16. When Antiochus felt that his own kingdom was fully established, he determined also to take control of the land of Egypt so that he could rule over both kingdoms.
17. He invaded Egypt with a very strong force, including soldiers in chariots and on elephants, as well as cavalry and a large fleet.
18. When Antiochus met the Egyptian king Ptolemy in battle, Ptolemy and his forces hastily retreated. Many were wounded and killed.
19. Antiochus and his forces were able to capture the fortified cities in Egypt and plunder the land.
20. After he conquered Egypt, Antiochus returned in the year 143. He went up to Israel and entered Jerusalem with a strong force.
21. With arrogance he went into the sanctuary. He took the gold altar, the lampstand for the light, and all its equipment.
22. He also took the table that was used for the sacred bread, drink-offering cups, bowls, gold censers, a curtain, crowns, and the gold decoration on the front of the temple. He stripped it all.
23. He took silver, gold, and costly equipment. He took every hidden treasure he could find.
24. Taking it all, he went back to his own land. He committed murder and spoke very arrogantly.
25. Every community in Israelgrieved deeply.
26. Rulers and elders groaned;young women and men became faint.The women’s beauty faded.
27. Every bridegroom was saddened,and intended brides satmourning in their chambers.
28. Even the land shook for its people,and all of Jacob’s housewas clothed with shame.
29. Two years later, to collect tribute from the Judean cities, King Antiochus sent his chief officer, who came to Jerusalem with a large army.