1 maccabees 8:28 - and to those who are confederates with their foes there shall not be given food, arms, money, or ships, as it has seemed good to Rome; and they shall keep these ordinances, and that without deceit.

Generated Verse: 1 maccabees 8:28

What does "1 maccabees 8:28" mean?


This verse, 1 Maccabees 8:28, is part of a treaty between the Maccabees (Jewish rebels fighting for independence) and the Roman Republic. It essentially outlines the consequences for anyone who allies themselves with the enemies of either the Romans or the Maccabees. Let's break down the meaning:

"and to those who are confederates with their foes": This refers to anyone who forms an alliance or partnership with the enemies of either Rome or the Maccabees. Being a "confederate" means joining forces or forming a league with someone else.

"there shall not be given food, arms, money, or ships": This is the core of the punishment. Anyone who allies with the enemy will be cut off from vital resources. They won't receive food (for sustenance), arms (for defense or offense), money (for economic support), or ships (for transportation and trade). These are all crucial for survival and maintaining power.

"as it has seemed good to Rome": This indicates that the terms of the treaty, and this particular punishment, are determined or approved by Rome. Rome is setting the standard, asserting its influence, and ensuring that both parties adhere to these rules.

"and they shall keep these ordinances, and that without deceit": This emphasizes the importance of adhering to the treaty terms honestly and without any trickery. It's a call for transparency and genuine commitment to the agreement. They are expected to uphold the provisions and not attempt to circumvent them through deception or hidden agendas.

In summary: The verse establishes a clear deterrent for siding with enemies of Rome or the Maccabees. It states that those who do so will be deprived of essential resources, a measure dictated by Rome, and that the entire agreement must be followed in good faith. This highlights Rome's power and its commitment to ensuring that its allies are protected and that potential enemies are weakened. It demonstrates the strategic importance of the alliance between the Maccabees and Rome in their respective struggles. This treaty offered the Maccabees legitimacy and support, while Rome gained a strategic partner in the region.