Introduction

The Second Document about the Maccabees gives another account of the struggle to preserve Jewish worship and the temple in Yerushalem (Jerusalem). Its main account overlaps the earlier part of The First Document about the Maccabees, concentrating on events leading up to and during the leadership of Yehudah (Judas) Makabi. The writer explains that this is a shortened version of a history written in five books by Yason of Kurainai (Cyrene).

The book opens with letters encouraging the celebration of the temple’s rededication. It then describes conflict over the high priesthood, the plundering of the temple, and attempts to force the people to abandon God’s instructions. Particular attention is given to Eleazar and to seven brothers and their mother, who choose death rather than disobedience and express their hope that God will raise them to life again.

The later chapters follow Yehudah’s victories and the recovery of the temple. Throughout the account, prayer, God’s discipline and mercy, and help from heaven are closely connected with what happens on the battlefield. The writer wants readers to honour the temple, remember those who remained faithful under suffering, and recognise God as the one who rescues his people.

The Second Document about the Maccabees is recognised as Deuterocanonical Scripture by the Romaios Catholic, Greek Orthodox, and Russian Orthodox Churches.

Makabi (from which the term Maccabee is derived) is an acronym formed from the first letters of Exodus 15:11: “Mi kamokha ba’elim YHWH” — “Who is like you among the gods, Yahweh?”

This is still an early look into the unpolished text of the Open English Translation of the Bible. Please double-check the text in advance before using in public.