14. Onias said, "This man is one who loves his brothers and sisters and prays many prayers for the people and the holy city: God’s prophet Jeremiah."
15. Jeremiah extended his strong hand and gave to Judas a gold sword, saying,
16. "Take this holy sword as a gift from God, and with it you will destroy your enemies."
17. Judas’ eloquent and powerful words urged them on to courage and made the young men’s spirits brave. They determined not to prepare for a long campaign but to attack honorably and fight hand-to-hand with all courage. In this way the matter would be decided, as danger faced their city, the holy things, and the temple.
18. They weren’t as concerned for their women and children, or their brothers and relatives, as they were for the holy temple.
19. Those trapped in the city were also very anxious, fearful of an attack in the open.
20. Everyone was waiting for the upcoming conflict, with fighting units already formed, soldiers drawn up in battle order, beasts sent to strategic positions, and cavalry arranged on either side.
21. The Maccabee saw the masses that were before him, the diverse sorts of equipped military arms, and the fierceness of the elephants, so he extended his hands to heaven and called on the wonder-working Lord. He knew that it isn’t through arms that God decides to award victory but he gives it to those who deserve it.
22. He prayed like this: "You, my Lord, sent your angel to Hezekiah king of Judah and he killed one hundred eighty-five thousand from Sennacherib’s camp.
23. Now ruler of the heavens, send a good angel in front of us to cause fear and trembling.
24. May your mighty arm terrify those who come with verbal insults against your holy people." With that he stopped speaking.
25. Nicanor’s forces advanced with trumpet calls and battle cries.