2 maccabees 15:36 - And they all ordained with a common decree in no wise to let this day pass undistinguished, but to mark with honor the thirteenth day of the twelfth month (it is called Adar in the Syrian tongue), the day before the day of Mordecai.

Generated Verse: 2 maccabees 15:36

What does "2 maccabees 15:36" mean?


This verse from 2 Maccabees 15:36 describes the establishment of a local holiday to commemorate a victory. Let's break it down:

"And they all ordained with a common decree": This signifies a unanimous agreement and formal decision made by the people involved, likely referring to the Jewish community.

"in no wise to let this day pass undistinguished": This emphasizes the importance of remembering the day and not letting it fade into obscurity. They want to ensure it's celebrated and remembered.

"but to mark with honor the thirteenth day of the twelfth month": They are designating a specific day, the 13th of the 12th month, as the day for this commemoration.

"(it is called Adar in the Syrian tongue)": This clarifies that the twelfth month in their calendar is known as Adar in the Syrian language (Aramaic). The author is essentially bridging the gap between the Hebrew calendar and the language spoken by the audience of the book.

"the day before the day of Mordecai": This is a bit ambiguous but most likely refers to the victory on the 13th of Adar being related to Mordecai's day on the 14th. The story behind "the day of Mordecai" isn't detailed in 2 Maccabees but most likely refers to the festival of Purim in the book of Esther. The victory being commemorated here is linked to a pre-existing important day associated with Mordecai and victory.

In essence, the verse documents the establishment of a local holiday, celebrated on the 13th of Adar, that is related to the victory of Mordecai on the 14th of Adar (as is described in the book of Esther). This holiday was intended to ensure that a significant event was remembered and honored by the community.

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