19. Those trapped in the city were also very anxious, fearful of an attack in the open.
20. Everyone was waiting for the upcoming conflict, with fighting units already formed, soldiers drawn up in battle order, beasts sent to strategic positions, and cavalry arranged on either side.
21. The Maccabee saw the masses that were before him, the diverse sorts of equipped military arms, and the fierceness of the elephants, so he extended his hands to heaven and called on the wonder-working Lord. He knew that it isn’t through arms that God decides to award victory but he gives it to those who deserve it.
22. He prayed like this: "You, my Lord, sent your angel to Hezekiah king of Judah and he killed one hundred eighty-five thousand from Sennacherib’s camp.
23. Now ruler of the heavens, send a good angel in front of us to cause fear and trembling.
24. May your mighty arm terrify those who come with verbal insults against your holy people." With that he stopped speaking.
25. Nicanor’s forces advanced with trumpet calls and battle cries.
26. But Judas’ men battled against their enemies with appeals and prayers.
27. Fighting with their hands but praying to God with their hearts and rejoicing in God’s appearance, they killed no fewer than thirty-five thousand soldiers.
28. When they returned from the battle to their camp with joy, they found Nicanor lying dead in full armor.
29. With shouts and excitement, they praised the ruler in their native language.