Books Jesus Read

Chapter 2: Hasmonean Holiness – Judas Maccabeus

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Judas’ men followed him into battle. Soon, the enemy forces were dropping their weapons and running to their sacred quarter at Carnaim for protection. Judas’ forces took the city and set the sacred quarter on fire, killing all who had fled there for protection. Then Judas gathered all the Israelite refugees in Gilead, together with their wives, children, and possessions, and set out to return to Judea. Now, Ephron was a large fortified city through which passed the road to Judea. As the caravan approached it, Judas requested permission to pass through, giving his word that no harm would be visited on its citizens ( Num 21:21–24 ). The city denied his request, and even piled up stones in the gate to block their access. So, Judas directed his people to pitch their tents and settle in place until the city should be delivered into their hands. After a night’s rest Judas led a raid on the city, killing every male among them, plundering the city and burning it to the ground. The Israelites had to step over the bodies of the slain in order to continue their journey. As for Judas, he continually rode up and down the length of the caravan, encouraging the slower travelers and helping anyone in difficulty. At last, they crossed the Jordan River and entered Judea. They climbed Mount Zion with joy and gladness amidst much celebration and the offering of many sacrificial offerings. Not a man, woman, or child had been lost on the return journey. While Judas and Jonathan were in Gilead and Simon was in Galilee, Joseph and Azariah, who were the commanders left in charge of Judea, heard about the courageous victories of the Maccabees brothers. They said, “Let us make war on the Gentiles around us, and make a name for ourselves.”