3 maccabees 6:35 - But the Jews, as we just said, instituted a dance, and then gave themselves up to feasting, glad thanksgivings, and psalms.

Generated Verse: 3 maccabees 6:35

What does "3 maccabees 6:35" mean?


This verse from 3 Maccabees 6:35 describes the Jewish community's celebratory response to a deliverance from a perceived threat. Let's break it down:

"But the Jews, as we just said...": This refers back to a previous part of the narrative where the Jewish people were facing imminent danger. 3 Maccabees tells the story of Ptolemy IV Philopator's attempt to harm the Jews of Alexandria.

"...instituted a dance...": Dance was a common expression of joy and thanksgiving in ancient Jewish culture, often associated with religious celebrations. Think of Miriam leading the women in dance after crossing the Red Sea (Exodus 15:20-21).

"...and then gave themselves up to feasting...": Feasting was another way to celebrate and give thanks, signifying abundance and gratitude. Sharing a meal together strengthened community bonds and celebrated God's blessings.

"...glad thanksgivings...": This reinforces the theme of gratitude to God for their deliverance. They are expressing their appreciation through prayers and pronouncements of thanks.

"...and psalms.": Psalms are religious songs and poems, often used for praise, lament, and thanksgiving. Reciting or singing psalms would have been a central part of their worship and celebration.

In essence, the verse depicts a scene of great joy and religious celebration. The Jewish community, having been spared from a perceived threat, expressed their relief and gratitude to God through dance, feasting, thanksgiving prayers, and the recitation of psalms. It is a scene that emphasizes the importance of community, faith, and expressing gratitude for divine intervention in times of crisis. The author of 3 Maccabees includes these details to demonstrate the Jews' piety, their strong sense of community, and their enduring faith in God's protection.

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