53. And he took the sons of the leaders of the region for hostages, and put them in the stronghold in Jerusalem under guard.
54. Now in the second month of the one hundred and fifty-third year, Alcimus instructed that the walls of the inner court of the sanctuary be destroyed, and that the works of the prophets be destroyed. And he began to destroy them.
55. At that time, Alcimus was struck, and his works were hindered, and his mouth was closed shut, and he was weakened with paralysis, so that he was no longer able speak a word, nor to give orders concerning his house.
56. And Alcimus died at that time, in great torment.
57. And Bacchides saw that Alcimus was dead. And he returned to the king. And the land was quiet for two years.
58. And all the iniquitous considered together, saying, "Behold, Jonathan, and those who are with him, live in quietude and confidence. Now, therefore, let us bring forth Bacchides, and he will capture them all, in one night."
59. So they went and gave counsel to him.
60. And he rose up, so as to advance with a great army. And he secretly sent letters to his associates who were in Judea, to seize Jonathan and those who were with him. But they were not able, for their plan became known to them.
61. And he apprehended, from the men of the region, those who were the leaders of this malice, fifty men. And he killed them.