2 maccabees 12:2 - But certain of the governors of districts, Timotheus and Apollonius the son of Gennaeus, and Hieronymus also and Demophon, and beside them Nicanor the governor of Cyprus, would not suffer them to enjoy tranquillity and live in peace.

Generated Verse: 2 maccabees 12:2

What does "2 maccabees 12:2" mean?


This verse from 2 Maccabees 12:2 describes the ongoing opposition and oppression faced by the Jewish people in the period leading up to the Maccabean Revolt. Let's break it down:

"But certain of the governors of districts..." This indicates that even though the Jews might have had some opportunities for peace or respite, various local officials ("governors of districts") were actively preventing them from enjoying it. These governors were likely appointed by the Seleucid Empire, which controlled the region at this time.

"...Timotheus and Apollonius the son of Gennaeus, and Hieronymus also and Demophon, and beside them Nicanor the governor of Cyprus..." This lists specific individuals who were responsible for the troubles. Identifying them by name suggests they were particularly notorious or significant in the eyes of the author and the Jewish community. Nicanor's position as "governor of Cyprus" indicates the scope of the conflict extended beyond just Judea itself.

"...would not suffer them to enjoy tranquillity and live in peace." This is the core of the verse. These governors actively prevented the Jewish people from having peace and quiet. This implies policies or actions that stirred up conflict, suppressed Jewish practices, and generally made life difficult.

In essence, this verse highlights the hostile environment faced by the Jewish people due to the actions of specific Seleucid officials. These officials, for whatever reasons (political, religious, or personal), were unwilling to let the Jews live peacefully under their rule, contributing to the rising tensions that eventually led to the Maccabean Revolt. It emphasizes the external pressures and oppression faced by the Jewish people, providing context for the rebellion that follows in the Book of Maccabees.

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