This verse from 3 Maccabees 5:21 is quite straightforward in its literal meaning, but its significance lies in the context of the broader story:
"When the king said this..." This refers to a statement made by the Ptolemaic king (likely Ptolemy IV Philopator) to an assembled group, presumably within his court or a gathering of officials.
"...the company present were glad, and approved..." This indicates that the king's statement was favorably received. The people present expressed their happiness and agreement with what he said. This suggests the king's statement aligned with their desires or interests, or perhaps they feared the king.
"...and then each man went to his own home." This is a simple concluding remark that signifies the end of the assembly or meeting. People dispersed and returned to their individual residences.
In the context of 3 Maccabees, the verse likely signifies:
A reversal of negative policies against the Jewish community: Often in 3 Maccabees, the narrative involves a Ptolemaic king's hostility towards the Jews of Alexandria and Egypt. This verse, with its mention of joy and approval, likely comes after the king has rescinded or altered a previous decree that was harmful to the Jewish community. He may have made promises of protection, granted them certain rights, or abandoned plans of persecution.
A temporary respite or period of relief: The joy expressed by the people could be short-lived, as the book of 3 Maccabees depicts the unpredictable nature of the Ptolemaic rulers and the ongoing vulnerability of the Jewish population.
An expression of relief and gratitude: The assembly's gladness is likely a direct result of escaping a threat or receiving a benefit. Returning home symbolizes a return to a state of relative normalcy and security, at least for the time being.
Therefore, the verse reflects a moment of celebration and relief after a potentially difficult or dangerous situation involving the Jews of Egypt and their relationship with the Ptolemaic king. It sets the stage for what will happen next in the narrative.
This verse from 3 Maccabees 5:21 is quite straightforward in its literal meaning, but its significance lies in the context of the broader story:
"When the king said this..." This refers to a statement made by the Ptolemaic king (likely Ptolemy IV Philopator) to an assembled group, presumably within his court or a gathering of officials.
"...the company present were glad, and approved..." This indicates that the king's statement was favorably received. The people present expressed their happiness and agreement with what he said. This suggests the king's statement aligned with their desires or interests, or perhaps they feared the king.
"...and then each man went to his own home." This is a simple concluding remark that signifies the end of the assembly or meeting. People dispersed and returned to their individual residences.
In the context of 3 Maccabees, the verse likely signifies:
A reversal of negative policies against the Jewish community: Often in 3 Maccabees, the narrative involves a Ptolemaic king's hostility towards the Jews of Alexandria and Egypt. This verse, with its mention of joy and approval, likely comes after the king has rescinded or altered a previous decree that was harmful to the Jewish community. He may have made promises of protection, granted them certain rights, or abandoned plans of persecution.
A temporary respite or period of relief: The joy expressed by the people could be short-lived, as the book of 3 Maccabees depicts the unpredictable nature of the Ptolemaic rulers and the ongoing vulnerability of the Jewish population.
An expression of relief and gratitude: The assembly's gladness is likely a direct result of escaping a threat or receiving a benefit. Returning home symbolizes a return to a state of relative normalcy and security, at least for the time being.
Therefore, the verse reflects a moment of celebration and relief after a potentially difficult or dangerous situation involving the Jews of Egypt and their relationship with the Ptolemaic king. It sets the stage for what will happen next in the narrative.
