2 maccabees 3:21 - Then it would have pitied a man to see the multitude prostrating themselves all mingled together, and the expectation of the high priest in his sore distress.
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What does "2 maccabees 3:21" mean?
This verse from 2 Maccabees 3:21 paints a vivid picture of a scene where something dramatic is happening in the Temple in Jerusalem, specifically during the attempt of Heliodorus to plunder the Temple treasury. Let's break down the meaning:
"Then it would have pitied a man to see the multitude prostrating themselves all mingled together..." This describes a large group of people (the "multitude") all bowing down on the ground ("prostrating themselves"). The phrase "all mingled together" suggests they are likely close together, perhaps even pressing against each other in fear and supplication. The feeling being emphasized here is one of pity - it would have been heartbreaking to witness this display of desperation and vulnerability. They are probably praying for divine intervention.
"...and the expectation of the high priest in his sore distress." The High Priest is in a state of "sore distress." He is anxiously anticipating something - likely the outcome of the situation involving Heliodorus. His "expectation" is full of worry and anguish because he is responsible for the sanctity and protection of the Temple. It implies that his prayers are more fervent.
Overall Meaning:
The verse captures a moment of intense crisis and fear within the Temple. The community is united in their prayer and submission, hoping for divine help against the impending sacrilege and potential violence from Heliodorus. The High Priest, burdened with his responsibility, is suffering greatly, anxiously awaiting the resolution of the crisis.
Context is Important:
To fully understand the verse, it's essential to know the broader story. Heliodorus, sent by King Seleucus, is attempting to seize the Temple treasury. This act is seen as a grave violation of the Temple's sanctity. The people's prostration and the High Priest's distress are reactions to this threat. The verse precedes the moment of divine intervention where Heliodorus is struck down by a supernatural force. This verse serves to amplify the seriousness of the situation and the reliance of the people on divine intervention to save them.
2 maccabees 3:21 - Then it would have pitied a man to see the multitude prostrating themselves all mingled together, and the expectation of the high priest in his sore distress.
What does "2 maccabees 3:21" mean?
This verse from 2 Maccabees 3:21 paints a vivid picture of a scene where something dramatic is happening in the Temple in Jerusalem, specifically during the attempt of Heliodorus to plunder the Temple treasury. Let's break down the meaning:
"Then it would have pitied a man to see the multitude prostrating themselves all mingled together..." This describes a large group of people (the "multitude") all bowing down on the ground ("prostrating themselves"). The phrase "all mingled together" suggests they are likely close together, perhaps even pressing against each other in fear and supplication. The feeling being emphasized here is one of pity - it would have been heartbreaking to witness this display of desperation and vulnerability. They are probably praying for divine intervention.
"...and the expectation of the high priest in his sore distress." The High Priest is in a state of "sore distress." He is anxiously anticipating something - likely the outcome of the situation involving Heliodorus. His "expectation" is full of worry and anguish because he is responsible for the sanctity and protection of the Temple. It implies that his prayers are more fervent.
Overall Meaning:
The verse captures a moment of intense crisis and fear within the Temple. The community is united in their prayer and submission, hoping for divine help against the impending sacrilege and potential violence from Heliodorus. The High Priest, burdened with his responsibility, is suffering greatly, anxiously awaiting the resolution of the crisis.
Context is Important:
To fully understand the verse, it's essential to know the broader story. Heliodorus, sent by King Seleucus, is attempting to seize the Temple treasury. This act is seen as a grave violation of the Temple's sanctity. The people's prostration and the High Priest's distress are reactions to this threat. The verse precedes the moment of divine intervention where Heliodorus is struck down by a supernatural force. This verse serves to amplify the seriousness of the situation and the reliance of the people on divine intervention to save them.