24. We heard that the Jews haven’t agreed to change to the Greek way of life, as our father wanted, but preferred their own way of life and asked to be permitted to have their own law.
25. Since we would choose for this nation to be free from unrest, we have decided to restore to them their temple and to let them conduct their life according to the customs of their ancestors.
26. You would do well, then, to send a message to them and assure them of friendship, so that they might know our policy and be at ease and live cheerfully, achieving their own goals.
27. This is what the king’s letter to the nation said:King Antiochus to the Jewish council of elders and to all other Jews. Greetings!
28. If you are well, it is what we wish. We are also in good health.