2 maccabees 13:1 - In the hundred forty and ninth year tidings were brought to Judas and his company that Antiochus Eupator was coming with great multitudes against Judea,

Generated Verse: 2 maccabees 13:1

What does "2 maccabees 13:1" mean?


Let's break down 2 Maccabees 13:1:

"In the hundred forty and ninth year": This refers to a specific year in the Seleucid era. The Seleucid era began in 312 BC when Seleucus I Nicator, one of Alexander the Great's generals, established the Seleucid kingdom in Asia. Therefore, the "hundred forty and ninth year" would be 312 BC - 149 = 163 BC.

"tidings were brought to Judas and his company": "Judas" refers to Judas Maccabeus, the leader of the Jewish revolt against the Seleucid Empire. "His company" means his army and followers who were fighting for Jewish independence. "Tidings" means news or information.

"that Antiochus Eupator was coming with great multitudes against Judea": Antiochus Eupator was the Seleucid king at this time. He had succeeded his father, Antiochus IV Epiphanes, who had been the main instigator of the persecution of the Jews. "Great multitudes" refers to a large army. "Judea" is the region where the Jewish people lived.

In simpler terms, the verse is saying:

In the year 163 BC, Judas Maccabeus and his army received news that King Antiochus Eupator was marching toward Judea with a very large army to fight against them.

Significance:

This verse sets the stage for a conflict. It highlights the ongoing struggle between the Jewish people, led by Judas Maccabeus, and the Seleucid Empire, now under Antiochus Eupator. It foreshadows an impending battle and the continuing fight for religious and political freedom in Judea.

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