48. and laid open the book of the law, concerning which the Gentiles were wont to inquire, seeking the likenesses of their idols.
49. And they brought the priests’ garments, and the first fruits, and the tithes: and they stirred up the Nazarites, who had accomplished their days.
50. And they cried aloud toward heaven, saying, What shall we do with these men, and whither shall we carry them away?
51. And your holy place is trodden down and profaned, and your priests are in heaviness and brought low.
52. And, behold, the Gentiles are assembled together against us to destroy us: you know what things they imagine against us.
53. How shall we be able to stand before them, except you be our help?
54. And they sounded with the trumpets, and cried with a loud voice.
55. And after this Judas appointed leaders of the people, captains of thousands, and captains of hundreds, and captains of fifties, and captains of tens.
56. And he said to them that were building houses, and were betrothing wives, and were planting vineyards, and were fearful, that they should return, each man to his own house, according to the law.
57. And the army removed, and encamped upon the south side of Emmaus.
58. And Judas said, Gird yourselves, and be valiant men, and be in readiness against the morning, that you⌃ may fight with these Gentiles, that are assembled together against us to destroy us, and our holy place:
59. for it is better for us to die in battle, than to look upon the evils of our nation and the holy place.
60. Nevertheless, as may be the will in heaven, so shall he do.