4 maccabees 9:32 - But you are tortured with threatenings for impiety; and you shall not escape, most corrupt tyrant, the vengeance of Divine wrath.

Generated Verse: 4 maccabees 9:32

What does "4 maccabees 9:32" mean?


This verse, 4 Maccabees 9:32, is a direct, accusatory, and prophetic statement made to Antiochus IV Epiphanes, the Seleucid king who persecuted the Jews. Let's break it down:

"But you are tortured with threatenings for impiety..." This refers to the psychological and, possibly, physical anguish Antiochus is experiencing. "Impiety" here means his actions against God and Jewish religious practices – desecrating the Temple in Jerusalem, outlawing Jewish customs, and forcing Jews to worship Greek gods. The "threatenings" are likely both divine threats and the growing resistance and rebellion from the Jewish people. He's being haunted by the consequences of his actions.

"...and you shall not escape, most corrupt tyrant..." This is a strong condemnation of Antiochus's character and rule. "Tyrant" highlights his oppressive and unjust governance. The phrase "you shall not escape" reinforces the idea that he will be held accountable for his actions. His end is inevitable.

"...the vengeance of Divine wrath." This is the core of the verse. "Divine wrath" is the anger and punishment that God will inflict upon Antiochus for his sins. The speaker is declaring that Antiochus will face God's retribution, not just earthly consequences.

In essence, the verse is a pronouncement of doom. It tells Antiochus that his suffering is only the beginning, and that he will ultimately face divine punishment for his wickedness and persecution of the Jewish people. This verse reflects the central themes of 4 Maccabees: the importance of religious observance and faith in the face of persecution, and the belief that God will ultimately deliver justice and punish the wicked. It is meant to encourage and strengthen the faith of those being persecuted by highlighting the eventual consequences for their oppressors.

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