This verse from 2 Maccabees 8:26 provides a practical reason why the Seleucid forces (the "them" being chased) were not pursued more vigorously by the Maccabees after a victory. Let's break it down:
"for it was the day before the Sabbath": This is Friday afternoon. The Sabbath, a day of rest and religious observance for Jews, begins at sundown on Friday and lasts until sundown on Saturday.
"and for this cause they made no effort to chase them far": Because the Sabbath was approaching, the Maccabees did not want to continue the pursuit of the enemy. Engaging in warfare and traveling long distances would violate the Sabbath rules.
In essence, the verse highlights the importance of religious observance, specifically the Sabbath, even in the midst of a military campaign. The Maccabees, while fighting for their religious freedom and autonomy, still adhered to the laws and traditions of their faith. This shows that even in war, there were limits to their actions dictated by their religious beliefs. It suggests the depth of their devotion to God and their desire to keep the Sabbath holy.
This verse from 2 Maccabees 8:26 provides a practical reason why the Seleucid forces (the "them" being chased) were not pursued more vigorously by the Maccabees after a victory. Let's break it down:
"for it was the day before the Sabbath": This is Friday afternoon. The Sabbath, a day of rest and religious observance for Jews, begins at sundown on Friday and lasts until sundown on Saturday.
"and for this cause they made no effort to chase them far": Because the Sabbath was approaching, the Maccabees did not want to continue the pursuit of the enemy. Engaging in warfare and traveling long distances would violate the Sabbath rules.
In essence, the verse highlights the importance of religious observance, specifically the Sabbath, even in the midst of a military campaign. The Maccabees, while fighting for their religious freedom and autonomy, still adhered to the laws and traditions of their faith. This shows that even in war, there were limits to their actions dictated by their religious beliefs. It suggests the depth of their devotion to God and their desire to keep the Sabbath holy.