1. Antiochus the son of King Demetrius sent a letter from the sea islands to Simon, the priest and ruler of the Jews, and to all the nation:
2. King Antiochus to Simon the high priest and ruler, and to the nation of the Jews. Greetings!
3. Some troublemakers have gained control of our ancestors’ kingdom. I intend to take command of the kingdom so that I may restore it to the way it used to be. I have recruited a large number of foreign troops and have equipped warships.
4. I am going to come to the country so that I can move against the people who have destroyed our country and devastated many cities in my kingdom.
5. Therefore, I confirm all of the favorable tax exemptions that previous kings have given you. Also, I consent to any agreements you had with them to release you from other payments.
6. You have my permission to mint your own coins to use in your country.
7. Furthermore, I give freedom to Jerusalem and the sanctuary. All the weapons you made and the fortress you built will remain in your possession.
8. I cancel any debts you owe to the royal treasury now or in the future.
9. When I gain control of the kingdom, I will give you great rewards. I will honor you, your nation, and the temple. Your reputation will become evident in all the earth.
10. In the year 174, Antiochus invaded the land of his ancestors. All the troops went over to his side. Trypho had only a few remaining.
11. Antiochus pursued him, and Trypho fled to Dor, which is by the sea.
12. He knew that things looked bad for him and that his troops had deserted him.