This verse from 2 Maccabees 2:3 is essentially saying that the leader (presumably referring to someone like Nehemiah, as the passage discusses events surrounding the rebuilding of the temple) strongly encouraged the people to remember and follow the Jewish law. Let's break it down:
"And with other such words...": This implies that the speaker had already been saying things to persuade or urge the people, and this statement is a continuation of that. It suggests that there was likely more encouragement or instructions given than just this specific phrase.
"...exhorted he them...": "Exhorted" means to strongly encourage or urge someone to do something. The leader was passionately urging the people.
"...that the law should not depart from their heart.": This is the key part. It doesn't just mean to memorize the law, but that the spirit and principles of the law should be deeply ingrained in their being – in their "heart". This implies:
Understanding: They should understand the meaning and purpose of the law.
Internalizing: They should make the law a part of their character, guiding their actions and thoughts.
Obedience: They should live according to the law in their daily lives, not just observing it superficially.
Remembering: The "depart from their heart" also emphasizes that the people should always hold the law as important and not forget the commandments, statutes and judgements.
In essence, the verse stresses the importance of more than just outward obedience to the law, but an inward commitment to its principles that should shape their lives. The speaker wanted the people to not just know the law, but to live by it, to internalize it, and to make it a fundamental part of who they are. This would ensure the integrity and continuity of their faith and community.
This verse from 2 Maccabees 2:3 is essentially saying that the leader (presumably referring to someone like Nehemiah, as the passage discusses events surrounding the rebuilding of the temple) strongly encouraged the people to remember and follow the Jewish law. Let's break it down:
"And with other such words...": This implies that the speaker had already been saying things to persuade or urge the people, and this statement is a continuation of that. It suggests that there was likely more encouragement or instructions given than just this specific phrase.
"...exhorted he them...": "Exhorted" means to strongly encourage or urge someone to do something. The leader was passionately urging the people.
"...that the law should not depart from their heart.": This is the key part. It doesn't just mean to memorize the law, but that the spirit and principles of the law should be deeply ingrained in their being – in their "heart". This implies:
Understanding: They should understand the meaning and purpose of the law.
Internalizing: They should make the law a part of their character, guiding their actions and thoughts.
Obedience: They should live according to the law in their daily lives, not just observing it superficially.
Remembering: The "depart from their heart" also emphasizes that the people should always hold the law as important and not forget the commandments, statutes and judgements.
In essence, the verse stresses the importance of more than just outward obedience to the law, but an inward commitment to its principles that should shape their lives. The speaker wanted the people to not just know the law, but to live by it, to internalize it, and to make it a fundamental part of who they are. This would ensure the integrity and continuity of their faith and community.
