38
They found the sanctuary deserted, the altar treated with disrespect, and the gates burned. In the courts, bushes had sprung up like in an open field or on one of the mountains. They saw that the priests' chambers were in ruins as well.
36
At that time Judas and his brothers said, "Look, our enemies have been crushed. Let's go up to cleanse and rededicate the sanctuary."
37
All the army gathered together and went up to Mount Zion.
38
They found the sanctuary deserted, the altar treated with disrespect, and the gates burned. In the courts, bushes had sprung up like in an open field or on one of the mountains. They saw that the priests' chambers were in ruins as well.
39
So they tore their clothes and mourned with great sorrow. They sprinkled their heads with ashes
40
and fell facedown on the ground. When the trumpets sounded a signal, they cried out to heaven.