6. “Those Jews called Hasideans, led by Judas Maccabeus, are warmongers, who stir up sedition and keep the kingdom from enjoying peace.
7. For this reason, now that I am deprived of my ancestral dignity, that is to say, the high priesthood, I have come here,
8. first, out of my genuine concern for the king’s interests, and second, out of consideration for my own compatriots, since our entire nation is suffering no little affliction from the rash conduct of the people just mentioned.
9. When you have informed yourself in detail on these matters, O king, provide for our country and its hard-pressed people with the same gracious consideration that you show toward all.
10. As long as Judas is around, it is impossible for the government to enjoy peace.”
11. When he had said this, the other Friends who were hostile to Judas quickly added fuel to Demetrius’ indignation.
12. The king immediately chose Nicanor, who had been in command of the elephants, and appointed him governor of Judea. He sent him off
13. with orders to put Judas to death, to disperse his followers, and to set up Alcimus as high priest of the great temple.