The History of the Old Testament Methodized

It was fitly compared to brass because of Alexander 's warlike prowess and hardiness, for in twelve years space he subdued all Asia, and great part of Europe and Africa, beginning to reign when he was but twenty, and dying at thirty two. He overthrew Darius in three Battels, the first at the river Granicus; the second at Issus of Silicia, the third at Arbela or Gaugamela, and so got the Asian Empire, which he held six years from the death of Darius, and then died.

The second Vision hereof we have Dan. 7.6. After this I beheld, and lo! another (beast) like a leopard, which had upon the back of it four wings of a fowl, the beast also had four heads, and dominion was given unto it.

• 1. Alexander was compared to a Leopard for his cunning, swiftness and cruelty.
• 2. To a Leopard with four wings on his back, intimating his swiftness in conquering.
• 3. With four heads, because his Empire was divided into four Principalities after his death, as we shall afterwards show.
• 4. Dominion was given to him by God. See Dan. 2.21. Prov. 8.15.

The third Vision hereof, Dan. 8. from v. 5, to 13. which we have explained v. 21. In which Vision,

• 1. The He-goat represents the Grecian King.
• 2. The notable horn between his eyes signifies Alexander and his power and prudence.
• 3. He came from the west, that is, from Macedonia that lies west from Asia.
• 4. His going on the face of the whole earth, signifies his marching from thence into Asia, and into other parts of the world.
• 5. His not touching the ground signifies his celerity in motion.
• 6. He ran upon the ram, that is, upon Darius Codomannus, v. 20.
• 7. He brake his two horns, namely conquered him who was King of Medes and Persians, and so grew great.
• 8. When he was strong the great horn was broken, signifying how Alexander should be cut off in the flower of his age, as he accordingly was in the thirty second year of his age, by a Fever contracted (as is supposed) by drinking over much wine in Babylon.
• 9. And lastly instead of the great horn four notable horns arose, that is, four great men who divided his dominions among them; so that the Monarchy of the Greeks after Alexander 's death was divided into four Kingdoms, namely the Kingdom, 1. of Macedonia. 2. Syria. 3. Asia minor. 4. Egypt. But Daniel in his 11th. Chapter Prophesies chiefly of the Kings of Syria and Egypt, viz. the Kings of the North and of the South, because Judea lay between them both, and was miserably ground and harassed by them both.

3ly, We are to show who were High Priests among the Jews from their return out of the Captivity to Christ's time. The Catalogue of them follows.

1. Joshua the Son of Jozedeck who returned out of Captivity (where his Father died ) with Zerubbabel, and began and forwarded the building of the second Temple, and the settlement of the people. He was High Priest all the time of Cyrus and Ahasuerus, and some part of the time of Darius. The High Priesthood was now grown poor and low, but was restored to its dignity with the renovation of the Covenant to that office, Zach. Ch. 3. and Joshua being a Type of Christ, both he and the people were comforted with a promise of his Incarnation.

2. Joiakim the Son of Joshua.

3. Eliashib the Son of Joiakim, Nehem. 12.10.

4. Joiada the Son of Eliashib.

5. Jonathan, or Johanan the Son of Joiada, Nehem. 12.11, 22. Josephus calls him John, Antiq. Lib. 11. C. 7. and relateth how he slew his own Brother Jesus in the Temple, whom Bagosis (the chief Commander for Artaxerxes Mnemon ) would have made High Priest, for which foul fact Bagosis broke into the Temple and laid a Tax of forty drams upon every lamb that was sacrificed in the daily Sacrifice.

6. Jaddua Son of Jonathan, Neh. 12.11, 22. He had a Brother called Manasseh who had married Sanballat 's daughter, and for that was driven from the Priesthood, which occasioned the building of the Temple on mount Gerizim, as we have shown before. This Jaddua met Alexander in the High Priests Vestments when he marched in fury against Jerusalem, and the very sight of him appeased him.

7. Onias the Son of Jaddua.

8. Simon or Simeon the just; of him the Jewish writers speak many excellent things.

9. Eleazar, Simeon's Brother; this was he that sent the seventy two Elders to Ptolemaeus Philadelphus to translate the Law into Greek.

10. Manasseh, Eleazar 's Uncle, Brother to Onias the first.

11. Onias the second, Son of Simeon the Just, a covetous wretch, who brought the displeasure of Ptolemaeus Euergetes upon him by his covetousness, and refusing to pay a moderate tribute of twenty Talents, used to be paid by them to the King of Egypt.

12. Simon the second, Son of Onias the second.

13. Onias 3 us the Son of Simon the second.

14. Jesus the Brother of this Onias 3 us his Brother leaving a Son behind him but very young, this Jesus (who called himself Jason ) was by Antiochus Epiphanes made High Priest, but Antiochus being afterwards offended with him, set up his Brother Menelaus.

15. Onias the Brother of Jason; Jason by the assistance of the people drave him out of the High Priesthood; whereupon he flies to Antiochus, and forsakes his Country's Laws and Religion to procure his favor, and Antiochus coming in to restore him brought in such trouble as Israel had never seen since they were a Nation to that time. See Dan. 11.30, 31. Dan. 12.1.

16. The woeful pollution Antiochus had brought into their Religion and the Temple causeth Mattathias a Priest of the course of Joiarib (the first of the twenty four ) though he was now old to stand up for the maintenance of their Religion, and for the deliverance of his Country. Here began the name and renown of the Asmonean family. Mattathias not living long after his first appearing a Champion for his distressed Country, he left the charge of that war to his Sons after him, among whom,

17. Judas his Eldest Son (Sirnamed Maccabeus from these four Acrostick Letters in his Ensign, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 Exod. 15.12. Lord who is like thee among the mighty ) was chosen High Priest by the people, and the first on whom they conferred the honor both of Prince and Priest. He undertook the quarrel of his people and their Religion, and was very victorious in many battles, but at last was slain.

In these times of confusion one Alcimus was put in High Priest by Demetrius Soter, and bare the name, a mischievous wretch, and one that came to a fearful end. See 1. Mac. 7.12, 13, 14. and Ch. 9. v. 55, 56.

18. Jonathan succeedeth his Brother Judas as chief Commander; he was made High Priest by Alexander Bala Son of Antiochus Epiphanes. He was very valiant and successful, and at last was slain by Tryphon, see 1 Mac. Ch. 9. & Ch. 10. & Ch. 11. & 12.

19. Simon his Brother succeeds him; he was also valiant and successful in the quarrel of his people like his Brethren, but slain at last treacherously by his own Son-in-law Ptolemaeus at a Feast.

20. Johannes Hircanes the Son of Simon; he sacked Samaria, destroyed the Temple on Mount Gerizim in the 200th year after it had been built by Sanballat. In his latter days he grew much offended with the Pharisees (whom at first he much favored ) and fell to the Sadducees. The people enjoyed much tranquility under him.

21. Aristobulus his Son; he first took upon him the style of King, he killed his second Brother Antigonus, famished his Mother, and died vomiting blood.

22. Alexander Jannaeus Brother to Aristobulus, and third son to Hircanus; he took also the Title of King; he waged war against Ptol. Lathurus. He was hated of his own people, and much vexed with their insurrections against him. He died at last of a Quartan Ague which held him three years.

23. Hircanus his Son is made High Priest, but his mother Alexandra by the help and assistance of the Pharisees swayed the Kingdom.

24. Aristobulus younger Brother to Hircanus, after the death of their mother Alexandra maketh war upon his Brother Hircanus, and drives him from his Kingdom to a private life, and takes both Kingdom and Priesthood upon himself. They both desire help from Pompey. Aristobulus by some misbehaviour provoking Pompey, occasioneth the sacking of Jerusalem, and the subjecting of the Jews to the Roman yoke, from under which they were never after delivered. Pompey restoreth the High Priesthood to Hircanus, and carrieth Aristobulus and his Son Antigonus and his two daughters prisoners to Rome. Julius Caesar after Pompey 's death being assisted by Antipater (an Idumaean, but of the Religion of the Jews ) in his Egyptian wars against the Pompeyans, the war being ended, Caesar made him Procurator of all Judea, and confirmed Hircanus in the Priesthood; Antipater makes Phasaelus his Elder Son Governor of Jerusalem, and Herod his Younger Governor of Galilee.

25. Alexander the Son of Aristobulus escaped out of the hands of Pompey when he carried his Father and his Brother Antigonus to Rome. In Judea he raises divers stirs and tumults, and affecting the Kingdom, is twice suppressed by the Roman Gabinius.

26. Antigonus, Aristobulus 's other Son escaping from Rome into Judea, first by the help of the King of Tyrus, and after by the help of the Parthians he striveth to get the High Priesthood and Kingly dignity from Hircanus. In order hereunto taking Hircanus prisoner he causeth his ears to be cut off, and by that blemish or maim he makes him uncapable of the Priesthood, and delivers him to the Parthians to be carried to Babylon. This being done, for the present he enjoys the Kingship and Priesthood. Herod in the mean time flying to Rome, he is made (through Anthony's power with the Senate) King of the Jews; and getting some forces there with them he returns into Judea, and conquers and takes Antigonus and sends him to Anthony, who causes him to be put to death. And so the Kingdom of Maccabees ended 126 years after it began. After this Herod and his successors, or the Romans made whom they would High Priests. See Lightf. p. 30. & Cappel 's Chronolog. p. 29.

Julius Caesar having gotten the Dictatorship or supreme Government of the Romans into his hands, about forty seven years before the Birth of Christ began the Roman or fourth Monarchy, and continued it about five years, and so was the first Roman Emperor.

To him succeeded Octavius Augustus who began to reign about forty two years before the Birth of Christ, and reigned about fifty six years, but the first twelve of them he governed together with M. Anthony and M. Lepidus (they three making the Triumvirate ) the latter forty four he reigned alone. In the 31th. year of his reign (reckoning the beginning of it from his victory at Actium) our blessed Savior was born, and in the 35th. year of the reign of Herod.

The third Roman Emperor was Tiberius, in the 18th. year of whose reign our Lord and Savior was Crucified.

HAving thus given a general view of the Jewish Affairs from the end of the Old Testament to the Birth of Christ, we shall now speak a little more largely of that subject, collecting (for the main) our History thereof out of the Books of the Maccabees, and the writings of Josephus, and other Modern Authors who have written of those times, and particulariy out of the Annals of the renowned Usher.

To Artaxerxes Longimanus succeeded Darius Nothus in the Persian Empire, and to him Artaxerxes Mnemon, and to him Darius Ochus, who marching with a great army against Sidon in Phoenicia, which had revolted from him and confederated with Egypt, the City was betrayed into his hands by Tennes the King thereof, and Mentor who commanded the Egyptian Auxiliaries. The Citizens seeing themselves betrayed, in a mad passion set a fire to their houses, and burnt themselves, wives and children, and servants, so that above forty thousand are said to have perished in the flames: He now marches with his army towards Egypt, and takes Jericho in his way; and takes many Jews along with him out of Judea to serve him in his wars against Egypt. Having conquered Egypt, and returning to Babylon full of glory and spoils, he carried thither with him many of the Jews prisoners, sending most of them into Hircania bordering upon the Caspian Sea, and some he placed in Babylon itself.

Jonathan or Johanan the Son of Joiada being High Priest at this time, had a Brother whose name was Joshua, this Joshua grew into great favor with Bagoses, Ochus 's General, insomuch that he had a promise from him that he should have the Priesthood. Upon this he was so puffed up that he presumed to strive with his Brother Johanan the High Priest in the very Temple, and so far provoked him that the High Priest killed him in that sacred place. Bagoses hearing this, endeavored to enter the Temple, and when he was forbidden, he asked if they accounted him more impure than the carcass that lay within. And so forcibly entering the Temple he plundered it, and thence took occasion to punish the Jews seven years for the death of Joshua; for two Lambs being constantly offered in the daily sacrifice, he imposed upon everyone a tribute of fifty drachms, which amounted to the yearly rate of sixty Attick Talents, Joseph. Lib. 11. Chap. 7.

Johanan the High Priest was Father of Jaddus (who succeeded him in the Priesthood ) and of Manasseh who married Nicaso Sanballat's daughter, Neh. 13.28. It's said one of the Sons, that is, Grandsons of Joiada Son of Eliashib was Son-in-law to Sanballat the Horonite. This Sanballat was a Cuthaean by birth, from whom the Samaritans had their original, and was by Darius King of Persia made Governor of Samaria, and being desirous by this band of affinity to hold in the better with the Jewish Nation he gave his daughter in marriage to Manasseh.

Ochus being poisoned by Bagoses his General, and Arses or Arsames his Son set up by him, and shortly after by him killed with all his children; at last Bagoses set up Darius Codomannus a friend of his and made him King, the Royal family of Darius Histaspis being now extinct. Bagoses shortly after repenting of what he had done, and being much versed in King-killing, he thought by poison to send Darius also after Ochus and Arses. But the matter being discovered, Darius sent for him▪ and forced him to drink the potion himself which he had provided for him.

The Elders at Jerusalem being offended that Manasseh, Jaddus 's Brother, had contrary to their Law married a wife of a strange Nation, required that he should either put her away, or come no more at the Altar. Hereupon he goes to Sanballat his father-in-law, and tells him that his wife was dear unto him, but he must either part with her or his Priesthood. Sanballat answered that he would so bring it about (in case he would keep his wife) that he should not only be a Priest but an High Priest too. For he would build for him upon Mount Gerizim a Temple like that at Jerusalem, to do which he doubted not but to obtain leave and authority from Darius. Hereupon Manasseh continued with his father-in-law, and all the Priests and other Israelites who had married strange wives resorted to him, Sanballat furnishing them with money, and giving them lands to till, and forwarding the ambition of his Son-in-law all that possibly he could. Joseph. Antiq. Lib. 11. Cap. 8.

Alexander of Macedon now contends with Darius for the Empire of Asia, and having won the Battels at Granicus and Issus, and driven Darius back into Persia, he lays siege to Tyre, Sanballat revolts from Darius and goes over to Alexander at the beginning of the siege with 8000 men, and desireth leave of him to build his new designed Temple, persuading him it would he for his interest, that thereby the Jews being divided among themselves might be the less able to resist him. Alexander yielding to his request, he returns and falls with great industry upon the work, and built the Temple, and made Manasseh his Son-in-law High Priest of it, thinking thereby to leave a great honor to the posterity of his daughter.

During the siege of Tyre, Alexander sent to Jaddus the High Priest at Jerusalem, demanding of him supplies and other provisions, and withal such tribute as was formerly paid to Darius. Jaddus answered that he was tied by a former oath of Allegiance to Darius, and that he could not be free from that oath so long as Darius lived. Alexander being very angry hereat swore that as soon as he had taken Tyre he would march against that City. Accordingly as soon as he had taken Tyre he marched forthwith into Judea, going in person against those places that would not of themselves submit. But when he was upon his march to Jerusalem, Jaddus the High Priest terrified with his former threats, and now more especially fearing his rage, betakes himself to God by prayer, and was by him warned in a dream that he should make Holy-day in the City, and set wide open the Gates, and that he and the rest of the Priests everyone in his Priestly V • stments, and the people all clothed in white should go forth to meet him. Alexander seeing this company coming meets them, and lighting from his horse prostrates himself before the High Priest, and adores that God whose name he saw engraven on the golden plate of his Miter. At which all his followers being amazed, Permenion asked him the reason thereof? to whom he answered, That he worshipped not the Priest but the God whom he served, for that whilst he was in Greece and consulted about his Expedition into Asia, such a man as this, and so attired appea •• d to him, and advised him to it, and promised him success. Then going up to the City he ascended to the Temple and sacrificed to God as the Priests directed him. There they shown him the Prophesy of Daniel, wherein was foretold that a Grecian should obtain the Empire of the Persians; he accounting himself the man exceedingly rejoiced thereat, and the next day offered the Jews whatsoever they would ask of him. They requested that they might live after their own laws and customs, and that on every seventh year (in which they sowed not ) they might pay no tribute. All which he readily granted them. He offered them also, if they would follow him, the free exercise of their Religion; whereupon many presently listed themselves to serve him. Then leading his forces to the neighbouring Cities he was friendly received by them.

Having now got all the Towns of Palestine into his hands, except Gaza (which held out against him) he came with his forces and sat down before it, after two months he took it, himself having received two wounds during the siege. The men were slain to the number of 10000, the women and children made slaves, furnishing the City with a new Colony gathered out of the places adjacent, he made it a Garrison and Magazine for himself. Curtius Lib. 4. C. 10.

After this he marches for Egypt, subdues it, builds Alexandria, goeth to the Temple of Jupiter Hammon, and at his return the war yet depending with Darius, he removed to Tyre, from thence he passes Euphrates to meet with Darius, and beats him again at the Battle at Arbela or Gaugamela, and so was declared King of Asia.

Darius thus vanquished was forced to fly, and wandering up and down, at last was betrayed by his own servants (among whom Bessus was chief) and being ignominiously bound with fetters, and mortally wounded by them, he died, after he had reigned seven years. And thus the Persian Empire was dissolved when it had lasted about 203 years, A. M. 3675. ante C. N. 328.

Alexander reigned six years and ten months after the death of Darius as Emperor of the East, and then falling into a Fever at Babylon drawn upon himself by intemperate drinking. He died A. M. 3681, ante C.N. 322 .

After Alexander 's death his Empire was shared among his great Commanders, and was divided (for the main) into four Kingdoms, viz. 1. the Kingdom of Macedonia; 2. of Asia Minor; 3. of Syria; 4. of Egypt. These two last, the one lying North, of the other South of Judea, did often grievously afflict that poor people lying between them.

After Jaddus his Son Onias succeeded him in the Priesthood at Jerusalem.

Ptolemaeus Lagi the first King of Egypt after Alexander 's death, subdued Palestine, and got Jerusalem by a slight , and carried thence a vast number of Jews into Egypt, out of which he selected many and took them into his army upon greater pay than ordinary. And finding that the Jews were most strict observers of any Oaths they had taken, he committed many of his Garrisons and Castles to their custody. And he placed many of them in Alexandria, suffering them to enjoy the same privileges with the Macedonians. He sent many of them also to inhabit Cyrene, from whom 'tis probable Simon the Cyrenian who bare the Cross of Christ descended, Mat. 27.32. And other Cyrenian Jews of whom mention is made, Act. 2.10. and Ch. 6.9. Others of the Jews whom he brought out of Judea with him into Egypt he gave away for slaves among his Soldiers, not so much of his own inclination, as upon their importunity who desired to have them rather than any other for their necessary uses, and attendance in things belonging to the war.

Simon or Simeon the Just succeeded Onias in the Priesthood; he was so called because of his great zeal and fervency in the worship of God, and the exceeding love he ever expressed to his Country-men the Jews.

About this time as 'tis probable arose those three famous Sects of Pharisees, Sadducees and Essenes .

Simon dying and leaving behind him only one Son named Onias, then an infant, his brother Eleazar the Son of Onias the first took upon him the High Priesthood of the Jews.

Ptolemaeus Philadelphus, second King of Egypt, being a great favourer of learning, and all Liberal Arts and Sciences, in the seventh year of his reign built a very famous Library at Alexandria. He committed the care of getting Books of all sorts, and out of all Countries to Demetrius Phalereus, who was not only a great Grammarian and Philosopher, but also had been a great Statesman, and an excellent Governor in Athens. Now to make this collection of Books he had this advantage, as 'tis reported of him, Aristotle at his death left his Library to Theophrastus, and he at his death lest his own and Aristotle 's Books to Neleus Scepsius, and of him Ptolemy bought them, besides others which he bought at Athens and Rhodes, and brought them all to Alexandria. 'It is said that he gathered together 20000 Books or Manuscripts.

Demetrius Phalereus advised Ptolemy to send to have the holy writings of the Jews to be translated out of the Hebrew into the Greek. But Aristeas who was an attendant about him at that time, advised him for the purchasing of that translation, to set all the Jews (who were then slaves in Egypt ) at liberty, and to send them home, which Ptolemy agreeing unto, 'tis said the number of them came to One hundred thousand souls, and everyone of them cost the King a hundred and twenty drachms, as Josephus says. Now an hundred and twenty drachms make thirty Sicles or Stateres, which was the price of a slaves. See Exod. 21.32. At which rate our Savior was sold by Judas, so that the price which Ptolemy paid to redeem the Jews from their Masters came to above 400 Talents. In which redemption the like price was paid for every sucking child of them, together with their mothers whom they sucked; whence it is that Josephus says that Ptolemy paid in this kind upward of 460 Talents. Of these Jews Ptolemy took the younger sort, and ablest of them into his Army, and of the rest, such as he thought fit he employed in his private affairs, as he himself in his Letters to Eleazar the High Priest affirmeth. And with those Letters he sent also rich presents to the use of the Temple at Jerusalem by Andreas and Aristaeas his two servants to be delivered to the High Priest; as namely a Golden Table of two cubits long, and no less than half a cubit thick, all of solid gold; also twenty goblets of like gold, and thirty of silver, and precious stones to the number of five thousand of very great value. Besides which he sent an hundred Talents to buy sacrifices, and for other uses of the Temple.

Eleazar the Priest receiving these presents he chose six principal men out of every Tribe (for after the Captivity there remained some of all the Tribes, as we have shown before) and such as were most eminent for gravity, learning and experience, who should translate God's Law out of Hebrew into Greek; the particular names of which Seventy two Elders are expressly delivered by Aristaeas.

Eleazar also sent a Letter to the King full of respect and thankfulness when he sent the Seventy two Interpreters to him, who coming to Alexandria presented the King with such gifts and presents as Eleazar had sent unto him, together with sundry Parchments wherein the Law was written in Hebrew in golden letters, and the Parchments so joined together, that the seaming of them could not be discerned by the eye of man. And it fell out that they came thither at a happy time, viz. when news came to him of a great victory obtained by his Navy at Sea against Antigonus. Ptolemy receiveth these Seventy two Interpreters with great respect, feasts them seven days in a most magnificent manner, and afterwards appoints one Dorotheus to take care of them, and to supply them with all necessaries, not letting them want for anything for their Table or otherwise. And the King himself would now and then put questions to them, some concerning affairs of State, some concerning Morality, whereunto they made him prudent and well advised answers, as we find in Aristaeas, who took all that he wrote out of the King's Diaries.

Three days after Demetrius led these Interpreters into the Isle of Pharos, and there placed them in a goodly house, and far off from any noise or tumult, and there they set themselves everyone to his work of the Translation, most exactly fitting it to the meaning of the Original, which done Demetrius caused it to be fairly exscribed. Every day they sat at it till three a Clock the afternoon, and then went and took their repast, having all things abundantly provided for them, and especially their diet, which was of the same kind that was provided for the Kings own Table. Moreover every morning early they came to Court, and there having paid their respects to him, and wished him a good morrow, returned to their place, and there having washed their hands (as their manner was) and prayed, they set themselves to read and to interpret from point to point.

It so fell out that this work of the Seventy two Interpreters was finished in seventy two days, as if it had been so cast by them of set purpose. Which done, Demetrius calling them all together in the place where it was done, read it all over in the presence of them all, and they as the Authors and finishers of so great and good a work were highly commended, and magnified by all the Jews there present. Demetrius also himself wanted not his share of praises among them, and they besought him that he would deliver a copy of the Law so translated to their Rulers, which Was accordingly done.

When the work was thus finished it was read all over to the King, who exceedingly admired the wisdom of the Legislator, and commanded all possible care to be taken thereof, and that it should be religiously laid up and kept. He also desired the Interpreters themselves that after their return home they would not fail to come often to him again. And he gave to everyone of them three fair Gowns, two talents of gold, a cup of one talent, and the full furniture of a Chamber. And moreover to Eleazar the High Priest he sent with them ten Bedsteads with silver feet, and rich furniture thereunto belonging; a cup of thirty talents, ten vests of scarlet, and a Crown richly wrought, and about one hundred pieces of very fine linen; and by his letters desired him that if any of those Interpreters had at any time a desire to come and visit him, he would not hinder them, for he much desired to converse with such kind of men, and had rather spend his money upon them than any other way.

Antiochus Theos third King of Syria gave the Jews living in Ionia equal rights and privileges with the Gentiles, and suffered them to enjoy their own Religion. He made sundry times war upon Ptol. Philadelphus, and fought with him with all the forces he could raise out of the Oriental parts. Wherefore Ptolemy desirous to put an end to this bloody war gave him his daughter Berenice to wife (while his former wife Laodice was yet living, by whom he had Seleucus Callinicus, and Antiochus Hierax ) with an huge portion, which gives light to Dan. 11. v. 5, 6. But afterwards he put her away and took Laodice again, and she was at last slain by the procurement of Seleucus Callinicus who succeeded his father in the Kingdom, which was the Original of many wars between the Kings of Syria and Egypt.

Manasseh, Eleazar 's Uncle, Brother to Onias the first, and S;on of Jaddus succeeded in the Priesthood at Jerusalem.

Ptol. Euergetes Son to Ptol. Philadelphus marches into Syria to revenge his Sisters death, and over-runs and conquers all before him; and then came down to Jerusalem and there offered many sacrifices of thanksgiving unto God, and dedicated to him many gifts in acknowledgment of so great a victory, and then returned into Egypt, (carrying with him many rich spoils and Images of their gods, which Cambyses heretofore had taken out of Egypt at his being there) being called back by a sedition of his own people. See Dan. 11.6, 7, 8, 9.

Ptol. Euergetes followed his father Philadelphus 's steps in promoting learning, and the magnificence of the Library begun by him at Alexandria. He sent for Eratosthenes Cyrenaeus from Athens, and made him keeper of it. He took great care to get into his Library the works of ancient writers, where ever they could be procured. He borrowed from Athens the works of Sophocles, Euripides and Aeschylus only to transcribe, and left them fifteen Talents in pawn, and then caused them to be written out very fair in parchment, and then retaining the Originals he sent the Transcripts back, desiring them to keep his pawn of fifteen Talents, and to suffer the Originals to remain with him.

Onias the second, son of Simon the Just, after that Eleazar had executed the office of High Priest (because he was then but a child when his father died) and after him also Manasseh, (because when he came to age he proved but a half-witted man) yet at last came to be High Priest among the Jews; in which office he carried himself very unworthily and basely, and by his covetousness drew the anger of Ptol. Euergetes upon him, for he refused to pay the tribute of twenty Talents of silver, which his Predecessors ever used to pay out of their own store for the ease of their people. Hereupon Pt. Euergetes in a great rage sent to him that if he did not speedily send him his arrears of tribute, he would forthwith give away all his land amongst his Soldiers, and plant new Colonies of his own there. Josephus the son of Tobias a young man of singular prudence and virtue being advertised by his mother (who was the sister of this Onias, and daughter of Simon the Just ) of the coming of these messengers, he presently came to Jerusalem and undertook to go in an Embassy to Euergetes about this matter, and being come thither he so far insinuated himself into the good liking and favor of the King, and Cleopatra the Queen, that he not only diverted this storm which threatened his Country, but also obtained a company of 2000 Soldiers to levy the tributes, and other dues belonging to the King out of Coelosyria, Phoenicia, Samaria and Judea. In which office he continued by the space of twenty two years, and in that time doubled the Kings Revenues, and brought them from 8 to 16 thousand Talents by the year, and brought into the Kings Exchequer all the goods of Felons, and other Confiscations which formerly the Exchequer-men swallowed up, and shared among themselves, Joseph. 16. Ch. 3.4.

After the decease of Onias the second, his son Simon the second succeeded in the Priesthood.

About the year of the world 3787, when the second Carthaginian war began between Annibal and the Romans, the Roman name began to be famous in the world, and their power looked upon as formidable as any of the Kings either of Egypt, Syria, or Macedon.

Ptol. Philopator overthrew Antiochus Magnus King of Syria in a great fight near Raphia a City in Syria, and so got Raphia and those places round about. The Jews sending some of their Sanhedrin to render him their service, and to congratulate him after so great a victory, he promised to go thither, and to honor their City with his presence. When he came he admired the beauty of their Temple, and would fain have gone into the Sanctum Sanctorum, whereinto it was not lawful for any to go save the High Priest only. The Jews vehemently opposing him therein, the King was more earnest and bent upon it, whereupon all the Temple was filled with cryings and howlings, and the City with tumult. Then Simon the High Priest kneeling down between the Temple and the Altar, humbly sought help from God in that time of trouble. Whereupon the King fell into such an horror of mind that he was unable to speak, and so was carried half dead out of the Temple, 2 Mac. Ch. 1. & 2. Ptol. Philopator being returned into Egypt fell into all manner of loose living and debauchery, and sought by all means to turn the Jews of Alexandria from the worship of the true God, and some of those that would not turn he caused to be slain, and some he marked with hot irons on their faces, and some with the sign of an Ivy-leaf, because that was the badge of Bacchus. Hereupon many abandoned their Religion in compliance to the King's will. Others bought their peace and saved their lives, and escaped their marking with hot irons for their money. But they who continued constant in the Religion of their forefathers continued also constant in their allegiance to the King, but would not converse in any kind with those of their own Nation who had apostatized from their Religion; whereupon their enemies presently made this construction of it, that they opposed the King in his power and Government, and sought to turn away his subjects from their obedience. Upon this Philopator growing angry with the Jews, not only in Alexandria, but even throughout all Egypt, sent out orders to have them all gathered together into one place, intending there to expose them to be destroyed by Elephants. And accordingly the Elephants being prepared and filled with wine mingled with myrrh that so they might be the more mad and fierce; it so happened that they instead of falling upon the Jews, ran upon the Kings Soldiers and trod them underfoot, whereupon the King began to relent towards these poor prisoners, and not only saved them but feasted them for seven days together. Ush. p. 371.

Ptol. Philopator had by his Wife-sister Euridice a son called Ptol. Epiphanes (who at the age of five years succeeded him in the Kingdom of Egypt ) whose birth-day was first solemnly celebrated at home by all the great men and others of that part of Syria, and the Country thereabouts that was under his dominions; and then many of them made a journey to Alexandria there to wish him joy of his young son, among the rest Josephus the Jew (of whom before) Collector of his Tribute in Syria, Phoenicia, and Palestine, sent his youngest son Hircanus to kiss his hand, and with Letters to his Agent at Alexandria to furnish him with moneys to buy the most rich and precious present for the King that the place did afford.

After Simon the second succeeded his son Onias the third in the High Priesthood, a good man, of a venerable aspect, meek in his carriage, and very advised in his words, and one who from his youth framed himself to a virtuous life.

Pt. Philopator dying, left his son Pt. Epiphanes but five years old. Antiochus M. taking occasion herefrom, confederates with Philip King of Macedon, that with their united forces they should set upon the Kingdom of Egypt, Dan. 11. v. 14. and each should enjoy those parts of that Kingdom (if they conquered it) which lay next to them. Antiochus at last got Judea from Epiphanes, and Epiphanes by his General Scopas recovered it from him again, and shortly after lost it again; so that Antiochus being now Lord of Judea, he grew friendly and kind to the Jews, who voluntarily submitted to him, and assisted him in the siege of the Castle of Samaria, into which Scopas had put a Garrison.

One Simon a Benjamite chief Keeper of the Temple falling into a contention with Onias the third now High Priest, when he could not get his will of him, went to Apollonius the Governor of Coelosyria, and Phoenicia, (for Seleucus Philopator who succeeded Antioch. Magnus ) and informed him that there was a vast sum of money in the Treasury of the Temple, of which the Priests made no use, and therefore it would do well in the Kings coffers; which when the King was made acquainted with, he presently sent away his Treasurer Heliodorus to Jerusalem to fetch him that money from thence; but when he came, Onias the High Priest told him that it was true there were some moneys in the Temple, but they were the moneys of Widows and Orphans, and were there deposited only as in a place of safety, part of which also was the proper goods of Hircanus a very honorable person, and that all there amounted not to above 400 Talents of Silver, and 200 of Gold, and that such was the holiness of the place that it ought not to be violated. Heliodorus nothing persuaded by this, enters the Temple, and was smitten by an Angel dead for the present, but being restored by the prayers of Onias, he returned to his Master Seleucus, declaring the holiness of the place and the power of God, 2 Mac. Ch. 3.

Simon after this calumniated Onias, as if he (who had so well deserved of his Nation) had been the cause of this mischief and had forced Heliodorus to do what he did. Upon this matters proceeded so far that many murders were acted by Simon and his party in the City, and Apollonius waxed mad withal, and backed him in what he did, so that Onias was forced to go to Seleucus Philopater, and (as some say) got him banished.

Antiochus Epiphanes now obtains the Kingdom of Syria (putting by his Brothers son Demetrius, and the true heir to the Crown) who by reason of his mad and wild conversation was by some called Epimanes: He is styled by the Angel in the 11th. of Dan. a vile person, and the little horn, Dan. 8.9.

Jason son of Simon the second, being weary of the continued High Priesthood of Onias the third his Brother, goes to Antiochus, and of him purchases the High Priesthood to himself for 360 Talents of Silver, and a rent of eighty Talents, and not satisfying himself with wronging his Brother in this manner, he promised a 150 more for a license to set up at Jerusalem a place of exercise for the training up of youth after the fashion of the heathen, and so the Greek rites and heathenish fashions were introduced, whereby an inlet was made not only to Idolatry and profaneness, but also to that cruelty and bloodshed which after ensued.

Jason three years after he had bought the High Priesthood of Antiochus sent Menelaus Brother of Simon the Benjamite (that Arch-Traitor to his Country, of whom we have before spoken) to the King to carry the moneys he had promised him, and to solicit his affairs. Menelaus making use of the opportunity, serves Jason in the same kind that he had served Onias, and promising to the King 300 talents of silver more than Jason paid, procured the High Priesthood for himself; and having thus gotten it by the Kings Mandat, he expelled Jason into the Country of the Ammonites, but took no care to pay any of the moneys he had promised to the King, 2 Maccab. 4.25, &c.

Antiochus having seized on Caelosyria, Ptol. Philometor (who claimed it as belonging to him, being passed over to his Father as his Mothers portion ) sought to recover it out of his hands. Antiochus marching down towards Egypt overthrew Ptolemy 's forces, and quickly got Egypt into his power, pretending nevertheless to have a kindness for young Philometor, and a care of his affairs.

Menelaus taking the opportunity of the Kings absence took divers golden vessels out of the Temple at Jerusalem, some of which he gave away, and some he sold to Tyre, and other places, for which being accused of Sacrilege by Onias the true High Priest, who had betaken himself to Sanctuary, he procured him to be taken out from thence and put to death. Going on in such mischiefs he was accused to the King, but bribing Ptolemy the son of Dorimenes (who had revolted to Antiochus, and was in great favor with him), he procured the death of his accusers.

About this time Antiochus went down a second time into Egypt with a great power, which he recovered again (the King thereof flying before him) and getting the fortified Towns into his hands there staid, till the Jews procured his return to their own destruction.

A false rumour of Antiochus 's death being spread abroad in Judea, Jason having got a thousand men together set upon Jerusalem, and getting the City into his hands, forced Menelaus into the Castle, and then made slaughters, not as if he had been among his own Countrymen and kindred, but among enemies and foreigners; yet he got not the Priesthood, but was forced to betake himself back again into the Country of the Ammonites, where being accused before Aretas King of the Arabians, he fled from place to place like a Vagabond, hated of all men as a forsaker of the Law, and public enemy to his Country, and died at last at Lacedemon.

Antiochus hearing in Egypt that the Jews rejoiced at the report of his death, and suspecting by the sedition stirred up by Jason that Judea would revolt, in a great rage departed thence, and came and sat down before Jerusalem, and took it by force, and giving no quarter for three days space, there were forty thousand slain, and as many more taken prisoners and sold; and not contenting himself with this, he presumed to go into the Temple, having that Arch-Traitor Menelaus for his guide, and rifled it of the holy vessels; particularly he took away the Golden Altar of Incense, and the golden Candlesticks with all the vessels belonging to them, the Table of the Shewbread, and the Vail, and the Crowns, and the golden Ornaments that were fastened to the Temple-doors; he pulled off the gold from everything that was covered with it, and likewise took the silver vessels, and all the hidden treasure which he could find. He also killed swine upon the Altar, and with the broath of the flesh of them he sprinkled the Temple. And having taken 1800 talents out of the Temple he speedily went to Antioch, leaving behind him to afflict the people, Philip a Phrygian by Nation, but by manners a Barbarian, and Andronicus, and besides them Menelaus more grievous unto and more spiteful against his own Countrymen than either of the other.

Two years after he sent Apollonius a cruel man with an Army of 22000 into Judea, commanding him to put to death all the young men he could meet with, and to sell the women and children for slaves. Apollonius coming to Jerusalem kept himself still until the Sabbath, and then taking the opportunity of the solemnity of the day, he destroyed all that came to perform Religious duties, and marching with his forces about the City, he put to death a great multitude, and plundering the City he set it on fire in several places, destroying the houses, and demolishing the walls round about, and led away many women and children into captivity, seizing on their cattle, whilst Antiochus his Master was busy again in his attempts upon Egypt.

During these horrid outrages Judas Maccabeus departed with some others, and lived in the mountains three years and six months, for which space of time the daily sacrifice ceased, and the Sanctuary lay desolate, and the inhabitants of Jerusalem fled, and their City became an habitation of strangers.

The Samaritans seeing the Jews so miserably handled, professed themselves to be by descent Sidonians, and thereupon obtained Letters from Antiochus to Apollonius his President, that they should not be involved in the calamities of the Jews, and that their Temple on Mount Gerizim as yet not honored with the title of any God, should from thenceforth be called the Temple of the Grecian Jupiter.

After this in the year of the World 3837, Antiochus by a public Edict commanded all Nations that were subject unto him to observe the same way of worship that he did, and laying aside their peculiar customs to profess the same Religion with the Greeks, and to conform thereunto, threatening death to all such as should be found unconformable. And he appointed Overseers over every people and Nation who should compel them to uniformity, 1 Mac. 1.41, &c. Into Judea and Samaria he sent an old man of Athens, that he should force the Jews to depart from the observation of the Divine Law, and defile the Temple at Jerusalem, and impose the name of Jupiter Olimpius upon it. And upon the Temple of Gerizim he imposed the name of Jupiter Hospitalis, or Protector of strangers. He also commanded the sacrifices to be left off, he prohibited the Sabbath, he commanded them to defile the Sanctuary, to erect Altars, Groves and Chapels to Idols, and that they should sacrifice swine and other unclean beasts, and should suffer their children to remain uncircumcised, and should forget the Law and the Ordinances of God, and made it a crime to profess the Jewish Religion. Moreover order was sent to the Neighbouring Cities of the Greeks that they should compel the Jews to partake of their sacrifices, and kill those that would not come over to their rites; so that many of the Jews for fear obeyed, and sacrificed to Idols. The Temple was now filled with riot and revelling by the Gentiles, who within the circuit thereof defiled themselves with women, and committed other abominations. And on the 15th. day of the month Casleu they erected the Abomination of Desolation (that is the detestable Idol of Jupiter Olympius) upon the Altar, and built Idol-altars throughout the Cities of Judah, and burnt incense at the doors of their houses, and in the streets, and some were compelled to go in procession to Bacchus carrying Ivy; they cut in pieces the Books of the Law which they found, and burnt them in the fire, and with whomsoever they were found, or whoever approved of them, they were by the Kings command to be put to death. Yet notwithstanding there were many that stood out and would not conform to the Kings Edict, nor defile themselves, at which the King being enraged, he caused divers to be brought before him, resolving to enforce them by torments to taste impure meats, and to abjure Judaism, and upon refusal he racked them and put them to death. Among others, Eleazar of the Priestly family an eminent Scribe, and expert in the knowledge of the Law, of ninety years of age, was very eminent for his courage, who neither yielding to eat swine's flesh, nor dissembling to have eaten it, chose rather to undergo the most cruel torments than to violate the Law. After him seven young men that were Brethren, together with their most courageous Mother, were brought before Antiochus at Antioch, who refusing to eat swine's flesh, after they had been exquisitely tortured with new-invented torments, rendered their pious souls unto God. The Martyrdom of those persons is described in the seventh Chapter of the second Book of Maccabees.

The rage of this persecution coming to Modin a Town situate between Rama and Emmaus, it there found some opposition. Mattathias the Son of Jonathan a Priest of Jerusalem of the family of Joarib (which was the first among the 24 courses, 1 Chron. 24.7.) dwelt here at this time with his five Sons; among whom his Son Judas was called Maccabeus; and Josephus says their Father Mattathias was the son of Asamoneus , and from him that Sirname descended to his posterity.

Mattathias was earnestly pressed by the Kings Officers to sacrifice on the Heathen Altars, but he utterly refused to do it, yea he proceeded so far as to kill a certain Jew whom he beheld so sacrificing, and after that he slew the Kings Commissioner who forced the people to sacrifice, and threw down the Altar. Being so far engaged he exhorted all that had any zeal for the Law of God to follow him, and so with his five Sons he fled into the Mountains, leaving all their goods behind them in the City.

Many went after him and lived with their wives and children in dens and caves, which when it was discovered to Philip Governor for the King at Jerusalem, the Garrison-Soldiers were presently drawn out to pursue them, who falling on many of them on the Sabbath-day, (and they not at all resisting in honor to the day) they destroyed the number of about a thousand persons of them.

When Mattathias and his friends were informed of this, they much lamented the case of their Brethren, and decreed that from thence forward if they should be assaulted by their enemies on the Sabbath-day they would resist them with arms. Then the Asidaeans a sort of religious men joining with him, and several others who daily fled out of the Country, he made up a little army, and therewith prosecuted the wicked ones, and marching up and down, threw down Altars, circumcised all children whom they found uncircumcised in the coasts of Israel, and pursued the sons of pride, and the work succeeded very prosperously in their hands. After Mattathias had been Captain of this wandering company for the space of a year, he died, having first exhorted his Sons to piety and a valiant defense of the Law of God, and having appointed his Son Simon for a Counselor, and his Son Judas Sirnamed Maccabeus for a Captain to them. His Sons buried him in the Sepulchers of their Fathers at Modin, and the Israelites bewailed him with great lamentation, 1 Mac. 2.

Judas being assisted by his Brethren and such as followed his Father, fell upon the enemy, burnt divers of their Towns, and seized upon several commodious places, (coming usually upon them in the night ) insomuch that he forced many of them to quit the land. Apollonius the Governor of Samaria coming against him, Judas overthrew and slew him, and getting his Sword, ever after used it in the wars. After this he overthrew Seron the Governor of Caelosyria, who marched against him with the forces under his command, his whole army was routed by Judas, and eight hundred slain on the place, the rest fled into the land of the Philistines near the Sea-coast.

Antiochus hearing of this success of Judas, was exceedingly enraged at it, and levying all the strength of his Kingdom, and giving them a years pay, he commanded them to be in readiness; he purposed to have marched immediately against Maccabeus, but he found his Treasury much exhausted by the pay of his Army, and he saw he had lost 300 Talents of yearly tribute by the Jews revolting from him, and much also which he was wont to receive from other places who were in combustion, because he would force them to quit their ancient rites. For his persecution raged even in the Grecian Cities, insomuch that he spared not the very Gentiles, but endeavored to make them abjure their ancient superstitions, and to come up to a conformity of worship with himself, and by these things his revenues were much impaired. Fearing therefore he should not have enough to defray his charges and gratuities, (wherein he took a pride to exceed all his Ancestors) he resolved to make a progress first into Persia, and the upper Countries to gather the Tributes thereof, and fill his coffers. But before his departure he made Lysias his kinsman Governor of the Regions betwixt Euphrates and Egypt, (committing to his care his young Son Eupator ) and gave him half his forces, and this also in charge to blot out the Nation of the Jews utterly, and to give their Country to be inhabited by strangers.

Philip the Governor of Jerusalem observing how that Judas grew stronger and stronger every day, wrote unto Ptolemy (Son of Dorymenes) Governor of Coelosyria and Silicia to lend his helping hand to the Kings affairs, who presently dispatching Nicanor (one of his chiefest friends) with 20000 men, purposed to root out the whole stock of the Jews; and to him also he joined Gorgias a man of great experience in Military affairs. Lyfias also dispatched away Ptolemy himself as a reserve to them, so that under these three Commanders, Ptolemy, Nicanor, and Gorgias were mustered 40000 foot, and 7000 horse, who marching with this their great army, pitched by Emmaus in the plain Country. Antiochus was at this time behind hand with his tribute to the Romans, the sum of 2000 Talents, and Nicanor making sure of the victory before hand, resolved to wipe off that score by the sale of the captive Jews; and to that end invited out of the Cities near the Sea-coast a thousand Merchants, promising that he would allow ninety slaves for a Talent; which was no sooner divulged but the Merchants of the Country with their Attendants repair to the Camp to purchase the Jews for slaves, great Companies also flocked out of Syria, and other parts to barter for the same commodities.

The Heathen now holding Jerusalem and the Temple, Judas Maccabeus in this great extremity removed with his Army to Mizpah (for there before the building of the Temple was the Israelites place of Worship, 1 Sam. 7.5, 6.) and there he proclaimed a fast, and with most servant prayers importuned the Lord's help against this formidable host, for he had with him but six or seven thousand against the vast power of the enemy. After this such as had betrothed wives, planted vineyards, or were fearful he dismissed according to the Law, Deut. 20, 6, 7, 8. and then divided his army into four Squadrons, and appointing his Brothers to command them, committed to each 1500 Soldiers; so the Army removed and pitched on the South-side of Emmaus opposite to the enemy. That night Gorgias had a design to surprise them unawares, and to that end took along with him 5000 foot, and a 1000 choice horse, and came towards the Jews Camp, having the Garrison-Soldiers of Zion-fort for his convoy. Judas having notice hereof, wisely turned it to his advantage, resolving to march straightways to Emmaus, and so to fall upon Nicanor in the absence of the other, who was the more experienced Captain. Gorgias arriving at the Jews Camp, and finding nobody there, thought they had fled for fear of him into the mountains, and so he sought for them there, but they being got to Nicanor engaged him; in the morning Judas having first encouraged his men, and given the word in the help of God, through the assistance of the Almighty they routed Nicanor 's whole army, laying above 5000 dead upon the place, and had the chase of the rest a great way. Among others who were thus vanquished were the Merchants, who (nothing doubting of the victory) followed the Kings army in hope to get a good bargain of the captives, and now became a prey themselves, and the Jews seized on their money which they brought to buy them. And when they had had a long pursuit of them, but being prevented by time, they sounded a retreat; for the evening on which the Sabbath began drawing on, after they had gathered up the Arms of the vanquished Host, and taken the spoils from them, they composed themselves for the celebration of the Sabbath, magnifying the mercy of God for this so marvelous a victory, 2 Mac. 8. Gorgias returning from his fruitless expedition, and perceiving by the smoke of the Tents set on fire, that that other division of their army was routed, and seeing Judas on the plain standing in Battalia with his forces ready to receive them, they all shifted for themselves. The coast thus cleared, Judas returned to the spoil, where he found plenty of gold, silk, and purple, (which the Phoenician Merchants had left behind them) and much wealth, all which the Soldiers shared among themselves, having first deducted a portion for the maimed Soldiers, widows and orphans. Then with joint supplication they desired the Lord to continue still to be gracious unto them.

After this Judas overthrew Timothy and Bacchides, both of the Kings party, and killed above 20000 men, and made themselves masters of many strong holds, and divided among themselves much spoil, always admitting the maimed, orphans, widows, and aged persons into equal portions with themselves.

Lysias was exceedingly vext that things fell out so contrary to his expectation, and therefore the next year invaded Judea with an Army of 60000 choice foot, and 5000 horse. Judas (having first implored the Divine assistance) meets him with an army of 10000 men. Lysias received such a blow that with the loss of 5000 men he was glad to retreat to Antioch, intending greater preparations for his next expedition.

Judas and his Brethren having now some respite from their enemies, march with all their forces to Jerusalem and recover the Temple, and all the City, except Zion-fort. The Altars and Chapels which the enemy had built in the open streets they demolished. And by the assistance of the Priests they cleansed the Temple, built a new Altar, repaired the holy, and Holy of Holies, hallowed the Courts, made new holy Vessels, brought into the Temple the Candlestick, the Altar of Incense, and the Table of show-bread, and so they burnt Incense upon the Altar, lighted the Lamps which were in the Candlestick, and placed show-bread upon the Table, and spread the Vails, and finished whatever they had taken in hand. Then on the 15th. of the ninth month called Casleu (two years after he had succeeded his Father in the Government, but three years complete since the Gentiles first sacrificed in that place) having furnished themselves with fire by striking stones one against another, they offered sacrifice according to the Law upon their new Altar of Burnt-offerings; so that on the very same day of the same month on which the Gentiles profaned the old Altar, Judas consecrated this new one.

This Dedication was celebrated with Songs and Hymns, and Instruments of Music very joyfully, and all the people fell prostrate on the ground, and worshipped the God of Heaven who had so prospered them; beseeching him that he would not suffer them to fall again into such calamities, but that if they offended him he himself would punish them, and not suffer them to fall into the hands of the barbarous Gentiles. They kept this feast of Dedication eight days, and ordained that it should be kept yearly for the same space of time, and should begin the 25th of the same month Casleu. In the Gospel, Joh. 10.22. 'tis called the feast of Dedication.

Whilst these things were doing, Antiochus Epiphanes prospers in his wars against Artaxias King of Armenia, and in the upper Countries, though in his attempt to plunder the Temple of Venus or Diana at Elemais in Persia, he was repelled by the inhabitants, and caused shamefully to retreat. In his return homewards, hearing first of the overthrow of Nicanor and Timothy, and then of the defeat of Lysias, and the throwing down of the Idol of Jupiter Olympius, and fortifying of the Sanctuary, he fell into an extreme rage, and resolved to be revenged on the Jews, proudly vaunting that he would make Jerusalem the common burying place of them when he should come thither. Scarce had he made an end of threatening when he was stricken with an extreme torment in his bowels, but being brought thereby to no better a temper of mind, he breathed out menaces against the Jews still, and calling to his Chariot-driver to make hast, it happened that in this his so furious career he fell out of his Chariot, and was much bruised by the fall, and his limbs put out of joint; and after that being carried to and fro in a horse-litter, worms bred so fast in his body that his flesh rotted, so that none could endure to carry him for the noisomeness of the stench, being forced to stay at Taba a Town in Persia in this pitiful plight, despairing of recovery, he openly acknowledged all those miseries to have fallen upon him for the injuries he had done to the Jews. When he could no longer endure his own smell, he said, It is meet to submit to God, and for mortal man not to set himself in competition with God. He vowed if God would restore him, to grant to the Jews a free exercise of their Religion, and of their own laws and customs, and that he would beautify the Temple with most rare gifts, and restore all the holy vessels, and that with advantage, and defray the charges of the Sacrifices out of his own Exchequer, and that he himself would turn Jew, and go through the whole habitable world declaring the power of God. But when he saw his end to draw nigh, he caused most kind Letters to be written to the Jews desiring them to stand faithful to his Son. Then constituting Philip the Guardian and Protector of his Son (who was but nine years old) till he should come to age; he died, and that a miserable death, in a strange land, after he had reigned twelve years.

Antiochus his Son, Sirnamed Eupator, succeeds him: Lysias who had brought him up would not part, with the Government of him, whereupon Philip (who was appointed his Guardian by his Father) fled into Egypt.

Gorgias who had the command of those parts about Judea, fomented a continual war with the Jews, and with him joined the Idumeans, who entertained all the Jerusalem-runagadoes, and infested the Jews, and did what they could to keep the war on foot; against those therefore Judas Maccabaeus marches, takes divers places, and puts 20000 of them to the sword. After which setting upon the Ammonites he overthrew them in divers engagements, and taking Jazer with the Territories thereunto belonging returned into Judea. Timothy the General of the Ammonites hereat enraged and gathering together multitudes of foreign forces, came as if he would devour Judea. But Judas and those that were with him, having humbled themselves, and sought to the Lord for help, marched out of Jerusalem against them, and being encouraged by an Apparition of Horsemen in the Heavens fighting for them, they slew of the enemy 20500 Foot, and 600 horse; Timothy himself fled to Gazara a strong Garrison kept by his Brother, but that being taken, he was pulled out of a cave (where he had hid himself) and slain with his Brother.

After this the Gentiles about Galaad and Galilee sorely afflicting the Jews of those parts, Maccabaeus divided his Army into three Brigades, one whereof consisting of 3000 men he gave to his Brother Simon to relieve them of Galilee; the second, to Joseph the Son of Zachariah to defend Judea, charging them not to fight with any enemy till his return; with the third, he marched himself to the succor of those of Galaad. Simon notwithstanding fought many Battels with the enemy, and killed many of them. And Judas had the like success, taking many Towns, and putting many thousand to the sword. But those that were left at home, desiring, upon the report of these things, to achieve some military glory, marched to Jamnia, whence Gorgias issuing out put them to flight, and following the chase as far as the borders of Judea, killed about 2000 of them. So dangerous a thing is presumption and vainglory.

Lysias the Kings Protector and chief Minister was extremely vexed to hear of Judas 's success, therefore mustering together near eighty thousand men, and all the horse he could make, marches into Judea, resolving to make Jerusalem an habitation for the Greeks, and the Temple Tributary, and to set the High Priesthood to sale every year. Being entered into Judea, he lays siege to Bethsura nigh to Jerusalem. But Maccabaeus engaging with him, killed 11000 of his foot with 1600 horsemen, and forced him with the rest, (many of them being wounded and disarmed ) to shift for themselves. Lysias considering with himself what loss he had sustained, and how God fought for the Jews, he sent to them to treat of peace, and according to his promise brought the King to yield to such reasonable terms as were demanded by Maccabaeus; but this peace was quickly broken by those of the Kings Captains that had the command of the places adjacent, who would not suffer the Jews to be quiet. And the Citizens of Joppa also having by fair speeches enticed two hundred Jews which dwelt among them into their ships, put from shore and threw them all over-board. When Judas heard of this piece of villainy he came by night to Joppa, and fired their Port and Navy. And understanding that the inhabitants of Jamnia had some such design against those Jews that lived with them, he did the same by night to their Port and Fleet also.

Judas now marching against Timothy, the Nomades of Arabia set upon him to the number of 5000 Foot, and 500 Horse, where after an hot dispute, the Arabians were worsted, but afterwards upon an engagement to supply him with Cattle, obtained a peace from him. Shortly after this he stormed the City Caspis, wherein was such a slaughter made of the inhabitants that a lake thereto adjoining seemed to be full of blood. Removing from thence he came to the Jews called Tobieni inhabiting the land of Tob, concerning which mention is made in the Book of Judges, Ch. 11. Timothy was drawn off from that place, but had left behind him a very strong Garrison, which Dositheus and Sosipater (two of Judas 's Captains) ventured upon, and taking it, put to the sword about 10000 men.

Upon this Timothy levies a new Army consisting of 120000 Foot, and 2500 Horse of all Nations round about him, and mercenary Arabians, sending the women and children into a strong Town called Carnion. He encamped against Raphon on the other side the Brook Judas approaching with his forces gave this great Army such a total rout, that some fled one way, and some another, and Judas pursued them with such earnestness that he slew near thirty thousand of them; and Timothy himself falling into the hands of Dositheus and Sosipater, obtained his liberty upon promise of setting at liberty such of the Jews as he had in his power.

Judas then proceeding took Carnion whither many of the enemy had fled, he put to the sword 25000 men, fired their Temple, and demolished their City.

After this he gathered together all the Jews with their wives and children which were in Galaad to bring them into Judea. And being come as far as Ephron (which was a great City well fortified, through which they were to pass) the Citizens denied them passage, and shut their gates against them; hereupon they assaulted the City and took it, after a day and a nights battery, and demolished the City to the ground, took all the spoil, killed all the males near 25000 in number, and so marched to Jerusalem to the Feast of Pentecost.

The Feast being over, Judas taking 3000 Foot, and 400 Horse along with him, went and fought with Gorgias, whom Dositheus had once taken, but leading him away a Thracian Trooper made up towards him, and cut off his shoulder, and so rescued Gorgias, who made his escape into Marissa. After this victory the Jews coming to strip and bury such of their own party as had fallen that day, found under their coats certain things dedicated to the Idols of Jamnia, which was prohibited them by the Law, Deut. 7.25, 26. so that it appeared to them that this was the cause of their death, they therefore betook themselves by prayer unto God, entreating him that this miscarriage might not be charged upon them all.

After this Judas with his Brethren subdued the Edomites and the Philistines, burnt their Idols, and overthrew their Altars, and then returned into Judea; and observing that Antiochus 's Soldiers which were Garrison'd in the Tower at Jerusalem did infest the Jews about the Sanctuary, he with all the people besieged them close, but some of them with certain Jewish fugitives getting out, went strait to Antiochus Eupator, and persuaded him with expedition to come and give a check to the growing power of the Jews.

Antiochus gathering together all his friends and Captains, and a mighty Army (concerning the number of which the two Books of Maccabees differ) in a great rage marched thither, intending to deal worse with the Jews than his Father had done. And with him Menelaus the usurping High Priest joined, hoping thereby to recover the Priesthood. Judas hearing of these preparations, commanded the people that they should call upon God day and night, that he would please to grant them his wonted assistance. Antiochus marching into Judea assaults Bethsura or Bethhoron, where Judas by night with a choice party fell upon his Camp, and piercing as far as his own Tent, slew 4000 men, and giving an alarm to the whole Army, at break of the day safely retreated; whereupon the King marched towards him next day, and they coming to an engagement Antiochus lost several hundreds more, but the Jews seeing themselves overpowered retreated. The King then returned to the siege, and they not being well stored with provision (this being the Sabbatical year ) at last yielded up the Town upon composition. Antiochus having herein placed a Garrison, marched up to Jerusalem, and there made all provision possible for the gaining of it, all manner of Engines being raised for the casting of fire and stones, but the besieged defended themselves bravely (though provisions were very short with them) and the famine prevailed so much among them that they were in danger of falling into the Kings hands; but before he could finish his work, news came that Philip (whom his father had appointed to be Guardian ) being returned out of Egypt, was coming with the forces that Epiphanes had left in Persia and Media to recover his right usurped by Lysias. Hereupon both he and his Captains were presently persuaded by Lysias, (because the place was strong, and provisions began to fail in the Leaguer, and the affairs of the Kingdom required it) to make peace with the besieged, and with the whole Nation of the Jews upon such terms as they required. Then returning to Ptolemais, the inhabitants thereof (being great enemies to the Jews ) stickled hard to persuade him to break the League, but Lysias so well argued the matter among them that he quieted their minds, and confirmed the peace; so that the Investiture of the commanding power in the Hasmoneans took its rise from the time of this peace agreed on betwixt Antiochus Eupator and Maccabeus.

The King hasting thence towards Antioch, brought along with him as a prisoner Menelaus the High Priest, whom Lysias accused as an Incendiary, and the cause of the war, whereupon by order from the King he was let down into a Tower filled with ashes, and there miserably ended his life, ten years after he had first usurped the Priesthood.

Menelaus being thus taken out of the way, the King substituted in his room one Alcimus a man every whit as bad as he. Indeed he was of Aaron 's progeny, but not of the High Priests blood, and Lysias persuaded the King to transfer that dignity into another family. Onias the Son of Onias the third, seeing the High Priesthood conferred on Alcimus, went into Egypt, and after he had well insinuated himself into the affections of Ptol. Philometor and Cleopatra his wife, obtained of them leave to build a Temple to God in the jurisdiction of Heliopolis, answering to that at Jerusalem, and that they would constitute him High Priest there. See more of this in Usher, p. 467.

Antiochus coming to Antioch found Philip Master thereof, but setting upon it he took it by force, and taking Philip therein put him to death, and so quickly quieted those stirs, being reserved with Lysias his Guardian (though but a little time) for others more dangerous.

Demetrius Soter Son of Seleucus Philopator (the right heir to the Kingdom ) now escaping from Rome quickly got the Kingdom, and put to death Eupator and Lysias his Guardian.

Alcimus who had procured from Eupator to be made High Priest, being not now receive • d nor owned by the people, for that in the days of Epiphanes he had willfully defiled himself, came to Demetrius with other Apostates to get the Priesthood confirmed to him. He accused his Countrymen, especially the Hasmoneans (viz. Judas and his Brethren ) as guilty of cutting off the Kings friends, and banishing them out of the Country. Hereupon Demetrius sent Bacchides the Governor of Mesopotamia (his trusty friend) with great forces into Judea, and confirmed the High Priesthood to Alcimus, whom he sent back with him. All their design was (being arrived there) by fair speeches to get Judas and his Brethren into their hands but they gave no credit to them. Many of the Scribes went out to them to seek peace, expecting they should have obtained it of Alcimus, who was of the seed of Aaron, and had now great power in the army, but having gotten them into his hands, he most wickedly contrary to agreement and his oath put sixty of them to death, all in one day, by which perfidiousness many being terrified fled from the City. Then Bacchides going from Jerusalem caused many that had fled from him, and several others of the Jews to be slain and cast into a great pit, and so committing the care of the Country to Alcimus (for the defense of which he left him some forces) he returned unto the King.

After his departure Alcimus striving all he could to confirm himself in the Priesthood made great havoc of the people. Hereupon Judas went out through the whole Country, taking vengeance on such as had revolted from him, and so terrified those that adhered to Alcimus, that they were forced to keep themselves within their Garrisons, and durst not make anymore incursions into the Country. Alcimus apprehending danger to himself from these proceedings goes once more to Demetrius carrying along with him a Crown of Gold to present unto him. For Judas and his party increasing in power would not suffer him to come near to the holy Altar, at which being enraged he eagerly accused them to the King as authors of all the commotions and disturbances in Judea; further complaining that he was deprived of the Priesthood, (the honor, as he said, of his Ancestors ) and further affirmed that as long as Maccabeus lived the Kings affairs could not be secure. This being seconded by some ill-willers to the Jews, and his friends, Demetrius was so inflamed, that sending for Nicanor one of his chiefest Princes, and a bitter enemy to the Jews, made him General against Judea, giving him order to destroy Judas, and disperse his associates the Assideans, and to settle Alcimus in the High Priesthood.

The Jews, upon the report of Nicanors approach, and the Association of several Gentiles with him, cast dust upon their heads, and made their Supplication to God. And it so happened, that after a short skirmish betwixt Simon (Judas 's Brother) and a party of Nicanors near the Village Dessaro. Nicanor understanding the Courage and Resolution of Judas and his Party in defending their Country, he was unwilling to run the hazard of a Battle, but sent to parle with the Jews, and to make peace with them, upon mutual engagements of fidelity each to other. And Articles being agreed upon between them, the two Captains met, and the Conference proved very successful, and closed in a League without the Kings Privity. Nicanor after this, abode a while in Jerusalem, and dismissed the Companies he had collected, and was so taken with Judas, that he continued with him some time, and loved him in his heart, and lived so friendly and familiarly with him, that he persuaded him to marry a Wife.

But when that wretched fellow Alcimus observed this Correspondence between them, he addressed himself a third time to Demetrius, and accused Nicanor as having some treacherous Design in agitation against the King, who was so enraged by those Calumnies, that he sent Nicanor word, That he took very ill those his Intercourses with Judas, commanding him forthwith to send him to him bound to Antioch. Nicanor was very loath to do this, because it was a violation of the Articles of Peace between them, which Judas had not in the least manner broken; yet because he knew not how to resist the Kings command, he watched a convenient time to do it by a Stratagem.

Judas observing how Nicanor was grown more reserved to him than formerly, and that his dealings were more rough than usually they had been, began to suspect something, and gathering together many of his Associates, he withdrew himself. Nicanor following him with a great party to Jerusalem, under pretence of a Parle with him, had prepared some to seize upon him; which Judas having notice of, got away, and would see him no more. When Nicanor saw his design was discovered, he marched with his forces against Judas, and fought with him near Caphersalama; in which Encounter Nicanor lost near 5000 of his men, and the rest fled to the City of David.

After this Nicanor came up to Mount Zion, and some of the Priests with the Elders of the people went forth of the Sanctuary to salute him peaceably, and show him the Burnt-Offering that was offered for the King. But he jeering and scoffing at it, demanded Judas to be delivered unto him. And they affirming with an Oath, that they knew not where he was; he stretched out his hand against the Temple and swore, that except Judas and his Associates were delivered up unto him, he would, when he should return in peace, set the Sanctuary on fire, demolish the Altar, and build there a stately Temple to Bacchus. The Priests hearing this went in, and standing before the Altar, with Tears begged of God, That he would frustrate this wicked man's intention, and avenge his Blasphemies on him and his host.

Nicanor hearing that Judas was gone from Jerusalem into the parts of Samaria, he went and pitched his Tents in Bethoron, where he met new supplies out of Syria. But Judas pitched in Hadasa with only 3000 men. Nicanor did what he could to engage in battle on the Sabbath-day, which the Jews (who were constrained to follow him) friendly dehorting him from, (out of reverence to the day, and to God the Institutor thereof ) he with most horrid Blasphemy slighted what they said. As for Maccabaeus he encouraged his Party, recalling to their minds their former Encounters, and declaring unto them a Dream of his, wherein there was represented unto him Onias the 3d. praying for the people; and the Prophet Jeremy reaching unto him a golden Sword, whereby he much cheered their Spirits. The Jews being now well armed with Prayers and a sure confidence in God, on the 13th. day of the last month Adar, fell upon the Enemy. Nicanor himself was one of the first that fell in the fight, which when his Army saw, they cast away their Arms and fled; and the Israelites following the chase slew 30000 of them. Then they fell upon the Spoil, and finding Nicanors Body, they cut off his head and hands, and carried him to Jerusalem, where they hung his head upon an high Tower with his right hand which he had stretched out so proudly against the House of God; and his blasphemous Tongue Judas commanded should be chopp'd in pieces, and given to the Birds of the Air. In commemoration of this Victory it was Enacted, That the 13th. day of the month Adar, (the day before the Feast of Mordecai ) should be yearly kept as a day of thanksgiving, and public rejoicing, as the Author of the second Book of Maccabees tells us, who with this story finished his Work, being the Epitome of the Five Books of Jason, a Jew of Cyrene.

After Nicanor's death, Judea for a while had rest from Wars. During which time Judas hearing of the great power of the Romans, and their Humanity towards such as were in distress, understanding also in what great fear Demetrius stood of them, he sent Eupolemus the son of John, and Jason son of Eleazar, as Agents, to the Senate of Rome in the name of himself, his Brother, and the Common-wealth of the Jews, to negotiate an Alliance and Association with them, hoping thereby to free their necks from that heavy yoke of Demetrius, and the Empire of the Greeks.

After Demetrius heard that Nicanor and his Army were cut off in the late fight with Judas, he dispatched Bacchides and Alcimus a second time into Judea, and with them the right wing, and better part of his Army, who marching on the way that leads to Galgala, took in their march Massadath which is in Arbela, and put multitudes to the Sword. From thence they removed to Jerusalem, and from thence to Berea with Twenty thousand Foot, and Two thousand Horse, to seek out Maccabaeus. Judas pitched in Eleasa having only 3000 men with him. The Jews seeing the number of the enemy so great, began to be afraid, and many of them fled away; in so much that all forsook Judas, save only 800; with these he charged Bacchides 's great Army, and fought from morning to night, and routed the right wing in which Bacchides himself was, but they on the left wing perceiving this, and pressing hard upon Judas, and those that were with him, slew him fighting valiantly; and as soon as he fell, the rest of his men fled, and shifted for themselves. Judas was slain in the 6th. year after he had led the people from the death of his Father, and A. M. 3844.

After the death of Judas, wicked men discovered themselves in all the Coasts of Israel, who before played least in sight for fear of Him: And by reason of the great Famine that happened in those days, almost the whole Country joined with them, and submitted themselves to Bacchides, that they might the more commodiously be supplied with provision. Bacchides advanced those wicked men to be Governors in the Country; who when they lighted upon any of Judas 's Friends, brought them to him, who reviled them, and revenged himself upon them, so that there had not been so great an Affliction since the days that the Prophets ceased from among them. 1 Mac. 9.23, 27.

But such of the Jews as could do it, assembled themselves together, and chose Jonathan (Judas 's Brother) Captain in his room; which Bacchides hearing of, sought to kill him; but he understanding thereof, fled into the desert of Tekoa, and sent his Brother John with a b •• d of Soldiers to desire the Nabathites (that were Arabians ) that they might leave their Carriages with them. But the Children of Iambri out of Medaba met with them upon the way, and slew John and his Company; and having seized upon the Spoil, went their way. But no great joy had they of their Booty; for Jonathan and his Brother Simon hearing they were about to make a great Marriage, and bring the Bride from Medaba with great Pomp (being the Daughter of one of their Noblest Princes) they went, and hiding themselves under the Covert of the Mountain, when the Bridegroom and his Friends came forth with Timbrels and Instruments of Music, rose up out of the Ambush, slew 400 of them, and took the Spoil. So having revenged the death of their Brother, they returned again into the Marshes of Judea. 1 Mac. 9.

When Bacchides heard this, he marched down, and came thither with a great Army upon the Sabbath-day; and Jonathan being beset behind and before by the enemy, and on each side with the River and Marshes, yet encouraged his men to fight; and after having slain about a 1000 of them, seeing himself too weak for the enemy, He and his men leaped into Jordan, and got over to the other side; neither did the enemy attempt to follow him. As for Bacchides he returned to Jerusalem, and built fenced Cities in Judea, and a Fort in Jericho, and other places, and garrison'd them all, that by their Sallies and Incursions they might annoy the Israelites. He fortified also the Cities of Bethsura and Gazara, with the Castle at Jerusalem, where he placed Soldiers and Provisions, and taking the Sons of the chief of the Country for Hostages, he put them in ward in the Tower of Jerusalem. 1 Mac. 9.

The Ambassadors sent from Judas Maccabaeus to Rome, were kindly received, and concluded a League of Association with the Romans; the Tenor of which was, That they should mutually assist and succor each other against the common Enemy: And the Articles were written in Tables of Brass. The Senate also wrote Letters to Demetrius, That he should forbear to oppress the Jews any further, being their Confederates, otherwise they would wage War upon him both by Land and Sea. And this was the first League that was ever known to be between the Romans and the Jews.

About this time (as it should seem) Alcimus commanded the wall in the Temple, which severed the Court of the People from that of the Gentiles to be pulled down, which had been built by Zerubbabel and the Prophets, whose Monuments he began also to pull down and destroy. But at the same time he was so smitten, that he could not open his own mouth, nor so much as give orders concerning his own House, but died in great Torment, the third year after he had usurped the High-Priesthood. After his death Jerusalem was seven years without any High Priest at all. But then Jonathan put on the High-Priests Robes.

After Alcimus 's death, Bacchides returned to Demetrius. For two years the land of Judea continued quiet, but at the end thereof, certain wicked Jews sent for Bacchides again, acquainting him, that he might easily apprehend Jonathan and his Company in one night. Whereupon Bacchides made towards them with a great force, and sent privily Letters to his Friends in Judea, to assist him in this Enterprize. But their Plot was discovered to Jonathan and his Company, and he taking 50 of the Contrivers of that Villany, put them all to death. Then Jonathan and Simon, and those that were with him, removed to Bethbasin in the Wilderness, and repaired the walls thereof, and fortified it; which Bacchides having notice of, went down thither and besieged it. But such was his Entertainment from the besieged (who sallying out, burnt his Engines, and killed many of his men ) that having lain before the place a long time to no purpose, and being thus disappointed in his hopes, he turned his anger against those that had procured him to make this Expedition; in so much that he slew many of them, and purposed to return into his own Land. Jonathan having notice thereof, sent to him to treat of peace, and to exchange Prisoners, which he gladly accepted of, protesting he would not anymore disturb Jonathan all the days of his life. So he returned home into his own land, and never after entered into Judea with an Army.

The Wars thus composed in Judea, Jonathan dwelt at Michmash in the Tribe of Benjamin, and began to judge the people, and to take away the Wicked out of Israel.

About this time Alexander Bala crying himself up for the Son of Antiochus Epiphanes, seized upon Ptolemais, a City in Phoenicia. Demetrius hearing of this, began to prepare to fight with him, and sent Letters also to Jonathan, whereby he renewed peace with him, and gave him Authority to levy forces, and provide Arms, that he might assist him in his War against Alexander. He commanded also that the Hostages which were kept in the Fort, should be released, which was accordingly done; and he delivered them to their Parents. Jonathan improving this opportunity, began to re-edify and repair Jerusalem, and to build up the Walls. And the Aliens that were in the Forts which Bacchides built, quitted them, and hasted away to their own land. Alexander having notice of Demetrius 's Message to Jonathan, he courts him likewise, and desires his Friendship and Association. And among many other Privileges and Immunities which he granted to that Nation, he appointed him to be the High Priest, sending him Purple and a Crown of Gold, and honored him with the Title of being called the Kings Friend.

So in the seventh month of the 160th. year of the Seleucides, Jonathan put on the holy Robe; in the ninth year after the death of his brother Judas (the Priesthood having been vacant seven years from the death of Alcimus ) being the first of the Hasmoneans that arrived at this dignity,