alcimus , who had been high priest , and had defiled himself wilfully in the times of their mingling with the Gentiles , seeing that by no means he could save himself , nor have any more access to the holy altar , Came to king Demetrius in the hundred and one and fiftieth year , presenting unto him a crown of gold , and a palm , and also of the boughs which were used solemnly in the temple : and so that day he held his peace . Howbeit having gotten opportunity to further his foolish enterprize , and being called into counsel by Demetrius , and asked how the Jews stood affected , and what they intended , he answered thereunto : Those of the Jews that he called Assideans , whose captain is Judas Maccabeus , nourish war and are seditious , and will not let the rest be in peace . Therefore I , being deprived of mine ancestors' honour , I mean the high priesthood , am now come hither : First , verily for the unfeigned care I have of things pertaining to the king ; and secondly , even for that I intend the good of mine own countrymen : for all our nation is in no small misery through the unadvised dealing of them aforersaid . Wherefore , O king , seeing knowest all these things , be careful for the country , and our nation , which is pressed on every side , according to the clemency that thou readily shewest unto all . For as long as Judas liveth , it is not possible that the state should be quiet . This was no sooner spoken of him , but others of the king's friends , being maliciously set against Judas , did more incense Demetrius . And forthwith calling Nicanor , who had been master of the elephants , and making him governor over Judea , he sent him forth , Commanding him to slay Judas , and to scatter them that were with him , and to make Alcimus high priest of the great temple . Then the heathen , that had fled out of Judea from Judas , came to Nicanor by flocks , thinking the harm and calamities ot the Jews to be their welfare . Now when the Jews heard of Nicanor's coming , and that the heathen were up against them , they cast earth upon their heads , and made supplication to him that had established his people for ever , and who always helpeth his portion with manifestation of his presence . So at the commandment of the captain they removed straightways from thence , and came near unto them at the town of Dessau . Now Simon , Judas' brother , had joined battle with Nicanor , but was somewhat discomfited through the sudden silence of his enemies . Nevertheless Nicanor , hearing of the manliness of them that were with Judas , and the courageousness that they had to fight for their country , durst not try the matter by the sword . Wherefore he sent Posidonius , and Theodotus , and Mattathias , to make peace . So when they had taken long advisement thereupon , and the captain had made the multitude acquainted therewith , and it appeared that they were all of one mind , they consented to the covenants , And appointed a day to meet in together by themselves : and when the day came , and stools were set for either of them , Ludas placed armed men ready in convenient places , lest some treachery should be suddenly practised by the enemies : so they made a peaceable conference . Now Nicanor abode in Jerusalem , and did no hurt , but sent away the people that came flocking unto him . And he would not willingly have Judas out of his sight : for he love the man from his heart He prayed him also to take a wife , and to beget children : so he married , was quiet , and took part of this life . But Alcimus , perceiving the love that was betwixt them , and considering the covenants that were made , came to Demetrius , and told him that Nicanor was not well affected toward the state ; for that he had ordained Judas , a traitor to his realm , to be the king's successor . Then the king being in a rage , and provoked with the accusations of the most wicked man , wrote to Nicanor , signifying that he was much displeased with the covenants , and commanding him that he should send Maccabeus prisoner in all haste unto Antioch . When this came to Nicanor's hearing , he was much confounded in himself , and took it grievously that he should make void the articles which were agreed upon , the man being in no fault . But because there was no dealing against the king , he watched his time to accomplish this thing by policy . Notwithstanding , when Maccabeus saw that Nicanor began to be churlish unto him , and that he entreated him more roughly than he was wont , perceiving that such sour behaviour came not of good , he gathered together not a few of his men , and withdrew himself from Nicanor . But the other , knowing that he was notably prevented by Judas' policy , came into the great and holy temple , and commanded the priests , that were offering their usual sacrifices , to deliver him the man . And when they sware that they could not tell where the man was whom he sought , He stretched out his right hand toward the temple , and made an oath in this manner : If ye will not deliver me Judas as a prisoner , I will lay this temple of God even with the ground , and I will break down the altar , and erect a notable temple unto Bacchus . After these words he departed . Then the priests lifted up their hands toward heaven , and besought him that was ever a defender of their nation , saying in this manner ; Thou , O Lord of all things , who hast need of nothing , wast pleased that the temple of thine habitation should be among us : Therefore now , O holy Lord of all holiness , keep this house ever undefiled , which lately was cleansed , and stop every unrighteous mouth . Now was there accused unto Nicanor one Razis , one of the elders of Jerusalem , a lover of his countrymen , and a man of very good report , who for his kindness was called a father of the Jews . For in the former times , when they mingled not themselves with the Gentiles , he had been accused of Judaism , and did boldly jeopard his body and life with all vehemency for the religion of the Jews . So Nicanor , willing to declare the hate that he bare unto the Jews , sent above five hundred men of war to take him : For he thought by taking him to do the Jews much hurt . Now when the multitude would have taken the tower , and violently broken into the outer door , and bade that fire should be brought to burn it , he being ready to be taken on every side fell upon his sword ; Choosing rather to die manfully , than to come into the hands of the wicked , to be abused otherwise than beseemed his noble birth : But missing his stroke through haste , the multitude also rushing within the doors , he ran boldly up to the wall , and cast himself down manfully among the thickest of them . But they quickly giving back , and a space being made , he fell down into the midst of the void place . Nevertheless , while there was yet breath within him , being inflamed with anger , he rose up ; and though his blood gushed out like spouts of water , and his wounds were grievous , yet he ran through the midst of the throng ; and standing upon a steep rock , When as his blood was now quite gone , he plucked out his bowels , and taking them in both his hands , he cast them upon the throng , and calling upon the Lord of life and spirit to restore him those again , he thus died . But Nicanor , hearing that Judas and his company were in the strong places about Samaria , resolved without any danger to set upon them on the sabbath day . Nevertheless the Jews that were compelled to go with him said , O destroy not so cruelly and barbarously , but give honour to that day , which he , that seeth all things , hath honoured with holiness above all other days . Then the most ungracious wretch demanded , if there were a Mighty one in heaven , that had commanded the sabbath day to be kept . And when they said , There is in heaven a living Lord , and mighty , who commanded the seventh day to be kept : Then said the other , And I also am mighty upon earth , and I command to take arms , and to do the king's business . Yet he obtained not to have his wicked will done . So Nicanor in exceeding pride and haughtiness determined to set up a publick monument of his victory over Judas and them that were with him . But Maccabeus had ever sure confidence that the Lord would help him : Wherefore he exhorted his people not to fear the coming of the heathen against them , but to remember the help which in former times they had received from heaven , and now to expect the victory and aid , which should come unto them from the Almighty . And so comforting them out of the law and the prophets , and withal putting them in mind of the battles that they won afore , he made them more cheerful . And when he had stirred up their minds , he gave them their charge , shewing them therewithall the falsehood of the heathen , and the breach of oaths . Thus he armed every one of them , not so much with defence of shields and spears , as with comfortable and good words : and beside that , he told them a dream worthy to be believed , as if it had been so indeed , which did not a little rejoice them . And this was his vision : That Onias , who had been high priest , a virtuous and a good man , reverend in conversation , gentle in condition , well spoken also , and exercised from a child in all points of virtue , holding up his hands prayed for the whole body of the Jews . This done , in like manner there appeared a man with gray hairs , and exceeding glorious , who was of a wonderful and excellent majesty . Then Onias answered , saying , This is a lover of the brethren , who prayeth much for the people , and for the holy city , to wit , Jeremias the prophet of God . Whereupon Jeremias holding forth his right hand gave to Judas a sword of gold , and in giving it spake thus , Take this holy sword , a gift from God , with the which thou shalt wound the adversaries . Thus being well comforted by the words of Judas , which were very good , and able to stir them up to valour , and to encourage the hearts of the young men , they determined not to pitch camp , but courageously to set upon them , and manfully to try the matter by conflict , because the city and the sanctuary and the temple were in danger . For the care that they took for their wives , and their children , their brethren , and folks , was in least account with them : but the greatest and principal fear was for the holy temple . Also they that were in the city took not the least care , being troubled for the conflict abroad . And now , when as all looked what should be the trial , and the enemies were already come near , and the army was set in array , and the beasts conveniently placed , and the horsemen set in wings , Maccabeus seeing the coming of the multitude , and the divers preparations of armour , and the fierceness of the beasts , stretched out his hands toward heaven , and called upon the Lord that worketh wonders , knowing that victory cometh not by arms , but even as it seemeth good to him , he giveth it to such as are worthy : Therefore in his prayer he said after this manner ; O Lord , thou didst send thine angel in the time of Ezekias king of Judea , and didst slay in the host of Sennacherib an hundred fourscore and five thousand : Wherefore now also , O Lord of heaven , send a good angel before us for a fear and dread unto them ; And through the might of thine arm let those be stricken with terror , that come against thy holy people to blaspheme . And he ended thus . Then Nicanor and they that were with him came forward with trumpets and songs . But Judas and his company encountered the enemies with invocation and prayer . So that fighting with their hands , and praying unto God with their hearts , they slew no less than thirty and five thousand men : for through the appearance of God they were greatly cheered . Now when the battle was done , returning again with joy , they knew that Nicanor lay dead in his harness . Then they made a great shout and a noise , praising the Almighty in their own language . And Judas , who was ever the chief defender of the citizens both in body and mind , and who continued his love toward his countrymen all his life , commanded to strike off Nicanor's head , and his hand with his shoulder , and bring them to Jerusalem . So when he was there , and called them of his nation together , and set the priests before the altar , he sent for them that were of the tower , And shewed them vile Nicanor's head , and the hand of that blasphemer , which with proud brags he had stretched out against the holy temple of the Almighty . And when he had cut out the tongue of that ungodly Nicanor , he commanded that they should give it by pieces unto the fowls , and hang up the reward of his madness before the temple . So every man praised toward the heaven the glorious Lord , saying , Blessed be he that hath kept his own place undefiled . He hanged also Nicanor's head upon the tower , an evident and manifest sign unto all of the help of the Lord . And they ordained all with a common decree in no case to let that day pass without solemnity , but to celebrate the thirtieth day of the twelfth month , which in the Syrian tongue is called Adar , the day before Mardocheus' day . Thus went it with Nicanor : and from that time forth the Hebrews had the city in their power . And here will I make an end . And if I have done well , and as is fitting the story , it is that which I desired : but if slenderly and meanly , it is that which I could attain unto . For as it is hurtful to drink wine or water alone ; and as wine mingled with water is pleasant , and delighteth the taste : even so speech finely framed delighteth the ears of them that read the story . And here shall be an end . .