The Conflict with the Seleucids

Coherent and detailed account of the revolt of the Jews from the domination of Antiochus IV, led by Judas Maccabaeus, and the creation of a Jewish national state, ruled by Judas’ brothers Jonathan and Simon, who created a Hasmonaean high-priesthood.

“. . . the history of Judas Maccabaeus and his brothers, the purification of the great temple, and the dedication of the altar. He has described the battles with Antiochus Epiphanes and with his son Eupator, and the apparitions from heaven which appeared with those who vied with one another in fighting manfully for Judaism. Few though they were they ravaged the whole country and routed the foreign hordes; they restored the world-renowned temple, freed the city of Jerusalem, and reaffirmed the laws which were in danger of being abolished. All this they achieved because the Lord was merciful and gracious to them. . . . I have tried to provide for the entertainment of those who read for pleasure, the convenience of students who must commit facts to memory, and the profit of even the casual reader.”