Oppression of the Jews
20 After he conquered Egypt, Antiochus returned in the year 143. He went up to Israel and entered Jerusalem with a strong force.
21
With arrogance he went into the sanctuary. He took the gold altar, the lampstand for the light, and all its equipment.
22
He also took the table that was used for the sacred bread, drink-offering cups, bowls, gold censers, a curtain, crowns, and the gold decoration on the front of the temple. He stripped it all.
23
He took silver, gold, and costly equipment. He took every hidden treasure he could find.
24
Taking it all, he went back to his own land. He committed murder and spoke very arrogantly.
25
Every community in Israel grieved deeply.
26
Rulers and elders groaned; young women and men became faint. The women's beauty faded.
27
Every bridegroom was saddened, and intended brides sat mourning in their chambers.
28
Even the land shook for its people, and all of Jacob's house was clothed with shame.