Books Jesus Read

Chapter 3: Spiritual Legacy – Jonathan, Simon, and John Hyrcanus

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regard to all else due us—the tithes, tributes, salt tax, and royal taxes—they are hereby exempt, and these exemptions shall never be canceled. Take careful note of these provisions, therefore, and inscribe a copy for Jonathan to display on the Holy Mountain.’” Demetrius II realized that all was peaceful and there was no one to oppose him. Therefore, he disbanded his legions and sent all his troops home, except the mercenaries he had hired from foreign nations. For this reason, the soldiers who had long served under him and his fathers now despised him. Trypho, a man who formerly supported Alexander, noticed that the men of Demetrius were grumbling against him. So, he went to Imalkue the Arab, who was raising the son of Alexander, who also bore the name of Antiochus. He told Imalkue about the disbanded legions of Demetrius and their resentment, and urged him to release the boy to reign in his father’s place. Jonathan, meanwhile, sent a request to Demetrius II asking him to expel all Gentile troops from the Akra, as they continually fought against Israel. Demetrius replied saying, “I will do as you request for your sake and your people. Not only that, but I will bestow honor upon your nation if the opportunity arises. Only, send troops who will fight for me, for all my warriors have abandoned me.” Jonathan sent three thousand of his mighty men to Antioch. When they arrived, the king rejoiced to see them. For the people of Antioch, 120,000 in all, had risen up to put Demetrius II to death. As the people rioted in the streets, the king sheltered in his palace and called out to the Jews for help. Dispersing throughout the city,