This verse from 2 Maccabees 11:14 refers to a situation where a leader (likely Lysias, a Seleucid general) is negotiating peace with the Jewish people. Let's break down what it means:
"and persuaded them to come to terms": This indicates that the Jewish people were initially hesitant about making peace. Lysias successfully convinced them to enter into negotiations and agreements.
"on condition that all their rights were acknowledged": This is a crucial part of the agreement. The Jewish people were insisting that their pre-existing rights and privileges, likely including religious freedom and autonomy, be officially recognized and respected by the Seleucid government. This was a key demand to ensure their way of life would be protected.
"and promised that he would also persuade the king to become their friend": This adds another layer to the agreement. Lysias pledges to influence the Seleucid King (Antiochus V Eupator at this point) to adopt a friendly stance towards the Jewish people. This suggests a desire for a longer-term, more stable and positive relationship beyond just the immediate cessation of hostilities. It implies that Lysias aimed for the king to actively support and protect their interests.
In essence, this verse describes a negotiated settlement where the Jewish people agree to peace only if their rights are respected. To sweeten the deal, Lysias promises to use his influence to foster a friendly relationship between the Jewish people and the Seleucid king.
Context within 2 Maccabees:
This verse is part of a larger narrative about the Maccabean Revolt against Seleucid rule. The Jewish people, led by the Maccabees, were fighting for their religious freedom and independence. This verse shows a point where negotiations and compromises were being attempted, even amidst the ongoing conflict. It's important to note that the promises made in this verse were likely seen by the Jewish people as a temporary measure, something that might be broken later. They still felt they needed to continue fighting to secure their freedom. The book of Maccabees details the ongoing struggle and eventual victory of the Jewish people, even after such agreements.
This verse from 2 Maccabees 11:14 refers to a situation where a leader (likely Lysias, a Seleucid general) is negotiating peace with the Jewish people. Let's break down what it means:
"and persuaded them to come to terms": This indicates that the Jewish people were initially hesitant about making peace. Lysias successfully convinced them to enter into negotiations and agreements.
"on condition that all their rights were acknowledged": This is a crucial part of the agreement. The Jewish people were insisting that their pre-existing rights and privileges, likely including religious freedom and autonomy, be officially recognized and respected by the Seleucid government. This was a key demand to ensure their way of life would be protected.
"and promised that he would also persuade the king to become their friend": This adds another layer to the agreement. Lysias pledges to influence the Seleucid King (Antiochus V Eupator at this point) to adopt a friendly stance towards the Jewish people. This suggests a desire for a longer-term, more stable and positive relationship beyond just the immediate cessation of hostilities. It implies that Lysias aimed for the king to actively support and protect their interests.
In essence, this verse describes a negotiated settlement where the Jewish people agree to peace only if their rights are respected. To sweeten the deal, Lysias promises to use his influence to foster a friendly relationship between the Jewish people and the Seleucid king.
Context within 2 Maccabees:
This verse is part of a larger narrative about the Maccabean Revolt against Seleucid rule. The Jewish people, led by the Maccabees, were fighting for their religious freedom and independence. This verse shows a point where negotiations and compromises were being attempted, even amidst the ongoing conflict. It's important to note that the promises made in this verse were likely seen by the Jewish people as a temporary measure, something that might be broken later. They still felt they needed to continue fighting to secure their freedom. The book of Maccabees details the ongoing struggle and eventual victory of the Jewish people, even after such agreements.