2 maccabees 8:14 - And others sold all that was left over to them, and withal implored the Lord to deliver those who had been sold as slaves by the impious Nicanor or ever he met them;

Generated Verse: 2 maccabees 8:14

What does "2 maccabees 8:14" mean?


This verse from 2 Maccabees 8:14 describes an act of solidarity and faith during a time of persecution and war. Let's break it down:

"And others sold all that was left over to them...": This refers to Jews who were selling their remaining possessions, presumably to raise money. "Left over" implies they had already suffered losses or given away other things.
"...and withal implored the Lord...": "Withal" is an older word meaning "at the same time" or "also." So, along with selling their belongings, they were also fervently praying to God.
"...to deliver those who had been sold as slaves by the impious Nicanor...": Here's the heart of the verse. Nicanor was a general of the Seleucid Empire (specifically under King Demetrius I Soter), who was hostile to the Jewish people and their religion. Nicanor had apparently captured and sold Jews into slavery.
"...or ever he met them;": "Or ever" is an old phrase meaning "before." The Jews were praying that God would deliver the enslaved Jews before Nicanor inflicted further harm upon them.

In summary, the verse describes Jews who, in the face of Nicanor's oppression, were doing everything they could to help their brethren who had been enslaved. They were both taking practical action (selling possessions to raise money) and engaging in fervent prayer, asking God to liberate the enslaved Jews before they suffered further at the hands of Nicanor.

Context and Significance:

Time of Persecution: This verse highlights the difficult situation faced by the Jews during the Maccabean Revolt (2nd century BCE). They were fighting for their religious freedom against a powerful foreign empire.
Solidarity: It shows the strong sense of community and mutual support among the Jews. They were willing to sacrifice their own possessions to help those who had been enslaved.
Faith and Reliance on God: The act of prayer underscores their belief that God could intervene in their situation and deliver them from their enemies.
The portrayal of the enemy: Nicanor is portrayed as "impious", demonstrating the view of the author of 2 Maccabees toward enemies of the Jewish people.

This verse is a powerful illustration of the resilience, faith, and communal spirit of the Jewish people during a time of great adversity.

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