2 maccabees 15:17 - And being encouraged by the words of Judas, which were of a lofty strain, and able to incite to virtue and to stir the souls of the young to manly courage, they determined not to carry on a campaign, but nobly to bear down upon the enemy, and fighting hand to hand with all courage bring the matter to an issue, because the city and the sanctuary and the temple were in danger.
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What does "2 maccabees 15:17" mean?
This verse from 2 Maccabees 15:17 describes a critical moment of decision for the Jewish forces under Judas Maccabeus before a battle. Let's break down its meaning:
"And being encouraged by the words of Judas, which were of a lofty strain..." This establishes the context. Judas, the leader, has just given a speech. It wasn't just any speech; it was powerful and inspiring ("lofty strain"). It implies he spoke with passion, conviction, and possibly religious fervor.
"...and able to incite to virtue and to stir the souls of the young to manly courage..." The specific impact of Judas' speech is highlighted. It motivated the soldiers to act virtuously (righteously, morally). Importantly, it particularly ignited the younger soldiers. The phrase "manly courage" doesn't necessarily imply exclusively male soldiers (although that's probable in this historical context); it focuses on the kind of bravery and fortitude expected of soldiers.
"...they determined not to carry on a campaign, but nobly to bear down upon the enemy..." This is the crucial decision resulting from Judas's inspiration. Instead of a drawn-out campaign (which might involve strategies like sieges or skirmishes), they opt for a direct, aggressive confrontation. "Nobly to bear down" emphasizes the bravery and honor they intend to show in their attack.
"...and fighting hand to hand with all courage bring the matter to an issue..." They resolve to engage in close-quarters combat ("hand to hand"). They're committed to a decisive battle, aiming to resolve the conflict swiftly and decisively. They intend to "bring the matter to an issue" – meaning they want a clear victory or defeat, rather than prolonged conflict.
"...because the city and the sanctuary and the temple were in danger." This explains the urgency and high stakes. Their motivations aren't just political or military; they are deeply rooted in the defense of their faith and culture. The city (Jerusalem), the sanctuary (a sacred place), and the temple (the center of Jewish worship) are all under threat. The fate of their religion and way of life hinges on the outcome of the battle.
In essence, the verse describes:
1. Inspiration: Judas's powerful speech ignites courage and righteousness in his troops, especially the young soldiers.
2. Decision: They choose a bold and decisive battle over a prolonged campaign.
3. Motivation: They are driven by the urgent need to protect their city, sanctuary, and temple from desecration and destruction.
The verse portrays Judas as a charismatic leader whose words inspire his troops to a brave, all-or-nothing stand against a perceived existential threat. It highlights the importance of leadership, courage, and faith in motivating people to take extraordinary risks.
2 maccabees 15:17 - And being encouraged by the words of Judas, which were of a lofty strain, and able to incite to virtue and to stir the souls of the young to manly courage, they determined not to carry on a campaign, but nobly to bear down upon the enemy, and fighting hand to hand with all courage bring the matter to an issue, because the city and the sanctuary and the temple were in danger.
What does "2 maccabees 15:17" mean?
This verse from 2 Maccabees 15:17 describes a critical moment of decision for the Jewish forces under Judas Maccabeus before a battle. Let's break down its meaning:
"And being encouraged by the words of Judas, which were of a lofty strain..." This establishes the context. Judas, the leader, has just given a speech. It wasn't just any speech; it was powerful and inspiring ("lofty strain"). It implies he spoke with passion, conviction, and possibly religious fervor.
"...and able to incite to virtue and to stir the souls of the young to manly courage..." The specific impact of Judas' speech is highlighted. It motivated the soldiers to act virtuously (righteously, morally). Importantly, it particularly ignited the younger soldiers. The phrase "manly courage" doesn't necessarily imply exclusively male soldiers (although that's probable in this historical context); it focuses on the kind of bravery and fortitude expected of soldiers.
"...they determined not to carry on a campaign, but nobly to bear down upon the enemy..." This is the crucial decision resulting from Judas's inspiration. Instead of a drawn-out campaign (which might involve strategies like sieges or skirmishes), they opt for a direct, aggressive confrontation. "Nobly to bear down" emphasizes the bravery and honor they intend to show in their attack.
"...and fighting hand to hand with all courage bring the matter to an issue..." They resolve to engage in close-quarters combat ("hand to hand"). They're committed to a decisive battle, aiming to resolve the conflict swiftly and decisively. They intend to "bring the matter to an issue" – meaning they want a clear victory or defeat, rather than prolonged conflict.
"...because the city and the sanctuary and the temple were in danger." This explains the urgency and high stakes. Their motivations aren't just political or military; they are deeply rooted in the defense of their faith and culture. The city (Jerusalem), the sanctuary (a sacred place), and the temple (the center of Jewish worship) are all under threat. The fate of their religion and way of life hinges on the outcome of the battle.
In essence, the verse describes:
1. Inspiration: Judas's powerful speech ignites courage and righteousness in his troops, especially the young soldiers.
2. Decision: They choose a bold and decisive battle over a prolonged campaign.
3. Motivation: They are driven by the urgent need to protect their city, sanctuary, and temple from desecration and destruction.
The verse portrays Judas as a charismatic leader whose words inspire his troops to a brave, all-or-nothing stand against a perceived existential threat. It highlights the importance of leadership, courage, and faith in motivating people to take extraordinary risks.