18. For their concern was less for their wives and sons, and likewise less for their brothers and relatives; in truth, their greatest and first fear was for the sanctity of the temple.
19. But those also who were in the city had no small concern for those who had gathered together.
20. And, when all now hoped that judgment would soon occur, and when the enemies were near, and the army was set in order, with the beasts and the horsemen positioned in strategic places,
21. Maccabeus, considering the arrival of the multitude, and the various preparations of weapons, and the fierceness of the beasts, extending his hands to heaven, called upon the Lord, who works miracles, who gives victory to those who are worthy, not according to the power of the weapons, but just as it pleases him.
22. Then, calling out in this way, he said: "You, O Lord, who sent your Angel under Hezekiah, king of Judah, and who killed one hundred and eighty-five thousand from the camp of Sennacherib,
23. now also, O Ruler of the heavens, send your good Angel before us, who are in fear and trembling at the greatness of your arm,
24. so that those who approach against your holy people with blasphemy may be afraid." And in this way, indeed, he concluded his prayer.
25. But Nicanor, and those who were with him, advanced with trumpets and songs.