2 maccabees 4:35 - For the which cause not only Jews, but many also of the other nations, had indignation and displeasure at the unjust murder of the man.

Generated Verse: 2 maccabees 4:35

What does "2 maccabees 4:35" mean?


This verse from 2 Maccabees 4:35 refers to the widespread outrage following the assassination of Onias III. Let's break down the meaning:

"For the which cause...": This connects the verse to the preceding events. Onias III was a former High Priest of Judea, a highly respected and righteous figure. He was murdered by Andronicus, a lieutenant of Antiochus IV Epiphanes, the Seleucid king who was oppressing the Jewish people.

"...not only Jews...": It emphasizes that the anger wasn't confined to the Jewish community.

"...but many also of the other nations...": This is a crucial point. The verse indicates that people from other ethnic groups (Gentiles) also felt "indignation and displeasure." This suggests that Onias III was viewed favorably even beyond the Jewish community, perhaps for his perceived fairness, piety, or overall character. His murder was seen as a grave injustice, regardless of one's background.

"...at the unjust murder of the man.": This reinforces the sense that Onias' death was considered morally wrong and unjustified. It highlights that the actions of Andronicus and the Seleucid regime were viewed as illegitimate and tyrannical.

In essence, the verse illustrates the universal moral outrage caused by the unjust assassination of Onias III. It points out that his murder was condemned not just by the Jewish people but also by many Gentiles who recognized the act as a blatant violation of justice.

This verse is important because it shows:

The moral bankruptcy of the Seleucid regime: The assassination of Onias III underscores the brutality and disregard for justice that characterized Antiochus IV's rule.
The widespread respect for Onias III: He was considered a virtuous man whose murder was deeply lamented by a broad spectrum of people.
The growing resentment towards Seleucid rule: The outrage over Onias' death contributed to the growing resistance against Antiochus IV, which ultimately led to the Maccabean Revolt.

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