29. MACCABEES
The
Syrian kings forced the Jews to abandon their religion in favour of the Greek
religion. Some Jews known as the Maccabees revolted and formed an independent
state.
THE
JEWISH TEMPLE. The Syrian king, Antiochus IV, thought that the Jews in
Jerusalem were revolting against him. He entered the city and killed many Jews
and many were sold into slavery. He desecrated the temple by handling the
sacred vessels and stealing money. God permitted this to happen because of the
sins of the people. God would eventually restore the temple to its former
glory.
JUDAS
MACCABEUS. Judas was the Jewish leader who revolted against the Syrians. He
would enter towns at night and enlist faithful Jews to join him in the fight
against the enemy. He would attack at night setting towns on fire and captured
strategic positions. His fame began to spread as he gained one victory after
another. Judas always prepared his men for battle by praying and encouraging
them to trust in God.
PURIFICATION
OF THE TEMPLE. Judas and his forces captured Jerusalem and the temple. In
December of 165 B.C. he rebuilt the altar of the temple and restored the Jewish
worship. This event, known as the feast of lights or Hanukkah in Hebrew, is
celebrated yearly around Christmas time.
The
Syrian kings forced the Jews to give up their religion to follow the Greek
religion. The Maccabees revolted which resulted in the Maccabean wars. Because
of their victories over the Syrian forces, the Jews were able to achieve a
century of independence.
