Common English Bible

2 Maccabees 14:6-13 Common English Bible (CEB)

6. "The Jews called Hasideans, whose leader is Judas the Maccabee, maintain a warlike policy and rebel frequently, not permitting the kingdom to have peace.

7. Deprived of my ancestral glory—I speak of course of the high priesthood—I have now come here,

8. first out of a sincere concern for the king’s interests and second out of regard for my fellow citizens. Through the recklessness of those mentioned earlier, the entire nation is in a state of misfortune.

9. But, King, since you have knowledge of these things, take thought for both the country and our oppressed nation with the same generosity you have had for all.

10. As long as Judas lives, the government is powerless to establish peace."

11. Alcimus had no sooner finished speaking when the rest of the political advisors, who strongly disliked Judas, further enraged Demetrius.

12. Immediately choosing Nicanor the commander of the elephants and appointing him governor of Judea, the king sent him out

13. with written orders to kill Judas and scatter those with him, and to install Alcimus as high priest of the greatest temple.