7. For this reason, now that I am deprived of my ancestral dignity, that is to say, the high priesthood, I have come here,
8. first, out of my genuine concern for the king’s interests, and second, out of consideration for my own compatriots, since our entire nation is suffering no little affliction from the rash conduct of the people just mentioned.
9. When you have informed yourself in detail on these matters, O king, provide for our country and its hard-pressed people with the same gracious consideration that you show toward all.
10. As long as Judas is around, it is impossible for the government to enjoy peace.”
11. When he had said this, the other Friends who were hostile to Judas quickly added fuel to Demetrius’ indignation.
12. The king immediately chose Nicanor, who had been in command of the elephants, and appointed him governor of Judea. He sent him off
13. with orders to put Judas to death, to disperse his followers, and to set up Alcimus as high priest of the great temple.
14. The Gentiles from Judea, who had fled before Judas, flocked to Nicanor, thinking that the misfortunes and calamities of the Jews would mean prosperity for themselves.
15. When the Jews heard of Nicanor’s coming, and that the Gentiles were rallying to him, they sprinkled themselves with earth and prayed to him who established his people forever, and who always comes to the aid of his heritage by manifesting himself.
16. At their leader’s command, they set out at once from there and came upon the enemy at the village of Adasa.
17. Judas’ brother Simon had engaged Nicanor, but he suffered a slight setback because of the sudden appearance of the enemy.
18. However, when Nicanor heard of the valor of Judas and his companions, and the great courage with which they fought for their country, he shrank from deciding the issue by bloodshed.