This verse from 2 Maccabees 15:37 serves as a concluding statement, summarizing the outcome of a major conflict and marking the end of the narrative. Let's break down its meaning:
"THIS then having been the issue of the attempt of Nicanor...": This refers to the final result or consequence of Nicanor's campaign. Nicanor was a general in the Seleucid army who sought to conquer Jerusalem and destroy the Jewish Temple. His attempt ultimately failed.
"...and the city having from those times been held by the Hebrews...": This clarifies the significance of Nicanor's defeat. Jerusalem, the central city for the Jewish people (referred to here as "the Hebrews"), remained under Jewish control following this conflict. The victory secured their sovereignty and religious freedom, at least for a time. "From those times" suggests that the consequences of Nicanor's defeat extended into the future.
"I also will here make an end of my book.": This is a straightforward authorial statement. The author of 2 Maccabees is declaring that they are concluding their account at this point.
In summary, the verse signifies:
The failure of Nicanor's attempt to take Jerusalem.
The continued possession and control of Jerusalem by the Jewish people.
The author's decision to bring the narrative of 2 Maccabees to a close.
Essentially, it's a concluding statement, wrapping up a significant episode of conflict and reaffirming Jewish sovereignty at that point in history, before the author concludes the book.
This verse from 2 Maccabees 15:37 serves as a concluding statement, summarizing the outcome of a major conflict and marking the end of the narrative. Let's break down its meaning:
"THIS then having been the issue of the attempt of Nicanor...": This refers to the final result or consequence of Nicanor's campaign. Nicanor was a general in the Seleucid army who sought to conquer Jerusalem and destroy the Jewish Temple. His attempt ultimately failed.
"...and the city having from those times been held by the Hebrews...": This clarifies the significance of Nicanor's defeat. Jerusalem, the central city for the Jewish people (referred to here as "the Hebrews"), remained under Jewish control following this conflict. The victory secured their sovereignty and religious freedom, at least for a time. "From those times" suggests that the consequences of Nicanor's defeat extended into the future.
"I also will here make an end of my book.": This is a straightforward authorial statement. The author of 2 Maccabees is declaring that they are concluding their account at this point.
In summary, the verse signifies:
The failure of Nicanor's attempt to take Jerusalem.
The continued possession and control of Jerusalem by the Jewish people.
The author's decision to bring the narrative of 2 Maccabees to a close.
Essentially, it's a concluding statement, wrapping up a significant episode of conflict and reaffirming Jewish sovereignty at that point in history, before the author concludes the book.
