The verse "And all the friends of Judas were gathered together, and they said to Jonathan," from 1 Maccabees 9:28 is a pivotal moment in the Maccabean Revolt narrative. To understand its meaning, we need to consider the context:
Judas Maccabeus is Dead: Judas Maccabeus, the leader of the Jewish rebellion against the Seleucid Empire and a symbol of Jewish courage, has just been killed in battle. This is a major blow to the Maccabean forces.
Jonathan as a Successor: Jonathan is one of Judas's brothers. With Judas gone, there's a leadership vacuum.
"Friends of Judas": This phrase represents those who were loyal to Judas and his cause. They are the core of the Maccabean resistance.
"Gathered Together": This indicates a time of crisis and decision-making. They are congregating to figure out what to do now that their leader is dead.
"They said to Jonathan": The fact that they are turning to Jonathan signifies that they see him as a potential leader or someone who can continue Judas's work.
Therefore, the verse means:
The loyal supporters of Judas Maccabeus, deeply concerned by his death and recognizing the need for continued leadership, came together and approached Jonathan to potentially take up the mantle of leadership. It is a recognition of Jonathan's importance within the movement and an indication that the resistance will continue despite the loss of Judas. The implication is that they want Jonathan to lead them and continue the fight for Jewish freedom. This verse serves as the transition point where Jonathan steps into a leading role, ensuring the Maccabean revolt doesn't collapse.
The verse "And all the friends of Judas were gathered together, and they said to Jonathan," from 1 Maccabees 9:28 is a pivotal moment in the Maccabean Revolt narrative. To understand its meaning, we need to consider the context:
Judas Maccabeus is Dead: Judas Maccabeus, the leader of the Jewish rebellion against the Seleucid Empire and a symbol of Jewish courage, has just been killed in battle. This is a major blow to the Maccabean forces.
Jonathan as a Successor: Jonathan is one of Judas's brothers. With Judas gone, there's a leadership vacuum.
"Friends of Judas": This phrase represents those who were loyal to Judas and his cause. They are the core of the Maccabean resistance.
"Gathered Together": This indicates a time of crisis and decision-making. They are congregating to figure out what to do now that their leader is dead.
"They said to Jonathan": The fact that they are turning to Jonathan signifies that they see him as a potential leader or someone who can continue Judas's work.
Therefore, the verse means:
The loyal supporters of Judas Maccabeus, deeply concerned by his death and recognizing the need for continued leadership, came together and approached Jonathan to potentially take up the mantle of leadership. It is a recognition of Jonathan's importance within the movement and an indication that the resistance will continue despite the loss of Judas. The implication is that they want Jonathan to lead them and continue the fight for Jewish freedom. This verse serves as the transition point where Jonathan steps into a leading role, ensuring the Maccabean revolt doesn't collapse.