1 maccabees 10:23 - What is this that we have done, that Alexander has been beforehand with us in establishing friendship with the Jews, to strengthen himself?
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What does "1 maccabees 10:23" mean?
This verse from 1 Maccabees 10:23 expresses concern and perhaps resentment among certain parties (implied to be rivals or enemies of Alexander Balas) that Alexander had made a treaty or alliance with the Jews before they could. Let's break it down:
"What is this that we have done...": This suggests that the speaker(s) feel they have been outmaneuvered or have made a mistake that allowed Alexander to gain an advantage.
"...that Alexander has been beforehand with us...": The key point is that Alexander acted first. He "beat them to the punch" in some way.
"...in establishing friendship with the Jews...": Alexander made an alliance or treaty, offering favorable terms or privileges to the Jews, which enhanced their loyalty and support. This was considered valuable in the political landscape of the time.
"...to strengthen himself?": This reveals the motive attributed to Alexander. The speaker(s) believe he did it to bolster his own power and position. By gaining the support of the Jewish people, Alexander strengthened his kingdom and military.
Context is crucial:
Alexander Balas: Alexander Balas was a Seleucid king who challenged the ruling king, Demetrius I Soter. He needed allies.
The Jews: The Jews, under the leadership of the Maccabees, had recently won independence from the Seleucid Empire and were a powerful and influential force in the region. Their allegiance was valuable to either side vying for control.
Political Maneuvering: In the turbulent politics of the Hellenistic world, making alliances with key groups was essential for survival and expansion. The verse indicates that Alexander's rivals also recognized the strategic importance of aligning with the Jews.
In summary, the verse shows disappointment and strategic concern. The speakers recognize that Alexander Balas cleverly secured the support of the Jews, thus giving him a significant advantage in his political and military struggles. They regret not having acted first to gain this alliance.
1 maccabees 10:23 - What is this that we have done, that Alexander has been beforehand with us in establishing friendship with the Jews, to strengthen himself?
What does "1 maccabees 10:23" mean?
This verse from 1 Maccabees 10:23 expresses concern and perhaps resentment among certain parties (implied to be rivals or enemies of Alexander Balas) that Alexander had made a treaty or alliance with the Jews before they could. Let's break it down:
"What is this that we have done...": This suggests that the speaker(s) feel they have been outmaneuvered or have made a mistake that allowed Alexander to gain an advantage.
"...that Alexander has been beforehand with us...": The key point is that Alexander acted first. He "beat them to the punch" in some way.
"...in establishing friendship with the Jews...": Alexander made an alliance or treaty, offering favorable terms or privileges to the Jews, which enhanced their loyalty and support. This was considered valuable in the political landscape of the time.
"...to strengthen himself?": This reveals the motive attributed to Alexander. The speaker(s) believe he did it to bolster his own power and position. By gaining the support of the Jewish people, Alexander strengthened his kingdom and military.
Context is crucial:
Alexander Balas: Alexander Balas was a Seleucid king who challenged the ruling king, Demetrius I Soter. He needed allies.
The Jews: The Jews, under the leadership of the Maccabees, had recently won independence from the Seleucid Empire and were a powerful and influential force in the region. Their allegiance was valuable to either side vying for control.
Political Maneuvering: In the turbulent politics of the Hellenistic world, making alliances with key groups was essential for survival and expansion. The verse indicates that Alexander's rivals also recognized the strategic importance of aligning with the Jews.
In summary, the verse shows disappointment and strategic concern. The speakers recognize that Alexander Balas cleverly secured the support of the Jews, thus giving him a significant advantage in his political and military struggles. They regret not having acted first to gain this alliance.