This verse, 1 Maccabees 13:38, is part of a letter from the Roman Senate to the Jewish people, specifically to Simon Maccabeus, confirming their alliance and recognition of Jewish independence. To understand its meaning, we need to break it down:
"And whatever things we confirmed to you, they are confirmed...": This refers to previous agreements, treaties, and promises made by the Romans to Simon and the Jewish people. The Romans are reaffirming these agreements, emphasizing their commitment to upholding them. This would include things like recognizing Jewish independence, providing military support, and allowing trade.
"...and the strongholds, which you have built, let them be your own.": This is a crucial recognition of Jewish sovereignty. Simon Maccabeus had been working diligently to secure and fortify Jewish territory. This phrase means that the Romans acknowledge and respect Jewish control over these fortresses and the territories they protect. It signifies Roman acceptance of the new Jewish state's right to defend itself and manage its own borders. The "strongholds" symbolize Jewish military power and their ability to resist foreign domination.
In essence, the verse means:
The Romans are reiterating their support for the Jewish people and their agreements with them. Furthermore, they are acknowledging Jewish control over the fortresses they have built, thus confirming Jewish sovereignty and right to self-defense within their territory. This is a significant statement of recognition and support from a major world power during a time when the Jews were struggling to establish their independence.
This verse, 1 Maccabees 13:38, is part of a letter from the Roman Senate to the Jewish people, specifically to Simon Maccabeus, confirming their alliance and recognition of Jewish independence. To understand its meaning, we need to break it down:
"And whatever things we confirmed to you, they are confirmed...": This refers to previous agreements, treaties, and promises made by the Romans to Simon and the Jewish people. The Romans are reaffirming these agreements, emphasizing their commitment to upholding them. This would include things like recognizing Jewish independence, providing military support, and allowing trade.
"...and the strongholds, which you have built, let them be your own.": This is a crucial recognition of Jewish sovereignty. Simon Maccabeus had been working diligently to secure and fortify Jewish territory. This phrase means that the Romans acknowledge and respect Jewish control over these fortresses and the territories they protect. It signifies Roman acceptance of the new Jewish state's right to defend itself and manage its own borders. The "strongholds" symbolize Jewish military power and their ability to resist foreign domination.
In essence, the verse means:
The Romans are reiterating their support for the Jewish people and their agreements with them. Furthermore, they are acknowledging Jewish control over the fortresses they have built, thus confirming Jewish sovereignty and right to self-defense within their territory. This is a significant statement of recognition and support from a major world power during a time when the Jews were struggling to establish their independence.
