42
Judas and his brothers saw that the situation was becoming increasingly difficult, as the military forces were encamped in their territory. They learned also that the king had commanded their complete destruction.
40
So they headed out with their whole force. When they arrived, they set up camp in the plain near Emmaus.
41
When traders in the region heard about their plan, they took a great amount of silver and gold, together with shackles, and went to the camp intending to obtain some Israelites for slaves. A force from Idumea and the land of the Philistines also joined them.
42
Judas and his brothers saw that the situation was becoming increasingly difficult, as the military forces were encamped in their territory. They learned also that the king had commanded their complete destruction.
43
But they spoke to each other, "Let's restore our people after all they've suffered, and fight for our people and the sanctuary."
44
So the congregation gathered to prepare for battle, and to pray and ask for mercy and compassion.