23. And it came to pass after the death of Judas, that the lawless put forth their heads in all the coasts of Israel, and all they that wrought iniquity rose up
24. (in those days there was an exceeding great famine), and the country went over with them.
25. And Bacchides chose out the ungodly men, and made them lords of the country.
26. And they sought out and searched for the friends of Judas, and brought them to Bacchides, and he took vengeance on them, and used them despitefully.
27. And there was great tribulation in Israel, such as was not since the time that no prophet appeared to them.
28. And all the friends of Judas were gathered together, and they said to Jonathan,
29. Since your brother Judas has died, we have no man like him to go forth against our enemies and Bacchides, and among them of our nation that hate us.
30. Now therefore we have chosen you this day to be our prince and leader in his stead, that you may fight our battles.