This verse from 3 Maccabees 2:25 is describing the moral decline of a ruler, likely Ptolemy IV Philopator, who reigned in Egypt in the 3rd century BCE. Let's break it down:
"He proceeded to Egypt": This simply means he went to Egypt, which was his kingdom. It suggests he had been away or was returning from a journey.
"grew worse in wickedness": This is the core of the verse. It states that the ruler's moral character deteriorated, becoming more evil or corrupt.
"through his before mentioned companions in wine": This points to the source of his corruption. These companions, who were previously mentioned in the text, indulged in heavy drinking ("wine").
"who were lost to all goodness": This further emphasizes the depravity of these companions. They were completely devoid of virtue and morality. They were already corrupt people, and their influence negatively impacted the ruler.
In essence, the verse is saying that the ruler became more wicked due to the negative influence of his drunken and morally bankrupt companions. It's a classic depiction of how bad company can corrupt good character and lead to immoral behavior, especially when someone is in a position of power.
This verse is part of the historical context in 3 Maccabees, explaining why Ptolemy IV Philopator might have persecuted the Jewish people living in Egypt, which is the main focus of the book.
This verse from 3 Maccabees 2:25 is describing the moral decline of a ruler, likely Ptolemy IV Philopator, who reigned in Egypt in the 3rd century BCE. Let's break it down:
"He proceeded to Egypt": This simply means he went to Egypt, which was his kingdom. It suggests he had been away or was returning from a journey.
"grew worse in wickedness": This is the core of the verse. It states that the ruler's moral character deteriorated, becoming more evil or corrupt.
"through his before mentioned companions in wine": This points to the source of his corruption. These companions, who were previously mentioned in the text, indulged in heavy drinking ("wine").
"who were lost to all goodness": This further emphasizes the depravity of these companions. They were completely devoid of virtue and morality. They were already corrupt people, and their influence negatively impacted the ruler.
In essence, the verse is saying that the ruler became more wicked due to the negative influence of his drunken and morally bankrupt companions. It's a classic depiction of how bad company can corrupt good character and lead to immoral behavior, especially when someone is in a position of power.
This verse is part of the historical context in 3 Maccabees, explaining why Ptolemy IV Philopator might have persecuted the Jewish people living in Egypt, which is the main focus of the book.