38. The remaining cavalry were stationed on either side of the elephants, to harass the enemy while being protected inside the two flanks of the army.
39. When the sun shone on the gold and brass shields, the hills looked like they were on fire from their reflection and glowed like burning torches.
40. Part of the king’s army was spread out on the high hills, and some troops were on the plain. They held their ranks and steadily moved forward.
41. Everyone who heard the noise of marching feet and clanking arms trembled because the army was very large and powerful.
42. Nevertheless, Judas and his army went forth to do battle. Six hundred of the king’s soldiers died.
43. Eleazar, called Avaran, saw that one of the animals was taller than all the others and was equipped with royal armor. He figured that the king must be on it.
44. So he gave his life to save his people and to secure an everlasting name for himself.