45. Mattathias and his friends went around tearing down the altars to other gods.
46. They forcibly circumcised boys whom they found uncircumcised within the borders of Israel.
47. They hunted down arrogant people, and their missions were successful.
48. They rescued the Law from the power of the Gentiles and kings, and they never let the sinner regain power.
49. Now the days drew near for Mattathias to die, and he spoke to his sons: “Arrogance and contempt are present everywhere. It is a time of ruin and raging anger.
50. Now, my children, demonstrate zeal for the Law, and give your lives for our ancestors’ covenant.
51. “Remember the deeds of the ancestors, which they did in their day, and you will inherit great honor and everlasting remembrance.
52. Wasn’t Abraham found faithful when he was tested, and it was considered righteousness?
53. Joseph kept the commandment in the time of his distress, and he became ruler of Egypt.
54. Our ancestor Phinehas received the covenant of everlasting priesthood because he was deeply zealous.