17. Beyond these things, he would even become a Jew himself, and would travel through every place on earth and declare the power of God.
18. But, when his pains did not cease, (for the just judgment of God had overwhelmed him,) in despair he wrote to the Jews, in the manner of a supplication, a letter composed in this way:
19. "To the very good citizens of the Jews, Antiochus, king and ruler, wishes much health, and welfare, and happiness.
20. If you and your sons are faring well, and if everything is according to your will, we give very great thanks.
21. And so, fixed in infirmity, yet kindly remembering you, I am returning from the places of Persia, and, having been seized by a serious infirmity, I considered it necessary to have a concern for the common good,
22. not despairing in myself, but having a great hope to escape the infirmity.
23. Moreover, considering that my father also, during the time that he led an army into the upper regions, revealed who would take up the leadership after him,
24. so that, if anything contrary should occur, or any if difficulties should be reported, those who were in the regions, knowing to whom the whole matter had been bequeathed, would not be disturbed.
25. In addition to these things, considering that whichever are the nearest powers and neighbors lie in ambush for the right time and await the right event, I have designated my son, Antiochus, as king, whom I frequently commended to many of you while traveling in the upper provinces. And I have written to him what I have added below.
26. And so, I beg you and petition you, that remembering the public and private benefits, each one will continue to be faithful to me and to my son.
27. For I trust that he will behave with moderation and humanity, and that, following my intentions, he will be impartial to you."
28. And so the murderer and blasphemer, having been struck very badly, just as he himself had treated others, passed from this life in a miserable death on a journey among the mountains.
29. But Philip, who was nurtured with him, carried away his body, and, fearing the son of Antiochus, went into Egypt to Ptolemy Philometor.