1. Then his son Judas, known as Maccabeus, took command in his place.
2. Every one of his brothers and all who had joined his father helped him, and they gladly fought for Israel.
3. He advanced the honor of his people.He put on his breastplate like a giant.He strapped on his war armorand waged battles,protecting the camp with his sword.
4. He was like a lion in his actions,like a lion’s cub roaring after prey.
5. He hunted and pursuedthose who broke the Law.He burned upthose who troubled his people.
6. Lawbreakers were afraid of himand retreated.All evildoers were in turmoil.His hand successfullybrought deliverance.
7. He angered many kings,but he brought joy to Jacob by his deeds.His memory is blessed forever.
8. He went through the cities of Judahand destroyed the ungodlyout of the land.As a result, he turned wrathaway from Israel.
9. His fame extendedto the ends of the earth.He gathered togetherthose who were perishing.
10. Apollonius gathered Gentiles and a large force from Samaria to fight against Israel.
11. When Judas found out about it, he went out to meet him in battle, then defeated and killed him. Judas wounded and killed many, while the rest fled.
12. Then the Israelites seized their spoils. Judas took Apollonius’ sword and used it in battle for the rest of his life.
13. At this point, Seron the commander of the Syrian army heard that Judas had gathered a large company, including a group of faithful soldiers who stayed with him and went out to battle.
14. He said, "I will make a name for myself and win honor in the kingdom. I will make war on Judas and his companions who reject the king’s command."