Second Book of Machabees
The brethren of the Jews which be at Jerusalem and in the land of Jewry, wish unto those brethren of the Jews that are throughout Egypt: good fortune, health and peace.
2nd Mach 1:1 KJV (1611) 1The brethren, the Jews that be at Jerusalem and in the land of Judea, wish unto the brethren, the Jews that are throughout Egypt health and peace:
Douay (catholic) 1 The Jews in Jerusalem and in the land of Judea send greetings to their brethren, the Jews in Egypt, and wish them true peace!
God the Lord (kjv leaves out "the Lord") be gracious unto you, and think upon his covenant that he made with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, his faithful servants: and give you all such an heart, that you may love (kjv leaves out may love) and serve him, yee and to perform his will with an *whole heart (kjv = good courage) and a willing mind: He open your hearts and in his law and in his commandments, send you peace: hear your prayers, and be at one with you, and never forsake you in time of trouble. This is here our prayer for you.
2nd Mach 1:2-6 KJV (1611) 2 God be gracious unto you, and remember his covenant that he made with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, his faithful servants; 3 And give you all an heart to serve him, and to do his will, with a good courage and a willing mind; 4 And open your hearts in his law and commandments, and send you peace, 5 And hear your prayers, and be at one with you, and never forsake you in time of trouble. 6 And now we be here praying for you.
Douay (catholic) 2 May God bless you and remember his covenant with his faithful servants, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob 3 May he give to all of you a heart to worship him and to do his will readily and generously. 4 May he open your heart to his law and his commandments and grant you peace. 5 May he hear your prayers, and be reconciled to you, and never forsake you in time of adversity. 6 Even now we are praying for you here.
Whereas we now are purposed to keep the purification of the temple upon the twenty fifth day of the month Casleu, we thought it necessary to certify you thereof: that ye also might keep tabernacles feast day, and the day of the fire, which was given us when Nehemiah offered, after that he had set up the temple and the altar. For what time as our fathers were led away into Persis, (Persia) the priests ( *which then sought the honor of God ) (kjv = leaves this line out) and took the fire privily (secretly) from the alter, and hid it in a valley, where as was a deep dry pit: and there they kept it, because the place was unknown to every man.
2nd Mach 1:18-19 KJV (1611) 18 Therefore whereas we are now purposed to keep the purification of the temple upon the five and twentieth day of the month Casleu, we thought it necessary to certify you thereof, that ye also might keep it, as the feast of the tabernacles, and of the fire, which was given us when Neemias offered sacrifice, after that he had builded the temple and the altar. 19 For when our fathers were led into Persia, the priests that were then devout took the fire of the altar privily, and hid it in an hollow place of a pit without water, where they kept it sure, so that the place was unknown to all men.
Douay (catholic) 18 8 9 We shall be celebrating the purification of the temple on the twenty-fifth day of the month Chislev, so we thought it right to inform you, that you too may celebrate the feast of Booths and of the fire that appeared when Nehemiah, the rebuilder of the temple and the altar, offered sacrifices. 19 10 When our fathers were being exiled to Persia, devout priests of the time took some of the fire from the altar and hid it secretly in the hollow of a dry cistern, making sure that the place would be unknown to anyone.
2nd Mach 1:20 Now after many years when it pleased God, that Nehemiah should be sent from the king of Persia: he sent the childrens children of those priests (which had hid the fire ) to seek it. And as they told us, they found no fire, but thick water.
2nd Mach 1:20 KJV (1611) 20 Now after many years, when it pleased God, Neemias, being sent from the king of Persia, did send of the posterity of those priests that had hid it to the fire: but when they told us they found no fire, but thick water;
Douay (catholic) 20 Many years later, when it so pleased God, Nehemiah, commissioned by the king of Persia, sent the descendants of the priests who had hidden the fire to look for it.
For he being a wise man, handled honorably and wisely offering unto God in the hallowing of the temple when it was finished. And like as when Moses prayed unto the Lord, the fire came down from heaven, and consumed the burnt offering: Even so prayed Solomon also, and the fire came down from heaven, and consumed the burnt offering. And Moses said: because the sin offering was not eaten,(kjv=was not to be eaten) therefore it is consumed. In like manner Solomon kept the dedication ( or hallowing ) eight days.
2nd Mach 2:9-12 KJV (1611) 9 It was also declared, that he being wise offered the sacrifice of dedication, and of the finishing of the temple. 10 And as when Moses prayed unto the Lord, the fire came down from heaven, and consumed the sacrifices: even so prayed Solomon also, and the fire came down from heaven, and consumed the burnt offerings. 11 And Moses said, Because the sin offering was not to be eaten, it was consumed. 12 So Solomon kept those eight days.
Douay (catholic) 9 It is also related how Solomon in his wisdom offered a sacrifice at the dedication and the completion of the temple. 10 Just as Moses prayed to the Lord and fire descended from the sky and consumed the sacrifices, so Solomon also prayed and fire came down and burned up the holocausts. 11 4 Moses had said, "Because it had not been eaten, the sin offering was burned up." 12 Solomon also celebrated the feast in the same way for eight days.
In the annotations and writings of Jeremy, (kjv says of Neemias) were these things put also: and how he made a library, and how he gathered out of all countries *the books of the prophets, (kjv = together the acts of the kings ), of David, the epistles of the kings, and of the presents. Even so Judas also, look what he learned by experience of war, and such things as hath happened unto us, he gathered them all together, and so we have them by us. If ye now desire to have the same, send somebody to fetch them unto you. Where as we are about to celebrate the purification, we have written unto you.
2nd Mach 2:13-16 KJV (1611) 13 The same things also were reported in the writings and commentaries of Neemias; and how he founding a library gathered together the acts of the kings, and the prophets, and of David, and the epistles of the kings concerning the holy gifts. 14 In like manner also Judas gathered together all those things that were lost by reason of the war we had, and they remain with us, 15 Wherefore if ye have need thereof, send some to fetch them unto you. 16 Whereas we then are about to celebrate the purification, we have written unto you, and ye shall do well, if ye keep the same days.
Douay (catholic) 13 5 Besides these things, it is also told in the records and in Nehemiah's Memoirs how he collected the books about the kings, the writings of the prophets and of David, and the royal letters about sacred offerings. 14 In like manner Judas also collected for us the books that had been scattered because of the war, and we now have them in our possession. 15 If you need them, send messengers to get them for you. 16 As we are about to celebrate the feast of the purification of the temple, we are writing to you requesting you also to please celebrate the feast.
We hope also, that the God, ( which delivered his people, and gave them all the heritage, kingdom, priesthood, and Sanctuary that he promised them in the law ) shall shortly have mercy upon us,and gather us together from under the heaven into *his holy place (kjv =the holy place) : for he hath saved us from great perils, and hath cleansed the place.
2nd Mach 2:17-18 KJV (1611) 17 We hope also, that the God, that delivered all his people, and gave them all an heritage, and the kingdom, and the priesthood, and the sanctuary, 18 As he promised in the law, will shortly have mercy upon us, and gather us together out of every land under heaven into the holy place: for he hath delivered us out of great troubles, and hath purified the place.
Douay (catholic) 17 It is God who has saved all his people and has restored to all of them their heritage, the kingdom, the priesthood, and the sacred rites, 18 as he promised through the law. We trust in God, that he will soon have mercy on us and gather us together from everywhere under the heavens to his holy Place, for he has rescued us from great perils and has purified his Place.
As concerning Judas Machabeus and his brethren, the purification of the great temple, the dedication of the altar, yee and of wars that concern noble Antiochus and (kjv adds Epiphanes), and Eupator his son, of the shinnings that came down from heaven upon those that defended the Jews. For though they were but few, yet defended they the whole land, drove away the enemies host, recovered again the temple, that was spoken of throughout all the world, delivered the city, doing their best that the law of the Lord which was put down, might with all tranquility be restored again unto the Lord, that was so merciful unto them.
2nd Mach 2:19-22 KJV (1611) 19 Now as concerning Judas Maccabeus, and his brethren, and the purification of the great temple, and the dedication of the altar, 20 And the wars against Antiochus Epiphanes, and Eupator his son, 21 And the manifest signs that came from heaven unto those that behaved themselves manfully to their honour for Judaism: so that, being but a few, they overcame the whole country, and chased barbarous multitudes, 22 And recovered again the temple renowned all the world over, and freed the city, and upheld the laws which were going down, the Lord being gracious unto them with all favour:
Douay (catholic) 19 This is the story of Judas Maccabeus and his brothers, of the purification of the great temple, the dedication of the altar, 20 6 the campaigns against Antiochus Epiphanes and his son Eupator,21 and of the heavenly manifestations accorded to the heroes who fought bravely for Judaism, so that, few as they were, they seized the whole land, put to flight the barbarian hordes, 22 regained possession of the world-famous temple, liberated the city, and reestablished the laws that were in danger of being abolished, while the Lord favored them with all his generous assistance.
Nevertheless the thing that Heliodorus was determined to do, that performed he in the same place, he himself personally being about the treasury with his men of war. But the spirit of almighty God (kjv = the Lord of spirits, and the** Prince of all power caused a great apparition), showed himself openly, so that all they which presumed to obey Heliodorus, fell through the power of God into great fearfulness and dread.
** This "Prince of all power" in Ephes 2 (kjv) refers to Satan.
2nd Mach 3:23-24 KJV (1611) 23 Nevertheless Heliodorus executed that which was decreed. 24 Now as he was there present himself with his guard about the treasury, the Lord of spirits, and the Prince of all power, caused a great apparition, so that all that presumed to come in with him were astonished at the power of God, and fainted, and were sore afraid.
Douay (catholic) 23 Heliodorus went on with his plan. 24 But just as he was approaching the treasury with his bodyguards, the Lord of spirits who holds all power manifested himself in so striking a way that those who had been bold enough to follow Heliodorus were panic-stricken at God's power and fainted away in terror.
But after the death of Seleucus, when Antiochus ( which is called the noble ) (kjv =Epiphanes) took the kingdom: Jason the brother of Onias labored to be high priest: for he came unto the king, and promised him three hundred and sixty talents of silver, and of the other rents eighty talents. Beside this he promised him yet an hundred and fifty if he might have *the school of the children, and that he might call them of Jerusalem Antiochians.
(kjv = *license to set him up a place for exercise, and for the training up of youth in the fashions of the heathen, and to write them of Jerusalem by the name of Antiochians.)
2nd Mach 4:7-9 KJV (1611) 7 But after the death of Seleucus, when Antiochus, called Epiphanes, took the kingdom, Jason the brother of Onias laboured underhand to be high priest, 8 Promising unto the king by intercession three hundred and threescore talents of silver, and of another revenue eighty talents: 9 Beside this, he promised to assign an hundred and fifty more, if he might have licence to set him up a place for exercise, and for the training up of youth in the fashions of the heathen, and to write them of Jerusalem by the name of Antiochians.
Douay (catholic) 7 1 But Seleucus died, and when Antiochus surnamed Epiphanes succeeded him on the throne, Onias' brother Jason obtained the high priesthood by corrupt means: 8 in an interview, he promised the king three hundred and sixty talents of silver, as well as eighty talents from another source of income. 9 2 Besides this he agreed to pay a hundred and fifty more, if he were given authority to establish a gymnasium and a youth club for it and to enroll men in Jerusalem as Antiochians.
What time as the Olympiades sports were played at Tyrus ( the king himself being present ) this ungracious Jason sent *wicked men (kjv=special messengers) bearing from them of Jerusalem ( which were now called Antiochians ) three hundred drachmas of silver for an offering to Hercules. These had they that carried them, desired under such a fashion, as though they should not have been offered, but bestowed to other uses. Nevertheless he that sent them, sent them to the intent that they should be offered unto Hercules
2nd Mach 4:18-20 KJV (1611) 18 Now when the game that was used every faith year was kept at Tyrus, the king being present, 19 This ungracious Jason sent special messengers from Jerusalem, who were Antiochians, to carry three hundred drachms of silver to the sacrifice of Hercules, which even the bearers thereof thought fit not to bestow upon the sacrifice, because it was not convenient, but to be reserved for other charges. 20 This money then, in regard of the sender, was appointed to Hercules' sacrifice
Douay (catholic) 18 When the quinquennial games were held at Tyre in the presence of the king,19 the vile Jason sent envoys as representatives of the Antiochians of Jerusalem, to bring there three hundred silver drachmas for the sacrifice to Hercules. But the bearers themselves decided that the money should not be spent on a sacrifice, as that was not right, but should be used for some other purpose. 20 5 So the contribution destined by the sender for the sacrifice to Hercules was in fact applied, by those who brought it, to the construction of triremes.
So when the people arose, and were full of displeasure, Lysimachus armed three thousand unthirifties to defend him: a certain tyrant being their captain, which was grown both in age and woodness. (kjv = one Auranus being the leader) , But when the people understood the purpose of Lysimachus, some gat stones, some good strong clubs, and some cast ashes upon Lysimachus.
2nd Mach 4:40-41 KJV (1611) 40 Whereupon the common people rising, and being filled with rage, Lysimachus armed about three thousand men, and began first to offer violence; one Auranus being the leader, a man far gone in years, and no less in folly. 41 They then seeing the attempt of Lysimachus, some of them caught stones, some clubs, others taking handfuls of dust, that was next at hand, cast them all together upon Lysimachus, and those that set upon them.
Douay (catholic) 40 As the crowds, now thoroughly enraged, began to riot, Lysimachus launched an unjustified attack against them with about three thousand armed men under the leadership of Auranus, a man as advanced in folly as he was in years.41 Reacting against Lysimachus' attack, the people picked up stones or pieces of wood or handfuls of the ashes lying there and threw them in wild confusion at Lysimachus and his men.
Thus there were many of them wounded, some being slain, and all the other chased away. But as for the wicked *churchrobber himself, they killed him beside the treasury. Of these matters therefore there was kept a court against Menelaus.
2nd Mach 4:42 KJV (1611) 42 Thus many of them they wounded, and some they struck to the ground, and all of them they forced to flee: but as for the churchrobber himself, him they killed beside the treasury.
Douay (catholic) 42 As a result, they wounded many of them and even killed a few, while they put all the rest to flight. The sacrilegious thief himself they slew near the treasury.
So mad was Antiochus, that he considered not, how that God was a little wroth for the sins of them that dwelt in the city, for the which such confusion came upon the that place. And why? If it had not happened them to have been lapped by many sins, this Antiochus ( as soon as he had come ) had so suddenly been punished, and shot out for his presumption, like as Heliodorus was, whom Seleucus the king sent to *rob (kjv =view) the treasury.
2nd Mach 5:17-18 KJV (1611) 17 And so haughty was Antiochus in mind, that he considered not that the Lord was angry for a while for the sins of them that dwelt in the city, and therefore his eye was not upon the place. 18 For had they not been formerly wrapped in many sins, this man, as soon as he had come, had forthwith been scourged, and put back from his presumption, as Heliodorus was, whom Seleucus the king sent to view the treasury.
Douay (catholic) 17 Puffed up in spirit, Antiochus did not realize that it was because of the sins of the city's inhabitants that the Lord was angry for a little while and hence disregarded the holy Place. 18 If they had not become entangled in so many sins, this man, like Heliodorus, who was sent by King Seleucus to inspect the treasury, would have been flogged and turned back from his presumptuous action as soon as he approached.
Nevertheless God hath not chosen the people for the places sake, but the place far the peoples sake: and therefore is the place become a partaker of the peoples trouble, but afterward shall it enjoy the wealth of them. And like as it is now forsaken in the wrath of Almighty God, so when the great God is reconciled, it shall be set up in high worship again.
2nd Mach 5:19-20 KJV (1611) 19 Nevertheless God did not choose the people for the place's sake, but the place far the people's sake. 20 And therefore the place itself, that was partaker with them of the adversity that happened to the nation, did afterward communicate in the benefits sent from the Lord: and as it was forsaken in the wrath of the Almighty, so again, the great Lord being reconciled, it was set up with all glory.
Douay (catholic) 19 4 The Lord, however, had not chosen the people for the sake of the Place, but the Place for the sake of the people.20 Therefore, the Place itself, having shared in the people's misfortunes, afterward participated in their good fortune; and what the Almighty had forsaken in his anger was restored in all its glory, once the great Sovereign became reconciled.
But Judas Maccabeus which was the tenth, fled into the wilderness, led his life there with his company among the wild beasts and upon the mountains, dwelling there, and eating grass, least they be partakers of the *filthiness.(*kjv= pollution)
2nd Mach 5:27 KJV (1611) 27 But Judas Maccabeus with nine others, or thereabout, withdrew himself into the wilderness, and lived in the mountains after the manner of beasts, with his company, who fed on herbs continually, lest they should be partakers of the pollution.
Douay (catholic) 27 But Judas Maccabeus and about nine others withdrew to the wilderness, where he and his companions lived like wild animals in the hills, continuing to eat what grew wild to avoid sharing the defilement.
Not long after this, sent the king a messenger of Antioche, (kjv of Athens) for to compel the Jews to alter the ordinances of their fathers and the law of God, to defile the temple that was in Jerusalem, and to call it the temple of Jupiter Olympius: and that they should be in Garizim, as those which dwell at the place of Jupiter the *herberous (this is the exact spelling: may be harborous).
2nd Mach 6:1-2 KJV (1611) 1 Not long after this the king sent an old man of Athens to compel the Jews to depart from the laws of their fathers, and not to live after the laws of God: 2 And to pollute also the temple in Jerusalem, and to call it the temple of Jupiter Olympius; and that in Garizim, of Jupiter the Defender of strangers, as they did desire that dwelt in the place.
Douay (catholic) 1 Not long after this the king sent an Athenian senator to force the Jews to abandon the customs of their ancestors and live no longer by the laws of God; 2 1 also to profane the temple in Jerusalem and dedicate it to Olympian Zeus, and that on Mount Gerizim to Zeus the Hospitable, as the inhabitants of the place requested.
Eleazar one of the principal Scribes, an aged man and of a well favored countenance, was constrained to gape with open mouth and to eat swines flesh. But he desiring (kjv=choosing) rather to die gloriously than to live with shame, he offered himself willingly to the martyrdom. Now when he saw that he must needs go to it, he took it patiently: for he was at a point with himself, that he would consent to no unlawful thing for any pleasure of life.
2nd Mach 6:18-20 KJV (1611) 18 Eleazar, one of the principal scribes, an aged man, and of a well favoured countenance, was constrained to open his mouth, and to eat swine's flesh. 19 But he, choosing rather to die gloriously, than to live stained with such an abomination, spit it forth, and came of his own accord to the torment, 20 As it behoved them to come, that are resolute to stand out against such things, as are not lawful for love of life to be tasted.
Douay (catholic) 18 4 Eleazar, one of the foremost scribes, a man of advanced age and noble appearance, was being forced to open his mouth to eat pork.19 But preferring a glorious death to a life of defilement, he spat out the meat, and went forward of his own accord to the instrument of torture,
It happened also that were seven brethren ( with their mother ) taken and compelled by the king against the law, to eat swines flesh: namely with scourges and leather whips. And one of them which was the chief, and said: What seekest thou, and what requirest thou of us? As for us we are ready rather to suffer death, than to offend the laws of God and the fathers. (kjv leaves out of God)
2nd Mach 7:1-2 KJV (1611) 1 It came to pass also, that seven brethren with their mother were taken, and compelled by the king against the law to taste swine's flesh, and were tormented with scourges and whips. 2 But one of them that spake first said thus, What wouldest thou ask or learn of us? we are ready to die, rather than to transgress the laws of our fathers
Douay (catholic) 1 It also happened that seven brothers with their mother were arrested and tortured with whips and scourges by the king, to force them to eat pork in violation of God's law. 2 One of the brothers, speaking for the others, said: "What do you expect to achieve by questioning us? We are ready to die rather than transgress the laws of our ancestors."
And when they had spoken to the fifth, they tormented him. Then looked he unto the king, and said: Thou hast power among (kjv=over) men, for thou art a mortal man also thy self, to do what thou wilt, but think not that God hath forsaken our generation.
2nd Mach 7:15-16 KJV (1611) 15 Afterward they brought the fifth also, and mangled him. 16 Then looked he unto the king, and said, Thou hast power over men, thou art corruptible, thou doest what thou wilt; yet think not that our nation is forsaken of God;
Douay (catholic) 15 They next brought forward the fifth brother and maltreated him. Looking at the king,16 he said: "Since you have power among men, mortal though you are, do what you please. But do not think that our nation is forsaken by God.
Abide thee, tarry still a while, and thou shalt see the great power of God, how he will punish (kjv=torment) thee and thy seed. After him they brought the sixth, which being at the point of death, said: Be not deceived ( O king ) for this we suffer for our own sakes, because we have offended our God, and therefore marvelous things are showed upon us. But think not thou, which takest in hand to strive against God, that thou shalt escape unpunished.
2nd Mach 7:17-19 KJV (1611) 17 But abide a while, and behold his great power, how he will torment thee and thy seed. 18 After him also they brought the sixth, who being ready to die said, Be not deceived without cause: for we suffer these things for ourselves, having sinned against our God: therefore marvellous things are done unto us. 19 But think not thou, that takest in hand to strive against God, that thou shalt escape unpunished
Douay (catholic) 17 Only wait, and you will see how his great power will torment you and your descendants." 18 After him they brought the sixth brother. When he was about to die, he said: "Have no vain illusions. We suffer these things on our own account, because we have sinned against our God; that is why such astonishing things have happened to us.19 Do not think, then, that you will go unpunished for having dared to fight against God."
This excellent mother ( worthy to be well reported of, and had in remembrance) saw her seven sons die in one day, and suffered it patiently, because of the hope that she had in God: Yee she exhorted every one of them in especial,( to treat each one significant) and that boldly and steadfastly with *parfite (perfect?) wisdom, making up her wivish (wifesh?) (kjv=womanish) thoughts with a manly stomach, and she said unto them: I cannot tell how ye came in my womb, for I gave you neither breath nor soul, no ner life. It is not I that joined the members of your bodies together, but the maker of the world, which fashioned the breath of man, and began all things. Even he also of his own mercy shall give you breath and life again like as ye now regard not our own selves for his laws sake.
2nd Mach 7:20-23 KJV (1611) 20 But the mother was marvellous above all, and worthy of honourable memory: for when she saw her seven sons slain within the space of one day, she bare it with a good courage, because of the hope that she had in the Lord. 21 Yea, she exhorted every one of them in her own language, filled with courageous spirits; and stirring up her womanish thoughts with a manly stomach, she said unto them, 22 I cannot tell how ye came into my womb: for I neither gave you breath nor life, neither was it I that formed the members of every one of you; 23 But doubtless the Creator of the world, who formed the generation of man, and found out the beginning of all things, will also of his own mercy give you breath and life again, as ye now regard not your own selves for his laws' sake.
Douay (catholic) 20 Most admirable and worthy of everlasting remembrance was the mother, who saw her seven sons perish in a single day, yet bore it courageously because of her hope in the Lord.21 Filled with a noble spirit that stirred her womanly heart with manly courage, she exhorted each of them in the language of their forefathers with these words: 22 "I do not know how you came into existence in my womb; it was not I who gave you the breath of life, nor was it I who set in order the elements of which each of you is composed. 23 Therefore, since it is the Creator of the universe who shapes each man's beginning, as he brings about the origin of everything, he, in his mercy, will give you back both breath and life, because you now disregard yourselves for the sake of his law." Martyrdom of Mother and Sons
While she was yet speaking these words, the young man said: Whom look ye for ? (kjv = wait ye for?) Wherefore do ye tarry? I will not obey the kings commandment, but the law that God gave us by Moses. (kjv leaves out God) As for thee that imagineth all mischief against the Jews, shalt not escape the hand of God, for we suffer these things, because of our sins.
2nd Mach 7:30-32 KJV (1611) 30 Whiles she was yet speaking these words, the young man said, Whom wait ye for? I will not obey the king's commandment: but I will obey the commandment of the law that was given unto our fathers by Moses. 31 And thou, that hast been the author of all mischief against the Hebrews, shalt not escape the hands of God. 32 For we suffer because of our sins.
Douay (catholic) 30 She had scarcely finished speaking when the youth said: "What are you waiting for? I will not obey the king's command. I obey the command of the law given to our forefathers through Moses. 31 But you, who have contrived every kind of affliction for the Hebrews, will not escape the hands of God. 32 We, indeed, are suffering because of our sins.
Then Judas Maccabeus and they that were with him, went privily (secretly) into the towns, and called their kinsfolks and friends together, and took unto them all such as continued yet in the faith and law of the Jews, (kjv =Jews religion) and brought forth six thousand men.
2nd Mach 8:1 KJV (1611) 1 Then Judas Maccabeus, and they that were with him, went privily into the towns, and called their kinsfolks together, and took unto them all such as continued in the Jews' religion, and assembled about six thousand men.
Douay (catholic) 1 Judas Maccabeus and his companions entered the villages, secretly, summoned their kinsmen, and by also enlisting others who remained faithful to Judaism, assembled about six thousand men.
Through these words the men took good hearts unto them, ready to die for the law and the country. So he set upon every company a captain, one of his own brethren: Simon, Joseph and Jonathas: giving each one fifteen hundred men. He caused Esdras (kjv =Eleazar) also to read the holy book unto them, and to give them a token of the help of God.
2nd Mach 8:21-23 KJV (1611) 21 Thus when he had made them bold with these words, and ready to die for the law and the country, he divided his army into four parts; 22 And joined with himself his own brethren, leaders of each band, to wit Simon, and Joseph, and Jonathan, giving each one fifteen hundred men. 23 Also he appointed Eleazar to read the holy book: and when he had given them this watchword, The help of God; himself leading the first band,
Douay (catholic) 21 With such words he encouraged them and made them ready to die for their laws and their country. Then Judas divided his army into four, 22 2 placing his brothers, Simon, Joseph, and Jonathan, each over a division, assigning to each fifteen hundred men. 23 (There was also Eleazar.) After reading to them from the holy book and giving them the watchword, "The Help of God," he himself took charge of the first division and joined in battle with Nicanor.
They slew Philarches that wicked person, which was with Timotheus, and had vexed many Jews. And when they held the thanksgiving feast at Jerusalem for the victory, they burnt those that had set fire on the ports of the temple: namely Calisthenes, (kjv leaves out this line), which was fled into an house: and so they got a worthy reward for their wickedness. As for that most ungracious Nicanor, which had brought a thousand merchants, to buy the Jews, he was through the help of the Lord brought down even of them he regarded not: in so much that he put off his glorious raiment, fled by sea, and came alone to Antioch, with great shame and dishonor, which he got through the destruction of his host. Thus he that promised the Romans to pay them their tribute, when he took Jerusalem: began now to say plainly , that God was the defender of the Jews, and therefore not possible to wound them, because they followed the laws that God had made.
2nd Mach 8:32-36 KJV (1611) 33 Furthermore at such time as they kept the feast for the victory in their country they burnt Callisthenes, that had set fire upon the holy gates, who had fled into a little house; and so he received a reward meet for his wickedness. 34 As for that most ungracious Nicanor, who had brought a thousand merchants to buy the Jews, 35 He was through the help of the Lord brought down by them, of whom he made least account; and putting off his glorious apparel, and discharging his company, he came like a fugitive servant through the midland unto Antioch having very great dishonour, for that his host was destroyed. 36 Thus he, that took upon him to make good to the Romans their tribute by means of captives in Jerusalem, told abroad, that the Jews had God to fight for them, and therefore they could not be hurt, because they followed the laws that he gave them.
Douay (catholic) 32 They also killed the commander of Timothy's forces, a most wicked man, who had done great harm to the Jews. 33 While celebrating the victory in their ancestral city, they burned both those who had set fire to the sacred gates and Callisthenes, who had taken refuge in a little house; so he received the reward his wicked deeds deserved. 34 The accursed Nicanor, who had brought the thousand slave dealers to buy the Jews, 35 after being humbled through the Lord's help by those whom he had thought of no account, laid aside his fine clothes and fled alone across country like a runaway slave, until he reached Antioch. He was eminently successful in destroying his own army.36 So he who had promised to provide tribute for the Romans by the capture of the people of Jerusalem testified that the Jews had a champion, and that they were invulnerable for the very reason that they followed the laws laid down by him. Death of Antiochus
Therefore he being brought from his great pride, began for to come to the knowledge of himself: for the punishment of God warned him, and his pain increased ever more and more. And when he himself could not abide his own stink, he said these words: It is reason to be obedient (kjv=subject) unto God and that a man desire not to be like unto him. This wicked person prayed also unto the Lord, of whom he should have obtained mercy. And as for the city that he came unto so hastily, to bring it down to the ground, and to make it a grave for dead men: now he desire to deliver it free.
2nd Mach 9:11-14 KJV (1611) 11 Here therefore, being plagued, he began to leave off his great pride, and to come to the knowledge of himself by the scourge of God, his pain increasing every moment. 12 And when he himself could not abide his own smell, he said these words, It is meet to be subject unto God, and that a man that is mortal should not proudly think of himself if he were God. 13 This wicked person vowed also unto the Lord, who now no more would have mercy upon him, saying thus, 14 That the holy city (to the which he was going in haste to lay it even with the ground, and to make it a common buryingplace,) he would set at liberty:
Douay (catholic) 11 At last, broken in spirit, he began to give up his excessive arrogance, and to gain some understanding, under the scourge of God, for he was racked with pain unceasingly. 12 When he could no longer bear his own stench, he said, "It is right to be subject to God, and not to think one's mortal self divine."13 Then this vile man vowed to the Lord, who would no longer have mercy on him, 14 that he would set free the holy city, toward which he had been hurrying with the intention of leveling it to the ground and making it a common graveyard;
But when his pains would not cease, (for the righteous (kjv=just) judgment of God was come upon him ) out of a very despair he wrote unto the Jews a letter of intersession, containing these words: The king and prince Antiochus wisheth unto the virtuous citizens of the Jews, much health and good prosperity.
2nd Mach 9:18-19 KJV (1611) 18 But for all this his pains would not cease: for the just judgment of God was come upon him: therefore despairing of his health, he wrote unto the Jews the letter underwritten, containing the form of a supplication, after this manner: 19 Antiochus, king and governor, to the good Jews his citizens wisheth much joy, health, and prosperity:
Douay (catholic) 18 But since God's punishment had justly come upon him, his sufferings were not lessened, so he lost hope for himself and wrote the following letter to the Jews in the form of a supplication. It read thus: Death of Antiochus 19 2 "To my esteemed Jewish citizens, Antiochus, their king and general, sends hearty greetings and best wishes for their health and happiness.
If ye and your children fare well, and if all things go after your mind: we give great thanks. (kjv= thanks to God) In my sickness also do I remember you lovingly: for as I came out of Persia, and was taken with sore disease: I thought it necessary to care for the common wealth. (kjv=safety) Neither despair I in myself, but have a good hope to escape this sickness.
2nd Mach 9:20-22 KJV (1611) 20 If ye and your children fare well, and your affairs be to your contentment, I give very great thanks to God, having my hope in heaven. 21 As for me, I was weak, or else I would have remembered kindly your honour and good will returning out of Persia, and being taken with a grievous disease, I thought it necessary to care for the common safety of all: 22 Not distrusting mine health, but having great hope to escape this sickness.
Douay (catholic) 20 If you and your children are well and your affairs are going as you wish, I thank God very much, for my hopes are in heaven. 21 Now that I am ill, I recall with affection the esteem and good will you bear me. On returning from the regions of Persia, I fell victim to a troublesome illness; so I thought it necessary to form plans for the general welfare of all. 22 Actually, I do not despair about my health, since I have great hopes of recovering from my illness.
Thus that murderer and blasphemer of God (kjv leaves out; of God) was sore smitten: and like as he had entreated other men, so he died a miserable death in a strange country upon a mountain. And his body did Phillip ( that went with him ) carry away: which fearing the son of Antiochus, went into Egypt to Ptolomy Philometor.
2nd Mach 9:27-29 KJV (1611) 27 For I am persuaded that he understanding my mind will favourably and graciously yield to your desires. 28 Thus the murderer and blasphemer having suffered most grievously, as he entreated other men, so died he a miserable death in a strange country in the mountains. 29 And Philip, that was brought up with him, carried away his body, who also fearing the son of Antiochus went into Egypt to Ptolemeus Philometor.
Douay (catholic) 27 I am confident that, following my policy, he will treat you with mildness and kindness in his relations with you."28 So this murderer and blasphemer, after extreme sufferings, such as he had inflicted on others, died a miserable death in the mountains of a foreign land. 29 His foster brother Philip brought the body home; but fearing Antiochus' son, he later withdrew into Egypt, to Ptolemy Philometor.
Now upon the same day that the strangers polluted(kjv=profaned) the temple, it happened that on the very same day it was cleansed again: namely, the twenty second day of the month called Casleu. (kjv= five and twentieth day) They kept the eight days in gladness, like as in the feast of the tabernacles: remembering that not long afore, they held the feast of the tabernacles upon the mountains and in dens like beasts. And to the same token they bare green bows, branches and palms before him that had given them good fortune to clean his place. They agreed also together, and made a statute, that every year those days should be solemnly kept of all the people of the Jews.
2nd Mach 10:5-8 KJV (1611) 5 Now upon the same day that the strangers profaned the temple, on the very same day it was cleansed again, even the five and twentieth day of the same month, which is Casleu. 6 And they kept the eight days with gladness, as in the feast of the tabernacles, remembering that not long afore they had held the feast of the tabernacles, when as they wandered in the mountains and dens like beasts. 7 Therefore they bare branches, and fair boughs, and palms also, and sang psalms unto him that had given them good success in cleansing his place. 8 They ordained also by a common statute and decree, That every year those days should be kept of the whole nation of the Jews.
Douay (catholic) 5 On the anniversary of the day on which the temple had been profaned by the Gentiles, that is, the twenty-fifth of the same month Chislev, the purification of the temple took place. 6 The Jews celebrated joyfully for eight days as on the feast of Booths, remembering how, a little while before, they had spent the feast of Booths living like wild animals in caves on the mountains. 7 Carrying rods entwined with leaves, green branches and palms, they sang hymns of grateful praise to him who had brought about the purification of his own Place. 8 By public edict and decree they prescribed that the whole Jewish nation should celebrate these days every year.
And by times in the morning at the break of day, both the hosts buckled together. The one part had *the Lord for their refuge, (kjv= with their virtue their refuge) which is the giver of prosperity, strength, and victory. The other had a manly stomach, which is a captain of war.
2nd Mach 10:28 KJV (1611) 28 Now the sun being newly risen, they joined both together; the one part having together with their virtue their refuge also unto the Lord for a pledge of their success and victory: the other side making their rage leader of their battle
Douay (catholic) 28 5 As soon as dawn broke, the armies joined battle, the one having as pledge of success and victory not only their valor but also their reliance on the Lord, and the other taking fury as their leader in the fight.
The battle now being great, there appeared unto the enemies from heaven five men upon horsebacks, with bridles of gold, leading the Jews, and two of them having Maccabeus betwixt them, that kept him safe on every side with their weapons (kjv =and covered him on every side weapons) but shot darts and lightnings upon the enemies: where through they were confounded with blindness and so sore afraid, that they fell down. There were slain of footmen twenty thousand and five hundred, and six hundred horsemen. As for Timotheus himself, he fled into Gaza a very strong hold, wherin Cereas was captain. But Maccabeus and his company laid siege to it cheerfully four days.
2nd Mach 10:29-33 KJV (1611) 29 But when the battle waxed strong, there appeared unto the enemies from heaven five comely men upon horses, with bridles of gold, and two of them led the Jews, 30 And took Maccabeus betwixt them, and covered him on every side weapons, and kept him safe, but shot arrows and lightnings against the enemies: so that being confounded with blindness, and full of trouble, they were killed. 31 And there were slain of footmen twenty thousand and five hundred, and six hundred horsemen. 32 As for Timotheus himself, he fled into a very strong hold, called Gawra, where Chereas was governor. 33 But they that were with Maccabeus laid siege against the fortress courageously four days.
Douay (catholic) 29 In the midst of the fierce battle, there appeared to the enemy from the heavens five majestic men riding on golden-bridled horses, who led the Jews on. 30 They surrounded Maccabeus, and shielding him with their own armor, kept him from being wounded. They shot arrows and hurled thunderbolts at the enemy, who were bewildered and blinded, thrown into confusion and routed.31 Twenty-five hundred of their foot soldiers and six hundred of their horsemen were slain.32 Timothy, however, fled to a well-fortified stronghold called Gazara, where Chaereas was in command. 33 For four days Maccabeus and his men eagerly besieged the fortress.
Nevertheless upon the fifth day in the morning twenty young men of Maccabeus company, being, set on fire in their minds because of the blasphemy: came manfully to the wall, and with bold stomachs they and their other companions climbed up upon the towers, undertaking to set fire upon the ports, and to burn those blasphemous persons quick. Two days were they destroying the castle, which when they found Timotheus,( that was crept into a corner ) they killed him, and slew Cereas his brother in like manner with Apollophanes. When this was done, they sung psalms, with praises and thanksgivings unto the Lord, (kjv leaves out unto the Lord) which had done so great things for Israel, and given them the victory.
2nd Mach 10:35-38 KJV (1611) 35 Nevertheless upon the fifth day early twenty young men of Maccabeus' company, inflamed with anger because of the blasphemies, assaulted the wall manly, and with a fierce courage killed all that they met withal. 36 Others likewise ascending after them, whiles they were busied with them that were within, burnt the towers, and kindling fires burnt the blasphemers alive; and others broke open the gates, and, having received in the rest of the army, took the city, 37 And killed Timotheus, that was hid in a certain pit, and Chereas his brother, with Apollophanes. 38 When this was done, they praised the Lord with psalms and thanksgiving, who had done so great things for Israel, and given them the victory.
Douay (catholic) 35 When the fifth day dawned, twenty young men in the army of Maccabeus, angered over such blasphemies, bravely stormed the wall and with savage fury cut down everyone they encountered. 36 Others who climbed up the same way swung around on the defenders, taking the besieged in the rear; they put the towers to the torch, spread the fire and burned the blasphemers alive. Still others broke down the gates and let in the rest of the troops, who took possession of the city. 37 6 Timothy had hidden in a cistern, but they killed him, along with his brother Chaereas, and Apollophanes. 38 On completing these exploits, they blessed, with hymns of grateful praise, the Lord who shows great kindness to Israel and grants them victory.
Now the kings letter contained these words. King Antiochus sendeth greeting unto his brother Lysias. For so much as our father is now dead, (kjv= is translated unto the gods) our will is, that they which are in our realm, live without any insurrection, and that every man to be diligent in his own matters. We understand also, that the Jews would not consent to our father, for to be brought unto the custom of the Gentiles, but stiffly to keep their own statutes: for the which cause they require of us also, to let them remain still by their own laws.
2nd Mach 11:22-24 KJV (1611) 22 Now the king's letter contained these words: King Antiochus unto his brother Lysias sendeth greeting: 23 Since our father is translated unto the gods, our will is, that they that are in our realm live quietly, that every one may attend upon his own affairs. 24 We understand also that the Jews would not consent to our father, for to be brought unto the custom of the Gentiles, but had rather keep their own manner of living: for the which cause they require of us, that we should suffer them to live after their own laws.
Douay (catholic) 22 The king's letter read thus: "King Antiochus sends greetings to his brother Lysias. 23 Now that our father has taken his place among the gods, we wish the subjects of our kingdom to be undisturbed in conducting their own affairs. 24 We understand that the Jews do not agree with our father's policy concerning Greek customs but prefer their own way of life. They are petitioning us to let them retain their own customs.
Wherefore those that well come, we gave them free liberty, unto the thirtieth day of the month of April (kjv = Xanthicus) , that they may use the meats of the Jews and their own laws, like as afore: and none of them by any manner of ways to have harm, for things done in ignorance. Menelaus whom we have sent unto you, shall commune with you at large, fare ye well. In the hundred and forty eighth year, the fifteenth day of the month of April (kjv = Xanthicus).
2nd Mach 11:30-33 KJV (1611) 30 Wherefore they that will depart shall have safe conduct till the thirtieth day of Xanthicus with security. 31 And the Jews shall use their own kind of meats and laws, as before; and none of them any manner of ways shall be molested for things ignorantly done. 32 I have sent also Menelaus, that he may comfort you. 33 Fare ye well. In the hundred forty and eighth year, and the fifteenth day of the month Xanthicus.
Douay (catholic) 30 Therefore, those who return by the thirtieth of Xanthicus will have our assurance of full permission 31 to observe their dietary laws and other laws, just as before, and none of the Jews shall be molested in any way for faults committed through ignorance. 32 I have also sent Menelaus to reassure you.33 3 Farewell." In the year one hundred and forty-eight, the fifteenth of Xanthicus.
When these covenants were made Lysias went unto the king, and the Jews tilled their ground. But Timotheus, Apollonius the son of Gemei, Jerome (kjv =Hieronymus) and Demophon the proud, Nicanor the captain of the Cypers, and they that lay in those places: would not let them live in rest and peace.
2nd Mach 12:1-2 KJV (1611) 1 When these covenants were made, Lysias went unto the king, and the Jews were about their husbandry. 2 But of the governours of several places, Timotheus, and Apollonius the son of Genneus, also Hieronymus, and Demophon, and beside them Nicanor the governor of Cyprus, would not suffer them to be quiet and live in peace.
Douay (catholic) 1 After these agreements were made, Lysias returned to the king, and the Jews went about their farming. 2 1 But some of the local governors, Timothy and Apollonius, son of Gennaeus, as also Hieronymus and Demophon, to say nothing of Nicanor, the commander of the Cyprians, would not allow them to live in peace.
Judas went also unto a city, which was very fast kept with bridges, fenced round about with walls, and diverse kinds of people dwelling therein called Caspin. (kjv= Caspis)
2nd Mach 12:14 KJV (1611) 13 He went also about to make a bridge to a certain strong city, which was fenced about with walls, and inhabited by people of divers countries; and the name of it was Caspis.
Douay (catholic) 14 Relying on the strength of their walls and their supply of provisions, the besieged treated Judas and his men with contempt, insulting them and even uttering blasphemies and profanity.
Then departed they from thence seven hundred and fifty furlongs, and came to Taraca (kjv=Characa) unto the Jews that are called Tubianei (kjv= Tubieni)
2nd Mach 12:17 KJV (1611) 17 Then departed they from thence seven hundred and fifty furlongs, and came to Characa unto the Jews that are called Tubieni.
Douay (catholic) 17 3 When they had gone on some ninety miles, they reached Charax, where there were certain Jews known as Toubiani.
So when they had done this together, and besought the Lord for mercy, with weeping and fasting three days long, flat upon the ground: Judas exhorted them to make themselves ready. But he and the elders together devised, to go forth first with their people, afore the king brought his host into Jewry, and afore he besieged the city, and *so to commit the matter unto God.
(kjv= to go forth and try the matter in fight by the help of the Lord.)
2nd Mach 13:12-13 KJV (1611) 12 So when they had all done this together, and besought the merciful Lord with weeping and fasting, and lying flat upon the ground three days long, Judas, having exhorted them, commanded they should be in a readiness. 13 And Judas, being apart with the elders, determined, before the king's host should enter into Judea, and get the city, to go forth and try the matter in fight by the help of the Lord.
Douay (catholic) 12 When they had all joined in doing this, and had implored the merciful LORD continuously with weeping and fasting and prostrations for three days, Judas encouraged them and told them to stand ready. 13 After a private meeting with the elders, he decided that, before the king's army could invade Judea and take possession of the city, the Jews should march out and settle the matter with God's help.
Wherefore he ascribed the power of all things unto God the maker of the world, exhorting his people to fight manfully, ( Ye even unto death ) for the laws, the temple, the city, and their own natural country, and to defend the *citizens: (kjv= commonwealth) and set his host before Modin. He gave them also that were with him, a token of the victory of God, choosing out the manliest young men, went to the kings pavilion, slew of the host fourteen thousand men, and the greatest Elephants, with those that sat upon them.
2nd Mach 13:14-15 KJV (1611) 14 So when he had committed all to the Creator of the world, and exhorted his soldiers to fight manfully, even unto death, for the laws, the temple, the city, the country, and the commonwealth, he camped by Modin: 15 And having given the watchword to them that were about him, Victory is of God; with the most valiant and choice young men he went in into the king's tent by night, and slew in the camp about four thousand men, and the chiefest of the elephants, with all that were upon him.
Douay (catholic) 14 Leaving the outcome to the Creator of the world, and exhorting his followers to fight nobly to death for the laws, the temple, the city, the country, and the government, he pitched his camp near Modein. 15 5 Giving his men the battle cry "God's Victory," he made a night attack on the king's pavilion with a picked force of the bravest young men and killed about two thousand in the camp. They also slew the lead elephant and its rider.
After three years was Judas informed, how that Demetrius the son of Seleucus, was come up with great power and ships, through the haven of Tripolis, to take certain commodious places and countries, against Antiochus and his captain Lysias. Now Alcimus ( which had been high Priest, and willfully defiled himself, in the time of the martyring ) (kjv= mingling with the Gentiles,) seeing, that by no means he could be helped, (kjv= save himself) ner have any more entrance to the altar: he came to king Demetrius in the hundred and fifty first year, presenting unto him a crown of gold, a palm, and an olive tree: which ( as men thought ) belonged to the temple, and that day he held his tongue.
2nd Mach 14:1-4 KJV (1611) 1 After three years was Judas informed, that Demetrius the son of Seleucus, having entered by the haven of Tripolis with a great power and navy, 2 Had taken the country, and killed Antiochus, and Lysias his protector. 3 Now one Alcimus, who had been high priest, and had defiled himself wilfully in the times of their mingling with the Gentiles, seeing that by no means he could save himself, nor have any more access to the holy altar, 4 Came to king Demetrius in the hundred and one and fiftieth year, presenting unto him a crown of gold, and a palm, and also of the boughs which were used solemnly in the temple: and so that day he held his peace.
Douay (catholic) 1 1 Three years later, Judas and his men learned that Demetrius, son of Seleucus, had sailed into the port of Tripolis with a powerful army and a fleet, 2 and that he had occupied the country, after doing away with Antiochus and his guardian Lysias. 3 A certain Alcimus, a former high priest, who had willfully incurred defilement at the time of the revolt, realized that there was no way for him to salvage his position and regain access to the holy altar. 4 So he went to King Demetrius in the year one hundred and fifty-one and presented him with a gold crown and a palm branch, as well as some of the customary olive branches from the temple. On that occasion he kept quiet.
Nicanor, while he abode in Jerusalem, ordered himself not unreasonably, but sent away the people that *were gathered together. (kjv= came flocking unto him.)
2nd Mach 14:23 KJV (1611) 23 Now Nicanor abode in Jerusalem, and did no hurt, but sent away the people that came flocking unto him.
Douay (catholic) 23 Nicanor stayed on in Jerusalem, where he did nothing out of place. He got rid of the throngs of ordinary people who gathered around him;
And when they sware that they could not tell where the man was whom he sought, he stretched out his hand, and made an oath, saying: If ye will not deliver me Judas captive, I shall remove this temple of God into the plain field, (kjv =even with the ground) I shall break down the altar, and consecrate this temple unto Bacchus.
2nd Mach 14:32-33 KJV (1611) 32 And when they sware that they could not tell where the man was whom he sought, 33 He stretched out his right hand toward the temple, and made an oath in this manner: If ye will not deliver me Judas as a prisoner, I will lay this temple of God even with the ground, and I will break down the altar, and erect a notable temple unto Bacchus.
Douay (catholic) 32 As they declared under oath that they did not know where the wanted man was, 33 he raised his right hand toward the temple and swore this oath: "If you do not hand Judas over to me as prisoner, I will level this shrine of God to the ground; I will tear down the altar, and erect here a splendid temple to Dionysus."
Then the priests lift up their hands toward heaven, and besought him that was ever the defender of their people, saying: Thou O' Lord of all, (kjv =all things) which hast need of nothing, wouldest that the temple of thy habitation should be among us. Therefore now O' most holy Lord, keep this house ever undefiled, which lately was cleansed. Now was there accused unto Nicanor, one Razis one Alderman of Jerusalem, a lover of the whole city, and a man of good report: which for the kind heart that he bare unto the people, was called a father of the Jews. This man often times, when the Jews were minded to keep them selves undefiled, defended and delivered them, being content steadfastly to spend his body and his life for the people.
2nd Mach 14:34-38 KJV (1611) 34 After these words he departed. Then the priests lifted up their hands toward heaven, and besought him that was ever a defender of their nation, saying in this manner; 35 Thou, O Lord of all things, who hast need of nothing, wast pleased that the temple of thine habitation should be among us: 36 Therefore now, O holy Lord of all holiness, keep this house ever undefiled, which lately was cleansed, and stop every unrighteous mouth. 37 Now was there accused unto Nicanor one Razis, one of the elders of Jerusalem, a lover of his countrymen, and a man of very good report, who for his kindness was called a father of the Jews. 38 For in the former times, when they mingled not themselves with the Gentiles, he had been accused of Judaism, and did boldly jeopard his body and life with all vehemency for the religion of the Jews.
Douay (catholic) 34 With these words he went away. The priests stretched out their hands toward heaven, calling upon the unfailing defender of our nation in these words:35 "Lord of all, though you are in need of nothing, you have approved of a temple for your dwelling place among us.36 Therefore, O holy One, Lord of all holiness, preserve forever undefiled this house, which has been so recently purified."37 3 A certain Razis, one of the elders of Jerusalem, was denounced to Nicanor as a patriot. A man highly regarded, he was called a father of the Jews because of his love for them. 38 In the early days of the revolt, he had been convicted of Judaism, and had risked body and life in his ardent zeal for it.
So when their hearts were plucked up he showed them also the deceitfulness of the Heathen, and how they would keep no covenant nor oath. Thus he weaponed them not with the armor of the shield and spear, but with wholesome words and exhortations. (kjv = armed every one of them, not so much with defense of shields and spears, as with comfortable and good words) He showed them a dream also, where through he made them all glad, which was this: He thought that he saw Onias ( which had been high priest, a virtuous and loving man, sad and of honest conversation, well spoken, and one that had been exercised in Godliness from a child ) holding up his hands toward heaven, and praying for his people.
2nd Mach 15:10-12 KJV (1611) 10 And when he had stirred up their minds, he gave them their charge, shewing them therewithall the falsehood of the heathen, and the breach of oaths. 11 Thus he armed every one of them, not so much with defence of shields and spears, as with comfortable and good words: and beside that, he told them a dream worthy to be believed, as if it had been so indeed, which did not a little rejoice them. 12 And this was his vision: That Onias, who had been high priest, a virtuous and a good man, reverend in conversation, gentle in condition, well spoken also, and exercised from a child in all points of virtue, holding up his hands prayed for the whole body of the Jews.
Douay (catholic) 10 Having stirred up their courage, he gave his orders and pointed out at the same time the perfidy of the Gentiles and their violation of oaths. 11 When he had armed each of them, not so much with the safety of shield and spear as with the encouragement of noble words, he cheered them all by relating a dream, a kind of vision, worthy of belief.12 3 What he saw was this: Onias, the former high priest, a good and virtuous man, modest in appearance, gentle in manners, distinguished in speech, and trained from childhood in every virtuous practice, was praying with outstretched arms for the whole Jewish community.
Now when they left off, and were turning away with joy, they understood that Nicanor himself was slain with other. Then they gave a great shout and cry, praising the Almighty Lord with a loud voice. And Judas ( which was ever ready to spend his body and life for his citizens ) (kjv = the chief defender of the citizens both in body and mind) commanded to smite off Nicanors head, with his arm and hand, and to be brought to Jerusalem. When he came there, he called all the people, and the priests at the altar with those that were in the castle, and showed them Nicanors head, and his wicked hand, which he had presumptuously holden up against the temple of God. He caused the tongue also of the ungodly Nicanor to be cut in little pieces, and to be cast to the fowls, and the cruel mans hand to be hanged up before the temple.
2nd Mach 15:28-33 KJV (1611) 28 Now when the battle was done, returning again with joy, they knew that Nicanor lay dead in his harness. 29 Then they made a great shout and a noise, praising the Almighty in their own language. 30 And Judas, who was ever the chief defender of the citizens both in body and mind, and who continued his love toward his countrymen all his life, commanded to strike off Nicanor's head, and his hand with his shoulder, and bring them to Jerusalem. 31 So when he was there, and called them of his nation together, and set the priests before the altar, he sent for them that were of the tower, 32 And shewed them vile Nicanor's head, and the hand of that blasphemer, which with proud brags he had stretched out against the holy temple of the Almighty. 33 And when he had cut out the tongue of that ungodly Nicanor, he commanded that they should give it by pieces unto the fowls, and hang up the reward of his madness before the temple.
Douay (catholic) 28 When the battle was over and they were joyfully departing, they discovered Nicanor lying there in all his armor; 29 so they raised tumultuous shouts in their native tongue in praise of the divine Sovereign. 30 Then Judas, who was ever in body and soul the chief defender of his fellow citizens, and had maintained from youth his affection for his countrymen, ordered Nicanor's head and whole right arm to be cut off and taken to Jerusalem.31 5 When he arrived there, he assembled his countrymen, stationed the priests before the altar, and sent for those in the citadel.32 He showed them the vile Nicanor's head and the wretched blasphemer's arm that had been boastfully stretched out against the holy dwelling of the Almighty.33 He cut out the tongue of the godless Nicanor, saying he would feed it piecemeal to the birds and would hang up the other wages of his folly opposite the temple.
As for Nicanors head, he hanged it up upon the castle, for an evident and plain token of the help of God. And so they agreed altogether, to keep that day holy, namely the thirtieth day of the month Adar, which in the Syrian language is called the next day before Mardocheus day. (see kjv : as if Adar is given from Syrian) Thus was Nicanor slain, and from that time forth the Jews had the city in possession: And here I will now make an end.
2nd Mach 15:35-39 KJV (1611) 35 He hanged also Nicanor's head upon the tower, an evident and manifest sign unto all of the help of the Lord. 36 And they ordained all with a common decree in no case to let that day pass without solemnity, but to celebrate the thirtieth day of the twelfth month, which in the Syrian tongue is called Adar, the day before Mardocheus' day. 37 Thus went it with Nicanor: and from that time forth the Hebrews had the city in their power. And here will I make an end. 38 And if I have done well, and as is fitting the story, it is that which I desired: but if slenderly and meanly, it is that which I could attain unto. 39 For as it is hurtful to drink wine or water alone; and as wine mingled with water is pleasant, and delighteth the taste: even so speech finely framed delighteth the ears of them that read the story. And here shall be an end.
Douay (catholic) 35 Judas hung up Nicanor's head on the wall of the citadel, a clear and evident proof to all of the Lord's help. 36 6 By public vote it was unanimously decreed never to let this day pass unobserved, but to celebrate it on the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, called Adar in Aramaic, the eve of Mordecai's Day. 37 Since Nicanor's doings ended in this way, with the city remaining in possession of the Hebrews from that time on, I will bring my own story to an end here too. 38 If it is well written and to the point, that is what I wanted; if it is poorly done and mediocre, that is the best I could do.39 Just as it is harmful to drink wine alone or water alone, whereas mixing wine with water makes a more pleasant drink that increases delight, so a skillfully composed story delights the ears of those who read the work. Let this, then, be the end.