First Book of Machabees

The 1st Chapter

After that Alexander the son of Philippe, king of Macedonia went forth of the land of Cethim, and slew Darius king of the Persians and Medes: It happened, that he took great wars in hand, won very many strong cities, and slew many kings of the earth: going through to the ends of the world and getting many spoils of the people: In so much, that the world stood in great awe of him, and therefore was he proud in his heart. (kjv = he was exalted and his heart was lifted up) Now when he had gathered a mighty strong host, and subdued the lands and people with their princes, so that they became tributaries unto him: he fell sick. And when he perceived that he must needs die, he called for his noble estates ( which had been brought up with him of children ) and parted his kingdom among them, while he was yet alive. So Alexander reigned twelve years, and then died.

After his death fell the kingdom unto his princes, and they obtained it everyone in his room, and caused themselves to be crowned as kings: and so did their children after them many years, and much wickedness increased in the world. Out of these came the ungracious root, noble Antiochus (kjv = surnamed Epiphanes) the son of Antiochus the king ( which had been a pledge (kjv = hostage) at Rome ) and he reigned in the hundred and thirty and seventh year of the reign of the Greeks.

In those days went there out of Israel wicked men, which moved much people with their council, saying: Let us go and make a covenant with the Heathen, that are round about us: for since we departed from them, we have had much sorrow. So this device pleased them well, and certain of the people took upon them for to go unto the king, which gave them license to do after the ordinances of the Heathen. Then set they up an open school ( at Jerusalem ) of the laws of the Heathen, and were no more circumcised: but forsook the holy Testament, and joined themselves to the Heathen, and were clean sold to do mischief.

So when Antiochus began to be mighty in his kingdom, he went about to obtain the land of Egypt also, that he might have the dominion of two realms. Upon this he entered into Egypt with a strong host with chariots, elephants, horsemen and a great number of ships, and began to war against Ptolomy the king of Egypt. But Ptolomy was afraid of him, and fled: and many of his people were wounded to death. Thus Antiochus won many strong cities, and took away great good out of the land of Egypt.

And after that Antiochus had smitten Egypt, he returned again in the hundred forty third year, and went toward Israel, and came up to Jerusalem with a mighty people: and entered proudly into the Sanctuary, and took away the golden altar, the candlestick (kjv= candlestick of light) and all the ornaments thereof, the table of the showbread, the pouring vessel and the chargers, the golden spoons, the veil, the crowns and golden apparel of the temple, and break down all. He took also the silver and gold, the precious Jewels and the secret treasures that he found. And when he had taken away altogether, caused a great murder of men, and so fulfilled his malicious pride, he departed into his own land.

Thus there arose a great heaviness and misery in all the land of Israel. The princes and elders of the people mourned, the young men and maidens were defiled, and the fair beauty of women was changed: the bridegroom and the bride took them to mourning the land and those that dwelt therin, was moved: for all the house of Jacob was brought to confusion.

After two years the king sent his chief treasurer unto the cities of Juda, which came to Jerusalem with a great multitude of people, speaking peaceable words unto them, but all was deceit: for when they had given him credence, he fell suddenly upon the city, and smote it sore, and destroyed much people of Israel. And when he had spoiled the city, he set fire on it, casting down houses and walls on every side. The women and their children took they captive, and lead away their cattle. Then builded they the castle of David with a great thick wall, and with mighty towers, and made it a stronghold for them. Beside all this they set wicked people and ungodly men to keep it, stored it with weapons and vitals: gathered the goods of Jerusalem, and laid them up there: thus became it a thievish (thieves) castle.

And this was done to lay wait for the people that went into the Sanctuary, and for the cruel destruction of Israel. Thus they shed innocent blood on every side of the Sanctuary, and defiled it: Insomuch that the citizens were faine to depart, and the city became an habitation of strangers, being desolate of her own seed, for her own natives were faine to leave her. Her Sanctuary was clean wasted, her holy days were turned to mourning, her Sabbaths were had in derision, and her honor was brought to nought. Look how great her glory was afore, so great was her confusion, and her joy turned into sorrow.

Antiochus also the king sent out a commission unto all his kingdom, that all the people should be one. Then they left every man his law, and all the Heathen agreed to the commandment of king Antiochus: Yee, many of the Israelites consented there unto, offering unto Idols, and defiling the Sabbath. So the king Antiochus sent his messengers with his commission unto Jerusalem, and to all the cities of Juda: that they should follow the laws of the Heathen, and forbade either burntofferings, meat offerings or peace offerings to be made in the temple of God, and that there should no Sabbath ner high feast day to be kept: but commanded, that the Sanctuary and the holy people of Israel should be defiled.

He commanded also that there should be set up other altars, temples and Idols: to offer up swines flesh and other unclean beasts: that men should leave their children uncircumcised, to defile their souls with all manner of uncleanness and abominations: that they might so forget the law, and change all the holy ordinances of God: (kjv leaves out "of God") and whosoever would not do according to the commandment of king Antiochus, should suffer death. In like manner commanded he throughout all his realm, and set rulers over the people, for to compel them to do these things, commanding the cities of Juda to do sacrifice unto Idols.

Then went the people unto the Heathen by heaps, forsook the law of the Lord, and committed much evil in the land: yee and chased out the secret Israelites, which had hid themselves in corners and privy places. The fifteenth day of the month Casleu, in the hundred forty fifth year, set king Antiochus an abominable Idol of desolation upon the altar of God, and they builded altars throughout all the cities of Juda on every side, before the doors of the houses, and in the streets: where they burnt incense, and did sacrifice. And as for the books of the law of God, they burnt them in the fire, and rent them in pieces. Whatsoever he was that had a book of the Testament of the Lord found by him, yee whosoever endeavored himself to keep the law of the Lord, the kings commandment was, that they should put him to death. And through his authority they executed these things every month, upon the people of Israel that were found in the cities.

The five and twentieth day of the month, what time as they did sacrifice upon the altar ( which stood instead of the altar of the Lord ) according to the commandment of king Antiochus, they put certain women to death, which had caused their children to be circumcised: Not only that, but they hanged up the children by the necks throughout all their houses, and slew the circumcisers of them.

Yet were there many of the people of Israel, which determined in themselves, that they would not eat unclean things: but chose rather to suffer death, then to be defiled with unclean meats. So because they would not break the blessed law of God, they were cruelly slain. And this great tyranny increased very sore upon the people of Israel.

The 2nd Chapter

In those days there did stand up one Mathathiah (kjv adds = the son of John), the son of Simeon the priest ( out of the kindred of Joaris ) (kjv= Joarib), from Jerusalem, and dwelt upon the mount of Modin, and had five sons: Jhon called Goddis: Simon, called Thasi: Judas, other wise called Maccabeus: Eleazer, other wise called Abaron: and Jonathas, whose surname was Apphus. These saw the evil, that was done among the people of Juda and Jerusalem. And Mathathiah said woe is me, alas that ever I was born, to see this misery of my people, and the piteous destruction of the holy city: And thus to sit so still, it being delivered into the hands of the enemies. Her Sanctuary is come in to the power of strangers her temple is, as it were a man that hath lost his good name. Her precious ornaments are carried away captive, her *old men (kjv = infants) are slain in the streets, her young men are fallen through the sword of the enemies.

What people is it, that hath not some possession in her kingdom ? Or who hath not gotten some of her spoils ? All her glory is taken away. She was a Queen, and now she is become a handmade. Behold our Sanctuary, our beauty and honor is wasted away, and defiled by the Gentiles. What helpeth it us then to live ? And Mathathiah rent his clothes, and his sons, and put on sackcloth upon them, and mourned very sore.

Then came the men thither which were sent of king Antiochus, to compel such as were fled in to the city of Modin, for to do sacrifice and to burn incense unto Idols, and to forsake the law of God. So, many of the people of Israel consented and inclined unto them, but Mathathiah and his sons remained steadfast. Then spake the commissioners of king Antiochus, and said unto Mathathiah: Thou art a noble man, of high reputation and great in this city, having fair children and brethren. Come now therefore first, and fulfil the kings commandment, like as all the Heathen have done, yea, and the men of Juda, and such as remain at Jerusalem: so shalt thou and thy children be in the kings favor, and enriched with gold, silver and great rewards.

Mathathiah answered, and spake with a loud voice: Though all nations obey the king Antiochus, and fall away every man from keeping the **law (kjv = religion) of their fathers: though they consent to his commandments, yet will I and my sons and my brethren, not fall from the law of our fathers. God forbid we should forsake the law and the ordinances of God, and agree unto the commandment of king Antiochus. Therefore we will do no such sacrifice, neither break the statutes of our law, to go another way. And when he had spoken these words, there came one of the Jews, which openly in the sight of all, did sacrifice unto the Idols upon the altar in the city of Modin, according to the kings commandment.

When Mathathiah saw this, it grieved him at the heart, so that his reins shook withal, and his wrath kindled for very zeal of the law. With that he gave a skip forth, and killed the Jew beside the altar: Yee and slew the kings commissioner, that compelled him to do sacrifice, and destroyed the altar at the same time: such a zeal had he unto the law of God, like as Phynehes did unto Zambri the son of Salomi. And Mathathiah cried with a loud voice throughout the city, saying: Whoso is fervent in the law, and will keep the covenant, let him follow me. So he and his sons fled in to the mountains, and left all that ever they had in the city. Many other godly men also departed into the wilderness with their children, their wives, and their cattle, and remained there: for the tyranny increased so sore upon them.

Now when the kings servants, and the host, which was at Jerusalem in the city of David heard, that certain men had broken the kings commandment and were gone their way to the wilderness into secret places, and that there were many departed after them: they followed upon them to fight against them in the Sabbath day and said: Well ye yet rebel ? Get you hence and do the commandment of king Antiochus and ye shall live. They answered: we will not go forth, neither will we do the kings commandment, to defile the Sabbath day. Then began they to fight against them nevertheless they gave them none other answer, nether cast they one stone at them ner made fast their privy places, but said. We will die all in our own innocency, heaven and earth shall testify with us, that ye put us to death wrongfully. Thus they fought against them upon the Sabbath, and slew both men and cattle, their wives and their children, to the number of a thousand people.

When Mathathiah and his friends heard this, they mourned for them right sore, and said one to another: If so be that we all do as our brethren have done, and fight not for our lives and for our laws against the Heathen: then shall they the sooner root us out of the earth. So they concluded among themselves at the same time, saying: Whatsoever he be that cometh to make battle with us upon the Sabbath day, we will fight against him, and not die all, as our brethren that were murdered so heinously. Upon this came the Synagog of the Jews unto them:(kjv =Assideans) strong

men of Israel, all such as were fervent in the law. And all they that were fled for persecution, came to help them, and to stand by them: Insomuch that they gathered an host of men, and slew the wicked doers in their jealousy, and the ungodly men in their wrath. Some of the wicked fled unto the Heathen, and escaped.

Thus Mathathiah and his friends went about, and destroyed the altars, and circumcised the children, that had not yet received circumcision: as many as they found in the coasts of Israel: and followed mightily upon the children of pride, and this act prospered in their hands: Insomuch, that they kept the law against the power of the Gentiles and the kings, and gave not over their dominion unto wicked doers.

After this when the time drew on fast, that Mathathiah should die, he said unto his sons: Now is pride and persecution increased, now is the time of destruction and wrathful displeasure: wherefore ( O' my sons ) be ye fervent in the law, and jeopardize your lives for the Testament of the fathers: call to remembrance what acts our fathers did in their time, so shall ye receive great honor and an everlasting name.

Remember Abraham, was he not found faithful in *tentacion (temptation/attention) and it was reckoned unto him for righteousness ? Joseph in the time of his trouble kept the commandment, and was made lord of Egypt. Phinches our father was so fervent for the honor of God, that he obtained the covenant of an everlasting priesthood. Josue for fulfilling the word of God, was made captain of Israel. Caleb bear record before the congregation, and received an heritage. David also in his merciful kindness, obtained the throne of an everlasting kingdom. Eliah being jealous and fervent in the law, was taken up into heaven. Hananias, Asarias and Misael remained steadfast in faith, and were delivered out of the fire. In like manner Daniel being unguilty, was saved from the mouth of the Lions.

And thus ye may consider throughout all ages since the world began, that whosoever put their trust in *God, (kjv=him) were not overcome. Fear not ye then the words of the ungodly man, for his glory is but dung and worthless. Today is he set up, and tomorrow he is gone: for he is turned into earth, and his memorial is come to naught. Wherefore (O' my sons ) take good hearts unto you, and quiet yourselves like men in the law: for if ye do the things that are commanded you in the law of the Lord your God, ye shall obtain great honor therin.

And behold, I know that your brother Simon is a man of wisdom: see that you give ear unto him alway, he shall be a father unto you. As for Judas Maccabeus, he hath ever been mighty and strong from his youth up: let him be your captain, and order the battle of the people: thus ye shall bring unto you all that favor the law, and see that ye avenge the wrong of your people, and recompense the Heathen again, and apply yourselves whole to the commandment of the law. So he gave them his blessing, and was layed by his fathers: and died in the hundred forty sixth year at Modin, where his sons buried him in his fathers sepulchre, and all Israel made great lamentation for him.

The 3rd Chapter

Then stood up Judas Macabeus in his fathers stead, and all his brethren helped him: and so did all they that held with his father, and fought with cheerfulness for Israel. So Judas gat his people great honor: He put on a breastplate as a giant, and arrayed himself with his harness, and defended the host with his sword. In his acts he was like a Lion, and as a lions whelp roaring at his prey. He was an enemy to the wicked, and hunted them out: and burnt up those that vexed his people. So that his enemies fled for fear of him, and all the workers of ungodliness were put to trouble: such luck and prosperity were in his hand. This grieved diverse kings, but Jacob was greatly rejoiced through his acts, and he gat himself a great name forever.

He went through the cities of Juda, destroying the ungodly out of them, turning away the wrath from Israel, and receiving such as were oppressed: and the fame of him went unto the utmost part of the earth. Then Appollonius ( a prince of Syria ) gathered a mighty great host of the Heathen, and out of Samaria, to fight against Israel. Which when Judas perceived, he went forth to meet him, fought with him: slew him, and a great multitude with him, and the remnant fled, and he took their substance. Judas also took Appollonius own sword and fought with it all his life long.

Now when Seron, ( another prince of Syria ) heard say, that Judas had gathered unto him the congregation and ***church of the faithful he said: I will get me a name and a praise throughout the realm: for I will go fight with Judas and them that are with him, as many as despise the kings commandment. So he made him ready, and there went with him a great mighty host of the ungodly, to stand by him, and to be avenged of the children of Israel. And when they came nye unto Bethoron, Judas went forth against them a small company. And when his people saw such a great host before them, they said unto Judas: How are we able ( being so few ) to fight against so great a multitude and so strong ? seeing we be so weary, and have fasted all this day?

*** truth is : this word "church" has been added here and in Chapter 4 . 1) it is not a Hebrew word; it is Greek. 2) the word "church" is not found in all the OT ( even the kjv). 3) the word "church" is only found in one place; in the entire original word of God, Acts Chapter 14, ... "Then Jupiters priest, which dwelt before their city, brought oxen and garlands unto the church porch, and would have done sacrifice with the people." 4) incredibly, the word "church" is not found in the kjv ; in same verse, where it is found in the original bible. 5) this word was inserted into the text of the jkv 79 times; all in the NT. 6) In most cases (NT) the word "congregation", was replaced by the word "church" in newer versions. 7) The Hebrew word "congregation" never, in any case, refers to a building or an organization of men .

But Judas said: It is a small matter for many to be overcome with a few: yee there is no difference to the God of heaven, to deliver by a great multitude or by a small company: for the victory of battle standeth not in the multitude of the host, but strength cometh from heaven. Behold, they come against us with a presumptuous and proud multitude, to destroy us, our wives and our children, and rob us. But we fight for our lives, and for our laws, and the Lord himself shall destroy them before our face: therefore be ye not afraid of them.

As soon as he had spoken these words, he leapt suddenly upon them. Thus was Seron smitten, and his host put to flight, and Judas followed upon them beyond Bethoron unto the plain field: where were slain eight hundred men of them, and the residue fled into the land of the Philistines. Then all the Heathen on every side were afraid for Judas and his brethren: so that the rumor of him came unto the kings ears for all the Gentiles could tell of the wars of Judas.

So when king Antiochus heard these things, he was angry in his mind: wherefore he sent forth and gathered an host of his whole realm very strong armies: and opened his treasury, and gave his host a years wages in hand, commanding them to be ready at all times.

Nevertheless when he saw, that there was not money enough in his treasuries, and that through the discord and persecution, which he made in the land ( to put down the laws that had been of old times ) his customs and tributes of the land were minished: he feared that he was not able for to bear the costs and charges any longer, nor to have such gifts, to give so liberally as he did afore, more than the kings that were before him.

Wherefore he was heavy in his mind, and thought to go into Persdes, for to take tributes of the land, and so to gather much money. So he left Lysias ( a noble man of the kings blood ) to oversee the kings business, from the water Euphrates unto the borders of Egypt: And to keep well his son Antiochus, until he came again.

Moreover, he gave him half of his host and Elephants, committed unto him everything of his mind, concerning those which dwelt in Juda and Jerusalem: that he should send out an army against them, to destroy and root out the power of Israel and the remnant of Jerusalem: to put out their memorial from that place, to set strangers for to inhabit all their quarters, and part their land among them. Thus the king took the other part of the host, and departed from Antioch ( a city of his realm ) over the water of Euphrates, in the hundred and forty seventh year, and went through the high countries.

And Lysias chose unto him Ptolomy the son of Doriminus, Nicanor and Gorgias mighty men, and the kings friends. These he sent with forty thousand footmen and seven thousand horsemen, for to go into the land of Juda, and to destroy it, as the king commanded. So they went forth with all their power, and came to Emmaus into the plain field. When the merchants heard the rumor of them, they and their servants took very much silver and gold, for to buy the children of Israel to be their bond men. There came unto them also yet more men of war on every side, out of Syria and from the Palestines.

Now when Judas and his brethren saw that trouble increased, and that the host drew nye unto their borders: considering the kings words which he commanded unto the people: namely that they should utterly waste and destroy them: They said one to another: Let us *redress (set to right) the decay of our people, and let us fight for our folk and for our Sanctuary. Then the congregation were soon ready gathered to fight, to pray and to make supplication unto God for mercy and grace.

As for Jerusalem, it lay void, and was as it had been a wilderness. There went no man in or out at it, and the Sanctuary was trodden down. The aliens kept the castle, there was the habitation of the Heathen. The mirth of Jacob was taken away, the pipe and the harp was gone from among them.

The Israelites gathered them together, and came to Maspha, before Jerusalem: for in Maspha was the place where they prayed afore time. So they fasted that day, and put sackclothes upon them, cast ashes upon their heads, rent their clothes, and laid forth the books of the law ( whereout the Heathen sought the likeness of their images ) and brought the Priests ornaments, the firstlings and the tithes. They set there also the abstainers ( which had fulfilled their days ) before God, and cried with a loud voice toward heaven, saying: What shall we do with these? and whither shall we carry them away? For the Sanctuary is trodden down and defiled, thy priests are come to heaviness and dishonor: and behold, the Heathen are come together for to destroy us. Thou knowest what things they imagine against us. How may we stand before thee, except thou ( O' God ) be our help?

They blew out the trumpet also with a loud voice. Then Judas ordained captains over the people: over thousands, over hundreds, over fifty and over tens. But as for such as builded them houses, married wives, planted them vineyards, and those that were fearful: he commanded them every man to go home, according to the law. So the host removed, and pitched upon the south side of Emmaus.

And Judas said, arm yourselves, be strong ( O' my children ) make you ready against tomorrow in the morning, that ye may fight with these people, which are agreed together to destroy us and our sanctuary. Better is it for us to die in battle, than to see our people and our sanctuary in such a miserable case. Nevertheless, as the will is in heaven, so be it.

The 4th Chapter

Then took Gorgias five thousand men of foot, and a thousand of the best horsemen: and removed by night, to come nye where the Jews host lay, and so to slay them suddenly. Now the men that kept the castle, were the conveyers of them. Then arose Judas to smite the chief and principal of the kings Host at Emmaus, for army was not yet come together. In the mean season came Gorgias by night into Judas tents: and when he found no man there, he sought them in the mountains, and thought they had been fled away because of him. But when it was day, Judas showed himself in the field with three thousand men only, which hath neither harness ner swords to their minds.

But on the other side, they saw that the Heathen were mighty and well harnessed, and their horsemen about them, and all these well expert in sets of war. Then said Judas to the men that were with him: Fear not ye the multitude of them, be not afraid of their violent running: remember how our fathers were delivered in the reed sea, when Pharaoh threatened them with a great Host.

Even so let us also cry now toward heaven: and the Lord *shall have mercy upon us, and remember the covenant of our fathers, yee and destroy this Host before our face this day: And all the heathen shall know, that it is God himself, which delivereth and saveth Israel.

Then the Heathen lift up their eyes, and saw that they were coming against them, they went out of their tents in to the battle: and they that were with Judas, blew up their trumpets. So they buckled together, and the Heathen were discomfited and fled over the plain field: but the hindmost of them were slain. For they followed upon them unto Assaremoth, (kjv= Gazera) and unto the fields of Idumea toward Zrot and Jamnia: so that there were slain of them upon a three thousand men. So Judas turned again with his Host, a said unto the people: Be not greedy of the spoils we have yet a battle to fight: for Gorgias and his host are here by us in the mountains, but stand ye fast against our enemies, and overcome them: then may ye safely take the spoils.

As Judas was speaking these words, there appeared one part of them upon the mount. But when Gorgias saw that they of his party were fled, and the tents burnt up ( for by the smoke they might understand what was done ) they perceiving this were very sore afraid: and when they saw also that Judas and his host were in the field ready to strike battle, they fled everychone (every each one) into the land of the Heathen.

So Judas turned again to spoil the tents, where they got much gold and silver, precious stones, purple and great riches. Thus they went home and sung a song of thanksgiving and praised God in heaven: for he is gracious, and his mercy endureth forever: And so Israel had a great victory in that day.

Now all the Heathen that escaped, came and told Lysias everything as it happened. Wherefore Lysias was sore afraid and grieved in his mind, because Israel had not gotten such misfortune as he would they should, neither as the king commanded. The next year following, gathered Lysias threescore thousand (60,000; score =20) chosen men of foot, and five thousand horsemen, to fight against them.

So they came into Jewry, and pitched their tents at Bethoron, where Judas came against them with ten thousand men. And when he saw so great mighty host, he made his prayer and said: Blessed be thou ( O' saviour of Israel ) which didst destroy the violent power of the giant, in the hand of thy servant David, and gatherest the host of the Heathen into the hand of Jonathan ( the son of Saul ) and of his weapon bearer.

Put this host now into the hand of thy people of Israel, and let them be confounded in their multitude and horsemen. Make them afraid, and discomforteth the boldness of their strength, that they may be moved through their destruction. Cast them down through the sword of thy lovers, then shall all they that know thy name, praise thee with thanksgiving.

So they struck the battle, and there were slain of Lysias host, five thousand men. Then Lysias seeing the discomfiting (frustrate, defeat) of his men, and the manliness of the Jews, how they were ready, either to live or die like men: He went unto Antioche, and chose out men of war: that when they were gathered together, they might come again into Jewry. Then said Judas and his brethren behold: our enemies are discomfited: Let us now go up, to cleanse and to repair the Sanctuary.

Upon this, all the host gathered them together, and went up unto mount Sion.

Now when they saw the Sanctuary layed waste, the altar defiled, the doors burned up, the shrubs growing in the courts, like as in a wood upon mountains, yee and the priests Cells were broken down: They rent their clothes, made great lamentation, cast

ashes upon their heads, fell down flat to the ground, made a great noise with the trumpets, and cried toward heaven.

Then Judas appointed certain men to fight against those which were in the castle till they had cleansed the Sanctuary. So he chose priests that were undefiled, such as had pleasure in the law *of God: (kjv leaves out "of God") and they cleansed the Sanctuary, and bare out the defiled stones into an unclean place. And for so much as the altar of burntofferings was unhallowed, he took advisement, what he might do with all: so he thought it was best to destroy it ( least it should happen to do them any shame ) for the Heathen had defiled it, and therefore they break it down. As for the stones they layed them upon the mountain by the *house (kjv = temple) in a

convenient place: till there came a prophet to show, what should be done with them.

So they took whole stones according to the law, and builded a new altar such one as was before, and made up the Sanctuary within and without, and hallowed the courts.

They made new ornaments, and brought the candlestick the altar of incense, and the table in to the temple. They incense layed they upon the altar, and lighted the lamps that were upon the candlestick, that they might burn in the temple. They set the show bread upon the table, and hanged up the veil, and set up the temple, as it was afore.

And on twentieth fifth day of the ninth month, which is called the month Casleu, in the hundred and forty eighth year: they rose up by times in the morning for to do sacrifice ( according to the law ) upon the new burntoffering altar that they had made: after the time and season that the Heathen had defiled it. The same day was it set up again, with songs pipes, harps, and cymbals.

And all the people fell upon their faces, worshipping and thanking (kjv =praising) the God of heaven which had given them *victory ( kjv =good success). So they kept the dedication of the altar eight days offering burnt sacrifices and thankofferings with gladness. They decked the temple also with crowns and shields of gold, and hallowed the ports and cells, and hanged doors upon them. Thus there was very great gladness among the people, because the blasphemy (kjv= reproach) of the Heathen was put away. So Judas and his brethren with the whole congregation of Israel, ordained, that the time of the dedication of the altar should be kept in *his (kjv = their) season from year to year, by the space of eight days, from the twentieth fifth day of the month Casleu: and that with mirth and gladness.

And at the same time builded they up the mount Sion with high walls and strong towers round about: lest the Gentiles should come and tread it down, as they did afore. Therefore Judas set men of war in it, to keep it: and made it strong, for to defend Bethsura: that the people might have a refuge against the *Edomites.

(kjv = Idumea.). Bethsura = Heb "house of the rock". Edomites = Heb "red" descendants of Esau, or those that have sold their birthright.

The 5th Chapter

It happened also that when the Heathen round about heard, how that the altar and the Sanctuary were set up in their old estate: it displeased them very sore, wherefore they thought to destroy the generation of Jacob that was among them: In so much that they began to slay and persecute certain of the people. Then Judas fought against the children of Esau in Idumea, and against those which were at Arabathane, ( for they dwelt round about the Israelites) where he slew and spoiled a great multitude of them. He thought also upon the malice and unfaithfulness of the children of Bean, how they were a snare and stop unto the people, and how they layed wait for them in the high way: wherefore he shut them up in to towers, and came unto them, condemned them, and burnt up their towers, with all that were in them.

Afterward went he against the children of Ammon, whereof he found a mighty power and a great multitude of people, with Timothy their captain. So he struck many battles with them, which were destroyed before him. And when he had slayen them, he won Gazer the city, with the towns belonging thereto, and so turned again into Jewry. The Heathen also in Galaad gathered them together, against the Israelites that were in their quarters, to slay them: but they fled to the castle of Datheman, and sent letters unto Judas and his brethren saying: The Heathen are gathered against us on every side, to destroy us, and now they make them for to come and lay siege to the castle, whereunto we are fled, and Timothy is the captain of their Host: come therefore, and deliver us out of their hands: for there is a great multitude of us slain already. Yee, and our brethren that were at Tubin, are slain and destroyed ( well nye a thousand men ) and their wives, their children and their goods have the enemies led away captive.

While these letters were yet a reading, behold, there came other messengers from Galilee, with rent clothes: which told even the same tidings, and said, that they of Ptolomaus, of Tyrus, and of Sidon were gathered against them, and that all Galilee was filled with enemies to destroy Israel. When Judas and the people heard this, they came together ( a great congregation ) to devise, what they might do for their brethren, that were in trouble, and besieged of their enemies. And Judas said unto Simon his brother: Choose thee out certain men, and go and deliver thy brethren in Galilee: As for me and my brother Jonathas, we will go into Galaadithim. So he left Josephus the son of Zachary, and Asarias to be Captains of the people, and to keep the remnant of the Host in Jewry, and commanded them, saying: Take the oversight of this people, and see that ye make no war against the Heathen, until the time that we come again. And unto Simon he gave three thousand men for to go into Galilee, but Judas himself had eight thousand in Galaadithim.

Then went Simon into Galilee, and struck diverse battles with the Heathen: who he discomfited, and followed upon them unto the port of *Ptolemais. (grk = warlike) And there were slain of the Heathen almost three thousand men. So he took the spoils of them, and carried away the Israelites, that were in Galilee, and in Arbatis, with their wives, their children, and all that they had, and brought them in to Jewry with great gladness. Judas Maccabeus also and his brother Jonathas, went over Jordan, and travelled three days journey in the wilderness: Where the Nebuthees met them, and received them lovingly, and told them every thing that had happened to their brethren in the land of Galaadithim, and how that many of them were besieged in Barasa, Bosor, Alimis, Casphor, Mageth, and Carnaim, ( all these cities are strong walled and mighty great cities ) And that they were kept in other cities of Galaad also: and tomorrow they are appointed to bring their Host unto these cities, to take them and to win them in one day.

So Judas and his host turned in all the haste in the wilderness toward Bosor and won the city, slew all the males with the sword, took all their goods, and set fire upon the city. And in the night they took their journey from thence, and came to the castle. And by times in the morning when they looked up, behold, there was an innumerable people bearing ladders and other instruments of war, to take the castle and over come them.

When Judas saw that the battle began, and that the noise thereof went up to heaven, and that there was so great a cry in the city: He said unto his host: Fight this day for your brethren. And so came behind their enemies in three companies, and blew up their trumpets, and cried in their prayer to God.

But as soon as Timothis host perceived that Maccabeus was there, they fled from him, and the other slew them down right sore: so that there were killed of them that same day, almost eight thousand men. Then departed Judas unto Maspha, layed siege to it and won it, slew all the males in it, spoiled it, and set fire upon it. From thence went he and took Casbon, Mageth, Bosor, and the other cities in Galaad.

After this gathered Timothy another Host, which pitched their tents before Raphon beyond the water. Judas sent to spy the host, and they brought him word again, saying: All the Heathen that be round about us, are gathered unto him, and the host is very great: Yee they have hired the Arabians to help them, and have

pitched their tents beyond the water, and are ready to come and fight against thee. So Judas went on to meet them.

And Timothy said unto the captains of his host: When Judas and his host come nye the river: if he go over first, we shall not be able to withstand him: for why? he will be too strong for us. But if he dare not come over so that he pitch his tent beyond the water: then we go over, for we shall be strong enough against him. Now as soon as Judas came near to the river, he appointed certain scribes of the people, and

commanded them, saying: see that ye leave none behind upon this side of the river, but let every man come to the battle. So he went first over unto them and his people after him.

And all the Heathen were discomfited before him, and let their weapons fall, and ran into the temple that was at Carnaim. Which city Judas won, and burnt the temple with all that were in it: So was Carnaim subdued, and might not withstand Judas. Then Judas gathered all the Israelites that were in Galaadithim, from the least unto the most, with their wives, and their children, (very great host) for to come into the land of Israel.

So they came unto Ephron, which was a mighty, great and strong city, and lay in their way. For they could not go by it, neither of the right hand ner of the left, but must go through it. Nevertheless they that were in the city, would not let them go through, but walled up the ports with stones. And Judas sent unto them with peaceable words, saying: Let us pass through your land, that we may go into our own country: there shall no body do you harm, we will but only go through. But they would not let them in.

Wherefore Judas commanded a proclamation to be made throughout the Host, that every man should keep his order: and so they did their best like valiant men. And Judas besieged the city all that day and all that night, and so won it: where they slew as many as were males, and destroyed the city, and spoiled it, and went through all the city over them that were slain. Then went they over Jordan into the plain field before Bethsan. And Judas helped those forward that came behind, andgave the people good exhortation all the way through, till they were come in to the land of Juda. Thus they went up unto the mount Sion, where they offered with mirth and thanksgiving: because there were none of them slain, but came home again peaceably.

Now what time as Judas and Jonathas were in the land of Galaad, and Simon their brother in Galilee before Ptolomais: Then Josephus the son of Zachary and Asarias the captains, hearing of the acts that were done and the battles that were struck, said: Let us get us a name also, and go fight against the Heathen that are round about us.

So they gave their host a commandment, and went toward Jamniah. Then came Gorgiah and his men out of the city, to fight against them: Josephus also and Asariah were chased unto the borders of Jewry and there were slain that day of the people of Israel two thousand men: so there was a great misery among the people, and all because they were not obedient unto Judas and his brethren, but thought they should quite themselves manfully. Nevertheless they came not of the seed of these men, by whom Israel was helped. But the men that were with Judas, were greatly commended in the sight of all Israel and all Heathen, where so ever their name was heard upon, and the people came unto them biding them welcome.

After this went Judas forth with his brethren, and fought against the children of Esau, in the land that layeth toward the south where he won the city of Hebron and the towns that lay beside it: and as for the walls and towers round about it, he burnt them up. Then removed he to go in to the land of the Philistines, and went through Samaria. At the same time were there many priests slain in the battle, which willfully and without advisement went out for to fight to get them honor. And when Judas came to Azot in the Philistines land, he break down their altars, burned the images of their Idols, spoiled the cities, and came again into the land of Juda.

The 6th Chapter

Now when king Antiochus traveled through the high countries, he heard that Elymas in Persia was a noble and plenteous city in silver and gold, and that there was in it a very rich temple: where as were clothes, coat armorers and shields of gold, which Alexander the son of Philip king of Macedonia had left behind him. Wherefore he went about to take the city and to spoil it, but he was not able: for the citizens were warned of it, and fought with him. And so he fled and departed with great heaviness, and came again into Babylon. Moreover there came one which brought him tidings in Perside, that his hosts which were in the land of Juda, were driven away, and how that Lisias went forth first with a great power, and was driven away of the Jews: how that they had won the victory, and gotten great goods out of the hosts that perished: how they had broken down the abomination, which he had set up upon the altar in Jerusalem, and fenced the Sanctuary with high walls, like as it was afore: yee and Bethsura his city also.

So it chanced, that when the King had heard these words, he was afraid and grieved very sore, Wherefore he laid him down upon his bed, and fell sick for very sorrow: and all because it had not happened as he had devised. And there continued he long, for his grief was ever more and more, so that he saw that he must needs die. Therefore he sent for his friends, and said unto them: The sleep is gone from mine eyes, for the very sorrow and vexation of heart that I have. For when I consider in my mind the great adversity that I am come unto, and the floods of heaviness which I am come in, whereas afore time I was so merry, and so greatly set by ( by reason of my power ) Again, considering the evil that I have done at Jerusalem, from whence I took all the riches of gold and silver that were in it, and sent to fetch away the inhabitors of Jewry without any reason why: I know, that these troubles are come upon me for the same cause. And behold, I must die with great sorrow in a strange land. Then called he for one Phillipe a friend of his, whom he made ruler of all his realm, and gave him the crown, his robe and his ring: that he should take his son Antiochus unto him, and bring him up, till he might reign himself. So the King Antiochus died there, in the hundred forty ninth year. When Lysias knew that the king was dead, he ordered Antiochus his son ( whom he had brought up ) to reign in his fathers stead, and called him Eupator. Now they that were in the castle ( at Jerusalem ) kept in the Jews round about the Sanctuary, and sought ever still to do them harm, for the strengthening of the Heathen.

Wherefore Judas thought to destroy them, and called all the people together, that they might lay siege to them. So they came together in the hundred and

fiftieth year, and besieged them, laying forth their ordinance and instruments of war. Then certain of them that were besieged went forth ( unto whom some ungodly men of Israel joined themselves also ) and went unto the king saying: How long will it be,

or thou punish and avenge our brethren? We have ever been minded to do thy father service, to walk in his statutes, and to obey his commandments: Therefore our people fell from us, and wheresoever they found any of us, they slew them: and they have not only meddled with us, but with all our countries: and behold, this day they are besieging the castle at Jerusalem, and have made up the stronghold in Bethsura: And if thou doest not prevent them right soon, they will do more than these, and thou shalt not be able to overcome them.

When the king heard this, he was very angry, and called all his friends, the captains of his footmen and all his horsemen together. He hired men of war also out of other realms and out of the Isles of the sea, which came unto him. And the number of his Host was an hundred thousand footmen, and twenty thousand horsemen, and thirty two Elephants well exercised to battle. These came through Idumea unto Bethsura, and besieged it a long season, and made diverse instruments of war against it. But the Jews came out and burnt them, and fought like men. Then departed Judas from the castle of Jerusalem, and removed the host toward Bethzacaran over against the kings army.

So the king arose before the day, and brought the power of his Host in to the way to Bethzacaran, where the Hosts made them to battle, blowing the trumpets. And to provoke the Elephants to fight, they showed them the sap of reed grapes and mulberries. And divided the Elephants among the Host: so that by every Elephant there stood a thousand men well harnessed, and helmets of steel upon their heads: Yee unto every one of the Elephants also, were ordered five hundred horsemen of the best, which waited of the Elephant, going wheresoever he went, and departed not from him. Every Elephant was covered with a strong tower of wood, where upon were thirty two valiant men with weapons to fight, and with it was a man of Inde (India) to rule the beast.

As for the remnant of the horsemen, he set them upon both the sides in two parties with trumpets, to provoke the Host, and to stir up such as were slow in the army. And when the sun shone upon their shields of gold and steel, the mountains glistered again at them, and were as bright as the cressettes (torches) of fire. The kings host was also divided, one part upon the high mountains, the other low beneath: so they went on, taking good heed, and keeping their order. And all they that dwelt in the land, were afraid at the noise of their host, when the multitude went forth, and when the weapons were smote together, for the host was both great and mighty. Judas also and his host entered into the battle, and slew six hundred men of the Kings army. Now when Eleasar the son of Savara did see one of the Elephants decked with the kings badge, and was a more goodly beast then the other: he thought the king should be upon him, and jeopardied himself to deliver his people, and to get him a perpetual name.

Wherefore he ran with courage unto the Elephant in the midst of the host, smiting them down of both the sides, and slew many about him. So went he to the Elephants feet, and gat him under him, and slew him: then fell the Elephant down upon him, and there he died. Judas also and his men seeing the power of the king and the mighty violence of his host, departed from them. And the kings army went up against them toward Jerusalem, and pitched their tents in Jewry beside mount Sion. Moreover, the king took truce with them that were in Bethsura.

But when they came out of the city, (because they had no victuals within, and the lay untilled ) the king took Bethsura, and set men to keep it, and turned his host to the place of the Sanctuary, and layed siege to it a great while. Where he made all manner of ordinance: handbows, fiery darts, rackets to cast stones, scorpions to shoot arrows, and slings. The Jews also made ordinance against theirs, and fought a long season.

But in the city there were no victuals, for it was the seventh year of the wars, and those Heathen that remained in Jewry had eaten up all their store. And in the Sanctuary were very few men left, for the hunger came so upon them, that they were scattered abroad every man to his own place.

So when Lysias heard that Philippe (whom Antiochus the king while he was yet living, had ordered to bring up Antiochus his son, that he might be king ) was come again out of Persia and Medea with the kings host, and thought to obtain the kingdom: He gat him to the king in all haste, and to the captains of the host, and said: we decrease daily, and our vitals are but small: Again, the place that we lay siege unto, is very strong, and it were our part to see for the realm. Let us agree with these men and take truce with them, and with all their people, and grant them to live after their law, as they did afore. For they be grieved a do all these things against us, because we have despised their law. So the king and the princes were content, and sent unto them to make peace, and they received it. Now when the king and the princes had made an oath unto them, they came out of the castle, and the king went up to mount Sion. But when he saw that the place was well fenced, he break the oath that he had made, and commanded to destroy the wall round about. Then departed he in all haste, and returned unto Antioche, where he found Philippe having dominion over the city. So he fought against him, and took the city again in to his hands.

The 7th Chapter

In the hundred fifty first year came Demetrius the son of Seleucus from the city of Rome with a small company of men, unto a city of the sea coast, and there he bare rule. And it chanced, that when he came to Antioch the city the city of his Progenitors, his host took Antiochus and Lysias, to bring them unto him. But when it was told him, he said: Let me not see their faces. So the host put them to death: Now when Demetrius was set upon the throne of his kingdom, there came unto him wicked and ungodly men of Israel: whose captain was Alcimus, that would have been made high priest: these men accused the people of Israel unto the king, saying: Judas and his brethren have slain thy friends, and driven us out of our own land. Wherefore send some man ( to whom thou givest credence ) that he may go and see all the destruction, which he hath done unto us and to the kings land, and let him be punished with all his friends and favorers.

Then the king chose Bacchides a friend of his, which was a man of great power in the realm ( beyond the great river ) and faithful to the king: and sent him to see the destruction that Judas had done. And as for that wicked Alcimus, he made him high priest, and commanded him to be avenged of the children of Israel. So they stood up, and came with a great host into the land of Juda, sending messengers to Judas and his brethren, and speaking unto them with peaceable words: but under deceit. Therefore Judas and his people believed not their saying, for they saw that they were come with a great Host.

After this came the scribes together unto Alcimus and Bacchides, trusting the best unto them. And first the Assideans required peace of them, saying: Alcimus the priest is come of the seed of Aaron, how can he deceive us ? So they gave them loving words, and swore unto them, and said: we will do you no harm, neither your friends: and they believed them. But the very same day took they sixty men of them and slew them according to the words that are written: They have cast the flesh of thy saints, and shed their blood round about Jerusalem, and there was no man that would bury them. So there came a great fear and dread among the people, saying: There is neither truth nor righteousness in them, for they have broken the appointment and oath that they made. And Bachides removed his host from Jerusalem, and pitched his tent at Bethzecha: where he sent forth, and took many of them that had forsaken him: He slew many of the people also, and cast them into a great pit. Then committed he the land to Alcimus, and left men of war with him to help him, and Bachides himself went unto the king. And thus Alcimus defended his high priesthood, and all such as vexed Israel, resorted unto him: In so much that they obtained the land of Juda, and did much evil unto the Israelites.

Now when Judas saw all the mischief that Alcimus and his company had done

( yee more than the Heathen themselves ) unto the Israelites: He went forth round about all the borders of Jewry, and punished those unfaithful renegades, so that they came out no more into the country. So when Alcimus saw, that Judas and his people had gotten the upper hand, and that he was not able to abide them: he went again to the king, and said all the worst of them that he could. Then the king sent Nicanor, one of his chief princes, ( which bare evil will unto Israel ) and commanded him, that he should utterly destroy the people.

So Nicanor came to Jerusalem with a great host, and sent unto Judas and his brethren with friendly words, ( but under deceit ) saying: there shall be no war between me and you: I will come with a few men, to see how ye do, with friendship. Upon this he came unto Judas, and they saluted one another peaceably: but the enemies were appointed to take Judas by violence. Nevertheless it was told Judas, that he came unto him but under deceit: wherefore he *got him away from him, (kjv =was sore afraid of him) and would see his face no more. When Nicanor he saw that his counsel was betrayed, went out to fight against Judas, beside Capharsalama: Where there were slain of Nicanors host, five thousand men: the residue fled into the castle of David.

After this came Nicanor up unto mount Sion: and the priests with the elders of the people went forth to salute him peaceably and to show him the burnt sacrifices that were offered for the king. But he laughed them to scorn, mocked them, defiled their offerings, and spake *disdainedly (haughty contempt, aloofness) Yee and swore in his wrath, saying: If Judas and his host be not delivered now into my hands, as soon as ever I come again, ( and fair well ) I will burn up this house, With that, he went out in a great anger. Then the priests came in, and stood before the altar of the temple, weeping, and saying: For as much as thou ( O' Lord ) hast chosen this house, that thy name might be called upon therin, (kjv = called by thy name) and that it should be an house of prayer and petition *unto (kjv = for) thy people: Be avenged of this man and his host, and let them be slain with the sword: remember the blasphemies of them, and suffer them not to continue any longer.

When Nicanor was gone out of Jerusalem, he pitched his tents in Bethhoron, and there an host met him out of Syria. And Judas came to Adarsa with three thousand men, and made his prayer unto God, saying: O Lord, because the messengers of king *Senacherib (kjv= of the Assyrians) blasphemed thee, the angel went forth, and slew an hundred eighty five thousand of them: Even so destroy thou this host before us today, that other people may know, how that he hath blasphemed thy Sanctuary: and punish him, according to his maliciousness.

*Senacherib = Heb "sin multiplied brothers"

And so the hosts struck the field, the thirteenth day of the month Adar: and Nicanors host was discomfited, and he himself was first slain in the battle. When Nicanors men of war saw that he was killed, they cast away their weapons and fled: but the Jews followed upon them an whole days journey, from Adazer unto Gazara, blowing with the trumpets, and making tokens after them. So the Jews came forth of all the towns there about, and blew out their horns upon them, and turned against them: thus were they all slain, and not one of them was left.

Then they took their substance for prey, and smote off Nicanors head and his right hand ( which he held up so proudly ) and brought it with them, and hanged it up *afere (afore =before) Jerusalem. Wherefore the people were exceedingly rejoiced, and passed over that day in great gladness. And Judas ordained, that the same day ( namely the thirteenth day of the month of Adar ) should be kept in mirth every year. Thus the land of Juda was in rest a little while.

The 8th Chapter

Judas heard also the fame of the Romans, that they were mighty and valiant men, and agreeable to all things that are required of them, and make peace with all men, which come unto them, and how they are *doughty (brave) men of strength. Besides that it was told him of their battles and noble acts which they did in Galatia, how they had conquered them, and brought them under tribute:

And what great things they had done in Spaine, how that with their wisdom and sober behavior they had won the *Mines of the silver and gold the are there, and obtained all the land, with other places far from them: how they had discomfited and slain down the kings that came upon them, from the uttermost part of the earth, and how other people gave them tribute every year:

How they had slain and over come Philippe andPerses king of the Cethim, and other more ( in battle ) which had brought their ordinance against them: How they had discomfited great Antiochus king of Asia

( that would needs fight with them ) having an hundred and twenty Elephants, with

horsemen, chariots, and a very great host: how they took himself alive, and ordered him ( with such as should reign after him ) to pay them a great tribute, yee and to find them good sureties and pledge: besides all this, how they had taken from him India, Media and Lydia ( his best lands ) and given them to king Eumenus. Again, how they perceiving that the Greeks were coming to vex them: sent against them a captain of an host, which gave them battle, slew many of them, led away their wives and children captive, spoiled them, and took possession of their land, destroyed their strong holds, and subdued them to be their bond men, unto this day: Moreover, how that as for the other kingdoms of the Isles, which sometime withstood them, they destroyed them, and brought them under their dominion:

But helped ever their own friends and those that were confederate with them, and conquered kingdoms both far and nye: and that whosoever heard of their renown, was afraid of them: for whom they would help to their kingdoms, those reigned: and whom it liked not them to reign, they put him down: And how they were put to great prominence: having no king among them, neither any man clothed in purple, to be magnified there through but ordered them selves a *parliament,(kjv= senate house) where in there sat three hundred and twenty Senators daily upon the council, to dispatch ever the business of the people, and to keep good order: And how that every year they chose a Mayor, to have governance of all their land: to whom every man was obedient, and there was neither evil will ner dissention among them.

Then Judas chose Eupolemus the son of Jhon, the son of *Jacob (kjv = Accos), and Jason the son of Eleazar, and sent them unto Rome for to make friendship and a bond of love with them: (kjv = a league of amity and confederacy) that they might take from them the bondage of the Greeks, for the Jews saw that the Greeks would subdue the kingdom of Israel. So they went unto Rome ( a very great journey ) and came to the Parliament (senate) and said: Judas Maccabeus with his brethren and the people of the Jews hath sent us unto you, to make a bond of friendship and peace with you, and ye to note us as you lovers and friends. And the matter pleased the Romans right well, wherefore it was written up: of the which the Romans made a writing in tables of Latin ( kjv = tables of brass) and sent it to Jerusalem: that they might have by them a memorial of the same peace and bond of friendship, after this manner:

*God save the Romans and the people of the Jews both by sea and by land, and keep the sword and enemy from them for evermore. If there come first any war upon the Romans or any of their friends throughout all their dominion, the people of the Jews shall help them ( as the time requireth ) and that with all their hearts. Also they shall neither give nor send unto their enemies victuals, weapons, money ner ships: but fulfill this charge at the Romans pleasure, and take nothing therefore. Again if the people of the Jews happen first to have war, the Romans shall stand by them with a good will, according as the time will suffer (allow). Neither shall they give unto the Jews enemies, victuals, weapons, money nor ships. Thus are the Romans content to do, and shall fulfill their charge without any deceit.

According to these articles, the Romans made the bond with the Jews. And now after these ( said they ) if any of the parties will put to them, or take anything away from them: they shall do it with the consent of both: and whatsoever they add unto them or take away from them, it shall stand fast. And as touching the evil that Demetrius hath done unto the Jews, we have written unto him, saying: Wherefore layest thou thy heavy yoke upon the Jews our friends and lovers ? If they make any complaint of thee again unto us, we shall defend them, and fight with thee by sea and by land.

The 9th Chapter

In the mean season when Demetrius heard that Nicanor and his host was slain in the field, he proceeded further to send Bachides and Alcimus again into Jewry, and those that were in the right wing of his host, with them. So they went forth by the way that leadeth to Galgala, and pitched their tents before Masaloth, which is in Arbellis, and won the city, and slew much people. In the first month of the hundred fifty second year, they brought their host to Jerusalem, and rose up and Berea, with twenty thousand footmen and two thousand horsemen.

Now Judas had pitched his tents at Laisa, with three thousand chosen men. And when they saw the multitude of the other army that was so great, they were sore afraid, and many conveyed themselves out of the host, Insomuch that there abode no more of them but eight hundred men. When Judas saw that his host failed him, and that he must needs fight: it break his heart, that he had no time to gather them together: wherefore the man was in extreme trouble. Nevertheless he said unto them, that remained with him: Up, let us go against our enemies, *peradventure (perhaps, perchance) we shall be able to fight with them. But they would have stopped him, saying: We shall not be able, therefore let us now save ourselves, and turn again to our

brethren and then we will fight against them, for we are here but few.

And Judas said: God forbid, that we should flee from them. Wherefore if your time be come, let us die manfully for our brethren, and let us not stain our honor. Then the host removed out of the tents, and stood against them.

The horsemen were divided into two parts: the sling casters and the archers went before the host, and all the mighty men were foremost in the field. Bacchides himself was in the right wing of the battle, and the host drew nye in two parts, and blew the trumpets. They of Judas side blew the trumpets also, and the earth shook at the noise of the hosts, and they struck a field from the morrow till night. And when Judas saw that Bacchides host was strongest of the right side, he took with him all the hardy men, and break the right wing of their order, and followed upon them unto the mount Azot.

Now when they which were of the left wing, saw that the right side was discomfited, they persecuted Judas and them that were with him. Then was there a sore battle, for many were slain and wounded of both parties, Judas also himself was killed, and the remnant fled. So Jonathan and Simon took Judas their brother, and buried him in his fathers sepulchre in the city of Modin. And all the people of Israel made great lamentation for him, and mourned long, saying: Alas, that this worth should be slain, which delivered the people of Israel. As for other things pertaining to the battles of Judas, the noble acts that he did and of his worthiness: they are not written, for they were very many.

And after the death of Judas, wicked men came up in all the coasts of Israel, and there arose all such as work ungodliness. In those days was there a great dearth (famine) in the land, and all the country gave over themselves and theirs unto Bachides. So Bachides chose wicked men, and made them lords in the land. These sought out and made search for Judas friends, and brought them unto Bacchides: which avenged himself upon them with great despite. And there came so great trouble in Israel, as was not since the time that no prophet was seen there.

Then came all Judas friends together, and said unto Jonathas: For so much as thy brother Judas is dead, there is none like him to go forth against our enemies, against Bacchides, and such as are adversaries unto our people. Wherefore this day we have chosen thee for him, to be our prince and captain to order our battle. And Jonathas took the governance upon him at the same time, and ruled instead of his brother Judas. When Bacchides gat knowledge thereof, he sought for to slay him: But Jonathan and Simon his brother, perceiving that, fled into the wilderness of Thecua with all their company, and pitched their tents by the water of the pool Asphar.

Which when Bacchides understood, he came over Jordan with all his host upon the Sabbath day. Now had Jonathan sent his brother Jhon ( a captain of the people ) to pray his friends the Nabuthites, that they would lend them their ordinance, for they had much. So the children of Jambri came out of Madaba, and took John and all that he had, and went their way withal. Then came word unto Jonathas and Simon his brother, that the children of Jambri made a great marriage, and brought the bride from Nadaba with great pomp: for she was daughter to one of the noblest princes of Chanaan. Wherefore they remembered the blood of Jhon their brother, and went up,

and hid themselves under the shadow of the mountain.

So they lifted up their eyes, and looked: and behold, there was much ado, and great reprise (chanting, repetitive song) : for the bride groom came forth, and his friends and his brethren met them with tympanys ( kettle drums) , instruments of music, and many weapons. Then Jonathas and they that were with him, rose up of their lurking places against them, and slew many of them. As for the remnant, they fled into the mountains, and they took all their substance. Thus the marriage was turned to mourning, and the noise of their melody into lamentation. And so they had avenged the blood of their brother, they turned again unto Jordan.

Bacchides hearing this, came unto the very border of Jordan with a great power on the Sabbath day. And Jonathas said to his company: Let us get up, and fight against our enemies: for it standeth not with us today, as in times past: Behold, our enemies are in our way, the water of Jordan upon the one side of us, with banks, fences and woods of the other side, so there is no place for us to depart unto. Wherefore cry now unto heaven, that ye may be delivered from the power of your enemies. So they struck battle.

And Jonathas stretched out his hand to smite Bacchides, but he fled backward. Then Jonathas and they that were with him leapt into Jordan, and swam over Jordan unto him, and there were slain of Bachides side that day a thousand men.

Therefore Bacchides with his host turned again to Jerusalem, and builded up the castles and strongholds that were in Jewry, Jericho, Emaus, Bethoron, Bethell, Thamnata, Phara and Topo, with high walls, with ports and with locks: and set men to keep them, that they might use their malice upon Israel. He walled up Bethsurah, Gazarah, and the castle at Jerusalem also, and provided them with men and victuals: He took also the chiefest mens sons in the country for pledges, and put them in the castle at Jerusalem to be kept.

Afterward in the hundred and fifty third year, in the second month, Alcimus commanded, that the walls of the inmost Sanctuary should be destroyed, and the buildings of the prophets also. And when he began to destroy them the things that he went about, for he was smitten with a palsy, and his mouth shut, so that he could no more speak nor command any of his house concerning his business.

Thus died Alcimus in great misery at the same time. When Bacchides saw that Alcimus was dead, he turned again to the king, and so the land was in rest two years. Then all the ungodly men held a council, saying: Behold, Jonathas and his company are at ease, and dwell without care. Wherefore let us bring Bacchides hither, and he shall take

them all in one night.

So they went and gave Bachides this counsel, which arose and came with a great host, and sent letters privily to his adherents in Jewry, to take Jonathas and those that were with him: but they might not, for the other had gotten knowledge of their devise. And Jonathas took fifty men of the country, ( which were the ringleaders of them ) and slew them.

Then Jonathas and Simon departed unto the city Bethbessen which layeth in the wilderness, and repaired the decay thereof, and made it strong. When Bachides knew this, he gathered all his host, and sent word to them that were in Jewry. Then came he and laid siege to Bethbessen and fought against it a long season, and made instruments of war.

Now Jonathas left his brother Simon in the city, and went forth himself into the country, and came with a certain number, and slew Odares and his brethren and the children of Phaseron in their tents: so that he began to be strong and increase in power.

As for Simon and his company, they went out of the city, and burned up the

instruments of war, and fought against Bachides, and discomfited him. And Bachides was sore vexed, because his counsel and travail was in vain. Wherefore he was wroth at the wicked men ( that gave him counsel to come into their land ) and slew many of

them. Then purposed he with his company to go away into his own country: Whereof when Jonathas had knowledge, he sent ambassadors unto him, for to make peace with him, and that he should deliver him his prisoners again. To the which Bachides consented gladly, and did according to his desire: yee and made an oath, that he should never do him harm all the days of his life. So he restored unto him all the prisoners that he had taken out of the land of Juda, and then turned and went his way into his own land, neither proceeded he any further to come unto the borders of Juda. Thus Israel had* more war. And Jonathas dwelt at Machmas, and began there to govern the people; and he destroyed the ungodly men out of Israel. Line may read "Thus Israel had no more war".

The 10th Chapter

In the hundred and sixtieth year came Alexander, the son of Antioch (kjv adds surnamed Epiphanes) and took Ptolemais, whose citizens received him and there he reigned. When Demetrius heard thereof, he gathered an exceeding great host, and went forth against him to fight. Wherefore Demetrius sent letters unto Jonathas with loving

words, and praised him greatly. For he said: We will first make peace with him, before he bind himself with Alexander against us: Else he shall remember all the evil that we have done against him, his brother and his people. And so he Jonathas leave to gather an host, to make weapons, and to be confederate with him, and commanded the pledges that were in the castle, to be delivered unto him.

Then came Jonathas to Jerusalem, and read the letters in the audience of all the people, and of them that were in the castle. And therefore were they sore afraid, because they heard, that the king had given him license to gather an host, Thus were the pledges delivered unto Jonathas, which restored them to their elders. Jonathas also dwelt at Jerusalem, and began to build up and repair the city: Commanding the workmen, to wall it, and the mount Sion round about with free stone, to be a stronghold, and so they did. As for the Heathen that were in the castles which

Bachides had made up, they fled: so that every man left the place, and went into his own country. Only at Bethsura certain of the Jews, which had forsaken the law and the commandments of God (kjv leaves out "of God"), for Bethsura was their refuge.

Now when king Alexander had heard of the promises that Demetrius had made unto Jonathas, and when it was told him of the battles and noble acts, which he and his brethren had done, and of the great travails that they had taken: he said: Where shall we find such a man? well, we will make him our friend, and be confederate with him. Upon this he wrote a letter unto him, with these words: King Alexander saluteth his brother Jonathas. We have heard of thee, that thou art a valiant man, and mete (worthy ) to be our friend: *Wherefore this day we ordain thee to be the high Priest of thy people, and to be called the kings friend. ( Upon this, he sent him a purple clothing, and crown of gold ) that thou may consider what is for our profit, and keep friendship toward us. * In all that I have read, this is the first time that a Pagan king ; appoints an high Priest over Gods people. Note also the reason why. RN

So in the seventh month of the hundred and sixtieth year, upon the solemn feast day of the tabernacles, Jonathas put the holy raiment upon him. Then gathered he a host, and made many weapons. Which when Demetrius heard, he was marvelous sorry, and said: Alas, what have we done, that Alexander hath prevented us in getting the friendship of the Jews, for his own defense? Yet will I write lovingly unto them also, yee and promise them dignities and rewards, that they may be of my side. Whereupon he wrote unto them these words: King Demetrius sendeth greeting unto the Jews. Whereas ye have kept your covenants toward us, and continued in our

friendship, not inclining to our enemies, we were glad, when we heard thereof. Wherefore remain still, and be faithful unto us: and we well recompense you for the things, that ye have done on our party: we shall release you of many charges, and give you rewards. And now I discharge you and all the Jews from tributes, I forgive you the customs of salt, and release you from the crown taxes, and the third part of seed, and half of the fruit of the trees, which is mine own duty. these I leave for you, from this day forth: so that they shall not be taken of the land of Juda nor of the three *cities (kjv = governments) which are added thereunto out of Samaria and Galilee, from this day forth for evermore. Jerusalem also with all things belonging thereto, shall be holy and free, yee the tithes and tributes shall pertain unto it. As for the power of the castle which is at Jerusalem, I remit and give it unto the high priest, that he may set in it such men, as he shall choose to keep it. I freely deliver all the Jews that are prisoners throughout all my realm: so that every one of them shall be free from paying any tribute, yee even of their cattle.

All the solemn feasts, Sabbaths, new moons, the days appointed, the three days before and after the feast shall be free for all the Jews in my realm: so that in them no man shall have power to do any thing, or to move any business against any of them in any manner of cause. (kjv=authority to meddle with or to molest any of them in any matter.)

There shall thirty thousand also of the Jews, be written up in the kings host, and have their wages paid, as all other men of war of the kings should have: and of them shall be ordered certain, to keep the kings strongholds: yee and some of them shall be set over the kings business, that they may faithfully deal with the same. The Jews also shall have princes of their own, and walk in their own laws, as the king hath commanded in the land of Juda.

And the three cities that are fallen unto Jewry from the country of Samaria and Galilee: shall be taken as Jewry, and be under one: neither be subject to any strange lord, but to the high priest. As for Ptolemais, and the land pertaining thereto, I give it unto the Sanctuary at Jerusalem, for the necessary expenses of the holy things. Moreover, I will give every year fifteen thousand Siceles (may be shekels) of silver out of the kings checker ( which pertaineth unto me ) to the work of the temple: yee and look what remaineth ( which they that had our matters in hand in times past, have not paid ) that same shall they shall give unto them also. Besides all this, the five thousand siceles (shekels) which they took yearly of the rents of the Sanctuary, shall belong unto the priests that do service.

Item, whosoever they be that flee unto the temple at Jerusalem, or within the liberties thereof, where as they are fallen into the kings danger for any manner of business, they shall be pardoned, and all the goods that they have in my realm, shall be free. For the building also and repairing of the work of the Sanctuary, expenses shall be given out of the kings Checker: Yee and for the making of the walls round about Jerusalem, for the breaking down of the old, and the setting up of the strongholds in Jewry, shall the costs and charges be given out of the kings Checker.

But when Jonathas and the people heard these words, they gave no credence unto them, neither received them: for they remembered the great wickedness that he had done unto Israel, and how sore he had vexed them. Wherefore they agreed unto Alexander, for he was a prince that had dealt friendly with them, and so they stood by him always. Then gathered king Alexander a great host, and brought his army against Demetrius. So the two kings struck battle together, but Demetrius host

fled, and Alexander followed after, and fell upon them. A mighty sore field was it, continuing until the *Son went down, and Demetrius was slain the same day. *this is Son, the original writers made a difference between son and sun, spelling them sonne for son and sunne for sun. RN

And Alexander sent ambassadors unto Ptolemy the king of Egypt with these words, saying: Forasmuch as I am come again to my realm, and am set in the

throne of my progenitors, and have gotten the dominion, overcomed Demetrius, conquered the land, and stricken the field with him, so that we have discomfited both him and his host, and sit in the throne of his kingdom: Let us now make a friendship together, give me thy daughter to wife: so shall I be thy son in law, and both give thee rewards, and her great dignity.

Ptolomy the king gave answer, saying: Happy be the day wherein thou art come again to the land of thy progenitors (forefathers) and set in the throne of their kingdom. As now will I fulfill thy writing: but meet me at Ptolemais, that we may see one another, and that I may marry my daughter unto thee according to thy desire. So Ptolomy went out of Egypt with his daughter *Cleopatra,

(this is not the Cleopatra of the movies, this one here is the 1st Cleopatra, whereas the Cleopatra of the movies is a simlitude of the 5th one.) and came unto Ptolemais in the hundred and sixty second year: where king Alexander met him, and he gave Alexander his daughter Cleopatra, and married them at Ptolemais with great worship, like as the manner of kings is to be.

Then wrote king Alexander unto Jonathas, that he should come and meet him. So he went honorably to Ptolemais, and there he met the two kings, and gave them great presents of gold and silver, and found favor in their sight: And there came together against Jonathas certain wicked men and ungracious persons of Israel, making complaint of him, but the king regarded them not. As for Jonathas, the king commanded to take off his

garments, and clothe him in purple: and so they did. Then the king appointed him sit by him, and said into his princes: Go with him into the midst of the city, and make proclamation, that no man complain against him of any matter, and that no man trouble him for any manner of cause.

So it happened that when his accusers saw the worship which was proclaimed of him, and that he was clothed in purple: they fled every each one. And the king made much of him, wrote him among his chief friends, and made him a duke, and partaker of his dominion. Thus Jonathas went again to Jerusalem with peace and gladness. In the one hundred and sixty fifth year came Demetrius the son of Demetrius from *Crete (an island of Greece) into his fathers land: Whereof when Alexander heard tell, he was right sorry, and returned into Antioch. And Demetrius chose Apollonius (which had the governance of Celosyria) to be his captain.

So he gathered a great host and camped in Jamnia, and sent unto Jonathas the high priest, saying: Darest thou withstand us thyself alone? As for me, I am but laughed to scorn and ashamed, because thou provest thy strength against us in the mountains. Now therefore if thou trustest in thine own strength, come down to us into the plain field, and there let us prove our strength together: thou shalt find, that I have valiant men of war with me: and shalt know whom I am, and the other that stand by me.

Which say, that your foot is not able to stand before our face, for thy fathers were twice chased in to their own land. And now, how wilt thou be able to abide so great an host of horsemen and footmen in the field, whereas is neither rock, stone ner

place to flee unto?

When Jonathas heard the words of Apollonius, he was moved in his mind: wherefore he chose ten thousand men and went out of Jerusalem, and Simon his brother met him for to help him: And they pitched their tents at Joppa: but the city kept him forth, for Joppa was an hold of Apollonius. Then Jonathas laid siege to it, and they that were in the city, for very fear let him in: and so Jonathas won Joppa. Apollonius hearing of this, took three thousand horsemen, with a great host of foot, and went as though he would go to Azotus, and came immediately in to the plain field: because he had so many horsemen, and put his trust in them.

So Jonathas followed upon him to Azotus, and there they struck battle. Now had Apollonius left a thousand horsemen behind them privily in the tents. And when Jonathas knew that such wait was layed behind them, they went round about the enemies host, and shot darts at the people from morning to the evening. As for Jonathas people, they kept their order as he had commanded them, and the enemies horses were ever laboring.

Then brought Simon forth his host, and set them against the footmen. For the horsemen were weary already. So he discomfited them and they fled. And they that were scattered in the field, gat them to Azotus, and came into the temple of Dagon their Idol, that they might there save their lives. But Jonathas set fire upon Azotus, and all the cities round about it, and took their gods, and burnt up the temple of Dagon with all them that were fled into it.

Thus there were slain and burnt well nigh eight thousand men. So Jonathas removed the host from thence, and brought them to Ascalon: where the men of the city came forth, and met him with great worship. After this went Jonathas and his host again unto Jerusalem, with great substance of good. And when king Alexander heard these things, he thought to do Jonathas more worship, and sent him a collar of gold, as the use is to be given unto such as are of the kings next blood. He gave him also the city of Accaron ( with the lands belonging thereto ) in possession.

The 11th Chapter

And the king of Egypt gathered an host ( like the sand that lieth upon the sea shore ) and many ships: and went about through deceit to obtain the kingdom of Alexander, and to join it unto his own realm. Upon this he took his journey into Syra, (kjv=Spain) and was letten into the cities, and men came forth to meet him: for king Alexander had commanded them so to do, because he was his father in law.

Now when Ptolomy entered into any city, he left men of war to keep it, and this he did throughout all the cities. And when he came to Azotus, they showed him the temple of Dagon and Azotus that was burnt up, with the other things that were destroyed, the dead bodies that were cast abroad, and the graves that they had made up by the wayside, for such as were slain in the field: And told the king that Jonathas had done all these things, to the intent that they might get him evil will. But the king said not a word thereto. And Jonathas met the king with great honor at Joppa, where they saluted one another, and took their rest. So when Jonathas had gone with the king unto the water called Eleutherus, he turned again to Jerusalem.

Now Ptolomy had gotten the dominion of the cities unto Seleucia upon the sea coast, imagining wicked counsels against Alexander, and sent ambassadors unto Demetrius, saying: Come, let us make a bond betwixt us, so shall I give thee my daughter that Alexander hath, and thou shalt reign in thy fathers kingdom. I repent that I gave Alexander my daughter, for he goeth about to slay me. And thus he sclandered (scandal and slander) Alexander, because he would have his realm.

Thus he took his daughter from him, gave her to Demetrius, and forsook Alexander, so that his malice was openly known. And Ptolomy came to Antioch, where he set two crowns upon his own head: the crown of Egypt and of Asia. In the mean season was king Alexander in Cilicia, for they that dwelt in those places, had rebelled against him. But when Alexander heard of this, he came to war against him. So king Ptolomy brought forth his host and met him with a mighty power, and chased him away. Then fled Alexander unto Araby, there to be defended, and king Ptolomys honor increased. And Zabdiel the Arabian smote off Alexanders head, and sent it unto Ptolomy. But the third day after, died king Ptolomy himself: and they whom he had set in the strong holds, were slain of those that were in the cities. And Demetrius reigned in the hundred sixty seventh year.

At the same time gathered Jonathas them that were in Jewry to lay siege unto the castle which was at Jerusalem, and so they made many instruments of war against it. Then went there certain ungodly persons ( which hated their own people ) unto king Demetrius, and told him, that Jonathas besieged the castle. So when he heard it, he was angry, and Immediately came unto Ptolemais, and wrote unto Jonathas, that he should not lay siege to the castle, but come and speak with him in all haste. Nevertheless when Jonathas heard this he commanded to besiege it. He chose also certain of the elders and priests of Israel, and put himself in the peril, and took with him gold, silver, clothing and divers presents: and went to Ptolemais unto the king, and found him gracious.

And though certain ungodly men of his own people made complaints against him, yet the king entreated him, like as his predecessors had done before: and promoted him in the sight of all his friends, and confirmed him in the high priesthood with all the worship that he had afore, and made him his chief friend. Jonathas also desired the king that he would make Jewry free, with the three head cities of Samaria and the lands pertaining thereto: upon this did Jonathas promise him three hundred talents. Where unto the king consented, and gave Jonathas writings of the same, containing these words. King Demetrius sendeth greeting unto his brother Jonathas, and to the people of the Jews. We send you here a copy of the letter which we did write unto our elder Lasthenus, concerning you, that ye should know it.

King Demetrius sendeth greeting unto Lasthenus his elder. For the faithfulness that our friends the people keep unto us, and for the loving kindness which they beare toward us: We are determined to do them good. Wherefore we order all the coasts of Jewry with three cities, Lyda and Ramath (which are added unto Jewry from Samaria ) and all the lands pertaining there unto, to be freely separated for such as do sacrifice in Jerusalem, both concerning the payments which the king took yearly afore time, and the fruits also of the earth and trees. And as for other tithes and tributes that belonged to us, we discharge them thereof from this time forth. In like manner we grant unto them all the customs of salt and crown taxes which were brought unto us. And this freedom shall they have firm and steadfast, from this time forth for evermore. Therefore see that thou make a copy of these our letters, and deliver it unto Jonathas: that it may be kept upon the holy mount in a convenient place.

After this, when Demetrius the king saw that his land was in rest, and that no resistance was made him: he sent away all his host every man to his own place, except an army of strangers, whom he brought from the Isles of the Heathen, wherefore all his fathers host had evil will at him. Now there was one Triphon ( that had been of Alexanders part afore ) which when he saw that all the host murmured against Demetrius: went to Emalcuel the Arabian ( that brought up Antiochus the son of Alexander ) And lay sore upon him, to deliver him this young Antiochus: that he might reign in his fathers stead. He told him also what great evil Demetrius had done, and how his men of war loved him not: and so remained there a long season.

And Jonathas sent unto king Demetrius, to drive them out which were in the castle at Jerusalem and the other refugees for they did Israel great harm. So Demetrius sent word unto Jonathas, saying: I will not only do these things for thee and thy people, but at time convenient I will do both thee and thy people great worship. But now thou shalt do me a pleasure, if thou wilt send me men to help me: for all my army is gone from me. So Jonathas sent him three thousand strong men unto Antioch, and they came unto the king, wherefore the king was very glad at their coming. But they that were of the city ( even an hundred and twenty thousand men ) gathered them together, and would have slain the king, which fled into his court: and the citizens kept the streets of the city, and began to fight.

Then the king called for the Jews help, which came unto him altogether, and went abroad through the city, and slew the same day an hundred thousand men: set fire upon the city, gat many spoils in that day, and delivered the king. So when the citizens saw that the Jews had gotten their will of the city, and they themselves disappointed of their purpose, they made their supplication to the king, saying: Grant us peace, and let the Jews cease from troubling us and the city, and upon this they cast away their weapons. Thus they made peace, and the Jews got great worship in the sight of the king, and in the sight of all that were in his realm, and were spoken of throughout the kingdom: and so they came again to Jerusalem with great goods. So the king Demetrius sat in the throne of his kingdom, and had peace in his land. Nevertheless he dissembled in all that ever he spake, and withdrew himself from Jonathas, neither rewarded him according to the benefits which he had done for him, but troubled him very sore. After this came Tryphon again with young Antiochus, which reigned and was crowned king. Then there gathered unto him all the men of war, whom Demetrius had put away: these fought against Demetrius, which fled and turned his back. So Tryphon took the Elephants, and won Antioch. And young Antiochus wrote unto Jonathas, saying: I confirm thee in thy priesthood, and make thee ruler of four countries, that thou mayest be a friend of the kings.

Upon this he sent him golden vessels to be served in, and gave him leave to drink in gold, to be clothed in purple, and to wear a collar of gold, He made his brother Simon also captain, from the *coasts of Tyrus (kjv = place called The ladder of Tyrus) unto the borders of Egypt. Then Jonathas took his journey, and went through the cities beyond the water ( of Jordan ) and all the men of war of Syria gathered them unto him for to help him. So he came unto Ascalon, and they of the city received him honorably: and from thence he went unto Gaza, but they would not let him in: wherefore he laid siege unto it burning up and spoiling the places that where about the city.

And the citizens of Gaza submitted themselves unto Jonathas, which made peace with them, but took of their sons to pledge, sent them to Jerusalem, and went through the country unto Damascus. Now when Jonathas heard that Demetrius princes were come into Cades, ( which is in Galilee ) with a great host, purposing to put Demetrius out from meddling in the realm: he came against him, and left Simon his brother in the land: which came to Bethsura, and laid siege to it a long season, and discomfited them. So they desired to have peace with him, which he granted them, and afterward put them out from thence, took the city, and set men to keep it. And Jonathas with his host, came to the water of Genesar, and bytimes in the morning they gat them to the plain field of Azor. (kjv =Nasor).

And behold, the hosts of Heathen met them in the field, and laid watch for them in the mountains: so that when Jonathas came against them, the other ( which were laid to watch ) rose out of their places, and fought, and they that were of Jonathass side, fled every man: and there was not one of them left, except Mathathias the son of Absalomus, and Judas the son of Calphi the captain of the host. Then Jonathas rent his clothes, and layed earth upon his head, made his prayer, and turned again to them in the field: where they fought together, and he put them to flight. Now when his own men that were fled, saw this: they turned again unto him, and helped him to follow upon all their enemies unto their tents at Cades. So there were slain of the Heathen the same day three thousand men, and Jonathas turned again unto Jerusalem.

The 12th Chapter

Jonathas seeing that the time was mete(worthy) for him, chose certain men and sent them to Rome for to stablish and renew the friendship with them. He sent letters also unto Sparta (kjv = the Lacedemonians) and to other places in like manner. So they went unto Rome, and entered into the council, (kjv = senate) and said: Jonathas the high priest and the people of the Jews sent us unto you, for to renew the old friendship and bond of love. Upon this the Romans gave them free passports, that men should lead them home into the land of Jewry peaceably. And this is a copy of the letters that Jonathas wrote unto Sparcians: (kjv =the Lacedemonians) .

Jonathas the high priest with the elders, priests, and the other people of the Jews, send greeting unto the Sparcians their brethren. There were letters sent long ago unto Onias the high priest, from Arius (kjv =Darius) which then reigned among you: that ye are our brethren, as the writing made thereupon, specifieth. And Onias entreated the ambassador that was sent, honorably, and received the letters: wherein there was mention of the bond of love and friendship. But as for us, we need no such writings: for why ? we have the holy books of scripture in our hands to our comfort. Nevertheless we had rather send unto you, for the renewing of the brotherhood and friendship: lest we should be strange unto you, for it is long, since the time that ye sent words unto us. Wherefore in the sacrifices which we offer and other ceremonies upon the high solemn days and other, we always remember you without ceasing ( like as reason is, and as it becometh us to think upon our brethren ) yee and are right glad of your prosperous honor.

And though we have had great troubles and wars, so that the kings about us have foughten against us: Yet we would not be grievous unto you ner to others of our lovers and friends in these wars. For we have had help from heaven, so that we are delivered, and our enemies subdued. Wherefore we chose Numenius the son of Antiochus, and Antipater he son of Jason, and sent them unto the Romans, for to renew the old bond of friendship and love with them. We commanded them also to come unto you, to salute you, and to deliver you our letters, concerning the renovation of our brotherhood. And now ye shall do right well, to give us an answer there unto.

And this is the copy of the writing which Arius (kjv=Oniares) the king of Sparta (kjv= the Lacedemonians) sent unto Onias: Arius the king of the Sparcians sendeth greeting unto Onias the high priest. It is found in writing, that the Sparcians and Jews are brethren, and come out of the generation of Abraham. And now for so much as this is come to our knowledge, ye shall do well, to write unto us of your prosperity. As for us, we have written our mind unto you: Our cattle and goods are yours, and yours ours. These things have we commanded to be showed unto you.

When Jonathas heard, that Demetrius princes were come to fight against him, with a greater host than afore, he went from Jerusalem, and met them in the land of Hemath, (kjv=Amathis) for he gave them no space to come into his own country. And he sent spies unto their tents, which came again and told him that they were appointed to come upon them in the night season. Wherefore so soon as the sun was down, Jonathas commanded his men to watch all the night, and be ready with weapons for to fight: and set watchmen round about the host. But when the adversaries heard that Jonathas was ready with his men to the battle, they feared, and were afraid in their hearts, and kindled fires in their tents, break up, and got them away. Nevertheless Jonathas and his company knew it not till the morning, for they saw the fires (kjv = lights) burning.

Then Jonathas followed upon them, but he might not overtake them, for they were gone over the water Eleutherus. So Jonathas departed unto the Arabians, ( who were called Zabadei ) slew them, and took their goods. He proceeded further also, and came unto Damascus, and went through all that country. But Simon his brother took his journey and came to Ascalon, and to the next strong holds: departing unto Joppa, and won it. For he had heard that they would stand of Demetrius part: wherefore he set men of war into the city, to keep it. After this came Jonathas home again, and called the elders of the people together, and devised with them for to build up the strong holds in Jewry, and the walls of Jerusalem, to set up an high wall between the castle and the city, for to separate it from the city, that so it might be alone, and that men should neither buy nor sell in it.

Upon this they came together for to build up the city: and for much as the wall upon the brook on the west (kjv =east) side ( called Caphenthetah ) was fallen down, they repaired it. And Simon set up Adiadah in Sephelah, and made it strong setting ports and locks upon it. Now Tryphon went purposed to reign in Asia, to be crowned, and to slay the king Antiochus: he was afraid that Jonathas would not suffer (allow) him, but would fight against him. Wherefore he went about to take Jonathas, and to kill him. So he departed, and came unto Bethsan. Then went Jonathas forth against him to the battle with forty thousand chosen men, and came unto Bethsan also. But when Tryphon saw that Jonathas came with so great an Host to destroy him, he was afraid: and therefore received him honorably, commended him unto all his friends, and gave him rewards, and commanded his men of war to be as obedient unto him, as to himself.

And said unto Jonathas: Why hast thou caused this people to take such travail, seeing there is no war betwixt us? Therefore send them home again, and choose certain men to wait upon thee, and come thou with me to Ptolemais: for I will give it thee, with the other strong holds, men of war and their officers: As for me, I must depart this is only the cause of my coming. Jonathas believed him, and did as he said, putting away his host, which went into the land of Juda. He kept but three thousand by him, whereof he sent two thousand into Galilee, and one thousand went with himself.

Now as soon as Jonathas entered into Ptolemais, the citizens sparred the gates of the city, and took him, and slew all them with the sword, that came in with him. Then sent Tryphon an Host of footmen and horsemen into Galilee and into the great plain field, to destroy all Jonathass company. But when they knew that Jonathas was taken, and they slain that waited upon him: they took counsel together, and came forth ready to the battle. So when they which followed upon them, saw that it was a matter of life, they turned back again. As for the other, they went into the land of Juda peaceably, and bewailed Jonathas, and them that were with him right sore: And Israel made great lamentation. Then all the Heathen that were round about them, sought to destroy them For they said: now they have no captain, nor any man to help them, Therefore let us overcome them, and root out their name from among men.

The 13th Chapter

Now when Simon heard that Tryphon gathered a great Host, to come into the land of Juda, and to destroy it, And saw that the people was in great fearfulness and care: He came up to Jerusalem, and gathered the people together, and gave them exhortation, saying: Ye know what great battles I and my brethren, and my fathers house, have stricken for the law and the Sanctuary, and what manner of troubles we have seen: Through occasion whereof, all my brethren are slain for Israels sake, and I am left alone. And now let me not spare mine own life in any manner of trouble, for I am no better than my brethren: but will avenge my people and the Sanctuary, our children and our wives: for all the Heathen are gathered together to destroy us of very malice.

In these words the hearts of the people were kindled together, so that they cried with a loud voice, saying: Thou shalt be our captain instead of Judas and Jonathas thy brother, order thou our battle, and whatsoever thou commandest us, we shall do it. So he gathered all the men of war, making haste to finish the walls of Jerusalem, which he made strong round about. Then sent he Jonathas the son of Absolomus with a fresh host unto Joppa, which drove them out that were in the castle, and remained there himself. Tryphon also removed from Ptolemais with a great army, to come into the land of Juda, and Jonathas with him in ward. And Simon pitched his tents at Addus before the plain field.

But when Tryphon knew that Simon stood up instead of his brother Jonathas, and that he would war against him: he sent messengers unto him, saying: Whereas we have kept Jonathas thy brother, it is for money that he is owing in the kings accompte(may be accomplishments/ account), concerning the business that he had in hand. Wherefore send now an hundred talents of silver, and his two sons for surety, that when he is let forth he shall not forsake us: and we shall send him again. Nevertheless Simon knew, that he disassembled in his words: yet commanded he the money and the children to be delivered unto him: least he should be the greater enemy against the people of Israel, and said: because he sent him not the money and the children, therefore is Jonathas dead.

So Simon sent him the children and an hundred talents, but he dissembled and would not let Jonathas go. Afterward came Tryphon into the land, to destroy it, and went round about by the way, that leadeth unto Adora: But wheresoever they went, thither went Simon and his host also.

Now they that were in the castle, sent messengers unto Tryphon, that he should make haste to come by the wilderness, and to send them victuals: And Tryphon made ready all his horsemen to come that same night. Nevertheless it was a very great snow, so that he came not in Galaadithim. And when he drew nye Baschama, he slew Jonathas and his sons there, and then turned for to go into his own land.

Then sent Simon for to set his brothers dead corpse, and buried it in Modin his fathers city. So all Israel bewailed him with great lamentation, and mourned for him very long. And Simon made upon the sepulchre of his father and his brethren a building high to look unto of free stone behind and before: and set up seven pillars, (kjv = seven pyramids) one against another,( for his father, and his mother, and four brethren ) and set great pillars round about, with arms upon them for a perpetual memory, and carved ships beside the arms: that they might be seen of men sailing in the sea.

Now Tryphon went forth to walk with the young king Antiochus, he slew him treacherously, and he reigned in his stead, crowned himself king of Asia, and did much evil in the land. Simon also built up the castles in Jewry, making them strong with high towers, great walls, ports, and locks, and laid up victuals in the strongholds. And Simon chose certain men, and sent them to king Demetrius: to desire him, that he would discharge the land from all bondage, for Tryphon had spoiled it very sore. Where upon Demetrius the king answered him, and wrote unto him after this manner.

Demetrius the king sendeth greeting unto Simon the high priest his friend, with the elders and people of the Jews. The golden crown and precious stone that ye sent unto us, have we received: and are ready to make a steadfast peace with you, yea and to write unto our officers, for to release you, concerning the things wherein we made you free: and the and the appointment that we make with you shall be firm and stable. The strong holds which ye have builded, shall be your own. As for any over sight or fault committed unto this day, we forgive it, and the crown tax that ye ought us also. And where as was any other tribute in Jerusalem, it shall now be no tribute: And look who are mete (worthy) among you to be in our court, let them be written up, that there may be peace betwixt us.

Thus the yoke of the Heathen was taken from Israel, in the hundred and seventieth year. And the people of the Jews began to write in their letters and acts on this manner. In the first year of Simon the high priest, and prince of the Jews.

In those days went Simon unto Gaza, and besieged it round about, where he set up ordinance of war. And won a tower which he took. So they gat into the tower leapt in the city, which was in a great fear: Insomuch that the people of the city rent their clothes, and climbed up upon the walls with their wives and children, beseeching Simon to be at one with them: saying:

O' reward us not after our wickedness, but be gracious unto us, and we shall do thee service. Then Simon for very pity, would fight no more against them, but put them out of the city, and caused the houses ( wherein the Images were ) to be cleansed: and so entered the city with Psalms of praise, giving thanks unto the Lord. (kjv leaves out thanks unto the Lord) So when he had cast all abominations out of the city, he set much men in it as to keep the law of God (kjv leaves out "of God") and made the city strong and builded a dwelling place for himself.

Now when they in the castle at Jerusalem were kept so straightly, that they could not come forth, ner into the country, and might neither buy nor sell: they were very hungry, and many of them famished to death: In so much that they besought Simon to be at one with them, which he granted them. So he had put them out from thence, and cleansed the castle from filthiness. And upon the twenty third day of the second month in the hundred seventy first year they entered into it with thanksgiving and branches of palm trees, with harps, *crowdes,(may be chords "stringed instruments") cymbals, and*lutes, (half pear shaped stringed instruments) singing psalmes, and songs of praise unto God, for that the great enemy of Israel was over come.

And Simon ordained that same day should be kept every year in gladness, and made strong the hill of the temple that was beside the castle, where he dwelt himself with his company. Simon also perceiving that Jhon his son was a mighty man of arms, made him captain of all the hosts, and caused him to dwell at Gaza.

The 14th Chapter

In the hundred and seventy second year gathered king Demetrius his host, and departed unto Media, to get him help for to fight against Tryphon. Now when Arsaces the king of Persia and Media heard, that Demetrius was entered within his borders: he sent one of his princes to take him alive, and to bring him unto him. So he went and slew Demetrius host, took himself, brought him to Arsaces, which kept him inward. And all the land of Juda was in rest, so long as Simon lived for he sought the wealth of his people, therefore were they glad to have him for their ruler, and to do him worship alway.

Simon won the city of Joppa for an haven town, and made it an entrance into the Isles of the sea. He enlarged the borders of his people, and conquered them more lands: He gathered up many of their people that were prisoners: he had the dominion of Gaza, Bethsura, and the castle, which he cleansed from filthiness, and there was no man that resisted him: So that every man tilled his own ground in peace, the land of Juda and the trees gave their fruit and increase. The elders sat all in judgement, (kjv=in the streets, communing together of good things) and took their devise for the wealth of the land: the young men put on *worship and harness upon them. (kjv =glorious and warlike apparel) He provided victuals for the cities, and made goodly strong holds of them: so that the fame of his worship was spoken unto the end of the world. For he made peace throughout the land, and Israel was full of mirth and joy.

Every man sat under his vine and his fig trees, and there was no man to *fray (wear down, dispute, frighten) them away. There was none in the land to fight against them, for then the kings were overcome. He helped those that were in adversity among his people, he was diligent to see the law kept: as for such as were ungodly and wicked he took them away. He set up the Sanctuary, and increased the holy vessels of the temple.

When the Romans and Spartians had gotten word, that Jonathas was dead, they were right sorry. But when they heard that Simon his brother was made high priest in his stead, and how he had won the land again with the cities in it: They wrote unto him in tables of latin (kjv= brass) to renew the friendship, bond of love,

which they had made afore with Judas and Jonathas his brethren. Which writings were read before the congregation at Jerusalem.

And this is the copy of the letters, that the Spartians (kjv =Lacedemonians) sent: The Senators and citizens of Sparta send greeting unto Simon the great priest with the elders, priests, and the other people of the Jews their brethren: When your ambassadors that were sent unto our people, certified us of your worship, honor and prosperous wealth: we were glad of their coming, and have written the errand which they spake before the council of the people: namely, that Numenius the son of Antiochus, And Antipater son of Jason the Jews ambassadors are come unto us, for to

renew the old friendship with us. Upon this the people consented, that the men should be honorably entreated, and that the copy of their errand should be written in the special books of the people, for a perpetual memory unto to the Spartians: yee and that we should send a copy of the same unto Simon the great Priest.

After this did Simon send Numenius unto Rome, with a golden shield of a thousand pound weight to confirm the friendship with them: which when the Romans understood, they said: What thanks shall we recompense again unto Simon and his children? For he hath stablished his brethren and overcome the enemies of Israel. Wherefore they grant him to be free. And all this wrote the Jews in tablets of latin, and nailed it unto the pillars upon the mount Sion. The copy of the writing is this:

The eighteenth day of the month Elul, in the hundred and seventy second year in the third year of Simon the high priest, in the great congregation of the priests, rulers of the people, and elders of the country at Asarame, (kjv=Saramel) were these words openly declared:

For so much as there was much war in our land, therefore Simon the son of Matathiah (come of the children of Jareb ) and his brethren, put themselves in peril, and resisted the enemies of their people: * that their Sanctuary and law might be maintained, (* this line not in the kjv) and did their people great worship. Jonathas in like manner, after that he had governed his people and been their high priest: died, and layeth buried beside his elders.

After that would their enemies have trodden their holy things under foot, destroyed their land, and utterly wasted their Sanctuary. Then Simon withstood them, and fought for his people, spent much of his own money, weaponed the valiant men of his people, gave them wages, made strong the cities of Juda, with Bethsura, that lieth upon the borders of Jewry ( where the ordinance of their enemies lay sometime ) and set Jews there for to keep it.

He made fast Joppa also, which lieth upon the sea, and Gaza that bordereth upon Azotus ( where the enemies dwelt afore ) and there he set Jews to keep it: and whatsoever was mete(worthy) for the subduing of the adversaries, that laid he therein. Now when the people saw the noble acts of Simon, and what worship he purposed to do for them, his godly behavior, and faithfulness which he kept unto them, and how he sought by all ways the wealth of his people, because he did all this, therefore they chose him to be their prince and high priest. And in his time they prospered well by him, so that the Heathen were taken out of their land: and they also which were in the city of David at Jerusalem in the castle ( where they went out and defiled all the things that were about the Sanctuary, and did great harm unto cleanliness), and set up the walls of Jerusalem.

And King Demetrius confirmed him in his high priesthood, made him his friend, and did him great worship. For he heard that the Romans called the Jews their friends, lovers and brethren: how honorably they received Simons ambassadors: how the Jews and priests consented that he should be their prince and high priest perpetually ( till God raised up the true prophet ) and that he should be their captain, to care for the Sanctuary, and set officers upon the works thereof, over the land, over the weapons, over the houses of defense, to make provision for the holy things, and to be obeyed of every man, and all the writings in the land to be made in his name: that he should be clothed in purple and gold, that it should be lawful for none of the people nor priests to break any of these things, to withstand his words, ner call any congregation in the land without him: that he should be clothed in purple and wear a collar of gold: And if there be any which disobeyed or break this ordinance, that he should be punished.

So all the people consented to allow Simon to do according to these words. Simon also himself took it upon him, and was content to be high priest, the captain and prince of the Jews and priests, and to govern them all. And they commanded to maker this writing in tables of latin (kjv =brass) and fasten it to the compass of the Sanctuary in an open place: and to lay up a copy of the same in the treasury, that Simon and his posterity might have it.

The 15th Chapter

Moreover, king Antiochus the son of Demetrius sent letters from the Isles of the sea, unto Simon the high priest and prince of the Jews, and to all the people, containing these words: Antiochus the king sendeth greeting unto Simon the high priest and to the people of the Jews For so much as certain wicked (kjv =pestilent) men have gotten the kingdom of our progenitors, I am purposed to challenge the realm again, and to restore it to the old estate.

Wherefore I have gathered a great host (kjv =multitude of foreign soldiers) and made ships of war: that I may go through the country, and be avenged of them which have destroyed our land, and wasted many cities in my realm. And now therefore I make thee free also from all the tributes, whereof all kings my progenitors have charged thee, and from other customs ( where from they have released thee ) whatsoever they be: Yee I give thee leave to smite money of thy own within thy land. As for Jerusalem, I will that it be holy and free: and all the weapons and houses of defense which thou hast builded and keepest in thine hands, shall be thine. Where as anything is or shall be owing unto the king. I forgive it thee, from this time forth for evermore. And when we have obtained our kingdom, we shall do thee, thy people and the temple great worship: so that your honor shall be known throughout the whole world.

In the hundred and seventy fourth year went Antiochus into his fathers land, and all the men of war came together unto him, so that few were left with Tryphon.

So the king Antiochus followed upon him, but he fled unto Dora, which lieth by the sea side: for he saw that there was mischief coming to him, and that his host had forsaken him. Then came Antiochus unto Dora with an hundred and twenty thousand men of arms upon foot, and eight thousand horsemen. So he compassed the city round about, and the ships came by the sea. Thus they vexed the city by land by water, in so much that they suffered (allowed) no man to go in nor out.

In the mean season came Numenius (and they that had been with him ) from the city of Rome, having letters written unto the kings and provinces, wherein were contained these words: Lucius the mayor of Rome sendeth greeting unto Ptolomy the king. The ambassadors of the Jews our friends being sent from Simon the high priest and from the people of the Jews, came unto us, for to renew the old friendship, and bond of love, and brought a shield of gold weighing a thousand pound, which we were content to receive of them. Wherefore we thought it good to write unto the kings and provinces, to do them no harm, nor to take part against them, their cities ner countries neither to maintain their enemies against them. If there be any wicked persons therefore fled from their country unto you, deliver them unto Simon the high

priest, that he may punish them according to their own law.

The same words wrote the Romans also unto Demetrius the king, to Attalus, Araba, (kjv=Ariarathes) and Arsaces and to all regions: as Samsanes, to them of Sparta (kjv= Lacedemonians), Delo, Mido (kjv = Myndus) Sidon (kjv Sicyon) Caria, Samos Pamphylia, Lycia, Alicarnassum (kjv Halicarnassus) and to the Rhodes, to Falelis (kjv Aradus), Coo, Sida, Arado, Gortina, Gnidum, to Cypres, and to Cyren. And of every letter they sent a copy to Simon the high priest and to the people of the Jews. So Antiochus the king brought his host unto Dora the second time, to take it: where he made diverse ordinances of war, and kept Tryphon in, that he should not come forth. Then sent Simon Antiochus two thousand chosen men to help him with gold, silver and other plenteous gear: Nevertheless he would not receive them, but brake all the covenant which he made with Simon afore, and withdrew himself from him.

He sent Athenobius also a friend of his unto Simon, for to reason with him saying: Ye withhold from me Joppa and Gaza ( with the castle that is at Jerusalem ) which are cities of my realm, whose borders ye have destroyed, and done great evil in the land, having the domination in many other places of my kingdom. Wherefore deliver now the cities which ye have taken with the tributes of the places that ye have rule upon without the borders of Jewry: Or else give me five hundred talents of silver, yee and for the harm that ye have done in the cities and for the tributes of the same, other five hundred talents. If no, we shall come and fight against you.

So Athenobius the kings friend came to Jerusalem, and when he saw the great worship and honor of Simon in gold, silver and so great plenty of ornaments: (kjv =the cupboard of gold and silver plate) he marveled, and told Simon as the king commanded him. Then answered Simon and said unto him: As for us, we have neither taken other mens land, ner withholden them, but only our fathers heretage, which our enemies had unrighteously in possession a certain time. This heretage of our fathers have we challenged in the process of time. And whereas thou complainest concerning Joppa and Gaza, they did great harm to our people and in our land, yet will we give an hundred talents for them.

Nevertheless Athenobius answered him not one word, but turned again wrothfully unto the king, and told him all these words, and the great dignity of Simon with all that he had seen, and the king was very angry. In the mean time fled Tryphon by ship unto Orthosida. Then the king made Cendebeus captain of the sea coast, and gave him an host of footmen and horsemen, commanding him to remove the host toward Jewry, and to build up the city of Cedron, to make up the ports, and to war against the people of the Jews. As for the king himself, he followed upon Tryphon. So Cendebeus came to Jamnia, and began to vex the people, to tread down Jewry, to take the people prisoners, to slay them and to built up Cedron: where he set horsemen and other men of war, that they might come forth and go through the streets of Jewry, like as the king had commanded him.

The 16th Chapter

Then came Jhon from Gaza, and told Simon his father, what Cendebeus had done among their people. Upon this called Simon two of his eldest sons, Judas and Jhon, and said unto them: I and my brethren and my fathers house, have ever from our youth up unto this day, foughten against the enemies of Israel, and *God gave us good fortune to deliver Israel often times. (kjv =things have prospered so well in our hands, that we have delivered Israel oftentimes.) And now for so much as I am old, be ye instead of me and my brother, to go forth and fight for our people, and the help of God be with you. So he chose twenty thousand fighting men of the country, with horsemen also, which went out against Cendebeus and rested at Modin.

In the morning they rose, and went into the plain field: and behold, a mighty great host came against them, both of footmen and horsemen. Now was there was a water brook betwixt them, and Jhon removed the host toward them. And when he saw that the people were afraid to go over the waterbrook, he went over first himself: and the men seeing this, followed him.

Then Jhon set his horsemen and footmen in order, the one by the other, for their enemies horsemen were very many. But when they blew up the priests trumpets, Cendebeus fled with his Host, whereof many were slain, and the remnant gat them to their strong hold. Judas also Jhons brother was wounded at the same time. And Jhon followed still upon the enemies, till he came to Cedron which he builded. The enemies fled also unto the towers that were in the fields of Azotus,

and those did Jhon burn up. Thus there were slain of two thousand men of them, and Jhon turned again peaceably in to Jewry.

And in the field of Jericho was Ptolemy the son of Abobus made captain: which because he had abundance of silver and gold( for he had married the daughter of Simon the high priest ) waxed proud in his mind, (kjv= his heart being lifted up) and thought to conquer the land, imagining falsehood against Simon and his sons, to destroy them. Now as Simon was going about through the cities, that were in the country of Jewry, and caring for them: (kjv = taking care for the good ordering of them) he came down to Jericho, with Matathiah and Judas his sons, in the hundred and seventy seventh year, in the eleventh month, called Sabat. Then Ptolomy the son of Abobus received them ( but with deceit ) into a strong house of his called Doch, which he had builded, where he made them a banquet.

So when Simon and his sons were merry and had drunken well, Ptolomy stood up with his men ( whom he had hid there ) and took their weapons, entered into the banquet house, and slew Simon with his two sons, and certain of his servants. Such great unfaithfulness did Ptolomy in Israel and recompensed evil for good. Then wrote this Ptolomy the same unto king Antiochus, requiring him that he should send him an host to help him: and so should he deliver him the land, with the cities and tributes of the same. He sent other men also unto Gaza, for to take Jhon: and wrote unto the captains to come to him, and he should give them silver, gold, and rewards. And to Jerusalem he sent other, to take it and the Sanctuary.

Then ran one before, and told Jhon in Gaza that is father and his brethren were slain, and how that Ptolomy had sent to slay him also. When Jhon heard this he was sore abashed, and layed hands of them that were come to destroy him, and slew them: for he knew, that they went about to kill him.

As for other things concerning Jhon, of his wars, of his noble acts,( wherein he behaved himself manfully ) of the building of walls which he made, and other of his deeds: they are written in the chronicles of his priesthood, from the time forth that he was made high priest after his father.

The end of the First Book of the Machabees