3 maccabees 3:18 - they were so carried away by their old arrogance, as to forbid us the entrance; while we, out of our forbearance toward all men, refrained from exercising our power upon them.
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What does "3 maccabees 3:18" mean?
This verse from 3 Maccabees 3:18 describes a situation of conflict and restraint. Let's break it down:
"They were so carried away by their old arrogance, as to forbid us the entrance..." This refers to the Ptolemaic Egyptians (likely Ptolemy IV Philopator and his court) being haughty and presumptuous. They are refusing the Jews entry, probably to a sacred place or a position of importance, possibly within the temple. The "old arrogance" suggests this isn't a new behavior, but a long-standing pattern of disdain and superiority.
"...while we, out of our forbearance toward all men, refrained from exercising our power upon them." This refers to the Jewish people who are being denied entry. Despite having the power to retaliate or force their way in (possibly through their numbers, influence, or even divine aid implied elsewhere in the book), they choose not to. Their reason is "forbearance toward all men," meaning they practice patience, tolerance, and restraint towards everyone, even those who mistreat them. They prioritize peace and avoiding violence over asserting their rights or seeking revenge.
In essence, the verse portrays a power dynamic where:
The Egyptians are the oppressors, acting out of arrogance and denying the Jews their due.
The Jews possess the means to retaliate but choose a path of restraint and forgiveness, driven by their commitment to universal tolerance.
Significance in the Context of 3 Maccabees:
This verse highlights a key theme of 3 Maccabees: the resilience and piety of the Jewish people in the face of persecution. It also demonstrates their adherence to moral principles, even when wronged. It serves to contrast their virtuous behavior with the arrogant and ultimately disastrous actions of the Ptolemaic rulers.
It's important to note that 3 Maccabees is considered deuterocanonical. It is included in the Septuagint and is considered canonical by Orthodox Christians. However, it is considered apocryphal by Protestants and Jews.
3 maccabees 3:18 - they were so carried away by their old arrogance, as to forbid us the entrance; while we, out of our forbearance toward all men, refrained from exercising our power upon them.
What does "3 maccabees 3:18" mean?
This verse from 3 Maccabees 3:18 describes a situation of conflict and restraint. Let's break it down:
"They were so carried away by their old arrogance, as to forbid us the entrance..." This refers to the Ptolemaic Egyptians (likely Ptolemy IV Philopator and his court) being haughty and presumptuous. They are refusing the Jews entry, probably to a sacred place or a position of importance, possibly within the temple. The "old arrogance" suggests this isn't a new behavior, but a long-standing pattern of disdain and superiority.
"...while we, out of our forbearance toward all men, refrained from exercising our power upon them." This refers to the Jewish people who are being denied entry. Despite having the power to retaliate or force their way in (possibly through their numbers, influence, or even divine aid implied elsewhere in the book), they choose not to. Their reason is "forbearance toward all men," meaning they practice patience, tolerance, and restraint towards everyone, even those who mistreat them. They prioritize peace and avoiding violence over asserting their rights or seeking revenge.
In essence, the verse portrays a power dynamic where:
The Egyptians are the oppressors, acting out of arrogance and denying the Jews their due.
The Jews possess the means to retaliate but choose a path of restraint and forgiveness, driven by their commitment to universal tolerance.
Significance in the Context of 3 Maccabees:
This verse highlights a key theme of 3 Maccabees: the resilience and piety of the Jewish people in the face of persecution. It also demonstrates their adherence to moral principles, even when wronged. It serves to contrast their virtuous behavior with the arrogant and ultimately disastrous actions of the Ptolemaic rulers.
It's important to note that 3 Maccabees is considered deuterocanonical. It is included in the Septuagint and is considered canonical by Orthodox Christians. However, it is considered apocryphal by Protestants and Jews.