1. From the Greek islands Antiochus son of King Demetrius wrote the following letter to Simon the High Priest and governor of the Jews and to the whole nation:
2. “King Antiochus to Simon, the High Priest and governor, and to the Jewish nation, greetings.
3. As you know, the kingdom of my ancestors has been seized by traitors. I have decided to reclaim it and restore its former greatness. I have raised a large army of mercenary troops and have fitted out warships.
4. I plan to invade the land and to attack those who have destroyed many of the towns and ruined the country.
5. “Now therefore, I confirm all exemptions from taxes and payments granted to you by former kings.
6. I authorize you to mint your own coins as legal currency in your own country.
7. Jerusalem and the Temple shall be free of taxation. All the weapons that you have manufactured and the defences you have built and now occupy shall remain yours.