This verse from 1 Maccabees 15:41 describes a military action taken by a Seleucid official (likely Cendebeus, the commander referenced in the preceding verses) on the orders of the Seleucid king (likely Antiochus VII Sidetes). Let's break down the meaning:
"And he built Kidron...": "Kidron" refers to a strategically important location, likely a fortress or a fortified camp near the Kidron Valley. Building it implies strengthening it for military purposes.
"...and set horsemen there, and forces of foot...": This indicates that the location was garrisoned with both cavalry (horsemen) and infantry (forces of foot), meaning a mix of military units.
"...to the end that issuing out they might make outroads upon the ways of Judea...": This is the key part. It reveals the purpose of the military deployment. The troops stationed at Kidron were meant to launch raids ("make outroads") onto the roads and highways of Judea. This signifies aggressive patrolling and potential attacks on Jewish settlements or travelers.
"...according as the king commanded him.": This emphasizes that the military actions were not Cendebeus's own initiative but were carried out on the orders of the Seleucid king. This highlights the Seleucid Empire's intention to exert control over Judea.
In summary, the verse describes the establishment of a military outpost (Kidron) and the deployment of troops there to conduct raids and maintain control over Judea by disrupting traffic and intimidating the population, all under the authority of the Seleucid king. This was a hostile act aimed at suppressing Jewish independence and enforcing Seleucid rule. It provides context for the Maccabean revolt and the struggles for autonomy that are central to the Books of Maccabees.
This verse from 1 Maccabees 15:41 describes a military action taken by a Seleucid official (likely Cendebeus, the commander referenced in the preceding verses) on the orders of the Seleucid king (likely Antiochus VII Sidetes). Let's break down the meaning:
"And he built Kidron...": "Kidron" refers to a strategically important location, likely a fortress or a fortified camp near the Kidron Valley. Building it implies strengthening it for military purposes.
"...and set horsemen there, and forces of foot...": This indicates that the location was garrisoned with both cavalry (horsemen) and infantry (forces of foot), meaning a mix of military units.
"...to the end that issuing out they might make outroads upon the ways of Judea...": This is the key part. It reveals the purpose of the military deployment. The troops stationed at Kidron were meant to launch raids ("make outroads") onto the roads and highways of Judea. This signifies aggressive patrolling and potential attacks on Jewish settlements or travelers.
"...according as the king commanded him.": This emphasizes that the military actions were not Cendebeus's own initiative but were carried out on the orders of the Seleucid king. This highlights the Seleucid Empire's intention to exert control over Judea.
In summary, the verse describes the establishment of a military outpost (Kidron) and the deployment of troops there to conduct raids and maintain control over Judea by disrupting traffic and intimidating the population, all under the authority of the Seleucid king. This was a hostile act aimed at suppressing Jewish independence and enforcing Seleucid rule. It provides context for the Maccabean revolt and the struggles for autonomy that are central to the Books of Maccabees.
