22. This is what the king’s letter said:
23. King Antiochus to his brother Lysias. Greetings!After our father joined the gods, it was my desire that those who want calm be left alone to tend to their own business.
24. We heard that the Jews haven’t agreed to change to the Greek way of life, as our father wanted, but preferred their own way of life and asked to be permitted to have their own law.
25. Since we would choose for this nation to be free from unrest, we have decided to restore to them their temple and to let them conduct their life according to the customs of their ancestors.
26. You would do well, then, to send a message to them and assure them of friendship, so that they might know our policy and be at ease and live cheerfully, achieving their own goals.
27. This is what the king’s letter to the nation said:King Antiochus to the Jewish council of elders and to all other Jews. Greetings!
28. If you are well, it is what we wish. We are also in good health.
29. Menelaus has informed us that you want to return home to take care of your own affairs.
30. Those who return by the thirtieth of Xanthicus will have our pledge of friendship with no need for fear.
31. We will allow the Jews to follow their own dietary laws and other laws just as they used to do, and not let anyone bother them concerning any crime committed in ignorance.
32. I have also sent Menelaus to comfort you.