Books Jesus Read

Chapter 6: The Spirit of the Martyrs – 2 Maccabees

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whole construction, while the one who undertakes its painting and decoration has to consider only what is suitable for its adornment, such in my judgment is the case with us. It is the duty of the original historian to occupy the ground and to discuss matters from every side and to take trouble with details, but the one who recasts the narrative should be allowed to strive for brevity of expression and to forego exhaustive treatment. Let us begin our narrative, therefore, before the preface outgrows the history itself (2 Macc 2:19–32)! 2 Maccabees 3 Now, the holy city dwelt in constant peace and the laws were carefully followed because of the dedication of the high priest Onias and his hatred of wickedness. The kings themselves honored Jerusalem and glorified the temple with the finest presents. Even King Seleucus of Asia covered all the expenses of the temple sacrifices from his own treasury. Yet, a man named Simon, of the tribe of Benjamin, who had been appointed captain of the temple, became dissatisfied with Onias’ administration of the city market. When he failed to have his way, Simon reported to the governor that the treasury in Jerusalem was so rich no one could count it all. 3 He added that its vast wealth was not even dedicated to temple service! Therefore, he proposed, it rightly belonged under the control of the king. The king then chose Heliodorus, who was in charge of his affairs, and sent him to take control of the treasury. Heliodorus traveled to Jerusalem on the pretense of touring the entire region, but in fact to accomplish the king’s purpose. When he arrived, he was kindly welcomed by the high

3 This governor, the text tells us, was Apollonius of Tarsus, who ruled over Coelesyria and Phoenicia.